Out & About: Atlanta Mandir — SingleBubblePop OLD

Sep 19

Sep 19 Out & About: Atlanta Mandir

Summer is officially ending, and if you're like me, you're looking forward to cooler temps and fall boots! Fall is my favorite season to explore local spots that I typically wouldn't frequent.

When I was living in Atlanta, I would pass by this amazing building that sits behind a Walgreen's in Lilburn and admire the gorgeous marble from afar. I added to my list of must-visit places and when my friends visited me from NC, I thought it would be a great place to take them.

The full name of this Hindu place of worship is BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir and it is the largest temple on the east coast.

The Mandir is comprised of 3 types of stone (Turkish Limestone, Italian marble, and Indian pink sandstone). More than 34,000 individual pieces were carved by hand in India, shipped to the USA and assembled in Lilburn like a giant 3-D puzzle. The level of intricacy and attention to detail is stunning, and there are symbols of their faith throughout the campus.

Incredibly, the Mandir was constructed completely by volunteers and in only 17 months.

We did an audio tour throughout the campus that educates on the history of the structure and the Hindu religion. It was absolutely fascinating! Because it is a place of worship, we were not able to take photos inside. If you think the exterior is amazing, the interior is BREATHTAKING. There are some photos that you can view on their website but the photos don't really articulate the awesomeness.