One of New Jersey's greatest strengths is its cultural diversity. We're truly a melting pot and so fortunate to be surrounded by a wide variety of beliefs, races and religions. One of my favorite perks is being able to enjoy authentic cuisine from around the world, but there are other benefits. The opportunity to learn is precious and, lucky for us, plentiful in the Garden State. This stunning temple is the perfect place to learn about Hindu culture.

This striking site is a Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Mandir. In its simplest terms, it is a Hindu temple and cultural complex.

The BAPS complex is a 162-acre site located in Robbinsville, New Jersey.

It is set to be home to the world's largest Hindu temple (or Mandir), crafted in India and assembled in the Garden State.

In Sanskrit, Mandir means a place where the mind becomes still and experiences inner peace.

The current Mandir is 12,000 square feet and was completed in 2014. Additional buildings (including a larger Mandir and visitor center) are still in the works.

The Mandir is made entirely of Italian Carrara marble and is only the third Mandir of its kind in the world.

While the ornate carvings are visually appealing, they are also of religious significance. 98 pillars depict the lives of the great paramhansas (spiritual aspirants) and devotees of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.

In addition to the pillars, you'll find 13,499 individual carved stone pieces including 91 elephants.

The complex is free to visit and all are welcome. Audio tours are available and reservations are not required.

An awe-inspiring work of art, visitors will learn about both the buildings and Hindu religion on their tour.

Guests may also observe vibrant prayer ceremonies, purchase books and souvenirs or enjoy a vegetarian meal at the sweets and snack center.

While this is a serene place of worship, it is also a place of joy and jubilation. The sweet treats and souvenirs make for unique gifts and you'll surely be filled with a sense of wonder while you're here.

An absolutely unforgettable excursion, you'll feel as if you've been transported to India.

The heart of the local Hindu community, you'll find elaborate celebrations for holidays like Diwali.

However, BAPS also participates in secular events including blood drives and charity walks to support neighborhood civic organizations, the Robbinsville Police Department and The Nature Conservancy.

A magical way to spend a day, anyone can enjoy a visit. The entire complex is handicap accessible and wheelchairs are available.

The temple is located at 112 North Main Street, Robbinsville. Mandir hours are 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily. To learn more, visit BAPS.org. To explore the site, enjoy the video below. Around 7 minutes long, the footage features an up close look at art and architectural details – it is undeniably mesmerizing.

The fact that this beautiful building is in my backyard blows my mind. Of course, it’s not the only gorgeous place in the Garden State. For another beautiful building with religious and cultural significance, check out my article on the Princeton University Chapel.