Neasden Temple: An Incredibly Ornate Hindu Temple in London
In northwestern London’s Neasden, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, known by its popular name of Neasden Temple, will take your breath away. a truly magnificent Hindu temple that could easily give one the feeling of having landed in India. A fantastic architectural expression with innumerable carvings and towering domes—serene, calm, and far, far away from the mad rush of metropolitan city life.
A Modern Marvel with Ancient Roots
You may be surprised to hear that this beautiful temple is not some ancient relic but rather a relatively new addition to London’s landscape. Building work began in 1993, and a mere two years later, the temple was finished, courtesy of the local Hindu community. The temple was constructed without structural steel, following the ancient Vedic principles of architecture.
The World’s Largest Jigsaw?
The construction of the temple was a story of international collaboration: 5,000 tons of Italian Carrara marble and Bulgarian limestone were shipped to India, where 1,500 artisans hand-carved 26,300 pieces, which were then transported to London and fitted together like a giant three-dimensional jigsaw. The whole project was community-funded, costing an estimated £12 million.
Visiting the Neasden Temple
The Neasden Temple is open daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm and welcomes all people, regardless of faith or background. Admission is free, although donations are recommended so the temple can keep functioning. You can take a guided tour of the history of Hindu traditions and the history of the temple. On the lower floor is the ‘Understanding Hinduism’ exhibition, which explores Hindu values and wisdom in 3D dioramas, paintings, and traditional craftwork.
Getting There
Public transportation to the temple is available, and the nearest Underground stations include Wembley Park and Neasden. Bus routes 224 and 206 have stops on Brentfield Road just outside the temple. Due to limited parking, visitors should use public transportation.
A Sanctuary in the City
Beyond its architectural brilliance, Neasden Temple serves as a spiritual haven of refuge from London’s hectic pace. Spiritual solace, or simple admiration of its beauty—the temple indeed has much to offer. Next time you are in London, why not take a detour to Neasden? You might just find a piece of India in the middle of England.
