"Zensational" Journey: Hindu Temple & Rubel Castle

Embark on a Captivating Journey of Culture, Art, and History

Join us to explore two of Southern California’s most remarkable landmarks and experience unique windows into creativity, spirituality, and human expression.

Our first stop is the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Chino Hills, a breathtaking masterpiece of traditional Hindu architecture. This magnificent temple, constructed from hand-carved pink sandstone and white marble, was assembled entirely without steel or nails—like an intricate, life-sized puzzle. During your docent-led tour, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Hindu beliefs, traditions, and craftsmanship while marveling at the temple’s exquisite carvings, domes, and serene gardens. The Mandir’s interactive exhibition offers additional insight into Hinduism’s rich history and global presence.

Following your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy lunch at your leisure. Choose between the nearby Chino Hills Marketplace, accessible by a short shuttle ride and offering a variety of dining options, or savor authentic vegetarian cuisine at the Mandir’s on-site café, a peaceful experience that complements the spiritual ambiance of your morning.

In the afternoon, we’ll journey to a true California folk art treasure: Rubel Castle in Glendora. Built over 26 years by the visionary Michael Rubel and his community of friends, this whimsical fortress was constructed from an astonishing array of repurposed materials, including bottles, bicycles, scrap metal, and even a full-sized Santa Fe Railroad caboose. On your guided tour, you’ll explore this fascinating compound featuring towers, dungeons, tunnels, vintage vehicles, and a working drawbridge, all while hearing the captivating stories behind its creation and the eccentric genius who made it possible.

This extraordinary day offers a rich blend of spiritual beauty, cultural discovery, and artistic ingenuity.

PLEASE NOTE: The Rubel Castle is NOT ADA accessible. Due to the historic nature of the attraction, wheelchairs and walkers cannot be accommodated. There are stairs, tunnels and uneven surfaces with no handrails. There are no sidewalks and no benches to sit on along the 90-minute tour route. Please consider the physical demands of this tour before booking.

Tour Manager: * TBA

Activity Level: High

This tour involves some stairs and or inclines. The self-guided tour at BAPS will require some walking and standing, however the length and distance are determined by your own preference and pace. PLEASE NOTE: The Rubel Castle is NOT ADA accessible. No wheelchairs or walkers are allowed. There are stairs, tunnels, and uneven surfaces with no handrails. There are no sidewalks and no benches to sit on along the 90-minute tour route. Please consider the physical demands of this tour before booking.

What's Included in the Tour Fare

• Round-trip luxury motor coach transportation from pickup locations throughout San Diego County

• Professional Tour Manager throughout the trip

• Complimentary bottled water and snacks on the coach

• Admission and docent-guided tour of BAPS Mandir

• Admission and docent-guided tour of Rubel Castle

What's Not Included in the Tour Fare

• Meals

• Cancellation Protection

• Gratuities for the Tour Manager and driver

How to Make a Reservation

Making your reservation is easy. Simply click the Book Now button above to select your date and confirm your space online, 24/7. You can also call the DayTripper Tours reservations department at (619) 334-3394 during business hours M-F, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Smartphones

Although not necessary to fully enjoy your trip, a personal smartphone can greatly enhance your tour experience. Take high-quality photos, share your experience on social media in real time, search for nearby restaurants and topics of interest, set reminders, and more.

14-Day Cancellation Deadline

• If you purchased the optional Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP) prior to the deadline, you can cancel your booking at any time for any reason and you'll receive a full refund of the tour fare.

• If you declined the CPP, you may cancel your reservation fourteen (14) or more days prior to the departure date to receive a refund less a $15 per person cancellation fee. Alternatively, when you cancel your booking fourteen (14) or more days prior to the departure date, you can avoid the cancellation fee by transferring the funds to another tour or a non-refundable voucher, which can be applied to any future excursion booked within one year of the original tour date. Bookings canceled within 14 days of the departure date are nonrefundable and nontransferable for any reason. Name changes on daytrips are always permitted at no additional cost.

* Tour Manager is subject to change without notice.