Places across the United Kingdom sanctified by Yogiji Maharaj, Pramukh Swami Maharaj, and Mahant Swami Maharaj. Use the map to plan a yatra of your own.
19 free and open18 exterior only
About the Prasadi Yatra
In 1970, Yogiji Mahara, Pramukh Swami Maharaj, Mahant Swami Maharaj, and a group of 10 other sadhus arrived in the UK from India. It was the first time that BAPS sadhus were visiting this country. During their one-and-half-month stay, Yogiji Maharaj inaugurated a mandir in Islington, North London, the first ever BAPS Swaminarayan mandir in the Western hemisphere, and also visited many parts of the UK to fulfil haribhaktas' wishes.
Between 1974 and 2007, Pramukh Swami Maharaj visited the UK 19 times. During these visits, he sanctified thousands of haribhaktas' homes and visited centres around the country.
This guide highlights some of these places sanctified by them. We pray that it will help you and your family complete an educational and enlightening yatra of these historical places, to learn more about our inspiring gurus and satsang in the UK.
Yogiji MaharajFirst visited the UK in 1970Pramukh Swami MaharajVisited the UK 19 times, 1974 to 2007
Explore the Map
Region
Getting there
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Showing all 52 places
Central London
East London
North-West London
Outer London Day Trips
Beyond London: Midlands and North
Tap a route to draw it on the map in visiting order.
Tap it again to clear it.
Central London Yatra
Tube or rail
Reordered into a logical walking and tube sequence rather than the guidebook's own numbering. That covers roughly 17km of ground instead of 24km if you visited strictly in number order, with no backtracking. Most stops are free to view, though the Royal Albert Hall needs a ticket or a booked tour.
Time 5 to 6 hours
Length 13 stops
1 Royal Albert Hall (guide no. 5) Start here. The nearest stations are South Kensington or High Street Kensington, on the Piccadilly, District and Circle lines. Both are about a 10 minute walk to the Hall.
2 Prahladbhai's House (guide no. 25) Walk through Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park toward Marble Arch, roughly 25 minutes on a flat, pleasant route that is hard to get lost on, then 5 more minutes to Seymour Place.
3 Buckingham Palace (guide no. 11) Walk down Park Lane along the edge of Hyde Park to Buckingham Palace, roughly 25 minutes on a straightforward, well-signed route.
4 St James's Palace (guide no. 10) A short walk via The Mall, roughly 6 to 7 minutes. St James's Palace is just along the road.
5 House of Commons (guide no. 12) Walk down Horse Guards Road to Parliament Square, roughly 12 to 15 minutes.
6 Lambeth Palace (guide no. 8) Walk across Westminster Bridge, roughly 7 minutes. Lambeth Palace is right at the far end.
7 Embankment (guide no. 9) Walk back across the bridge and along Victoria Embankment, roughly 16 minutes.
8 Trafalgar Square (guide no. 14) A short walk up Northumberland Avenue, roughly 5 minutes, to Trafalgar Square.
9 Piccadilly Circus (guide no. 15) Walk up Haymarket, roughly 6 minutes, to Piccadilly Circus.
10 Dahyabhai D. Meghani's Office (guide no. 13) Almost next door. A 3 minute walk to Leicester Square.
11 Bible House (guide no. 16) Take the Northern line, Bank branch, from Leicester Square to Embankment, 2 minutes. Change to the District or Circle line for one stop to Blackfriars, 3 minutes, then walk 5 minutes to Bible House.
12 Friends House (guide no. 21) Take the Circle or Hammersmith & City line from Blackfriars to Euston Square, roughly 12 minutes with no change needed, then a 2 minute walk to Friends House.
13 Islington Mandir (guide no. 22) Take the Northern line, Bank branch, from Euston to Angel, 2 stops and roughly 6 minutes, then walk north-east for about 12 minutes to Islington Mandir on Elmore Street.
North-West London Yatra
Car recommended
Starts at Neasden Temple, BAPS London's current main mandir, then continues through the historic Wembley-area sites, reordered by geography rather than guidebook numbering. Several of these are private homes or working buildings, so please view them from the street.
Every place is in its original numbered order,
with the summary of what happened there.
Central London
Yogiji Maharaj graced Europe for the first time on Saturday 23 May 1970, landing at Heathrow Airport at 4.44pm.
Yogiji Maharaj graced Europe for the first time on Saturday 23 May 1970, landing at Heathrow Airport at 4.44pm.
Pramukh Swami Maharaj has also used this airport on many of the occasions that he has visited the UK. One particularly memorable time was during his departure in 1988, where hundreds of haribhaktas, young and old, had gathered to see him off. The airport guards were astonished to see such reverence and emotion as everyone sang and jostled to get a glimpse of Swamishri. Eventually, an impromptu farewell sabha assembled in the terminal lounge, much to the continuing amazement of the airport staff.
Terminal buildings and the sign are publicly accessible. Airside areas need a boarding pass.
On Sunday 29 September 1974, Pramukh Swami Maharaj celebrated the Jal-Jhilani utsav on the River Thames in the presence of 1,200 devotees. Swamishri touched the water of the Thames five times with the image of Ganapati and performed five artis.
On Sunday 29 September 1974, Pramukh Swami Maharaj celebrated the Jal-Jhilani utsav on the River Thames in the presence of 1,200 devotees. Swamishri touched the water of the Thames five times with the image of Ganapati and performed five artis.
After bathing Harikrishna Maharaj, Swamishri said: “Yogiji Maharaj has sanctified the River Thames by bathing Harikrishna Maharaj in it. Doing darshan of God is a festival. Listening to holy discourses is a festival. Seeing the efforts of everyone, Maharaj will become pleased.”
An open National Trust managed meadow, free to walk at any time.
In his blessings during the sabha here on 31 May 1970, Yogiji Maharaj said, “One should do darshan of God and his Sant. Then one would gain the merits of performing an Ashwamedha Yagna with each footstep. Therefore, do his samagam after understanding this mahima. Such an opportunity won't come again. Understand this otherwise you will regret it later.”
In his blessings during the sabha here on 31 May 1970, Yogiji Maharaj said, “One should do darshan of God and his Sant. Then one would gain the merits of performing an Ashwamedha Yagna with each footstep. Therefore, do his samagam after understanding this mahima. Such an opportunity won't come again. Understand this otherwise you will regret it later.”
A working events venue. The interior is only open when hired for a function, though the exterior is always viewable.
The Suvarna Tula Mahotsav of Pramukh Swami Maharaj was held at Queen's Park Rangers football stadium on Saturday 20 July 1985.
The Suvarna Tula Mahotsav of Pramukh Swami Maharaj was held at Queen's Park Rangers football stadium on Saturday 20 July 1985.
The weather forecast was for rain. When the devotees prayed to Swamishri to bless the occasion with good weather, he said that he would pray to Maharaj. As it turned out, rain poured down around the whole area, except over QPR stadium.
Matchday tickets or a pre-booked stadium tour are needed to get inside. The exterior can be viewed at any time.
On Sunday 22 June 1980, over 5,000 people gathered at the Royal Albert Hall to attend the Bicentenary Celebrations of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. Pramukh Swami Maharaj was welcomed by various dignitaries and in his address to the audience, he said, “A simple and pious life free from addictions and vices, engaged in honest and noble pursuits, with love for mankind and devotion to God is the message of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.”
On Sunday 22 June 1980, over 5,000 people gathered at the Royal Albert Hall to attend the Bicentenary Celebrations of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. Pramukh Swami Maharaj was welcomed by various dignitaries and in his address to the audience, he said, “A simple and pious life free from addictions and vices, engaged in honest and noble pursuits, with love for mankind and devotion to God is the message of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.”
Entry requires a ticket to a performance or a booked front-of-house tour. Book ahead, as tours sell out.
Yogiji Maharaj said in his blessings here on 2 June 1970, “We want the entire universe to engage in Satsang. It is the great fortune of this Brixton Town Hall. All the sins from anyone who has spoken wrongly here have been washed away.”
Yogiji Maharaj said in his blessings here on 2 June 1970, “We want the entire universe to engage in Satsang. It is the great fortune of this Brixton Town Hall. All the sins from anyone who has spoken wrongly here have been washed away.”
A public council building. Reception and public areas are open in office hours, with no booking needed to view.
Yogiji Maharaj learnt that the River Thames passes through the middle of the city of London. From that point, he had a desire to bathe Harikrishna Maharaj in the Thames and purify the river. Yogiji Maharaj said, “The River Thames has been performing austerities for many years.”
Yogiji Maharaj learnt that the River Thames passes through the middle of the city of London. From that point, he had a desire to bathe Harikrishna Maharaj in the Thames and purify the river. Yogiji Maharaj said, “The River Thames has been performing austerities for many years.”
On Sunday 28 June 1970, Yogiji Maharaj together with Thakorji and 300 devotees went to the bank of the River Thames near Putney Bridge. Seeing the dirty water, Ishwarcharan Swami said, “Bapa, what if we bathe Thakorji outside in clean water and then place that water in the Thames?”
Swamishri said, “We want to bathe him in the Thames itself. There can't be dirt in the water.”
The Nagar Yatra for Islington Mandir began at 9.45am on Sunday 14 June 1970 from Speaker's Corner in Hyde Park. Devotees from all over the country participated. A 40-strong band of the Royal Air Force accompanied the procession through the streets of Central London.
