Robbinsville BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Timings:
Monday to Friday:
9:00 AM to 10:30 AM
11:30 AM to 12:00 PM
4:00 PM to 6:15 PM
7:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Saturday, Sunday and Federal Holidays:
9:00 AM to 10:30 AM
11:30 AM to 12:00 PM
3:30 PM to 6:15 PM
7:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Note:
Darshan is closed from 10:30 to 11:30 and from 18:15 to 19:00 on all days. During the offering of Bhagwan’s daily Thal (Bhog).
Darshan will be open all day in Ramnavmi and Janmashtami, only if it is Saturday or Sunday.
Darshan will be open all day without breake on Diwali and Annakut.
*Federal Holidays include New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day.
Daily Arti Timings:
Shangar Arti 7:30 AM
Rajbhog Arti 11:30 AM
Sandhya Arti 7:00 PM
Arti is the ritual of moving the wicks lit in reverence to the sacred images. Made in a spirit of humility and gratitude, the faithful are immersed in the divine form of God. It is the deepest call of the soul and symbolizes the five elements: space (akash), wind (vayu), light (tej), water (jal) and earth (pruthvi).
Abhishek Timings Monday to Friday:
9:00 AM to 10:30 AM
11:15 AM to 12:00 PM
4:00 PM to 6:15 PM
7:10 PM to 7:30 PM
Abhishek Timings Saturday, Sunday and Federal Holidays:
9:00 AM to 10:30 AM
11:15 AM to 12:30 PM
3:30 PM to 6:15 PM
7:10 PM to 8:00 PM
An abhishek is a special Hindu ritual. United with deep faith and devotion, it is a sincere appeal to divine grace. Performed by pouring water gently on the murti, it is an offering, it is an expression of reverence and a prayer for spiritual progress, peace and fulfillment of desires.
Robbinsville BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Weekly Assemblies:
Bal Sabha (Boys Grades: Pre K – 8): 4:00 – 6:00 PM Sundays
Balika Sabha (Girls Grades: Pre K – 8): 4:00 – 6:00 PM Sundays
Kishore Sabha (Boys Grades: 9 – 12 & College): 2:00 – 3:30 PM Sundays
Kishori Sabha (Girls Grades: 9 – 12 & College): 1:00 – 2:30 PM Sundays
Yuvak Sabha (Post College English): 2:30 – 4:00 PM Sundays
Yuvati Sabha (Post College English): 2:30 – 4:00 PM Sundays
Satsang Vadil Sabha (Gents & Ladies Gujarati): 4:00 – 6:00 PM Sundays
Premvati Mandal (Ladies Gujarati): 2:30 – 3:30 PM Sundays
Robbinsville BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Murtis:
Shri Akshar Purushottam Maharaj
Shri Ghanshyam Maharaj
Shri Harikrishna Maharaj and Shri Radha-Krishna Dev
Brahmaswarup Bhagatji Maharaj
Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj
Brahmaswarup Yogiji Maharaj
Brahmaswarup Pramukh Swami Maharaj
Shri Sita Ram and Shri Hanumanji
Shri Shiv Parvati and Shri Ganeshji
Shri Ghanshyam Maharaj (Abhishek Murti)
The Mandir by Numbers:
40 small Fasnakar style shikhars (spires)
2 large and 8 small ghummats (domes)
98 sthambhas (carved pillars)
66 intricately carved peacock style arches
144 carved sacred figures
58 decorative ceiling designs
34 decorative grills
91 elephants with various musical instruments and flowers
44 Ganesh Murtis portrayed offering devotion to Bhagwan
13,499 individual carved stone pieces
Height: 42 feet
Width: 87 feet
Length: 133 feet
Robbinsville BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Significance:
In Sanskrit, Mandir means a place where the mind becomes calm and experiences inner peace. Since Vedic times, the sages of India have been enlightened by deep spiritual truths that have served as a basis for their rituals, philosophies, scientific discoveries and religious beliefs. As an expression of their spiritual faith, yogis evolved and created beautiful Mandirs to maintain these traditions. In a similar symbol, this Mandir aims to serve as a place of understanding and appreciation of the art, culture and religion of India for future generations. It will be a sanctuary for countless men and women who will be able to maintain their culture and heritage in the form of arts, language, music and spiritual learning. The Mandir will provide a platform to encourage the act of giving back to our communities through various charitable efforts such as walkathons, health fairs, blood Drives, etc. The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Robbinsville, New Jersey, will inspire audiences through their divinity, architecture and humanitarian efforts for generations to come.
