The Vedanta Society of Northern California, founded by Swami Vivekananda in 1900, is a major spiritual and cultural landmark headquartered at 2323 Vallejo St, San Francisco, CA 94123. It is home to the first Hindu temple built in the Western Hemisphere and currently serves as a vibrant center for the study and practice of Vedanta philosophy.

Key features

Daily Worship & Darshan: The "New Temple" maintains daily visiting hours (8:00 AM – 7:00 PM) for silent contemplation and prayer.

Public Lectures: Weekly services are held on Sunday mornings (10:00 AM) and Wednesday evenings in the auditorium.

Scripture Classes: Friday evening sessions are held in Vivekananda Hall, focusing on the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and other Sanskrit religious classics.

Spiritual Interviews: Devotees and spiritual aspirants can request private interviews with the Minister-in-charge, currently Swami Tattwamayananda.

Bookshop & Library: The society offers a comprehensive selection of books on major religious traditions, contemporary spirituality, and world philosophies.

125th Anniversary Celebration: A commemorative series of programs continues through April 2026, celebrating over a century of Vedanta in Northern California.

Vivekananda Pilgrimage 2026: A unique immersive bus tour is scheduled for Saturday, January 24, 2026, walking in the footsteps of Swami Vivekananda through the Bay Area.

Holy Birthdays: Major celebrations include the birthdays of the "Holy Trio" (Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi, and Swami Vivekananda), as well as Christ, Buddha, and Krishna.

Kalpataru Day: Observed on January 1, 2026, marking a day of spiritual grace and blessings.

Olema Retreat: A 2,000-acre retreat in Marin County used for spiritual enrichment, meditation, and interfaith dialogues.

Sunday School: Offers spiritual and cultural education for children during Sunday lecture hours, with childcare provided.

Digital Presence: Lectures and classes are live-streamed on YouTube and Facebook, and audio recordings are available as podcasts.

Wheelchair Accessibility: The New Temple features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and dedicated parking.

Monastery & Convent: The society maintains residential facilities for qualified men and women dedicated to a life of exclusive spiritual practice.