The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Houston is a stunning example of traditional Hindu architecture and a place of worship for the local Hindu community. It’s part of the global BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, a socio-spiritual Hindu organization that promotes faith, service, and harmony. BAPS stands for Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha, established in the early 20th century, and is known for its extensive social service activities and spiritual purity
The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Houston was officially inaugurated on July 25, 20041. The temple is an architectural marvel spanning 11,500 square feet and is accompanied by a 25,620-square-foot surrounding deck2. It was constructed using Italian marble and Turkish limestone, carved by over 3,000 craftsmen in India and assembled on-site. The temple is known for its intricate carvings, serene atmosphere, and the sacred images or murtis that are installed within. These sculptures are made from marble and are considered to be imbued with the living presence of divine beings. The mandir’s special features include its adherence to ancient Hindu architectural scriptures known as the Shilpa Shastras, and it’s a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the spiritual traditions of Hinduism.
We visited on July 4, 2024 evening after 4 pm