Welcome to BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London (popularly known as Neasden Temple) is one of London's most remarkable cultural and spiritual landmarks. The Mandir was inaugurated in 1995 by His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj; it was the first traditional Hindu stone mandir built in the Western Hemisphere.
Hand-carved from Bulgarian limestone and Italian and Indian marble, it continues to welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Explore its architecture, experience a traditional Hindu prayer ceremony, and enjoy a place of peace and reflection.
What Is a Mandir?
A mandir is a Hindu temple – a sacred place where people connect with God, find peace and strengthen their values. At the heart of every mandir are the sacred murtis, before whom devotees offer prayers and worship.
Beyond worship, mandirs are vibrant centres of learning, culture, family life and community. They host spiritual discourses, festivals, activities for all ages and opportunities for selfless service, while welcoming people of all backgrounds to experience Hindu faith, culture and traditions.
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“In Hinduism, a mandir is more than a place of worship. It is a haven of peace and sanctity, bringing people together of diverse backgrounds and uplifting the whole community morally and spiritually.”
Mahant Swami Maharaj
Spiritual Head of BAPS
A Space of Reflection
Parterre Gardens
The landscaped gardens, marble gateway and flowing water create a peaceful setting that prepares the mind for worship. Inspired by Hindu reverence for nature, they invite you to pause and reflect upon the values of harmony, gratitude and inner peace.
A Space of Artistry
Haveli
Adjoining the stone mandir is the Haveli, a multi-functional cultural centre inspired by the magnificent wooden architecture of Gujarat and Rajasthan. Hand-carved from English oak and Burmese teak by 169 craftsmen in India, it was the first Swaminarayan Haveli built outside India and helped revive a centuries-old craft. As you explore its courtyards and intricately carved woodwork, you'll discover centuries of Indian craftsmanship, culture and symbolism brought to life.
A Space of Serenity
Traditional Hindu Mandir
The Mandir's central sanctum is a place of worship that holds the essence of tranquillity, where the mind finds stillness and the soul discovers peace. Here, worshippers gather to seek blessings from the deities. Here, you will find an opportunity to deepen your understanding of yourself and explore your connection with the Divine.
Murti Darshan
At the heart of the mandir are the murtis. In Hindu tradition, these are not simply statues or symbols, but are believed to be the living presence of God. Devotees therefore offer prayers and worship before them as they would to God himself.
The mandir is home to many of Hinduism's most revered deities, representing the breadth of the Hindu tradition. These include Shri Parvati–Shankar, Shri Ganesh, Shri Sita–Rama, Shri Hanuman, Shri Radha–Krishna, Bhagwan Swaminarayan, Gunatitanand Swami, Gopalanand Swami and the lineage of BAPS gurus.
During these times, you can offer prayers and seek blessings from the deities.
Daily: 9.00 – 11.30 a.m. | 4.00 – 7.00 p.m.
Visitors are especially welcome to experience the daily arti, followed by Vedic prayers for peace and a period of silent meditation.
Daily: 11.45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
A Space for Prayer
Abhishek Mandapam
The Abhishek Mandapam is housed on the Ground level of the Mandir. Abhishek is an ancient Hindu practice in which water is poured over the sacred image of God to offer reverence and seek blessings. All are welcome to perform the Abhishek ritual.
Mahapuja
Mahapuja is a traditional Hindu prayer ceremony in which people worship together. During the ceremony, participants offer prayers for peace, harmony, good health, the wellbeing of others, and God's blessings and guidance in their lives. Individuals and families are welcome to participate, whether to mark a special occasion or simply as an act of devotion.
A Space for Learning
Hinduism Exhibition
Discover the origins, beliefs and values of Hinduism, meet inspiring figures from its history, and learn about its contributions to society and the wider world. You will also explore the life and teachings of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, and discover how these timeless principles continue to inspire people today.
A Space to Collect Memories
Gift Shop
The Gift Shop offers a thoughtful selection of items inspired by Hindu culture and tradition, including: cultural gifts for family and friends, murtis and home shrines, prayer and meditation items, books on Hindu philosophy and heritage, and children’s books.
Shayona Shop & Restaurant
Complete your visit with an authentic taste of India at Shayona Restaurant. Serving pure vegetarian cuisine inspired by regional Indian traditions, every dish is first offered to God before being served as prasād – blessed food. From Gujarati thalis and popular street food to regional specialities, each meal is prepared with fresh ingredients and aromatic spices.
Before you leave, browse the adjoining Shayona Shop, where you'll find freshly prepared sweets, savoury snacks, Indian groceries and speciality products to enjoy at home or share with family and friends.
Plan Your Visit
Ready to experience the mandir for yourself? Go to our Visit page for everything you need to know before you arrive, including opening times, prayer ceremonies, dress guidance, photography, accessibility, dining and how to make the most of your visit.
A Space for Community
Beyond Your Visit
The mandir is more than a place of worship and a visitor attraction. Throughout the week, it hosts a wide range of spiritual, educational and cultural activities for children, young people and adults within the Hindu community.
These include weekly spiritual classes (sabhas), Gujarati language classes, music lessons, sports and other activities to connect with their culture and community in a supportive environment.