BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
4.5
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
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Address
Neighbourhood: Etobicoke
Etobicoke is a relaxed area along the Humber River. It's saturated with green spaces and conservatories, making it a premier destination for outdoor sports, hiking, and nature walks. Its abundance of parkland and lakes makes it a typical spot for fishing, picnicking, and camping out, especially in warmer months. The peaceful area is also enjoyed by families, who appreciate its boardwalks and sports facilities. Locals enjoy the variety of golfing and country club opportunities, which also provide lessons for golfers of any skill level.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
4.5
129 reviews
Excellent
94
Very good
22
Average
7
Poor
4
Terrible
2
Kajal
Ahmedabad District, India2 contributions
Apr 2024 • Family
Beautiful detailed work on the temple. An amazingly calm and zen place even though beside the highway. When you're there, you feel a special kind of calm and respect. It's like a special place where you can feel close to something greater than yourself. It feels like the eyes aren't doing justice to the carvings and fabulous work done by the artists.
P.S.: Ignore people who reviewed wrongly for PHOTO RESTRICTIONS, if you can respect the religious sanctity of other religions like no ladies in mosques, and no photography in basilicas, or cathedrals then you shouldn't complain regarding temples as well.
P.S.: Ignore people who reviewed wrongly for PHOTO RESTRICTIONS, if you can respect the religious sanctity of other religions like no ladies in mosques, and no photography in basilicas, or cathedrals then you shouldn't complain regarding temples as well.
Written 28 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Parizad I
Toronto, Canada16 contributions
Oct 2019 • Friends
Went to this beautiful place today took photos outside, then went inside thinking it will be a beautiful trip and my friend was taking a photo inside and the staff comes up and yells at her, "photo not allowed photo not allowed stop here;delete it now, she said sorry and deleted them، he said go to the recyle delete from there now. He was VERY RUDE!!!!! Could have just said mam plz no photos for security reasons!!!" You deffinitly cannot speak like that she didnt see the sign so be POLITE God would appreciate that!!!!
Written 5 October 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
threenorns
Brampton, Canada64 contributions
Jul 2013 • Family
we've been there a couple of times and i always find something different to marvel at that i hadn't noticed before. it's very possible to lose 10-15min just staring at the mind-blowingly intricate details on a single carved wooden panel.
keep in mind, you are in a place of meditation and worship - there are rules to observe:
first, shoes off! you don't walk in and dirty up the place with your shoes - remove them and leave them in a cubby at the door (no, they're not going to get stolen).
no loud talk - and considering the way the place is built, sound carries incredibly so... just don't talk. you don't need to anyway - the outside is spectacular but the interior is breath-taking.
no exposed arms or legs - that means no tank tops, no belly tops, no shorts, and no short skirts. if you don't like it, too bad. their house, their rules.
no photos inside - check the camera at the door. doesn't matter - unless you have really good equipment, you won't get much detail because of the tightness of the carving and the way the light gets bounced around.
do not let these conventions of another culture stop you - be respectful and you are in for a spirtually and culturally enriching experience.
about the building: it's the first (and as far as i know, only) building of its kind in canada - a typical construction has a frame built of wood or steel that is wrapped inside and out to form the interior and exterior. in other words, a "stone church" in canada is usually a steel framework that is sheathed with stone facing. this build IS stone - inside, outside, top to bottom. built using building techniques that were ancient when the earth was flat, the temple is essentially a giant stone bell.
the church was built without a single dollar of taxpayer money or government funding - the entire cost was raised by the east indian community. artisans were brought over from india - artisans from families who have been in the industry for generations - to do the work on site ***by hand (!!!)*** while other work was commissioned from experts in india. the entire structure was built according to strict vedic traditions.
the gardens outside are tranquil and glorious.
the festivals held here are sumptuous and magnificent.
have you ever thought of visiting india? if you're not sure, please visit the Mandir - it will give you a little taste of what to expect.
keep in mind, you are in a place of meditation and worship - there are rules to observe:
first, shoes off! you don't walk in and dirty up the place with your shoes - remove them and leave them in a cubby at the door (no, they're not going to get stolen).
no loud talk - and considering the way the place is built, sound carries incredibly so... just don't talk. you don't need to anyway - the outside is spectacular but the interior is breath-taking.
no exposed arms or legs - that means no tank tops, no belly tops, no shorts, and no short skirts. if you don't like it, too bad. their house, their rules.
no photos inside - check the camera at the door. doesn't matter - unless you have really good equipment, you won't get much detail because of the tightness of the carving and the way the light gets bounced around.
do not let these conventions of another culture stop you - be respectful and you are in for a spirtually and culturally enriching experience.
about the building: it's the first (and as far as i know, only) building of its kind in canada - a typical construction has a frame built of wood or steel that is wrapped inside and out to form the interior and exterior. in other words, a "stone church" in canada is usually a steel framework that is sheathed with stone facing. this build IS stone - inside, outside, top to bottom. built using building techniques that were ancient when the earth was flat, the temple is essentially a giant stone bell.
the church was built without a single dollar of taxpayer money or government funding - the entire cost was raised by the east indian community. artisans were brought over from india - artisans from families who have been in the industry for generations - to do the work on site ***by hand (!!!)*** while other work was commissioned from experts in india. the entire structure was built according to strict vedic traditions.
the gardens outside are tranquil and glorious.
the festivals held here are sumptuous and magnificent.
have you ever thought of visiting india? if you're not sure, please visit the Mandir - it will give you a little taste of what to expect.
