Visit this artistic monument, which opens its doors to followers of all spiritual beliefs and movements. It is unfinished now and may remain so forever.
The Soami Bagh Temple is an architecturally impressive landmark and a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of many religions. Admire the exquisite masonry of the temple’s white-marble exterior. Soami Bagh Temple is devoted to Radha Soami, a religious organization that combines the teachings of all faiths. Observe Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs, among others, meeting in harmony.
Although construction was initially begun in the early 1900s, work on the building has been carried out for over 100 years and it remains incomplete. Huzur Swamiji Maharaj, the founder of Radha Soami, strived to create a movement that would promote the unity of humankind. As a consequence, the complex houses a church, gurudwara, mosque and temple under the same roof. Learn about the common local belief that absolute religious harmony is impossible thus, the temple will forever be unfinished.
Take time to appreciate the whitewashed marble palace-like appearance and intricate masonry work. It features rows of arches, balustrades, pillars and detailed capitals. A recurring theme includes the floral carvings and pietra dura, which is the use of polished stones pieced together like a jigsaw puzzle to form an image. A ceremonial staircase leads to the main building, which is crowned by four tall minarets.
Inside the temple, look for the tomb of Huzur Swamiji Maharaj and his wife. Arrive in the morning to watch as devotees come to participate in the satsang, a discourse based on the poetry of the 15th-century Indian saint Kabir.
Find the temple in the Dayal Bagh district of northern Agra. It’s about a 40-minute drive from Agra Cantonment railway station. Use auto rickshaws or taxis to get here and to other major attractions in Agra such as Agra Fort, Sikandra and the Taj Mahal.
Soami Bagh Temple is open daily and admission is free. All visitors should remove their shoes before entering the temple. Be discreet and respect the privacy of worshippers when taking photos of the attraction.