The Nagar Yatra for Islington Mandir began at 9.45am on Sunday 14 June 1970 from Speaker's Corner in Hyde Park. Devotees from all over the country participated. A 40-strong band of the Royal Air Force accompanied the procession through the streets of Central London.
Dancing yuvaks followed the chariots, followed by Yogiji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami carrying Harikrishna Maharaj in a decorated car. The procession proceeded through Oxford Circus, Regent Street, Piccadilly Circus and Charing Cross before ending at the Embankment, from where Yogiji Maharaj and the devotees headed to Islington to perform the murti pratishtha ceremony.
A public riverside walkway and station area, open at all times.
On Thursday 28 April 1988, for the first time in history, an Indian religious leader, Pramukh Swami Maharaj, was honoured by Members of Parliament in the House of Commons. A 75-minute assembly was held in which Swamishri's work was praised by several distinguished MPs, thanking him for blessing the UK with spirituality and culture.
On Thursday 28 April 1988, for the first time in history, an Indian religious leader, Pramukh Swami Maharaj, was honoured by Members of Parliament in the House of Commons. A 75-minute assembly was held in which Swamishri's work was praised by several distinguished MPs, thanking him for blessing the UK with spirituality and culture.
Bernard Weatherill, Speaker of the House of Commons, said, “I am the speaker of the House, but Swamishri is the Speaker of God.”
UK residents can watch debates free through their MP. Paid guided tours need advance booking, and security checks apply.
On arriving in London, Dahyabhai Meghani, Mahendrabhai ‘Barrister’, Chandubhai, Maganbhai and others started to meet on a regular basis in Meghani's office in Leicester Square. Before a simple murti of Akshar-Purushottam Maharaj, they did katha-varta and goshthi. That, in effect, became the first Satsang sabha in the UK, having formally established the UK Satsang Mandal on 1 June 1953.
On arriving in London, Dahyabhai Meghani, Mahendrabhai ‘Barrister’, Chandubhai, Maganbhai and others started to meet on a regular basis in Meghani's office in Leicester Square. Before a simple murti of Akshar-Purushottam Maharaj, they did katha-varta and goshthi. That, in effect, became the first Satsang sabha in the UK, having formally established the UK Satsang Mandal on 1 June 1953.
The original office is long gone. This is now a general Leicester Square address, viewable as part of the square.
On Friday 18 August 1995, over 12,000 devotees gathered at Hyde Park Corner for the Nagar Yatra to mark the opening of the new shikharbaddha mandir in Neasden, London.
On Friday 18 August 1995, over 12,000 devotees gathered at Hyde Park Corner for the Nagar Yatra to mark the opening of the new shikharbaddha mandir in Neasden, London.
Meanwhile, Pramukh Swami Maharaj graced a high decorated dais under the statue of Eros at Piccadilly Circus from where he could bless the entire procession. The devotees who had no inkling of this arrangement were elated to see him as they passed. Swamishri's presence added joy to an already ecstatic Nagar Yatra. To the huge throngs of tourists and bystanders, the scene was mesmerising.
Swamishri sat quietly, hands joined in prayer, watching the parade move past him down to Trafalgar Square where it would come to a halt. As the last floats moved by, he instructed Brahmavihari Swami, “Make sure you feed the pigeons in Trafalgar Square. Don't forget, scatter handful upon handful.” In characteristic love, Swamishri did not forget even the pigeons of London.
During his visit to the Bible House on 29 June 1974, Pramukh Swami Maharaj said, “We all need religious values in our lives. We must aspire to mould our lives as per God's wish.”
During his visit to the Bible House on 29 June 1974, Pramukh Swami Maharaj said, “We all need religious values in our lives. We must aspire to mould our lives as per God's wish.”
Swamishri signed the guest book expressing his gratitude and invited members of the Bible Society to the Swaminarayan mandirs in India.
Now in different organisational use. The building exterior can be viewed from the street.
On Sunday 7 August 1977, a grand kirtan aradhana was held at Friends House, Euston, London. In the divine atmosphere, Pramukh Swami Maharaj said, “Devotional songs purify the mind.”
On Sunday 7 August 1977, a grand kirtan aradhana was held at Friends House, Euston, London. In the divine atmosphere, Pramukh Swami Maharaj said, “Devotional songs purify the mind.”
Swamishri, in his sweet melodious voice, followed his blessings with Devanand Swami's kirtan “Darad mitāyā merā dilakā…” explaining the importance of a spiritual master to cure the ills of the soul.
During the 1980s, many evening sabhas took place here in the presence of Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
The public cafe and foyer areas are open on weekdays. Hired halls need the organiser's permission.
