Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Chicago

The Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is a Hindu temple in Bartlett built from Italian marble and Turkish limestone according to traditional Hindu architectural design. The complex features multiple shrines and courtyards with elaborate carved details that reflect classical temple layout principles.

Construction began in 1994 after the original Glen Ellyn site became too small, and the temple was dedicated by Pramukh Swami Maharaj in 2004. This move reflected the growing Hindu community in the region.

The temple centers on devotion to Swaminarayan with daily ceremonies where worshippers make offerings in the main shrine. Visitors experience the active religious life of the community through these regular rituals and the presence of sacred images.

The temple opens daily at 9:00 AM and closes at 6:30 PM, and visitors should wear modest clothing and remove their shoes before entering. Planning a visit for the morning ceremony provides the most active and engaging experience.

About 2,000 craftspeople in Rajasthan carved over 70,000 cubic feet of stone for this temple and the project won an award from the Chicago Building Congress. The intricate handwork appears in every detail and demonstrates ancient stone-carving traditions.