Prabhupada's Palace of Gold

Thomas Haribol

A HIDDEN GEM IN WEST VIRGINIA - NOT TO BE MISSED. I recently visited Prabhupada's Palace of Gold and the New Vrindaban community near Moundsville, WV. The Palace is stunning inside (locals taught themselves how to make stained glass windows, cut and carve marble to create this labor of love). It is a kind of memorial for the founder of their community. While you can't take pictures inside, what you see will stick in your memory. The grounds are as stunning as any botanical garden I've seen, including a gorgeous lily pond and award-winning rose gardens. A short walk down the hill is their Temple; make sure to grab an orange guidebook {Who's Who and What's What) from the information desk in the lobby as there is a lot to see inside, which can overwhelm newcomers, especially Westerners. Don't forget to look up at the stunning domed stained glass above. There is a great gift shop, a restaurant, and an express (it serves small pizzas and smaller cooked items, has indoor/outdoor seating, and a cooler of drinks and homemade sweets). The hours are limited at both venues, so check the hours on the doors as soon as you get there so you don't miss a fabulous meal (they are often called "the kitchen religion"). You'll find ponds to walk around, wandering peacocks and cows! Did I mention the cows? They are as friendly as your dog Fido and appreciate a scratch under the chin or a cut apple, carrots, or bananas. The "devotees" who live here (several hundred) are friendly and welcoming; they don't push their philosophy but are more than willing to answer your questions. Outside the Temple is a fascinating timeline about this group (one of the oldest intentional religious communities in the US). HEADS UP: Cell service is spotty, but there is free wifi when you are around the Temple to get your GPS set for your next adventure down the road!

Harsha Vardhana

great interior and nice guide... explained everything in an interesting way...must visit even if you are not a follower of the religion.

Satya Venkata Krishna Achanta

Such a beautiful place including peacock house, Swan lake, rose garden, lotus pond and many more..!

Yelena Ryabtseva

The best hidden gem in the middle of nowhere in West Virginia. Indian temple and lodge. The are some cabins as well by the lake and in the woods. Well kept, clean with comfortable beds. No TV. Very weak WiFi signal in the cabin, can't use it. Food is very traditional vegetarian. Swan Fest is fun and very beautiful. Place captures your imagination for sure!