Lilburn, Georgia: Elaborate Hindu Temple

They do not allow photography. It's completely gated off. It's an amazing building to see, but there's security and you can't get in the grounds as a tourist.

If you're looking for something different to do while in Atlanta, this temple is worth the visit. We arrived to watch the Arti ceremony at 11:15 am. We didn't get the audio tour, but things are very well labeled around the building. The grounds of the temple are peaceful. Sitting by the reflecting pool with the temple in view is just so relaxing.

The temple (called "mandir") is majestic and beautiful both inside and out. The 11 AM daily prayer ceremony is open to visitors. At that time the shrine is open, and the deities' statues inside can be seen.

Absolutely breathtaking on the inside -- definitely worth a stop if you're near Atlanta.

This site is beautiful and inspiring, and they do allow you to go in. No need to look on from the parking lot, every one there was kind and welcoming and directed us right to the main temple/shrine. They even have a tour set up through the book store/gift shop.

A few words about going into the main temple: No pictures past the point where the sign says "no photographs or video past this point." This is about halfway up the main steps. Dress code in the temple: no shoes, no shorts, no wife beaters, etc. there is a spot to take off your shoes and a guy at the entrance to spot-check you. Since we were wearing shorts he handed us a black shawl/sheet to tie around our waists.

The temple is actively used for worship. We saw numerous devotees of all ages at prayer. Signs remind you to be quiet...something to think about if bringing kids. On the way out, just as we were leaving, spotted the sign to the food court to the right of the exit and opted not to turn around (a lot of miles still to cover), but so do love Indian food...