Hindu Temple Society of North America Ganesh Temple
Discover authentic South Indian vegetarian cuisine and a serene spiritual atmosphere at NYC's oldest Hindu temple.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Hindu Temple Society of North America Ganesh Temple
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover authentic South Indian vegetarian cuisine and a serene spiritual atmosphere at NYC's oldest Hindu temple.
"NYC's cheapest Indian food is at Temple Canteen in Flushing Queens."
🎯 Budget-Friendly Feast
Enjoy incredibly affordable and delicious South Indian food in the basement canteen.
👟 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for the religious site.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Temple Canteen Delights
Basement of the Ganesh Temple
Savor authentic and budget-friendly South Indian vegetarian dishes like dosas and uttapams. A true culinary adventure!
Ganesh Temple Architecture
Main temple hall
Admire the stunning carved architecture of this iconic Hindu temple, a piece of home for many.
Community Vibe
Temple grounds and senior center
Experience the warm and welcoming atmosphere, with community events and a vibrant senior center.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Temple Canteen: A Culinary Gem
Temple Etiquette & Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Budget-Friendly Feast
Enjoy incredibly affordable and delicious South Indian food in the basement canteen.
👟 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for the religious site.
💧 Beat the Heat
Be aware that some areas lack AC; consider visiting during cooler months or times.
🚗 Parking Available
An additional parking lot is available next to the temple for convenience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Budget-Friendly Feast
Enjoy incredibly affordable and delicious South Indian food in the basement canteen.
👟 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for the religious site.
💧 Beat the Heat
Be aware that some areas lack AC; consider visiting during cooler months or times.
🚗 Parking Available
An additional parking lot is available next to the temple for convenience.
🧘♀️ Find Inner Peace
A perfect spot to calm your mind and connect with your roots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Ganesh Temple for its authentic and incredibly affordable South Indian food served in the basement canteen. The temple itself is admired for its spiritual ambiance and stunning architecture, offering a welcoming community vibe. Some guests note the lack of air conditioning in certain areas as a minor drawback.
"One of the best Hindu temple in New York and New Jersey area. Vinayagar is the main deity here. Friendly priests. Temple hour’s vary between weekdays and weekends. Additional parking lot available next to the temple. Temple canteen has delicious South Indian foods. Restrooms available in the basement (way near navagraham)."
Shanmugavel SRD
"The open mind explores the outer world; the open heart cherishes the inner world. To celebrate your tradition far from home is the highest form of self-discovery. Shine your true colors. Hinduism is eternally true and will remain true in the future."
sagar kumar
"I was so pleased. It had all the right feels. The gopuram had hair nets tho 🥸. The only issue for me was the heat. I came from afar, but I couldn’t stay long because there was no AC, and I was dripping in sweat from the temperature in there.
I love that they have a senior center. Community was dancing in there just as a matter of engagement. It has a very good vibe."
Jaya Rao
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ganesh Temple is located at 143-09 Holly Ave, Flushing, NY 11355. It's accessible by public transportation, with several bus lines serving the area. Many visitors arrive via subway, with the 7 train being a common option, followed by a short walk.
Yes, there is an additional parking lot available next to the temple, which can be very convenient for visitors driving to the location.
The Temple Canteen is located in the basement. You'll typically enter the main temple and then find access to the canteen downstairs.
While it's a prominent landmark, some visitors suggest looking for the distinctive architecture. It's a well-known spot within the Flushing community.
Absolutely! Taxis and rideshares are a convenient option to reach the Ganesh Temple directly at its address.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main temple is generally free. However, there might be specific programs or events that require tickets or donations.
Temple hours can vary between weekdays and weekends. It's best to check their official schedule or local listings for the most up-to-date information.
There is no entry fee for the Temple Canteen itself. You simply pay for the food you order. The prices are known for being very affordable.
Yes, you can easily visit both the temple and the canteen during your trip. Many visitors enjoy exploring the temple first and then heading down for a meal.
Yes, it's important to dress modestly out of respect for the religious site. This generally means covering your shoulders and knees.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The canteen serves delicious and authentic South Indian vegetarian cuisine, with popular items like dosas, uttapams, and sambar. +1
No, the food is remarkably affordable, making it one of the cheapest Indian food options in NYC according to some visitors.
Many visitors rave about the onion chili uttapam, ghee masala dosa, and paper masala dosa. The mango lassi is also a popular choice. +1
Yes, the Temple Canteen exclusively serves vegetarian South Indian dishes. +1
While the focus is on main dishes, you might find some traditional snacks or sweets depending on the day. The canteen is known for its savory items.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can vary. It's always best to be discreet and respectful. Some areas might have restrictions, so observe signage or ask temple staff if unsure.
The exterior architecture, especially the gopuram, offers great photo opportunities. The vibrant atmosphere inside can also be captured respectfully.
Yes, taking photos of your food at the canteen is generally fine, and many visitors do so to share their culinary experiences.
Drone photography is typically not permitted at religious sites due to privacy and security concerns. It's best to avoid bringing drones.
Influencers often capture close-ups of the food, wide shots of the temple's exterior, and candid moments of the community atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main temple offers a serene experience, be mindful of the heat, as some areas may not have air conditioning, which could be a factor for very young children during warmer months.
💰 Budget Travelers
Beyond the food, the temple itself is generally free to enter, allowing you to soak in the spiritual atmosphere and admire the architecture without any cost.
It’s a perfect destination for those looking to experience authentic culture and cuisine on a shoestring budget, proving that incredible experiences don't always come with a high price tag.🍜 Foodies & Culinary Explorers
Beyond the main dishes, exploring the menu for other specialties like the ghee masala or paper masala variations provides a delightful culinary journey. It’s an opportunity to savor traditional flavors prepared with care, making it a highly recommended stop for anyone looking to expand their palate and discover unique food experiences in New York City.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Taste of South India: The Temple Canteen
What sets the canteen apart is not just the quality of the food but also its accessibility. Many reviewers point out the budget-friendly prices, making it a go-to spot for delicious meals without breaking the bank.
While the food is a major draw, it's worth noting that the canteen can get busy, especially during peak hours. Visitors often recommend going during off-peak times or weekdays for a more relaxed experience. The straightforward setup and focus on flavor make it a beloved hidden gem in Flushing's vibrant food scene.
The Spiritual Heart: Ganesh Temple's Significance
+1 Its founding was a direct result of the increased South Indian immigration following the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, providing a spiritual anchor for the growing community.The temple is a beautiful example of classical South Indian temple architecture, featuring intricate carvings and a commanding presence. Visitors often remark on the stunning carved architecture and the sense of peace and devotion it inspires.
+1Beyond its religious function, the temple fosters a strong sense of community. It houses a senior center where community members engage in activities, contributing to a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit