The Hindu Temple Society of North America

Hindu temple · Flushing

4

@atlasobscura

"The intricately carved temple to Ganesha, one of the most worshipped of the Hindu deities, with his distinctive elephant head, is a beautiful sculpted building, that wouldn’t look out of place in Southern India. Remarkably, this astonishing temple is not to be found in India, but amongst the suburban family homes of Flushing, Queens. Home of the Hindu Temple Society of North America, but popularly known as the Ganesh Temple, it was the first traditional Hindu temple built in the United States. Built on Bowne Street on land bought from the Russian Orthodox Church, the incredible Hindu temple was begun in 1970, for the rapidly increasing Hindu immigrant population of New York. Built in the South Indian style, by skilled craftsmen and temple builders from India, the idol images are carved from granite imported from India as well. The temple itself is a thriving place of worship and popular community centre. Non-Hindu visitors are welcome, although photography of the silver shrines covered in colourful garlands is not allowed. Underneath the Temple is the community canteen, that serves some of the best South Indian Dosas to be found in the city. The beauty, serenity and friendliness of the Ganesh Temple, is matched by the deliciousness of the food below, making the Hindu Temple Society of North America a delight to all the senses. Know Before You Go If you want to go into the temple, they have a dress code. No sleeveless tops, no shorts, no short skirts, no leather, no furs, basically no dead animal products. If your bottoms are inappropriate, they will rent you some baggy pants. No shoes are allowed inside the temple. Be prepared to take your shoes off outside. Canteen is in the basement accessed off Holly St." - Luke J Spencer, krazzo, e1savage, Michael Busch

The Ganesh Temple of Queens – Queens, New York - Gastro Obscura

45-57 Bowne St, Queens, NY 11355 Get directions

nyganeshtemple.org

4 Postcards

See full details

More Places For You

Marinara Pizza Upper West

Pizza restaurant · Upper West Side

Marinara Pizza on the Upper West Side dishes out thin-crust pies alongside inviting Italian classics, making it a go-to for tasty slices and unique flavors.

7 Postcards

Bushniwa

Japanese restaurant · Williamsburg

Tucked away in Bushwick, this cozy spot features exposed brick and a lively patio, serving up fresh and affordable Japanese classics in a chill atmosphere.

4 Postcards

Bar Tulix

Mexican restaurant · SoHo

Bar Tulix is a posh Mexican restaurant in SoHo where Baja-inspired seafood takes center stage, perfect for casual bites or celebratory nights.

13 Postcards

Siena Cafe • Italian • Bar • Restaurant

Italian restaurant · Upper East Side

Casual Italian fare with cocktails & wine in a contemporary, rustic setting with patterned tiles.

1 Postcard

Marie's Crisis Café

Piano bar · West Village

Dive into Broadway magic at Marie's Crisis, the West Village's beloved piano bar, where locals and visitors alike belt out show tunes in joyous harmony.

16 Postcards

Contra

New American restaurant · Lower East Side

This chic New American spot serves up a creative fixed-price dinner menu that's fresh, inventive, and delightfully unpretentious, perfect for a memorable night out.

25 Postcards

Jean's

Restaurant · NoHo

At this chic NoHo gem, indulge in small plates, lobster rolls, and cocktails by the flickering fireplace, all while enjoying top-notch service and vibes.

8 Postcards

Tender Crush

Chicken restaurant · SoHo

Tender Crush brings New York's crispy chicken game to new heights with innovative flavors, friendly service, and a cozy vibe that keeps you coming back for more.

0 Postcards

Diner

American restaurant · Williamsburg

Step into this playful Brooklyn diner where retro vibes meet seasonal New American cuisine, and enjoy personalized service that makes dining a delight.

22 Postcards

Fort Greene Park Greenmarket

Farmers' market · Fort Greene

The Fort Greene Farmer's Market is a vibrant year-round spot bursting with local produce, artisan goods, and a lively atmosphere perfect for weekend strolls.

1 Postcard