Written 10 October 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Neely999
Ottawa, Canada1 contribution
Nov 2014 • Family
No doubt , temple is beautifully constructed and carved. At first glance I felt like I entered in the heaven . Lighting was very impressive and so is cleanness. Bt it was like a dream which break down in minutes . When I entered in main hall . I saw some persons were worshipping just in front of idol of God . But when we came close, suddenly a man who was in civilian dress and on duty , came and tied the rope in front of idol so that he can stop us to come near . We just surprised. May be he was right by doing so because anyone can harm precious idols and we were also not tried to do so .. But the question is why this rule is not for all ?? Why they allow some persons to enter nd another to stop . May be they were known to him or regular visitors ..... Bt it was disappointed .. After that we came to ground floor to visit museum . I saw there was a board mentioned a suggested seva ( service ) for museum Adult$5 and child $ 3 which was not mandatory . When I tried to enter in the museum , one person very rudely asked me to pay $ 5 first as written on board . I asked him do you see the board properly ? $5 is suggested fee not mandatory .. Then why are u forcing me to pay . I will pay what I wanted to pay . He looked at me very strangely.. Then he acted like he got caught .. Nd asked yeah it is not mandatory but your small charity can help us . I told that is the another thing . I will donate what I wanted to . But you can not force me to pay . If u need to do so then there should be a board clearly mentioned that museum visit fee is $ 5 . As a human being I felt really disappointed. My all pleasure came to an end with these type of incidents These things definitely should not happen in holy places .. Rules should be equal for evryone .. On the whole ..... I am in shock . Temple authority should definitely look out these type of miserable
Incidents.. So that every devotee can feel peace and equal during his/her visit .. last but not the least there should be complaint and suggestion box or office in temple premises 😞😞 . Two stars in rating just for beauty carvings and cleanness...
Incidents.. So that every devotee can feel peace and equal during his/her visit .. last but not the least there should be complaint and suggestion box or office in temple premises 😞😞 . Two stars in rating just for beauty carvings and cleanness...
Written 5 November 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Niranjanie S
tinidad and tobago195 contributions
Apr 2012 • Family
There's no admission fee to the mandir. The look of the Mandir from the outside was so breath taking, so much so that i couldn,t wait to see the inside.
There are a lot of restrictions for touring the mandir such as no food, drinks or chewing gum, no photography , one must be fully covered, wraps are provided, foot wear must be removed upon entering the mandir and mobiles to be switched off etc. However after the tour you'll have a clear understanding, respect and appreciation for the restrictions. The mandir is huge the walls, floor, stairs and murtis (idols) are all made of marble and or limestone and other materials all hand carved.
A variety store is also present where on can purchase holy texts, incenses, puja (indian prayers items), indian instruments, herbal creams and lotions, books on psychology, traditional herbs and many other books, cds, etc.
fully equipped Washrooms and bathrooms are available and, closets for storage of personal effects.
They also do catering for all occasions.
different shrines are closed at certain times and certain shrines where visitors are allowed to make offerings. The different deities in the shrines are most attractive and mind blowing just the ambiance causes one pores to raise. within some shrines are different coloured lights all adding to the magnificence and beauty of the idols that are well dressed and decorated. the creativity and perfection of each carving leaves one in awe of the talent of the craftsmen.While visiting the different shrines there is chanting of mantras (hindi hymns) resounding which makes one feel enchanted . the only description is Heaven on Earth. there's no describing the feeling of forgetting the world outside the mandir and the feeling of all yourself renewed, rid of past "sins".
The Mandir is hand carved, built in traditional vedic tradition and exudes excellence in craftsmanship with unique designs made of marble on every pillar, wall, ceiling and shrines. Its absolutely transcendental.
There's a Heritage museum for all ages consisting of paintings, literature, photos, pamphlets and exhibitions of India's art, science, education, culture spiritual values and teachings and other aspects of Indian traditions and contributions which is very enlightening.
Another enchanting sight is that of ducks peacefully and freely roaming the mandir yard.
This mandir is a must see, because of all the restrictions one might be deterred from entering the mandir, but believe!! me its worth it! i had no regrets and 100% recommend this tour.
This visit should not be rushed, a day by itself should be dedicated to visiting the mandir to enjoy the full benefits. When you leave the temple you feel totally blessed.
There are a lot of restrictions for touring the mandir such as no food, drinks or chewing gum, no photography , one must be fully covered, wraps are provided, foot wear must be removed upon entering the mandir and mobiles to be switched off etc. However after the tour you'll have a clear understanding, respect and appreciation for the restrictions. The mandir is huge the walls, floor, stairs and murtis (idols) are all made of marble and or limestone and other materials all hand carved.