This property which is currently a nursery was originally a church. It was put up for sale in 1970 for £13,500. The Mandal in London placed an offer for £9,500. One night, Yogiji Maharaj gave darshan to Jayantibhai in a dream and said, “In order to transform the church into a mandir, you will obtain it for £9,000 tomorrow.” This is exactly what happened. The church committee agreed to sell the property for £9,000.
This property which is currently a nursery was originally a church. It was put up for sale in 1970 for £13,500. The Mandal in London placed an offer for £9,500. One night, Yogiji Maharaj gave darshan to Jayantibhai in a dream and said, “In order to transform the church into a mandir, you will obtain it for £9,000 tomorrow.” This is exactly what happened. The church committee agreed to sell the property for £9,000.
Swamishri had said that there would be a three-fold increase in the number of devotees. He said that they should work with samp and suhradaybhav.
After the murti pratishtha on Sunday 14 June 1970, Yogiji Maharaj said in his blessings, “Maharaj will fulfil all our wishes, those of this world and of the world beyond. He will not only fulfil the wishes of this world, but also enable one to attain Akshardham hereafter.”
Once Yogiji Maharaj said, “Name the street of the mandir as ‘Swaminarayan Elmore Street’. That way there is their name and our name as well.”
Yogiji Maharaj used to say, “Everyone should come daily to the mandir for darshan. Everyone should make it a point to come on Sunday. One should buy land near the mandir. Get together in the evenings and do katha.”
The building now operates as a nursery. Exterior only, and please respect it as a working children's site.
Saturday evening sabhas began at Prahladbhai Patel's house in Seymour Place near Baker Street station in 1958. The annual Annakut festival was also celebrated here for several years.
Saturday evening sabhas began at Prahladbhai Patel's house in Seymour Place near Baker Street station in 1958. The annual Annakut festival was also celebrated here for several years.
A private residential street. The historic house is not open to visitors.
On 30 May 1970, a sabha was held in Durning Hall, East London. Yogiji Maharaj said in his blessings, “This hall has been sanctified. Maharaj will bless whoever sits or speaks in this hall.”
On 30 May 1970, a sabha was held in Durning Hall, East London. Yogiji Maharaj said in his blessings, “This hall has been sanctified. Maharaj will bless whoever sits or speaks in this hall.”
An active community and events hall. Open when a booking or public event is on, so call ahead otherwise.
On 10 November 1977, the Annakut festival was held in the presence of Pramukh Swami Maharaj at a warehouse belonging to Manubhai Patel in Stratford, next to the current Olympic Stadium. It was the first festival to be held outside Islington mandir.
On 10 November 1977, the Annakut festival was held in the presence of Pramukh Swami Maharaj at a warehouse belonging to Manubhai Patel in Stratford, next to the current Olympic Stadium. It was the first festival to be held outside Islington mandir.
Youths had spent six weeks cleaning, painting, repairing and building the stage. Almost 4,000 people attended the celebrations.
Converted to a block of flats.
Converted to a block of flats. Exterior only, as this is now a private building.
This is not one of the 51 numbered sites in the guidebook. It is included here as the starting point for the North-West London route, because it is BAPS London's current main mandir.
This is not one of the 51 numbered sites in the guidebook. It is included here as the starting point for the North-West London route, because it is BAPS London's current main mandir.
The mandir opened in 1995. The Nagar Yatra that marked its opening is described at Piccadilly Circus, site 15, and the foundation stone procession of 1980 is described at Ealing Road, site 27.
Open daily, 9.00am to 6.00pm, with free entry. Bags go through a security and bag check at the entrance, and shoes come off before entering, so allow a little extra time on arrival.
During his visit in 1970, Yogiji Maharaj stayed at the house of Arvindbhai Patel, affectionately called ‘Arvind Guru’. Arvindbhai bought the property specifically for Swamishri's visit and renovated it to ensure all of Swamishri's needs could be met.
During his visit in 1970, Yogiji Maharaj stayed at the house of Arvindbhai Patel, affectionately called ‘Arvind Guru’. Arvindbhai bought the property specifically for Swamishri's visit and renovated it to ensure all of Swamishri's needs could be met.
On 23 May 1970, Yogiji Maharaj reached Arvindbhai's house from the airport. Swamishri's wheelchair was in one of the cars yet to arrive, so Arvindbhai said, “Bapa, please sit and wait. The wheelchair is coming in one of the cars.” Swamishri replied, “It will be fine. I won't need the wheelchair.” The sadhus insisted. But Swamishri remained firm. “I want to step down and sanctify the land of London.” Having said this, Yogiji Maharaj stepped down and walked into the house.
One night Yogiji Maharaj said, “We should call this ‘Akshar Hill’ and not ‘Dollis Hill’.”
