It's perhaps not surprising to find the world's largest Hindu temple (Mandir) outside India in London, given the historic links of trade and Empire between India and the UK. What is more of a shock, however, is that it is in Neasden, in a rather dreary setting of suburbs and light industry, defined in most people's minds by the North London Circular Road. But this did not faze the temple's founders, who come from the Swaminarayan branch of Hinduism. In India, it is common for temples to be located in all sorts of places, and particularly in the community which they serve - in this case, the Indian community of North West London. So, in 1989 they began the task of building the huge shrine and complex on what had been derelict land. 5,000 tonnes of pure white Bulgarian limestone and Italian marble were sent to India to be carved, and sent back to the UK for assembly into the temple itself. The main temple is essentially a large, domed hall at the top of the grand external staircase, all of which - interior and exterior - is adorned with mind-bogglingly intricate carvings, some abstract, some naturalistic, and others depicting various deities. Inside, the main hall opens into a series of small screened chambers, in which are located the Murtis - the marble images which Hindus hold to be infused with the divine presence of God, in various different incarnations. These are elaborately decorated and clothed, and can only be seen at various times of the day: at others, the Murtis are behind closed doors, for ritual purposes, such as food offering, or simply to be left in peace. This main part of the complex is astonishing, and is regarded by many as a wonder of modern Britain. It's certainly an incredible addition to the UK's stock of religious and architectural monuments. Whatever your faith (or none), it's bound to leave an impression. Downstairs is an exhibition (entrance: £2) explaining the background to Hinduism and Indian culture, including its many achievements in areas such as language, mathematics, geometry, surgery, astronomy and philosophy. It's very educational and well worthwhile to put the whole experience into context, although there is a slightly aggrandizing tone to some of the explanations. The exhibition then goes on to explain the origins and beliefs of the Swaminarayan branch of Hinduism, and the role it plays in modern society. Alongside, a Cultural Complex has been built, which includes prayer halls, wedding halls, a shop, cloakrooms, offices and the main entrance. This contains amazingly carved wooden decoration, which can be seen in the canopy above the entrance, but is repeated on a grand scale inside. The temple is surrounded on one side by small but intricate and beautiful gardens. Across the road is a car-park, left-luggage facility (for bags and cameras) and a small Shayona cafe serving vegetarian Indian food. The temple goes out of its way to be open to all, and the staff are very welcoming and helpful. On my visit, the halls in the cultural centre were crowded with school parties, receiving lessons on Hindu religion and culture. As you might expect, there are some rules you asked to follow, detailed on the website: essentially, you are expected to dress decently, cameras and mobile phones cannot be used inside the complex, nor bags taken in (there's a small area set aside for taking photographs of the exterior). After passing through security and a metal detector (a sad indictment of our times) you must take your shoes off - there are storage shelves for this, as well as coat racks. The temple is a ten minute walk from Stonebridge Park or Neasden stations, and is clearly signposted from the North Circular road. Entrance is free, but there are donation boxes at various points if you wish to contribute to its upkeep. read more

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I understand why the Neasden Temple receives such wonderful reviews. The architecture is breathtaking, with exquisite, intricate craving throughout. It's also just such a unique experience - it was lovely to be able to observe worship, and I'm so appreciative that the temple is open to non-Hindu visitors. A few things to know and keep in mind when visiting: - The temple is accessible by public bus, with a stop directly next to the building. There's also a free parking lot. - Backpacks and cameras are not permitted in the temple, but there's a security building where you can check items (no fee). Do remember to bring your wallet, as there's an exhibit on Hinduism with a £2.00 entry. - You'll be required to remove your shoes in the temple, so you'll likely want to wear socks. Pants or dresses below knee-length and sleeveless tops aren't allowed, but the temple graciously loans coverings to anyone who needs them. - There's an excellent and reasonably priced Indian vegetarian restaurant called Shayona at the back of the parking lot if you're visiting around lunch or dinner. read more

Extolled as one of the seven wonders of London, somehow this Hindu temple has become overlooked - most likely because it is located in Neasden. You shouldn't let that put you off though; it's really only just a little further from Hampstead. You'll probably think you've been transported to India when you come face to face with this building. Both striking and majestic, its imposing structure looks a little unseemly against the London backdrop. Perhaps the most jaw-dropping aspect of this building though, are the 26,300 individually carved pieces of stone, limestone and marble that were shipped over here and put together in 3 years from 1992 to 1995. And I can tell you, it looks every bit as intricate as you'd expect. When you enter you must take off your shoes as this is a place of worship (also come with your arms and legs covered). The interior is stark in contrast to the impressive exterior; palatial domes and pillars rising from brightly coloured carpets. The two and a half ton ceiling is reminiscent of the Pantheon in its eye-catching beauty, only much more elaborate. Most intriguing to me were the 8 or so murtis (deities) statues, replete with their own grandiose thrones and royal formal wear, which I'm told are changed several times a day. The temple is closed between 12pm and 3.30pm but the best time to go is at 11.30am for the ceremony at 11.45am. Just make sure you book. read more

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I am a Hindu and having one of the best, largest temples near me is fantastic. It is a great privilege to visit this gem whenever I need peace of mind, somewhere quiet to go to. I studied at the school opposite the temple, which meant my assemblies took place in this mandir. Hearing stories, life lessons from the Swami's guided me through my early teens in life. I haven't forgotten those life lessons. The architecture of this gorgeous mandir is atonishing, each marble ornament is intricately detailed. The murtis of the gods, all carved out in marble is magnificent. The main mandir is upstairs, once you pass the hallway and ascend from the final step, an array of light is shone through the large dome on top. You look up and see all the tiny detail, its so beautiful, you walk around and take in the silence. It's a breath of fresh air and you walk down feeling fulfilled. During the festival of diwali, the mandir is lighted up in beautiful colours, the gods are adorned in beautiful clothes, and a massssssssive array of food and mithai is presented in the main haveli. It is a must visit during Diwali!! On sundays, they hold a sunday school for children, to learn about hinduism, they also hold activities, it does get busy during that time of the morning. But then again, this mandir is the best in London and very popular, it will be busy, no matter what time you go. All visitors are welcomed in, you will be taken care of and guided through the mandir Yes you have to take your shoes off and wear appopiate clothing, it is a place of worship. Same goes for hindu households, you take your shoes off before you step into the main part of the house. You aren't allowed to take big bags in due to security issues, and no pictures are allowed which is understanable, it is a holy place of worship. You can of course take pictures outside which majority of people do. read more

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir - Hidden Gem in London - Hindu Temples Near Me - Neasden, XGL

Two stars for the beauty of the place. Seriously, gorgeous architecture and design. The outside alone is stunning, but the inside is well worth a look. Another star for the cost--it's free! Another star for the people there. All helpful, all friendly, all knowledgeable. It loses a star because you can't take photos inside (which I can understand considering it is a holy and sacred place), because it's not clear when the garden area is open (on the site it states that it's closed during bad weather, but it's supposedly only open on weekends; either way, it could be clearer), and because of the bag policy, which is a bit strict. read more

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir - Outside the temple - Hindu Temples Near Me - Neasden, XGL

We arrived at the temple around 3:00 in the afternoon, I'm used to HIndu temples not being so beautiful but this place has been crafted so nicely with a lot of care. The atmosphere was very calming and made me feel at peace, something nice in the middle of all the craziness in London. I will definitely go back again and I suggest everyone go, not just indians! They have a nice area for people to learn about the philosophy of hinduism and is a really cool place to check out. read more

We've managed to make it by 5:45pm (17h45m) on a Sunday. With all the underground/rail surprise closures and shuttle bus diversions and running like maniacs between stations because we thought it closes at 6pm, it was tough but we made it. As we were walking from the Neasden station (about a 10 minute walk) I was crossing all my fingers and toes that it will be worth it and that my friends don't lash out at me for bringing them god knows where or for what. It was worth it! I've learned about the temple's existence from the TripAdvisor's top 100 list of places to visit in London. My London friends had been skeptical as they had never heard of it. I was persistent, however and it paid off. The big downside is that you cannot take pictures inside. You cannot take your camera or even your bag, you have to check it in at a car park/security station across the street. Just don't forget to take your wallet with you (there is even a reminder on the security window). Yes you have to take your shoes of, but so is everyone else so its no biggie. It truly is a beautiful place, unlike I have ever seen, although this was my first time in a Hindu temple. The amount of stone carvings and use of colors throughout leaves you in awe. I wish I had some background knowlegde about Hinduism to properly evaluate everything that my eyes had the opportunity to observe. (Note to self, brush up on your Hinduism) It would have likely enriched all the meanings/symbols, etc. read more

