Indian Temple and Chinese Garden Tour

Experience the Cultural and Culinary Diversity of New York City in Two Days

If you’re craving a journey into the spiritual and aesthetic traditions of India and China without leaving New York, the Indian Temple and Chinese Garden Tour offers a compelling way to do just that. For around $262 per person, this two-day experience takes you from the breathtaking craftsmanship of BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Jersey to the peaceful serenity of the New York Chinese Scholars Garden in Manhattan, finishing in the lively neighborhood of Flushing. The tour includes comfortable transportation, curated stops, and enough authentic sights and flavors to satisfy your curiosity and appetite for cultural discovery.

What we especially appreciate about this tour is its focus on authenticity and craftsmanship. The Hindu temple, built entirely without steel or concrete using traditional Indian methods, offers a rare glimpse into religious architecture that feels both monumental and accessible. On the other hand, the Chinese garden provides a peaceful, scenic contrast—designed in the Ming Dynasty style, it’s a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle. The third highlight, Flushing, is a vibrant hub of Asian culture, full of bustling markets and delicious food, making it a perfect way to round out the experience.

A possible consideration is that the tour’s schedule can be quite packed, especially on Day 2, when you’ll move from a serene garden to a lively neighborhood. While most travelers find this mix energizing, those seeking a slow, contemplative pace might find it a bit rushed. Also, the admission fee for the Chinese Garden is modest at $5, but it’s worth noting that the garden itself is not included in the ticket price, so budget accordingly.

This tour is an excellent pick for travelers interested in cultural architecture, religious sites, and authentic Asian cuisine. It’s ideal for those who enjoy walking through beautiful gardens, exploring religious landmarks, and savoring diverse flavors—all within a manageable two-day itinerary.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Sites: Visit North America’s largest traditional Hindu temple and a Ming-style Chinese garden.
• Balanced Experience: Combines serene spiritual sights with vibrant neighborhood exploration.
• Cultural Authenticity: The Hindu temple features architecture built without steel, emphasizing traditional craftsmanship.
• Convenient and Guided: Includes transportation, curated stops, and the ability to focus on the experience without logistical hassles.
• Taste of Flushing: Free time for shopping and eating in a lively Asian community with authentic cuisine.
• Cost-Effective: For around $262, you get two full days of immersive cultural exploration, with most entry fees covered or affordable.

A Detailed Look at the Indian Temple and Chinese Garden Tour

Starting with BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham

Your journey begins with a visit to the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey. As the largest traditional Hindu temple in North America, it’s an architectural marvel. What sets it apart is its construction—entirely using ancient Indian craftsmanship techniques without steel or concrete, showcasing centuries-old building methods that feel wonderfully tangible. We loved the way the detailed carvings and sculptures highlight stories and deities from Hindu tradition, creating a space that feels both sacred and awe-inspiring.

The temple takes about two hours to explore, and admission is included in the tour. Expect to see intricately carved stonework, statues, and perhaps even catch a cultural or spiritual performance, depending on the day. The experience is designed to give visitors a sense of Indian religious art and architecture—a tangible link to traditions that are often only visible through travel or media.

One thing to note is that the temple’s design emphasizes craftsmanship and spiritual symbolism, so take your time to appreciate the details. Some reviews mention that the experience feels quite immersive and peaceful, making it a perfect start to your cultural exploration.

Transitioning to the Chinese Scholars Garden

On Day 2, the focus shifts to the tranquility of Chinese landscape design with a visit to the New York Chinese Scholars Garden. Located within the New York Botanical Garden, this garden is one of the few authentic Ming Dynasty-style gardens in the United States. Designed in the traditional style, it features winding paths, pavilions, rock formations, and water features—all arranged to evoke harmony and balance.

Most travelers find this stop to be a peaceful oasis—”a hidden gem,” as one reviewer notes. Expect to spend about an hour here, soaking in the serenity. The garden is not included in the ticket price, costing just $5, which is a small fee for such a quality experience. We loved the way the garden’s architecture, with its graceful pavilions and curved bridges, transports you to classical China without leaving New York.

