The BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi stands as a beacon of spiritual unity and cultural heritage in the heart of the UAE. The temple is an impressive symbol of tolerance and harmony, providing a serene place for Hindus and anyone seeking tranquility and connection. Whether you want to participate in religious rituals or simply experience the architectural beauty, this temple is a must-visit. Here’s a complete guide to visiting the BAPS Hindu Temple, including how to reach it from various emirates in the UAE.
Overview of the BAPS Hindu Temple
The BAPS Hindu Temple, also known as the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, is the first traditional stone Hindu temple being constructed in Abu Dhabi. The temple is characterized by intricate carvings and traditional Indian architectural elements. It is designed as a symbol of interfaith harmony, intended to serve as a place of prayer, learning, and celebration for devotees and visitors from around the world.
Located in Abu Mureikha, near Al Rahba, Abu Dhabi, the temple is easily accessible for people from across the UAE. Let’s take a closer look at how to get to the temple from each of the seven emirates.
How to Reach BAPS Hindu Temple from Each Emirate
1. From Abu Dhabi City
If you are traveling from Abu Dhabi City, the BAPS Hindu Temple is approximately a 45-minute drive. You can take the E11 Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Road heading northeast towards Dubai. The temple is conveniently located along this route, just beyond the Al Rahba area.
Public Transport Option: You can also take a bus from Abu Dhabi City to the temple. Buses on the Abu Dhabi-Dubai route will pass near the area, and you can get down at a stop nearby and take a taxi to the temple.
2. From Dubai
Dubai is around 100 km away from the BAPS Hindu Temple. Driving via the E11 Sheikh Zayed Road is the most efficient way to reach the temple from Dubai, taking around an hour and a half, depending on traffic. This scenic route will take you through Jebel Ali and towards Abu Dhabi.
Public Transport Option: You can catch a bus from Dubai’s Al Ghubaiba Bus Station that heads to Abu Dhabi. Get off at a stop close to Al Rahba and take a local taxi to reach the temple. Alternatively, carpooling options through popular ride-sharing apps can also be considered for convenience.
3. From Sharjah
For those traveling from Sharjah, the most convenient route is also the E11, which connects Sharjah to Abu Dhabi through Dubai. The journey will take approximately one hour and forty-five minutes by car.
Public Transport Option: You can take a bus from Sharjah to Dubai, and then transfer to an Abu Dhabi-bound bus. From there, follow the route towards the temple by taxi.
4. From Ajman
Ajman is about 140 km from the BAPS Temple, and the best route is through the E11, passing through Sharjah and Dubai. The drive will take around two hours.
Public Transport Option: Buses from Ajman to Abu Dhabi are available, though you might have to switch buses in Dubai. After reaching Abu Dhabi, you can take a taxi to the temple.
5. From Umm Al-Quwain
The drive from Umm Al-Quwain will take around two hours as well, using the E11 route towards Abu Dhabi. This route takes you through Sharjah, Dubai, and Jebel Ali, giving you a scenic drive along the UAE’s coast.
Public Transport Option: Public transport options include taking a bus from Umm Al-Quwain to Dubai, and then onward to Abu Dhabi. You can then continue by taxi to the temple.
6. From Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah is about 190 km away from the temple, and the drive will take roughly two and a half hours via the E311 route, which connects to the E611 and finally to the E11 towards Abu Dhabi.
Public Transport Option: There are buses from Ras Al Khaimah to Dubai, and from there, you can continue your journey by bus or car to Abu Dhabi and then hire a taxi to the temple.
7. From Fujairah
If you’re coming from Fujairah, it’s about a 200 km journey, which will take around two and a half to three hours. The E611 route is recommended, which connects you to the E11 towards Abu Dhabi.
Public Transport Option: Buses from Fujairah travel to Dubai, where you can switch to an Abu Dhabi-bound bus. Then, you can take a taxi to the temple for the last stretch of your journey.
Tips for Visiting the BAPS Hindu Temple
- Dress Code: As it is a place of worship, dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. This applies to both men and women.
- Opening Hours: The temple is open daily, but it is best to check for exact visiting hours on the official BAPS Temple website or their social media channels, as timings may vary.
- Facilities: There will be ample parking space at the temple. It is also expected to offer amenities such as prayer halls, exhibition spaces, and a community center.
- Plan Ahead: Fridays and weekends are likely to be busier, so if you prefer a quieter experience, try to visit on a weekday.
Conclusion
The BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi is more than just a place of worship; it is a landmark of peace and cultural harmony, open to everyone. No matter where you are in the UAE, the temple is accessible via road or public transport, making it a perfect spiritual retreat for those looking to reconnect and find tranquility.
Whether you are a resident or a visitor, this temple offers a unique and peaceful experience, blending traditional Hindu culture with the multicultural spirit of the UAE. We hope this guide helps you in visiting BAPS Hindu Temple with ease and encourages you to explore the incredible cultural diversity the UAE has to offer.