This is one of London's hidden gems, not only is it architecturally stunning and a completely unexpected find in the capital, but it's 100% free! I recommend exploring this place inside and out and taking advantage to go to one of the religious ceremonies (I'm not religious, but it's still worth it from a cultural viewpoint). There's also a really good, authentic-tasting restaurant which is really cheap. Just a heads up for meat lovers - it is vegetarian, but as a meat lover myself, I confirm that it's a pretty damn good meal for the price. read more

Sited in an unusual urban setting, The Shri Swaminaryan Mandir is a unique chance to experience breathtakingly beautiful Hindu architecture outside of India. Famously the temple took 5,000 tonnes of Italian Carrara marble and took 1,526 skilled craftsmen to complete all of which would have been impossible without the fundraising efforts of the local community and devotees. Whether you visit for spiritual/religious reasons or you simply want to see this astonishing place for yourself, the Mandir will definatley leave its impression on you. For a night to remember make your way to the Mandir for thier annual Diwali celebrations where fireworks light up the sky. read more

We made the trek (and do I mean trek) as the overground lines were out of commission to the Mandir. It was worth the 1.5 hour trip. I didn't know what to expect really. I think the most lasting impression I had were the people who run the temple. They were incredibly welcoming and helped someone who really had no experience with the religion and customs feel at home. Of course the architecture and sculpture is breath-taking but the people, guards and guides stick in my heart. I plan to visit again when my parents come next to London. read more

Well, the previous reviewers have said it all, more or less! I've visited this amazing mandir three or four times - it really is beautiful and worth a visit. If you go there by train, it's quite a walk from Neasdon Station along the side of the busy main road. I'm sure there are buses but I never know which one to take! However, I've had good weather each time and have enjoyed the walk. Women note: you have to leave most handbags in a special booth outside and take a ticket - like 'left luggage' - so just take in your purse, and anything else you need, in your pockets. You can't use a camera inside either, which is a great pity. Once inside, there's a room to the side for your shoes which must be removed. The exhibition of the history of Hinduism is fascinating, and there is usually a DVD running at the far end which shows the mandir being built, which is extraordinary and fascinating (the DVD is also for sale). It makes somewhere nice to sit after you've wandered around a bit. If you feel so inclined, you can go up the stairs at certain times of day to take part in the 'darshan' (worship) whilst sitting on the ground. (Take a coat or something else soft to sit on in case there's no space on any of the rugs) The shop downstairs is marvellous and I have been tempted to buy lots of things in there in the past! The staff are lovely - so friendly and welcoming. After you leave, there's a small cafe to the side which serves lots of delicious veggie food, both hot and cold (to eat in or take away), and there's a fantastic Asian shop next to it where it's possible to find all kinds of wonderful ingredients for meals, to bring home - not to mention gorgeous boxed Indian cakes and biscuits! Definitely recommended, as you can probably tell from my enthusiasm! read more

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I love this temple. It is one of the closest things to "real India" in London, complete with the neighbouring vegetarian-Indian supermarket and restaurant, which serves up some authentic and delicious food. I have been coming to the Shri Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir for over a decade. The marble is from Bulgaria and Italy, taken back to India to be carved, and then reassembled here in London. For such a prominent and unique feat of architecture, its context is a little underwhelming; just off the North circular, it sits in a very ordinary housing estate. It is free to get in, but the rules for access are a little too strict. You can take your phone, but you must leave your cameras in a security office which declares outside "we take no responsibility for the loss of your valuables". Dodgy. Of course, people won't sneakily take photographs with their phone and are more likely to do so with chunky SLRs and compacts.... right? I found this a little silly and did complain in writing (to which I have received no response). Otherwise, this is a beautiful place to visit and I suggest you eat next door after looking around. read more

Whereas I am so curious I was planning a visit there since the first time I have been in London. Anyway I succeed in going and I had a good impression. This hindu temple is the biggest in the world except in India and it s a masterpiece. Before the entrance all the bags must be deposited in their free cloakroom. Once I got in I could not go closer to the stairs of the temple because they were taking care of the gardens. Therefore I decided to enter and after being searched I took of my shoes in their shoe organiser and I started visiting the temple. In the first floor there are all the divinities where people prays. Moreover I started talking with a person that explained me their culture and walked me to their pray room all composed by Irish soft carpets and Italian marbles. This material was taken from these nations and brought to India and then to London. The carvings are wonderful and all the workers are volunteers. If someone has time to spend in London I would strongly advise them to plan a visit. read more

A very nice Hindu temple run by BAPS. They have excellent Annakutta festival and diwali fireworks. They have a nice pure veg cafe

Really is an amazing beautiful Hindu temple.