The garden’s design emphasizes simplicity and natural beauty, making it ideal for reflective wanderings or photography. The quiet atmosphere is a lovely contrast to the bustling city, and many visitors appreciate the craftsmanship of the stone and woodwork, which feels authentic and well-preserved.

Exploring Flushing: Food, Markets, and Energy

The afternoon in Flushing offers approximately three hours of free time. This neighborhood is famed for its vibrant Asian community, with countless markets, restaurants, and shops. Here, you can indulge in authentic Chinese cuisine—think dim sum, hand-pulled noodles, or bubble tea—or browse markets for teas, spices, and souvenirs.

We loved the lively atmosphere, which is an adventure for the senses. As one traveler pointed out, Flushing is “the perfect place to sample Asian food and soak in the local energy,” whether through a quick snack or a full meal. The area is also known for services like nails and massages, making it a great spot to relax after a busy morning.

It’s a flexible part of the tour—if you’re a foodie or shopper, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. Just be aware that, since it’s free to explore, it’s up to you to manage your time and budget. The neighborhood’s authenticity and diversity make it stand out as a highlight of the trip.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

With transportation included, the tour offers a hassle-free experience. Pickup is available, and the group size is capped at 50 travelers, ensuring a comfortable atmosphere without feeling crowded. Having a guide (though not always named) helps make logistics smoother and enriches your understanding of the sites.

Timing and Pacing

The schedule is fairly tight—two hours at the Hindu temple, one hour at the Chinese garden, and three hours in Flushing. While we found this efficient, travelers should be prepared for some walking and the possibility of feeling a bit rushed, especially if you linger at any stop. It’s best suited for those who want a comprehensive, curated snapshot of Asian cultural landmarks within a manageable timeframe.

Cost and Value

For $262, including admission to the temple and transportation, this tour provides a good value—especially considering the quality of the sites. The modest fee for the Chinese garden ($5) and the inclusion of curated stops make it an economical way to experience these cultural gems without the hassle of planning multiple visits yourself.

Weather and Cancellation

Since the tour is weather-dependent, check the forecast and be prepared for possible cancellations if conditions are poor. The booking policy allows cancellations up to six days in advance for a full refund, giving some flexibility if your plans change.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who appreciate architecture, religion, and authentic neighborhoods. If you enjoy visiting temples and gardens that are true to their traditions, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also ideal for those wanting a taste of Asian culture beyond Chinatown’s typical tourist spots, with a focus on craftsmanship and serenity.

Plus, if you’re interested in food and markets, Flushing’s vibrant scene offers plenty of options. The tour suits those who prefer guided logistics and value a well-organized, culturally rich experience over unstructured sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

The Indian Temple and Chinese Garden Tour offers a meaningful way to connect with two significant Asian cultural traditions in just two days. From the stunning Indian architecture built with ancient techniques to the peaceful elegance of a Ming-style Chinese garden, it delivers a blend of spirituality, art, and lively neighborhood exploration.

While the schedule is packed, most travelers find the experience engaging and rewarding. It’s especially good for those who want a curated, authentic glimpse into cultural practices and traditional aesthetics. If your interest lies in exploring spiritual sites, enjoying authentic Asian cuisine, or simply experiencing the diversity of New York City, this tour is well worth considering.

Perfect for curious travelers, cultural enthusiasts, or anyone looking to deepen their appreciation of Asian traditions—all within a manageable, two-day adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is included, making it easy to focus on the sites rather than logistics.

How long do I spend at each site?
You’ll spend about 2 hours at the Hindu temple, 1 hour at the Chinese garden, and 3 hours exploring Flushing.

Are admission fees included?
Admission to the Hindu temple is included, while the Chinese garden costs $5, payable on-site.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but check with the provider for specific accessibility details.

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals are not included, but Flushing offers plenty of authentic options to explore on your own.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera are recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but consider the pace and interest level for younger children.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or snow, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Book at least six days in advance to ensure a full refund if plans change; early booking also secures your spot.

This tour provides a rich, authentic taste of Asian cultures right in the heart of New York City. Whether you’re marveling at the intricate carvings of the Hindu temple, strolling through the tranquil Chinese garden, or tasting the flavors of Flushing, you’re set for a memorable cultural journey.