BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir (Chino Hills)
State California
This is the most prominent Swaminarayan temple in the region. This temple is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan. It is known for its traditional Indian pink sandstone and Italian marble architecture.The temple construction completed in 2012, is a landmark of both spiritual devotion and advanced engineering. It is the first earthquake-proof Hindu temple in the world.
More Information
- Address: 15100 Fairfield Ranch Rd, Chino Hills, CA 91709
- Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Note: The main Mandir may have specific darshan (viewing) times where it closes briefly during the day (e.g., 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM on weekdays), though the grounds and Visitor Center typically remain open.
- Key Features: It is the first earthquake-proof Hindu temple in the world and features a Museum of Hindu Architecture.
- Visitor Guidelines: Admission and parking are free. Visitors must wear modest clothing (no shorts or tank tops) and remove shoes before entering the temple.
Architecture and Construction
The temple is a “fusion” of traditional Indian design and modern Western construction, built to last 1,000 years.
- Materials: It is constructed from 35,000 hand-carved pieces of Italian Carrara marble and Indian pink sandstone.
- Intricate Details: The structure includes 5 pinnacles, 122 pillars, and 6,600 hand-carved motifs. No ferrous metals (like steel or iron) were used in the main temple to ensure maximum lifespan.
- The Gajendra Pith: The base features a plinth with 148 life-sized elephants, weighing a total of 3,000 tons, paying tribute to the elephant’s importance in Indian culture.
- Community Effort: Approximately 900 volunteers contributed 1.3 million man-hours to complete the complex.
Innovative Engineering
- Earthquake Proofing: To withstand California’s seismic activity, the temple uses 40 base isolators—columns containing metal discs in viscous fluid that allow the entire structure to “float” and move up to four feet in any direction during a quake.
- Solar Power: The complex is powered by a 597 kW solar system, which is expected to reduce over 1,500 tons of CO2 emissions over 25 years.
Visitor Experience
- Cultural Center & Exhibition: The lower floor houses an interactive exhibition on the history and values of Hinduism.
- Amenities: The site includes a 91-foot lotus-shaped pond, a vegetarian café (Shayona), and a gift shop.
- Dress Code: Modest attire is strictly enforced; shoulders and knees must be covered. Wraps are provided for those in shorts or sleeveless tops.
- Photography: Allowed on the exterior grounds, but strictly prohibited inside the temple and the exhibition area.