New Jersey Buddhist Vihara

The New Jersey Buddhist Vihara & Meditation Center, founded in 2003, sits on a peaceful 10-acre property just 10 minutes from Princeton University and 45 minutes from New York City. In September 2009, the center unveiled a Samadhi-style Buddha statue that now stands as the largest of its kind in the Western Hemisphere. Since then, it has become a well-known New Jersey landmark, drawing visitors year-round. As interest in the center continues to grow, expansion is needed to better support the congregation and the increasing popularity of meditation across all communities. The planned project includes an environmentally friendly, aesthetically designed 11,000-square-foot building, meditation trails through the surrounding woods, a footbridge over a natural stream, and landscaped gardens for quiet reflection. The new building will feature a library, meditation hall, clergy residence, and spaces for community gatherings. The center’s mission is to serve as a resource for people of all backgrounds by offering programs that promote interfaith dialogue. By welcoming visiting groups, scholars, and community partners, the center aims to foster meaningful connections, encourage shared learning, and inspire collaborations that bridge cultural and spiritual boundaries. After confirming the project’s viability, the temple formed several committees including engineering and construction, fundraising, and accounting and finance to manage the expansion. These committees are working in coordination under the leadership of Rev. Sirirathana Thero, the center’s chief incumbent.