A variety store is also present where on can purchase holy texts, incenses, puja (indian prayers items), indian instruments, herbal creams and lotions, books on psychology, traditional herbs and many other books, cds, etc.
fully equipped Washrooms and bathrooms are available and, closets for storage of personal effects.
They also do catering for all occasions.
different shrines are closed at certain times and certain shrines where visitors are allowed to make offerings. The different deities in the shrines are most attractive and mind blowing just the ambiance causes one pores to raise. within some shrines are different coloured lights all adding to the magnificence and beauty of the idols that are well dressed and decorated. the creativity and perfection of each carving leaves one in awe of the talent of the craftsmen.While visiting the different shrines there is chanting of mantras (hindi hymns) resounding which makes one feel enchanted . the only description is Heaven on Earth. there's no describing the feeling of forgetting the world outside the mandir and the feeling of all yourself renewed, rid of past "sins".
The Mandir is hand carved, built in traditional vedic tradition and exudes excellence in craftsmanship with unique designs made of marble on every pillar, wall, ceiling and shrines. Its absolutely transcendental.
There's a Heritage museum for all ages consisting of paintings, literature, photos, pamphlets and exhibitions of India's art, science, education, culture spiritual values and teachings and other aspects of Indian traditions and contributions which is very enlightening.
Another enchanting sight is that of ducks peacefully and freely roaming the mandir yard.
This mandir is a must see, because of all the restrictions one might be deterred from entering the mandir, but believe!! me its worth it! i had no regrets and 100% recommend this tour.
This visit should not be rushed, a day by itself should be dedicated to visiting the mandir to enjoy the full benefits. When you leave the temple you feel totally blessed.
Written 19 March 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jayesh B
1 contribution
Aug 2013
Must see, no matter what religion you believe in. You will experience peace and divinity all over the place.
Written 8 September 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
cm_yyz1982
Toronto, Canada36 contributions
Jun 2014 • Couples
Beautiful Hindu temple (Mandir) with wonderful intricate marble carvings. Small courtyard with superb wood carvings as well. The Mandir was constructed in a record 18 months. It is a testimony to the sheer dedication and devotion of over 400 volunteers.
This is a place of worship and the mandir authorities expect visitors to be "dressed modestly". Frankly speaking I did not find that as a deterrent.
Sitting in the mandir on the marble floor, surrounded by deities and keeping the eyes closed was an experience in itself!
This is a place of worship and the mandir authorities expect visitors to be "dressed modestly". Frankly speaking I did not find that as a deterrent.
Sitting in the mandir on the marble floor, surrounded by deities and keeping the eyes closed was an experience in itself!
Written 19 July 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JaymieB
Toronto, Canada30 contributions
Oct 2013 • Solo
While a beautiful building and a respected religious institution, this is not a Toronto attraction. It is well outside the city and I would not recommend that one go to see it.
Written 25 October 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Akhila S
Toronto, Canada3 contributions
Nov 2014 • Friends
A very warm and welcoming place for even a non-hindu.
Learnt a lot about hinduism. Mandir is free a small nominal fee for the musuem (optional) which was very informative.
We learnt alot about the Hindu religion and the dedicated volunteers were so friendly and welcoming. Everyone there serves the mandir with lots of love. Made us feel humble.
Learnt a lot about hinduism. Mandir is free a small nominal fee for the musuem (optional) which was very informative.
We learnt alot about the Hindu religion and the dedicated volunteers were so friendly and welcoming. Everyone there serves the mandir with lots of love. Made us feel humble.
Written 23 December 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
anitkaj
12 contributions
The temple is really beautifull with all that details i felt like in India when i was lookin on it if i wouldnt mind the highway next to the temple . But inside is nothing to see just big hall with no hinduistic soul. Watching others during the rituals and praying is forbiden. There is a museum where u can see just pictures and quotes for 5 $ or 10 $ pretty much for the picuters isnt it ?
Written 17 December 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi! I want to go to temple in January first day. Is it possible? The temple will go open? How much time is necessary for to visit?
Written 25 November 2017
Sim, Leandra, o templo fica aberto todos os dias do ano. O tempo de visita depende muito de cada um. O publico tem acesso apenas a uma parte do templo, especialmente um "salão" (não lembro o nome correto) com dezenas de pilastras é o teto todos esculpidos com milhares de imagens em fino detalhe. Há um pequeno Museu que pode ser visitado com contribuição (não lembro o valor). Acho que no mínimo 1h você fica lá apreciando toda a arquitetura do local, no interior e exterior. Mas o templo fica longe, de transporte público leva pelo menos 1:30h do centro de Toronto e parece não haver nada turístico por perto além dele. Então, é bom avaliar bem se a visita vale a pena em termos de tempo dispendido, dependendo do seu cronograma na cidade.
Written 25 November 2017
jinal15
Johannesburg, South Africa
hi , i heard about mahotshav in swaminarayan mandir in canada
so i want to know on which date this mahotstav r coming
my frds said its start from july 20 to august 15
is it right
Written 12 June 2015
There is an restaurant just outside the temple complex named BAPS Shayona. Physical address is 46 Claireville Dr, Etobicoke, ON
Written 7 September 2017
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