Indian Temples in Atlanta, GA: Where to Go, What to Expect, and How to Visit

Atlanta has a vibrant Indian community, and that shows in the number of Hindu temples and Indian places of worship across the metro area. Whether you live here, you’re visiting, or you’re just curious about Indian temples in Atlanta, GA, there are several well-established temples that are open to the public and welcome visitors.

Below is a practical guide to some of the major temples, what you can expect when you visit, basic etiquette, and how to plan your trip around Atlanta traffic and neighborhoods.

Quick Overview: Major Indian Temples Around Atlanta

Names and offerings can evolve, so it’s a good idea to confirm hours, events, and specific addresses directly with the temple before visiting.

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir (Lilburn)

Although not inside the Atlanta city limits, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Lilburn is one of the most recognizable Indian temples in the Atlanta area and a common destination for locals and tourists.

Location (approximate):
Near the intersection of Lawrenceville Highway (US-29) and Rockbridge Road in Lilburn, GA, about 20–25 miles northeast of Downtown Atlanta depending on your route.

What makes this temple stand out

• Impressive marble and limestone architecture that feels like walking into a traditional temple in India.
• Open to visitors of all backgrounds, including non-Hindus who just want to learn and appreciate the culture.
• Typically offers:
  • Daily aarti (light offering ceremony)
  • A quiet inner sanctum for personal prayer
  • A small gift or snack shop and sometimes a visitor information area

Tips for visiting from Atlanta

• From Downtown or Midtown Atlanta, many people drive via I‑285 East and then head out toward Lilburn via US‑29.
• Plan around rush hour traffic, especially on weekdays between roughly 7–9 a.m. and 4–7 p.m.
• Check in advance for:
  • Visitor hours
  • Dress guidelines (generally modest clothing, shoulders and knees covered)
  • Any special programs or guided tours

Hindu Temple of Atlanta (Riverdale)

The Hindu Temple of Atlanta in Riverdale is one of the longest-established temples serving metro Atlanta’s Indian community.

Location (approximate):
Near Upper Riverdale Road and State Route 85 in Riverdale, GA, roughly 15–20 miles south of Downtown Atlanta.

Key features

• Separate shrines dedicated to Lord Balaji (Venkateswara) and Lord Shiva, mirroring South Indian temple styles.
• Regular pujas, special homas (fire rituals), and major observances for:
  • Diwali
  • Ugadi
  • Ganesh Chaturthi
  • Other Hindu festivals
• Many locals use this temple for family ceremonies, such as naming ceremonies, special prayers, or milestone celebrations.

Getting there from around Atlanta

• From Downtown Atlanta, the temple is usually accessed via I‑75 South, then local roads toward Riverdale.
• Because it’s on the south side, it’s also convenient if you’re coming from or going to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
• Parking is typically available on-site, but it can fill up during large festivals.

Shree Shakti Mandir (Mableton)

On the west side of the metro area, Shree Shakti Mandir in Mableton is a major center, especially for those who celebrate Shakti and Durga traditions.

Location (approximate):
West of Atlanta, reachable via I‑20 West and local roads in the Mableton area.

Why people visit

• Strong focus on Goddess worship (Shakti), including Durga, Amba, and other forms.
• Very active during:
  • Navratri, with nightly garba and dandiya dancing
  • Major Hindu festivals and special pujas
• Community-oriented, often involved in:
  • Food offerings (prasad)
  • Cultural programs
  • Youth and language classes

Travel notes for Atlanta residents

• From Midtown, Downtown, or Westside Atlanta, many visitors use I‑20 West and then head north via local roads.
• If you live in Cobb County or west of the city, this temple is often easier to reach than those on the east or south sides.
• Navratri evenings can be crowded; parking and entry lines may take additional time.

Sanatan Mandir (Smyrna)

If you are in northwest Atlanta, Vinings, or Cobb County, Sanatan Mandir in Smyrna is another well-known Indian temple.

Location (approximate):
In the Smyrna area near major routes like South Cobb Drive, convenient from I‑285 and I‑75.

What to expect

• Temples and shrines dedicated to multiple deities, often including Shiva, Ram, Krishna, and others.
• A mix of North and South Indian traditions, reflected in the style of worship and festivals.
• Often hosts:
  • Sunday gatherings or satsangs
  • Cultural activities, such as music, dance, and language programs
  • Children’s religious education sessions

Getting there from Atlanta

• From Buckhead, Midtown, or Downtown, drivers commonly use I‑75 North, then I‑285 West or local routes depending on traffic.
• This location is especially convenient for people living in Smyrna, Marietta, Vinings, or the Cumberland area.

Other Indian Temples and Worship Centers in the Atlanta Area

Beyond the larger Hindu temples, Atlanta has several specialized and community-specific centers connected to Indian spiritual traditions.

Vaishnav / Krishna-focused centers

• Some temples and centers in metro Atlanta follow Gaudiya Vaishnav or ISKCON-style traditions, with:
  • Regular kirtan (devotional singing)
  • Bhagavad Gita discussions
  • Sunday Feast-style gatherings
• These are often located in or near the northern and eastern suburbs, such as around Duluth, Norcross, or similar areas.

