Shree Kutch Satsang Swaminarayan Temple (Bolton), located on Adelaide Street in Greater Manchester, is a historic Hindu temple and a prominent Swaminarayan place of worship in the UK. Notably, it holds the distinction of being the first Swaminarayan temple established in the UK and Europe, officially opened in 1973.
On 6 September 1973, the temple was formally registered under the Place of Worship Act, marking its official recognition. Two years later, on the same date in 1975, specially crafted murtis (sacred idols) were installed, having been sent from the Bhuj Mandir, the head temple in Gujarat, India.
Over the years, the temple has undergone significant transformation. Initially housed in a building that included a labour club and terraced houses, these structures were later demolished to make way for a new three-storey temple, constructed in 1992–1993. The Murti Pratishta of the newly built temple was held on 6 September 1993, attended by revered spiritual leaders including 1008 Shree Tejendraprasadji Maharaj, his son 108 Shree Koshelendraprasadji Maharaj, and a host of saints from Bhuj and Ahmedabad.
The temple has been pivotal in cultural education, with the establishment of a Gujarati school in 1982. It has hosted many significant visits from saints and spiritual leaders and continues to thrive as a religious and community center.
To mark its 35th anniversary, the temple partnered with the Big Bolton Health Check, emphasizing its commitment to community well-being. For the 40th anniversary, a week of celebrations included a grand yagna, bhajan performances, and a vibrant parade attended by over 2,500 people, including international guests and the local Mayor.
The temple operates under the NarNarayan Dev Gadi of the Swaminarayan Sampraday and remains a cornerstone of Hindu religious life in the UK.
Major Festivals Celebrated:
Swaminarayan Jayanti / Ram Navami
Celebrated in the Chaitra month (March–April), this festival marks the birth of Lord Swaminarayan and Lord Rama. The day includes a grand aarti, kirtans, scriptural recitations, and cultural programs.
Janmashtami
The birth of Lord Krishna is celebrated with bhajans, dramatic performances, and devotional singing through the night.
Diwali and Annakut
One of the temple’s biggest celebrations, Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, while Annakut (the next day) involves offering hundreds of food items to the deities in gratitude and celebration.
Hindola Festival
Celebrated during the month of Shravan (July–August), deities are placed in decorated swings (hindolas) that are changed daily by community members in creative and devotional styles.
Patotsav (Temple Anniversary)
Celebrated every 6th September, this commemorates the Murti Pratishta (installation of the deities). Special rituals, yagnas, bhajan sandhyas, and spiritual discourses are held during this multi-day event.
Sharad Purnima
Celebrated with night-time devotional singing under the full moon, often accompanied by offerings of sweet rice (doodh-poha).
Deity: Lord Swaminarayan, Ghanshyam Maharaj, Radha-Krishna, and Hanumanji.
Address: 1-11 Adelaide St, Bolton BL3 3NT, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 1204 652604
Temple Opening Hours :
Monday - Friday : 7:15–10 am, 4:30–6:30 pm
Saturday : 7:15–10 am, 4:30–8 pm
Sunday : 7:15–10 am, 4:30–6:30 pm