Robbinsville BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir History:
The construction of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir site in Robbinsville, New Jersey, began in early 2010. The Mandir was the second phase of the construction of the Hindu Religious Center and was completed early to facilitate the growth of the center. Looking at the details of the construction, the chiseled European marble was used to build the 12,000 square foot Mandir. Despite the heavy snow during the winter months, the mandir was completed in 2014. On August 10, 2014, a dedication ceremony was held in the presence of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, senior swamis of India and all the devotees world.
The fifth and final phase of the project, Swaminarayan Akshardham Mahamandir, is expected to be completed in the next five to seven years. The base of the Mandir is complete and stone carving has begun in India. Phase 4, the Visitor Center, will also host a small exhibition on the history and culture of India. Countless volunteer hours have been devoted to the design and planning of this project. The devotees really maintained the vision of their guru and wove it in their mission.
To fully admire the beauty and grandeur of the Mandir, let’s take a look at the making of the Mandir. The Mandir, built in the Nagaradi style, is 42 feet high, 133 feet long and 87 feet wide. It is made entirely of Italian Carrara marble (68,000 cubic feet); only the third Mandir of this kind. The beautiful sculptures that look around the Mandir are not only attractive from an aesthetic point of view, but also make sense in many ways. For example, 98 pillars represent the life of the great paramhansas (spiritual aspirants) and devotees of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. Their inspiring stories, as well as Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s key messages, are incorporated throughout the Mandir.
Robbinsville BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Info:
Enjoy hours of beauty, peace and discovery at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Robbinsville, New Jersey, a masterpiece of exquisite Indian design and workmanship. Marvel at intricate marble sculptures, take part in Hindu rituals or learn about the world’s oldest faith: Hinduism. Whatever you prefer, you can plan and prepare for your visit here.
For Individuals & Families:
Individuals and families are not required to book their visit in advance. Upon arrival, ask for information at the reception regarding the availability of a guide. If there is not one, the audio guide should always be available for your visit.
For Groups:
For group visits, it is necessary to book in advance to make your visit more organized and satisfying. All details can be found on the Group Visit page.
Audio Tour Guide:
Audioguides will be available from January and February 2015. With them, you can take a guided tour of the Mandir. Using the simple audio system, you can listen to detailed information about the different features of the Mandir. At your own pace, learn the importance of a Hindu mandir, the fascinating story of the construction of the Mandir, the Hindu feelings for each of the sacred images, the importance of Hindu rituals such as the arti, the meaning of some drawings. architectural, and much more.
Please ask for the audio guide at the information desk. A deposit will be requested when you take charge, which will be refunded upon return of the device. Due to limited supplies, please note that the audio guide is not available for school groups.
Personal Guide:
Volunteer guides are also available during the day for individuals and families or for small groups of 8 people or less. Please ask the information desk on arrival if a guide is available.
Arti Ceremony:
One of the highlights of a visit to the Mandir is to attend the midday arti ceremony which takes place every day at 11:30. It is an old Hindu offer made by stirring lighted wicks in front of the sacred images, accompanied by a musical prayer. Many visitors described the experience as impressive.
Shri Ghanshyam Maharaj Abhishek Ceremony:
The beautiful Shri Ghanshyam Maharaj Abhishek Mandapam is located near the entrance of the mandir. Here, visitors can perform abhishek of Shri Ghanshyam Maharaj. An abhishek is a special Hindu ritual. United with deep faith and devotion, it is a sincere appeal to divine grace. Made by pouring water gently on the murti, it is an offering, it is an expression of reverence and a prayer for spiritual progress, peace and fulfillment of desires.