Jain temples

Metro Atlanta includes Jain derasars/temples that serve the Jain community, with:

• Separate areas for Shvetambar and Digambar traditions (depending on the temple)
• Focused on ahimsa (non-violence) and meditative practices
• Strict guidelines around food, especially during religious days

These are often found in suburban areas with strong Indian populations, such as north and northeast of the city.

Sikh gurdwaras

For those from Sikh families or interested in Sikh practices, local gurdwaras typically offer:

• Daily or weekly prayer services and kirtan
• Langar (community kitchen) serving vegetarian meals
• A welcoming environment for newcomers

These too are generally in the broader Atlanta metro, often near major Indian residential areas.

How to Choose Which Temple to Visit in Atlanta

When you search for “Indian temple Atlanta GA,” you’re probably looking for one of three things:

1. A place to worship regularly
2. A one-time visit to experience Indian temple culture
3. A place for a specific festival or life event

Here’s how to narrow it down.

1. Location and commute

Metro Atlanta is spread out, and traffic can be heavy. Consider:

• Where you live or are staying
  • East / Northeast: BAPS Mandir (Lilburn) is often closest
  • South: Hindu Temple of Atlanta (Riverdale) may be easier
  • West / Cobb: Shree Shakti Mandir (Mableton) or Sanatan Mandir (Smyrna)
• Typical traffic times
  • Plan extra time if you’re driving through I‑285, I‑75, or I‑85 during rush hour.

2. Tradition and language

Different temples may feel more familiar depending on:

• Regional background (e.g., Gujarati, Tamil, Telugu, North Indian)
• Primary language often spoken in announcements or informal conversations
• Type of worship
  • More South Indian style with traditional Vedic chants
  • More North Indian style with bhajans and aarti
  • Krishna / Vaishnav emphasis for those drawn to kirtan and Gita study

Most temples welcome everyone but may feel different in style and community atmosphere.

3. Festivals and special events

If you’re planning around a specific Hindu festival, check which temples host larger observances:

• Navratri and Garba: Many people look to Shree Shakti Mandir and other community halls in the area.
• Diwali / Deepavali: Nearly all major temples hold special services and evening aartis.
• Janmashtami, Ganesh Chaturthi, Shivratri, Holi: Different temples emphasize different festivals, so it’s worth calling ahead to confirm details.

Basic Etiquette When Visiting an Indian Temple in Atlanta

If you’re new to Indian temples—whether Hindu, Jain, or Sikh—following a few common-sense guidelines will help you feel comfortable.

Dress and behavior

• Dress modestly
  • Shoulders and knees covered is a good baseline.
  • Many visitors avoid shorts and very tight clothing.
• Remove shoes
  • You’ll typically leave shoes outside or in a designated area before entering the main prayer hall.
• Stay respectful and quiet
  • Keep your phone on silent.
  • Avoid loud conversations in the sanctum area.

Photography and phones

• Many Atlanta-area temples restrict photography inside the main sanctum or during rituals.
• Ask a volunteer or look for signs before taking photos, especially of deities or during aarti.

Donations and prasad

• Donations are usually voluntary. Boxes or counters are clearly marked.
• Prasad (blessed food) is often given after ceremonies. It’s customary to accept it with respect; if you have dietary restrictions, you can ask what it contains or politely decline.

Practical Tips for Atlanta Visitors and New Residents

1. Using public transit vs. driving

• Driving is still the most common way to reach Indian temples around Atlanta, as many are in the suburbs.
• MARTA rail and buses can get you part of the way, but you’ll often still need:
  • A rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
  • Or a short taxi ride from the nearest station or major road

2. When to go

• Weekends tend to be busier, especially Sunday mornings and festival days.
• If you prefer a quieter visit:
  • Try weekday evenings or non-festival days.
• For a first-time cultural experience, attending during a major festival can be memorable, but expect:
  • More crowds
  • Limited parking
  • Longer wait times for darshan (viewing the deity)

3. Family-friendly considerations

Most Indian temples in Atlanta are family-friendly and used to children attending:

• Kids can observe rituals, and many temples offer:
  • Bal Vihar-style classes
  • Language lessons
  • Dance or music programs tied to Indian culture
• It’s still helpful to:
  • Keep children close, especially around open flames during aarti
  • Step out briefly if they become very restless or loud

How to Find Up-to-Date Details for Indian Temples in Atlanta

Because service times, festival schedules, and even addresses or phone numbers can occasionally change, it’s wise to:

• Look up the full official name of the temple (e.g., “BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Lilburn” or “Hindu Temple of Atlanta Riverdale”)
• Confirm:
  • Current opening hours
  • Aarti / puja timings
  • Parking or construction notices
  • Any visitor requirements (such as dress code or large-event registration)

If you’re organizing a group visit, many temples in the Atlanta area can coordinate group tours or school visits if you arrange them in advance.

By focusing on where you are in metro Atlanta, your cultural or spiritual interests, and how comfortable you are driving to the suburbs, you can easily find an Indian temple near Atlanta, GA that fits your needs—whether for regular worship, a one-time cultural visit, or major festival celebrations.