Once Yogiji Maharaj also said, “Arvindbhai bought the house so we came. If the house had not been bought, then we would not have come. His house has become Akshardham.”
A private residential house. View from the street only.
On Sunday 20 July 1980, the festival marking the foundation stone ceremony of the new hari mandir in Neasden, London was celebrated with a grand procession through the streets of Wembley, North London.
On Sunday 20 July 1980, the festival marking the foundation stone ceremony of the new hari mandir in Neasden, London was celebrated with a grand procession through the streets of Wembley, North London.
During the procession, Pramukh Swami Maharaj was seated on an elephant with Harikrishna Maharaj on his lap. A short while later, it began to rain and an umbrella was passed to Swamishri. He instinctively used the umbrella to cover Thakorji while he himself was drenched.
The main assembly to celebrate Yogiji Maharaj's birth anniversary was held at this hall on Monday 1 June 1970.
The main assembly to celebrate Yogiji Maharaj's birth anniversary was held at this hall on Monday 1 June 1970.
During his blessings, Swamishri said, “We have a public assembly in London today. All the muktas and 500 paramhansas have come. Shriji Maharaj and Shastriji Maharaj have given blessings that London Mandal be happy through health, mind and wealth. Maharaj will offer protection. It is our blessings today that everyone lives according to our Hindu values.”
A public civic building, open to visitors during normal office hours with no booking required.
During the final weeks before the opening of the new London Mandir in August 1995, puja darshan and satsang sabhas in the presence of Pramukh Swami Maharaj were held at Copland Community School in Wembley, London.
During the final weeks before the opening of the new London Mandir in August 1995, puja darshan and satsang sabhas in the presence of Pramukh Swami Maharaj were held at Copland Community School in Wembley, London.
A working school with no public access. Exterior view from the street only.
Satsang sabhas were held in the late 1960s at 7 Manor Drive, Wembley, which, at the time, belonged to Chittaranjan P. Patel. During Yogiji Maharaj's visit in 1970, Pramukh Swami and a few sadhus stayed at this house.
Satsang sabhas were held in the late 1960s at 7 Manor Drive, Wembley, which, at the time, belonged to Chittaranjan P. Patel. During Yogiji Maharaj's visit in 1970, Pramukh Swami and a few sadhus stayed at this house.
A private residential house. View from the street only.
Yogiji Maharaj said in the sabha here on 25 May 1970, “Let the whole of Europe prosper. There will be a large mandir in the future. The government will give the land and we will make a mandir on it. How great must be the merits of this land be that we are speaking in this hall? It has become a pilgrimage place even though it is rented.”
Yogiji Maharaj said in the sabha here on 25 May 1970, “Let the whole of Europe prosper. There will be a large mandir in the future. The government will give the land and we will make a mandir on it. How great must be the merits of this land be that we are speaking in this hall? It has become a pilgrimage place even though it is rented.”
An active church, open around service times. Check ahead for other visiting hours.
On Sunday 19 June 1977, Pramukh Swami Maharaj attended a sabha at the Wembley Conference Centre in London. The air conditioning unit was blowing cold air and in those freezing conditions, Swamishri sat for five hours from 4.00pm to 9.00pm.
On Sunday 19 June 1977, Pramukh Swami Maharaj attended a sabha at the Wembley Conference Centre in London. The air conditioning unit was blowing cold air and in those freezing conditions, Swamishri sat for five hours from 4.00pm to 9.00pm.
Pramukh Swami Maharaj hosted the World Religions Conference here on 5 and 6 July 1980. Sabhas in the presence of Swamishri were also held at this hall in 1980.
Some of the adhiveshan competitions in that year took place at this venue. It has since been demolished, making way for the wider regeneration of Wembley on Empire Way, near to where the new Wembley Stadium currently stands.
The building has been demolished. This marks the former site, now part of the wider Wembley Park development.
The centennial celebrations of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha for the UK and Europe were held at one of London's most prestigious venues, Wembley Arena, on Sunday 7 October 2007 in the presence of Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
The centennial celebrations of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha for the UK and Europe were held at one of London's most prestigious venues, Wembley Arena, on Sunday 7 October 2007 in the presence of Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
The programme was witnessed by almost 12,000 invited guests and dignitaries. Thousands also gathered at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Neasden, who watched via a live telecast, while many more from around the world enjoyed the live webcast.
A ticketed events arena, now the OVO Arena. Entry requires a ticket to a scheduled show.
Towards the end of his stay in London, Swamishri delighted yuvaks with breathtaking memories at ‘Fantaseas Water Park’, in September 1991, spraying the crowd with sanctified water from the swimming pool. Young and old were drenched in his love and left with a lifetime of memories.
