Baps Swaminarayan Mandir, Pune Photos
Hey everyone! I just visited the coolest place in Pune and am super excited to tell you about it. It’s called the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, and trust me, it’s not your average temple. This place is like something out of a fairy tale or a movie set!
BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, Pune
Okay, so picture this: a huge, beautiful temple made entirely of stone. No, seriously, there’s not a single piece of steel in the whole building! It’s all carved by hand, which is mind-blowing when you see how intricate and detailed everything is.
The temple opened in February 2017, but it looks like it’s been there for centuries. That’s because it’s built using these super old Indian building techniques called Shilpshastras. It’s like the architects went back in time to figure out how to make this place!
Here’s some cool stuff about the temple:
It has 23 domes (they call them Samrans), and 7 of them are massive!
There are 140 pillars, all carved with amazing designs
Get this – there are 109 arches (Torans) and 10,269 carved sculptures and deities
All these carvings show off the culture of Maharashtra and India.
When you walk around, it’s like every inch of the place has something new to look at. I spent hours just staring at all the details!
Swaminarayan Temple Pune Information
Let me break down some important info for you:
Timings:
Morning: 7:00 am to 12:00 pm
Evening: 4:00 pm to 8:30 pm
Make sure you plan your visit during these times. I’d suggest going in the morning when it’s cooler, especially if you’re visiting in summer.
Location:
It’s on the Mumbai-Bengaluru National Highway, 4, Narhe Ambegaon Rd, Narhe, Pune, Maharashtra 411041.
Pro tip: Use Google Maps to get there. It’s pretty easy to find, but Pune traffic can be tricky sometimes.
BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, Pune Tickets
Now, here’s the best part – you don’t need tickets to visit the main areas of the temple! It’s free to enter and explore. How awesome is that?
But remember:
- Dress respectfully (cover your shoulders and knees)
- You might need to take off your shoes before entering certain areas
- Bring some cash if you want to buy anything from the gift shop or make a donation
Tips for Your Visit
- Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking a lot, and remember, you might need to take them off.
- Bring a water bottle: It can get hot, especially if you’re there during the day.
- Charge your phone/camera: Trust me, you’ll want to take tons of pictures.
- Go with someone who knows about Hindu mythology: They can explain all the cool stories behind the carvings.
- Be respectful: Remember, it’s a place of worship for many people.
Here’s a quick table I made to help you plan your visit:
What to Know | Details |
Best time to visit | Just before sunset |
Time needed | At least 2-3 hours |
Cost | Free entry |
Must-see | The 7 giant domes, intricate pillars |
Don’t forget | Modest clothing, camera, water |
Final Thoughts
Guys, I can’t stress enough how cool this place is. Whether you’re into architecture, history, religion, or love seeing beautiful things, the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Pune is a must-visit.
It’s the place that makes you appreciate the amazing things people can create. I left feeling inspired and with a whole new appreciation for Indian art and culture.