Illinois has various Hindu temples, each serving as a spiritual haven for worshippers and a cultural hub for local communities. These temples in Illinois bring together people from diverse backgrounds to celebrate festivals, engage in cultural activities, and seek spiritual growth. Each temple offers something unique, from intricate architecture to dedicated spaces for meditation and community events. Whether you’re seeking a place for quiet reflection or cultural celebration, these temples are ideal destinations for anyone interested in experiencing Hindu spirituality in Illinois.
Top 10 Temples In Illinois
Here are the top 10 temples in Illinois, which makes a perfect spiritual retreat during your amazing trip to Illinois:
1. Hindu Temple Of Greater Chicago
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The Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago is a prominent landmark known for its grand architecture and scenic location on a hilltop. The complex includes two main temples, the Rama Temple and the Ganesha-Shiva-Durga Temple. The temple hosts several annual events and festivals, including Diwali, Navaratri, and Ram Navami, drawing devotees from the Midwest. This temple in Illinois also offers a library, cultural programs and a beautiful walking trail. For those looking to deepen their understanding of Hindu philosophy, classes in Sanskrit and spiritual teachings are also available.
Location: 10915 Lemont Rd, Lemont, IL 60439
Timings: Daily, 9 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fees: Free
2. Balaji Temple
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The Balaji Temple in Aurora is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara (Balaji) and is modeled after India’s famous Tirupati Temple. This temple is known for its calm atmosphere and cultural activities, including music and dance. It offers various puja services, making it an iconic and best place in Illinois for spiritual rituals and community gatherings. The temple has an on-site vegetarian restaurant serving traditional South Indian meals. Devotees appreciate the temple’s serene location and the opportunity to engage in year-round spiritual and cultural activities.
Location: 1145 Sullivan Rd, Aurora, IL 60506
Timings: Daily, 9 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fees: Free
3. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
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The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Bartlett is an architectural marvel made of hand-carved Italian marble and Turkish limestone. Dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, this mandir has a peaceful environment and offers a glimpse into traditional Hindu architectural styles. The mandir also hosts cultural programs, classes, and volunteer opportunities. The BAPS organization emphasizes community service, and the temple provides several services, including a youth program, women’s activities, and spiritual talks. Visitors must follow a dress code to ensure respectful decorum within the temple premises.
Location: 1851 S IL Route 59, Bartlett, IL 60103
Timings: Daily, 9 AM – 7:30 PM
Entry Fees: Free
4. Shree Radhey Shyam Temple
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The Shree Radhey Shyam Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha, is a hub of devotional music and cultural events. It conducts regular bhajan sessions, discourses, and youth classes. Festivals such as Janmashtami and Holi are celebrated with grandeur, attracting devotees from various communities. The temple also holds free yoga sessions and meditation programs. Shree Radhey Shyam Temple organizes food drives and charity events, aiding local and international causes as part of its community service.
Location: 245 S Gary Ave, Bloomingdale, IL 60108
Timings: Daily, 8 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fees: Free
5. Hanuman Mandir Of Greater Chicago
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The Hanuman Mandir in Glenview is primarily dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is a popular destination for devotees seeking blessings for strength and protection. This temple hosts Hanuman Chalisa recitations, bhajan nights, and other devotional activities. The temple provides spiritual counseling and Sanskrit classes, making it a well-rounded centre and a famous place in Illinois for spiritual growth. During special events like Hanuman Jayanti, the temple sees large crowds gathering for prayer and celebration.
Location: 3623 W Lake Ave, Glenview, IL 60026
Timings: Daily, 9 AM – 8:30 PM
Entry Fees: Free
6. ISKCON Chicago
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ISKCON Chicago, part of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, is dedicated to spreading the teachings of Lord Krishna. This temple is known for its vibrant kirtan sessions and Sunday feasts and attracts locals and tourists. ISKCON Chicago provides classes on the Bhagavad Gita and other Vedic scriptures as well as regular meditation workshops. The temple has a vegetarian cafe offering authentic Indian meals and is perfect for spiritual seekers and those interested in learning about the Hare Krishna movement.
Location: 1716 W Lunt Ave, Chicago, IL 60626
Timings: Daily, 4:30 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fees: Free
7. Shree Swaminarayan Hindu Temple ISSO
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This temple is part of the International Swaminarayan Satsang Organization (ISSO) and is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan. The temple offers a variety of religious and cultural activities, including spiritual classes, religious festivals and community service programs. Devotees participate in weekly satsang sessions and kirtans in the temple which also has a community hall for cultural events. This makes it a prominent centre for followers of the Swaminarayan faith. Its quiet atmosphere and cultural inclusivity make it one of the best temples in Illinois.
Location: 21W710 Irving Park Rd, Itasca, IL 60143
Timings: Daily, 7 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fees: Free
8. Hindu Temple Of Bloomington
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The Hindu Temple of Bloomington serves the Hindu community in central Illinois, offering a place for worship and cultural engagement. It holds regular pujas, festivals, and youth education programs. The temple also provides community outreach and charity services, making it an important spiritual and cultural hub for Bloomington residents. With a commitment to education, the temple organizes language and cultural classes for children, fostering an understanding of Hindu traditions in the younger generation.
Location: 1815 Tullamore Ave, Bloomington, IL 61704
Timings: Daily, 8 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fees: Free
9. Hindu Temple & Cultural Society Of Southern Illinois
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This temple serves the southern Illinois community by hosting regular ‘’puja’’ or prayer services, cultural activities, and educational programs. The temple celebrates all major Hindu festivals, and devotees gather here to observe events like Diwali, Navaratri, and Ganesh Chaturthi. The society organises guest lectures and cultural workshops, helping to promote Hindu traditions and values. The temple’s focus on cultural inclusivity has made it a key location for the Hindu community in Southern Illinois.
Location: 509 N McKinley Ave, Carbondale, IL 62901
Timings: Varies by event
Entry Fees: Free
10. The Hindu Temple Of Greater Springfield
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The Hindu Temple of Greater Springfield provides a place for worship and community gatherings in Chatham, Illinois. It holds weekly services, religious classes, and cultural events. The temple promotes Hindu teachings and artistic heritage with programs tailored for children and youth. Special puja ceremonies are held during festivals, bringing together the local Hindu community. The temple also hosts social events and workshops, contributing to preserving Hindu traditions in central Illinois.
Location: 1001 W Walnut St, Chatham, IL 62629
Timings: Daily, 8 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fees: Free
Illinois has various Hindu temples, each offering a unique blend of worship, culture, and community service. Whether you want to attend a festival, participate in a traditional puja, or explore cultural activities, these temples in Illinois serve as significant spiritual and cultural centres. Make the most of your visit to these temples with TripXL, your travel companion for exploring cultural landmarks in Illinois.
Cover Photo: MichaelDPhotos / Wikimedia Commons