Becky T
Google
A bit of an unusual experience, as it feels more like an entertainment and cultural complex that happens to have a Hindu temple at its centre. We spent about three hours visiting the temple and the main exhibition/experience, but could easily have stayed longer if we’d added the additional exhibition, water show, or a full meal.
Temple
The temple itself, completed in 2005, is stunning, with intricate stone carvings and impressive architecture. There is some historical context provided, mainly focused on key leaders of the Swaminarayan tradition since the 18th century. Entry to the temple requires removing your shoes, which are left at a valet-style shoe drop just outside (placed in a bag and exchanged for a numbered token for collection later).
Exhibition & boat ride
Most of our time was spent in the exhibition area. Although described as three parts, they are experienced in a fixed sequence under one ticket. Most content is in Hindi, but English sessions run roughly every 20–25 minutes.
The first section lasts around 50 minutes and consists of videos and dioramas across several large rooms, with visitors moved through quite quickly toward the end of each segment. The tone is consistently positive and focuses on the early life of the Maharaj. We waited about 20 minutes for an English session.
We skipped the second section due to time and energy, but it appeared to be video-based.
The third section is a 12-minute boat ride after queuing, with a theme-park feel, showcasing notable figures and India’s contributions to areas such as astronomy, medicine, and religion.
Despite being busy, the complex never felt overwhelming.
Security
I was initially apprehensive about checking my personal items, but it felt very orderly and secure. On entry there is a brief bag check, followed by a short walk to the cloakroom area where almost everything must be handed over, including phones, power banks, watches, headphones, and all bags (you essentially keep only a jacket, wallet, and water bottle). Electronics are placed in trays, a form is completed in Hindi or English noting contact details and the number of devices, and staff take a photo of the person dropping off the items. A valet-style token is issued and, along with the photo, is used to collect belongings later. After this, visitors pass through gender-separated security screening with X-ray and a quick wand or pat-down. It’s worth keeping some cash or a physical card with you to buy items inside.
Costs
Entry to the complex is free, but there are several paid options once inside, including the exhibition (₹370), the water show (₹110), as well as the food court and shop.
Food
The café area has a good selection of food, snacks, and desserts, including cakes, Indian sweets, and ice creams. The few items we tried were excellent and all under ₹100 each. The space is large, with both indoor and outdoor seating and hand-washing facilities.
Toilets
There are multiple toilet blocks throughout the complex, which were generally clean and efficiently managed.