The building was formerly the First Church of Christ, Scientist, before being purchased by ISKCON.
The temple is home to the presiding deities of Sri Sri Radha Ksira-chora Gopinatha.
The interior renovation involved extensive hand-carved woodwork and elaborate Vedic decorative arts.
It is one of the oldest and most established ISKCON centers in North America.
The temple operates a significant food distribution program as part of its community outreach mission.
The ISKCON Toronto Hare Krishna Temple is housed in a distinctive former Neo-Gothic church building located in the upscale Yorkville neighborhood. Established in 1975, the temple serves as a hub for Gaudiya Vaishnava traditions and community engagement. It is known locally as the 'Hare Krishna Temple' and features a blend of traditional Vedic ornamentation within a historic Canadian structure. The facility maintains a restaurant, Govinda's, which provides vegetarian and vegan meals based on sattvic principles. Daily programs include kirtan, mantra meditation, and scriptural discussions. The temple is a focal point for the annual Festival of India parade in Toronto.
The main altar area when the deities are fully decorated, or the ornate carved entrance doors.
Remove your shoes in the designated area before entering the main temple room.
Check the event calendar for Sunday 'Love Feast' programs, which include communal dining.
Dress modestly, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered, as this is a place of worship.
Avoid interrupting ongoing kirtan sessions or private prayer; do not bring non-vegetarian food onto the premises.
Remove shoes at the entrance, dress modestly, maintain a quiet demeanor, and do not take photos of the deities during active worship.