Towards the end of his stay in London, Swamishri delighted yuvaks with breathtaking memories at ‘Fantaseas Water Park’, in September 1991, spraying the crowd with sanctified water from the swimming pool. Young and old were drenched in his love and left with a lifetime of memories.
Since closed down and re-opened as Larkswood Leisure Centre.
Now a leisure centre. Pay on entry for swim sessions, and classes can be booked ahead online.
The first ever Kishore Mandal shibir was held at the home of Mr Cohen in Nazeing, Essex in the presence of Pramukh Swami Maharaj from 30 August to 1 September 1990. Over 50 fortunate kishores received this memorable labh, which included a Suvarna Tula of Harikrishna Maharaj.
The first ever Kishore Mandal shibir was held at the home of Mr Cohen in Nazeing, Essex in the presence of Pramukh Swami Maharaj from 30 August to 1 September 1990. Over 50 fortunate kishores received this memorable labh, which included a Suvarna Tula of Harikrishna Maharaj.
A private rural residence. View from the lane only, with no public access.
On Sunday 9 June 1974, a grand reception was held at Alexandra Palace to honour Pramukh Swami Maharaj for his first visit to the UK as the Guru. Almost 4,000 devotees and a Royal Air Force musical band participated in the welcoming ceremony.
On Sunday 9 June 1974, a grand reception was held at Alexandra Palace to honour Pramukh Swami Maharaj for his first visit to the UK as the Guru. Almost 4,000 devotees and a Royal Air Force musical band participated in the welcoming ceremony.
Fondly called ‘Ally Pally’, the adjacent grounds, Alexandra Park, was also the venue for the month-long Cultural Festival of India celebrated in 1985 from 16 July to 16 August.
On 5 August 1985, Pramukh Swami Maharaj also gave labh here of celebrating the Suvarna Tula again, especially for the volunteers who had missed the original utsav at QPR stadium due to their seva at the CFI grounds.
The park and grounds are free and open daily. Specific attractions such as the ice rink and ticketed events are separate.
Pramukh Swami Maharaj's residence during his vicharan to the UK in 1974 was at Fourways, Finchley. It was a magnificent house situated in a wonderful location, where large numbers of devotees would visit daily for Swamishri's darshan and samagam.
Pramukh Swami Maharaj's residence during his vicharan to the UK in 1974 was at Fourways, Finchley. It was a magnificent house situated in a wonderful location, where large numbers of devotees would visit daily for Swamishri's darshan and samagam.
A private residential property on Bishops Avenue. View the gate from the road only.
Following Yogiji Maharaj's blessings given in Luton in 1970, Pramukh Swami Maharaj inaugurated the new BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Luton on Sunday 9 May 2004. Amid Vedic ceremonies, he ritually consecrated the murtis of Akshar-Purushottam Maharaj, Radha Krishna Dev, the Guru Parampara, Hanumanji and Ganapatiji.
Following Yogiji Maharaj's blessings given in Luton in 1970, Pramukh Swami Maharaj inaugurated the new BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Luton on Sunday 9 May 2004. Amid Vedic ceremonies, he ritually consecrated the murtis of Akshar-Purushottam Maharaj, Radha Krishna Dev, the Guru Parampara, Hanumanji and Ganapatiji.
An active, working mandir, open daily during darshan hours with no booking needed.
By train: Thameslink from London St Pancras, Farringdon or Blackfriars to Luton, about 25 to 35 minutes, then a taxi or local bus toward Marsh Farm.
On Saturday 30 July 1977, Shravan Sud Punam and Raksha Bandhan, Pramukh Swami Maharaj inaugurated a new mandir in Wellingborough, the third BAPS Swaminarayan mandir to be consecrated in a short span of 15 days. In the presence of Swamishri, the pictorial murtis of Akshar-Purushottam, Radha-Krishna and the Guru Parampara were taken out in a grand procession through the streets of Wellingborough.
On Saturday 30 July 1977, Shravan Sud Punam and Raksha Bandhan, Pramukh Swami Maharaj inaugurated a new mandir in Wellingborough, the third BAPS Swaminarayan mandir to be consecrated in a short span of 15 days. In the presence of Swamishri, the pictorial murtis of Akshar-Purushottam, Radha-Krishna and the Guru Parampara were taken out in a grand procession through the streets of Wellingborough.
What began with two houses made way for a few more properties, which were then followed with a completely new building that opened on 23 August 2009.
An active, working mandir, open daily during darshan hours with no booking needed.
By train: East Midlands Railway from London St Pancras to Wellingborough, about 55 to 70 minutes, then a short taxi to Mill Road.
