Palace of Gold.

Prabhupada's Palace of Gold and City of God

Billed as "America's Taj Mahal" in its literature, built and run by the Hare Krishnas, the Palace of Gold is a tourist attraction on a grand scale (We can only hope that the Krishnas maintain their momentum and one day finish their even more ambitious City of God). It's in a secluded spot in the rolling hills of West Virginia, reached via four miles of crumbly mountain back roads.

The Palace of Gold, a golden shrine with domes and other elaborate architectural flourishes, has the feel of a great, glittery ship that somehow drifted off the set of a Bollywood production. From its balcony one can see gardens lining footpaths; a giant seated figure sits in the distance against the hills. Elephant and sacred cow statues allow for novelty photo opportunities. Anglo-looking people in pink robes mingle with sari-wrapped tourist families of Indian descent, while peacocks hoot somewhere in the deep shadows.

Everyone removes their shoes before entering to tour the Palace.

Prabhupada's Palace of Gold and City of God

Address:: Palace Rd., New Vrindaban, WV
Directions:: I-470 exit 2 (Bethlehem). At the end of the ramp turn left, get in the right lane, then turn right onto Hwy 88. Drive south eight miles. At the stop sign, turn left onto Hwy 250 toward Cameron. Drive south 1.5 miles (past Limestone General Store). Turn left onto Palace Rd/Limestone Hill Rd. Stay on the paved road with the double yellow center line, and in less than four miles you'll reach the Palace of Gold.
Hours:: April-Aug. 10 am - 8 pm; Sep-Mar 10 am - 5 pm. (Call to verify)
Phone:: 304-843-1812
RA Rates:: The Best

More on Prabhupada's Palace of Gold and City of God

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June 19, 2013