Entry fee, timings: everything you need to know about Abu Dhabi BAPS Hindu Mandir – News
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BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi. KT Photos: Neeraj Murali
Abu Dhabi’s BAPS Hindu Mandir, the historic traditional hand-carved stone temple that symbolizes the harmonious coexistence of diverse cultures, is receiving a massive influx of pre-registered visitors, especially from abroad.
Khaleej Times gives you details about this iconic masterpiece of artistic excellence, the organization behind it, and more information you need to know.
What is BAPS?
Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan (BAPS) Sanstha is a volunteer-driven global Hindu organization that promotes spirituality, cultural values and social service. Between various spiritual, humanitarian and cultural activities and volunteering, Sanstha has been building beautiful temples around the world, including the iconic one in the capital.
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What is a mandir?
A mandir or Hindu temple, like a mosque and a church, is a place of worship. At the temple, Hindus gather to offer prayers, perform rituals, and seek spiritual guidance. Temples serve as centers of religious and cultural activities.
How many temples are there in Abu Dhabi?
This is the only Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi. It is also the first traditional Hindu stone temple in the Middle East.
Detailed view of marble stone carvings inside the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi
What are the unique features of the temple?
The hand-carved temple of thousands of pink sandstone and white marble has been built according to ancient Hindu ‘Shilpa shastras’, Sanskrit scriptures of architecture and sculpture. The magnificent carvings show the rich history and culture of different civilizations and feature 250 valuable tales.
When will it open to UAE residents?
UAE residents have been urged to visit from March 1 as thousands of pre-registered foreign visitors arrive at the temple in the next two weeks.
Can non-Hindus visit the temple?
Yes, the temple is open to people of all faiths and religious beliefs.
Detailed view of stone carvings depicting stories from Hindu scriptures.
Do you have to pay an entrance fee to visit the temple?
No, there is no entrance fee, but visitors must register on the official website or through the Festival of Harmony app to visit the temple.
How many people can the temple accommodate?
About 10,000 people can be at the BAPS Hindu Mandir.
Where is the BAPS Hindu Mandir located?
The temple is on Al Taf Road (E16) of Abu Mureikha, next to the Abu Dhabi-Dubai Highway. The site can be found by searching ‘BAPS Hindu Mandir, Abu Dhabi’ on Google Maps.
What are the visiting hours?
The temple is open to visitors from 9 am to 8 pm.
Is there a public bus from any emirate?
No, at the moment there are no public bus services connecting the temple. Currently, public taxis, private van and bus rentals or car sharing are among the ideal means of transportation.
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