Aksharpith (Book & Souvenir Shop)
The souvenir shop is located in the Activity Center wing of the complex. It is filled with a vast selection of books, postcards, CDs, DVDs, herbal health products and gifts for all ages, tastes and budgets.
Shayona Food Center:
Why not complete your visit with a meal at the Shayona Food Center? With its vegetarian cuisine, Shayona is the perfect way to discover traditional and authentic flavors of India. You can choose from several menu options to sit or take, including a wide selection of candies and snacks.
Photography:
To remember your visit, take a picture of yourself or your group with the Mandir as a backdrop.
Please note that photography or filming in the mandir is strictly prohibited. Postcards and photographs showing the interior of the Mandir can be purchased at the gift shop.
Robbinsville BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Dress Code:
All clothing should cover the shoulders and knees. (Wraps provided) Leave all belongings / backpacks in your vehicle.
Robbinsville BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Shoes:
Please remove all footwear before entering Mandir’s compound. (Shelves of shoes provided inside the complex).
Robbinsville BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Photography & Videography:
The photograph or video for personal use may be taken from the ground outside the Mandir only. We ask visitors to help us preserve the sanctity of the Mandir by not taking any picture or video in the Mandir. Please note that photography or video shooting inside the mandir is strictly forbidden. No photography or professional photo shoot is allowed with photographic equipment.
Robbinsville BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Food & Drink:
Please refrain from eating, drinking, chewing gum or feeding the baby in the Mandir. Outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the complex.
Robbinsville BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Mobile Phones:
Cell phones must be switched off before entering the Mandir compound.
Robbinsville BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Smoking:
Smoking, alcohol, drugs and tobacco products are banned throughout the complex.
Robbinsville BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Pets:
Pets are not allowed inside the complex. (Authorized service dogs in most areas, except sacred spaces used for prayer and meditation).
Robbinsville BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Conduct:
Please refrain from touching or leaning against the delicate carvings. Please, observe the silence in the Mandir.
Robbinsville BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Wheelchair Access:
The facilities are wheelchair accessible. Please park the strollers in front of the reception center (Haveli). Bathrooms are available at the visitor center.
Robbinsville BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Address:
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
112 N Main Street
Robbinsville, NJ 08561 USA
Tel: (609)-918-1212
Fax: (609)-918-1111
E-mail: info.rbv@usa.baps.org
Directions:
By Train:
From New York Penn Station, take the Northeast Corridor (NEC) Rail Line to Princeton Junction Station
From Newark Penn Station, take the Northeast Corridor (NEC) Rail Line to Princeton Junction Station
From Newark Airport, take the AirTrain from your terminal to the Newark Airport Rail Station. From there, take the Northeast Corridor (NEC) Rail Line to Princeton Junction Station
From the Trenton Transit Center, take the Northeast Corridor (NEC) Rail Line to Hamilton Station
By Bus:
From New York’s Port Authority Bus Terminal (gates 415 or 416), take the Coach USA (Suburban Transit) Line 300 Bus to the Hightstown, NJ station
By Car:
From I-95 North:
1. Take Exit 7A toward I-195 West
2. Keep left at the fork, follow signs for Interstate 195W/Trenton/Hamilton and merge onto I-195W
3. Take exit 5B to merge onto US-130 North towards New Brunswick
4. Merge onto US-130 North
5. Take the exit toward Voebel Rd. jughandle just after Voebel Rd. junction
6. Go straight to BAPS Mandir
From I-95 South:
1. Take exit 8 toward Hightstown/Freehold
2. Merge onto NJ-133
3. Exit on US-130 South
4. Pass Hankins Road
5. Slight right turn onto North Main Street
6. Turn right at the next crossroads to BAPS Mandir