King Charles III and Queen Camilla wished worshippers a belated “happy Diwali” as they visited a landmark Hindu temple in west London to mark its 30th anniversary on Wednesday.

Upon arrival, the King and Queen were welcomed by dignitaries and treated to a garland of roses and carnations, before being given a tour of BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir temple, popularly known as the Neasden Temple.

Their right wrists were tied with nada chadi, sacred threads that a priest told them were “to ensure our bonds remain ever sweet”.

During their visit, Charles and Camilla paused for a moment of reflection in the central shrine, observed the offering of flower petals to the sacred image of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, the principal deity of the temple, and viewed the ten-metre-high central dome that features intricate carvings.

It’s not the first time the British royals have visited the Neasden Temple since its opening in 1995 as Europe’s first traditional Hindu stone temple.

Their Majesties toured the temple back in 2009 when he was Prince of Wales. The King also made trips there on his own in 2001 and 1996.