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Buckingham, Virginia: Light of Truth Universal Shrine: LOTUS (In Transition)

A large, domed, exotic building in white, blue, and pink tiles, lit inside by neon. Designed to resemble a giant Lotus bud. Closed for renovation in June 2024; reopening date unknown.

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Light of Truth Universal Shrine

A large domed building in colors of white, blue and pink tiles. On the banks of the James River. Lit inside by neon. Below is a display of world religions. Shoes must be removed to enter.

Other smaller interesting buildings on site. No entry fee. Hotel and meals available.

[Page, 09/02/2000]
Light Of Truth Universal Shrine

Swannanoa may no longer have University of Science and Philosophy, but Virginia still has The LOTUS in Yogaville. The LOTUS, Light Of Truth Universal Shrine, is about 5 miles north of VA-56 on County Road 604 in Buckingham county. I first found this place about 15 years ago and find it an nice diversion from run of the mill tourist sites.

While the LOTUS is not up to, or is that down to, your usual tacky standards, it is unique. The LOTUS, itself is a building, whose exterior is designed to resemble a Lotus bud. The interior of this structure is a room dedicated to uniting all faiths, Eastern, Western, African, and Native American.

[Jesse Dawson, 06/02/1999]

Light of Truth Universal Shrine: LOTUS

Directions:
I-64 exit 121A onto Hwy 20 south. Follow Hwy 20 through Scottsville (about 20 miles), cross the James River, and continue on Hwy 20 for about eight more miles. Turn right onto Hwy 655 and drive for five miles to a stop sign (Small stores on both sides). Continue on Hwy 655 for seven miles (It becomes Hwy 601 after a short time). At the end of a winding hill is the intersection of Hwy 601 and Hwy 604. Turn left onto Hwy 604. Pass the "Welcome to Yogaville" sign and after a half-mile turn right into the parking lot at the sign: "Satchidananda Ashram - Yogaville, Visitors."
Hours:
2024: Under construction (Call to verify)
Phone:
434-969-4052
Status:
In Transition

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