The Yuvak Mandal travelled to Mukeshbhai Pabari's house in Rushden for a mini-shibir in the presence of Pramukh Swami Maharaj on 26 and 27 August 1990. The vast open countryside adjacent to the property provided plenty of opportunities for sporting activities. Swamishri gave memorable darshan to the devotees by participating in various sports.
The Yuvak Mandal travelled to Mukeshbhai Pabari's house in Rushden for a mini-shibir in the presence of Pramukh Swami Maharaj on 26 and 27 August 1990. The vast open countryside adjacent to the property provided plenty of opportunities for sporting activities. Swamishri gave memorable darshan to the devotees by participating in various sports.
A private residential property. View from the road only.
A car is essential. This is a private rural property with no practical public transport route.
Yogiji Maharaj often said that Bhagwan Swaminarayan came in a divine form to collect Sir John Malcolm on his death-bed. At their meeting in Rajkot on 26 February 1830, Bhagwan Swaminarayan had presented a copy of the Shikshapatri to the Governor of Bombay, Sir John Malcolm. Governor Malcolm brought this sacred Shikshapatri back with him to London and it was said to be later discovered in the Indian Institute of the Bodleian Library in Oxford. Pramukh Swami Maharaj visited the library on 21 July 1980 and held the Shikshapatri in his hands.
Yogiji Maharaj often said that Bhagwan Swaminarayan came in a divine form to collect Sir John Malcolm on his death-bed. At their meeting in Rajkot on 26 February 1830, Bhagwan Swaminarayan had presented a copy of the Shikshapatri to the Governor of Bombay, Sir John Malcolm. Governor Malcolm brought this sacred Shikshapatri back with him to London and it was said to be later discovered in the Indian Institute of the Bodleian Library in Oxford. Pramukh Swami Maharaj visited the library on 21 July 1980 and held the Shikshapatri in his hands.
The courtyards are free. Entry to reading rooms and guided tours needs a pre-booked ticket, and these sell out ahead.
By train: Great Western Railway direct from London Paddington to Oxford, about 55 minutes, then a 12 to 15 minute walk into the city centre. Oxford's traffic and parking make the train the more comfortable choice if this is your only stop.
On 23 September 1990, Pramukh Swami Maharaj opened this ‘Satsang Bhavan’ in Birmingham.
On 23 September 1990, Pramukh Swami Maharaj opened this ‘Satsang Bhavan’ in Birmingham.
The community relocated to the Pitmaston Road mandir in 2004, so this original building is no longer BAPS run.
By train: Avanti West Coast or Chiltern Railways from London Euston or Marylebone to Birmingham, about 1 hour 25 minutes to 2 hours, then a taxi or local bus to Sparkhill.
Due to the growth of Satsang in Birmingham, and with the blessings of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, a new site was purchased in July 2002. The same murtis that were consecrated by Swamishri in 1990 were moved to the new premises in a special ceremony on 18 April 2004.
Due to the growth of Satsang in Birmingham, and with the blessings of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, a new site was purchased in July 2002. The same murtis that were consecrated by Swamishri in 1990 were moved to the new premises in a special ceremony on 18 April 2004.
An active, working mandir, open daily during darshan hours with no booking needed.
By train: as above to Birmingham, then a taxi or local bus to Hall Green. A direct local train to Spring Road or Yardley Wood plus a short walk also works.
Satsang had been established in Leicester following Yogiji Maharaj's visit in 1970, and further consolidated by Pramukh Swami Maharaj's vicharan in 1974. The local devotees were inspired by Swamishri to search for a place to worship.
Satsang had been established in Leicester following Yogiji Maharaj's visit in 1970, and further consolidated by Pramukh Swami Maharaj's vicharan in 1974. The local devotees were inspired by Swamishri to search for a place to worship.
On the morning of Sunday 24 July 1977, Pramukh Swami Maharaj joined 60 devotees in the yagna ceremony, before consecrating the murtis of Akshar and Purushottam at the new mandir in Leicester on 148 Doncaster Road, the third BAPS Swaminarayan mandir in the UK.
The community has since moved on to newer premises, so this original building is no longer BAPS run.
By train: as above to Leicester, then a taxi or local bus toward Belgrave.
The second mandir in Leicester was opened by Pramukh Swami Maharaj in 1980. Devotees worshipped here from 1980 to 2011 until the third mandir was opened at Gipsy Lane on Sunday 9 October 2011.
The second mandir in Leicester was opened by Pramukh Swami Maharaj in 1980. Devotees worshipped here from 1980 to 2011 until the third mandir was opened at Gipsy Lane on Sunday 9 October 2011.
Superseded by the current Gipsy Lane mandir in 2011, so this building is no longer BAPS run.
By train: East Midlands Railway direct from London St Pancras to Leicester, about 70 minutes, then an easy 10 minute walk. This is one of the better rail options in this group.
