BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Toronto

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Toronto is a Hindu temple in Toronto that consists of more than 24,000 individual pieces of Italian marble and Turkish limestone. The structure follows traditional Hindu architectural principles and uses no steel reinforcement, relying instead on precise stone joints to hold the entire building together.

Construction began in July 2000 and lasted several years, during which 1,800 craftsmen in India hand-carved the stones. After completion, the carved elements were shipped to Canada and assembled on site.

The complex serves as a gathering place for the Hindu community and offers worship services, prayers, and religious ceremonies in its main hall. Visitors can also explore the museum, which presents Hindu traditions and values through exhibits and interactive displays.

The site is located on Claireville Drive and is open daily, with free admission for all visitors. Parking is available on the grounds, and guests should dress modestly since it is an active place of worship.

The building contains 340 pillars and 132 arches, all crafted from a total of approximately 95,000 cubic feet (2,700 cubic meters) of stone. Each pillar and arch was individually hand-carved without the use of modern cutting tools or computer assistance.