A three-day national Kishore-Kishori Mandal shibir was held from 27 to 30 June 2000 in the serene surroundings of Center Parcs, Elveden Forest and the divine presence of Pramukh Swami Maharaj. The theme was ‘Aap Rijo Em Raji’.
A three-day national Kishore-Kishori Mandal shibir was held from 27 to 30 June 2000 in the serene surroundings of Center Parcs, Elveden Forest and the divine presence of Pramukh Swami Maharaj. The theme was ‘Aap Rijo Em Raji’.
Out of deep concern for his beloved kishores and kishoris, Swamishri spoke for more than 75 minutes in the opening session, pouring out his heart to all those present. The entire shibir left the kishores and kishoris with lifelong memories.
A private resort. Access needs a booked lodge stay or day pass, reserved in advance.
A car is essential. This is a private forest resort with no practical public transport route.
Between 25 and 27 June 2000, more than a thousand yuvaks, yuvatis, balaks and balikas gathered for a Family Shibir at Nottingham University in the presence of Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
Between 25 and 27 June 2000, more than a thousand yuvaks, yuvatis, balaks and balikas gathered for a Family Shibir at Nottingham University in the presence of Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
The theme of the Yuva Shibir was ‘Aap Rijo em Raji’, while the theme of the Bal Shibir was ‘Mare Swamine Raji Karva ja Chhe’. Both young and old left with unforgettable experiences through a variety of Satsang-based activities and interactions with Swamishri.
University Park is open to the public to walk through. Specific halls need staff or event access.
By train: East Midlands Railway from London St Pancras to Nottingham, about 1 hour 45 minutes, then the NET tram to the University of Nottingham stop.
On Saturday 16 July 1977, almost six years after the Satsang Mandal had begun with a handful of devotees, Pramukh Swami Maharaj opened a small hari mandir in Ashton-under-Lyne, near Manchester. The murtis that Yogiji Maharaj had originally consecrated in Islington in 1970 were consecrated at these premises on Cowhill Lane following a yagna ceremony at the Indian Association Hall.
On Saturday 16 July 1977, almost six years after the Satsang Mandal had begun with a handful of devotees, Pramukh Swami Maharaj opened a small hari mandir in Ashton-under-Lyne, near Manchester. The murtis that Yogiji Maharaj had originally consecrated in Islington in 1970 were consecrated at these premises on Cowhill Lane following a yagna ceremony at the Indian Association Hall.
The Manchester community has since moved to Lees Road, so this original building is no longer BAPS run.
By train: Avanti West Coast from London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly, about 2 hours, then a local train to Ashton-under-Lyne plus a short walk.
The growth of Satsang in Ashton led to the need for larger premises in 1980 where devotees continued to worship the murtis that had been originally consecrated in Islington. After the entire premises were refurbished in 1994, Pramukh Swami Maharaj consecrated the marble images of Akshar-Purushottam and Radha-Krishna on 14 August 1994.
The growth of Satsang in Ashton led to the need for larger premises in 1980 where devotees continued to worship the murtis that had been originally consecrated in Islington. After the entire premises were refurbished in 1994, Pramukh Swami Maharaj consecrated the marble images of Akshar-Purushottam and Radha-Krishna on 14 August 1994.
The day before the murti pratishtha ceremony, the murtis were paraded in a Nagar Yatra through the streets of Ashton. On the day of the pratishtha, Pramukh Swami Maharaj said as part of his blessings, “Shriji Maharaj has been consecrated with his abode. Now we have to please him with devotion.”
The Manchester community has since moved to Lees Road, so this original building is no longer BAPS run.
By train: as above to Ashton-under-Lyne, then a short walk.
The devotees of Preston had transformed a Jewish synagogue into a mandir. On Saturday 21 April 1984, Pramukh Swami Maharaj performed the murti pratishtha of Dham, Dhami and Mukta here, making this the UK's fifth hari mandir.
The devotees of Preston had transformed a Jewish synagogue into a mandir. On Saturday 21 April 1984, Pramukh Swami Maharaj performed the murti pratishtha of Dham, Dhami and Mukta here, making this the UK's fifth hari mandir.
Over 4,000 devotees had arrived from all over England, and Lancashire Radio reporter Ronald Clarke recorded the full Vedic ceremony. Finally, he asked Swamishri to address the people of Lancashire. Swamishri blessed all by saying, “Today the images have been consecrated here in Preston. May everyone experience peace, worship God, and become happy. We pray to God to shower his blessings upon everyone and for peace to prevail in society and the world.”
An active, working mandir, open daily during darshan hours with no booking needed.
By train: Avanti West Coast direct from London Euston to Preston, about 2 hours 10 minutes, then a short walk.
