Whether you grew up going to temple or you're visiting one for the first time, walking into a Hindu temple can feel both exciting and unfamiliar. Hindu temples range from grand, ornate structures to intimate community halls — but the spiritual experience inside is the same. Here's everything you need to know to feel comfortable and respectful.
What to Wear
Hindu temples don't have a strict dress code, but modest, respectful clothing is expected. Here are the general guidelines:
- Cover your shoulders and knees — avoid tank tops, shorts, and mini skirts. Long pants, salwar kameez, a saree, or a modest dress are all appropriate.
- Traditional Indian clothing is welcome — if you have it. But clean, modest Western clothing is perfectly fine too.
- Avoid shoes inside — you'll remove your shoes before entering the main prayer hall. Most temples have a shoe rack near the entrance. Wear socks if you prefer not to walk barefoot.
- Avoid leather items if possible — some temples prefer that leather belts, bags, and accessories be left outside, though this varies.
When to Visit
Most Hindu temples are open during specific hours (often morning and evening, with a midday break). Here are some timing tips:
- Check temple hours first — many temples post their schedule online. You can also find hours in our temple directory.
- Aarti times are special — the aarti (lamp ceremony) is the highlight of any temple visit. Morning and evening aartis are the most popular.
- Weekends are busier — Saturday and Sunday mornings typically see the most visitors. Weekday mornings offer a quieter experience.
- Festival days are vibrant — visiting during Diwali, Navratri, Janmashtami, or other major festivals is a wonderful experience, though expect crowds.
What Happens Inside
Here's a typical flow when you visit a Hindu temple:
1. Remove Shoes and Enter
Leave your shoes at the rack or designated area outside the main hall. Some temples have separate entrances for men and women, but most temples have a single entrance.
2. Ring the Bell
Most temples have a bell at the entrance. Ringing it is a tradition that announces your arrival to the deity and helps center your mind. A single ring is sufficient.
3. Walk Around the Sanctum (Pradakshina)
If the temple has a walking path around the inner sanctum (garbhagriha), walk around it clockwise. This circumambulation is called “pradakshina” and symbolizes that the divine is at the center of your life. One to three rounds is typical.
4. Offer Prayers (Darshan)
Stand or sit before the deity you wish to pray to. This act of seeing and being seen by the divine is called “darshan.” You can fold your hands (namaste), close your eyes, and pray silently. There is no fixed prayer — speak from the heart or chant a mantra you know.
5. Make an Offering
Many visitors bring offerings — flowers, fruit, coconut, or sweets. Hand these to the priest (pujari) if present, or place them at the base of the deity's shrine. You can also make a monetary offering (dakshina) in the donation box.
6. Receive Prasad and Tirtha
After the puja or aarti, the priest may offer you prasad (blessed food, usually fruit or sweets) and tirtha (holy water). Accept prasad with your right hand or both hands cupped together. Tirtha is sipped from the right palm.
7. Sit and Absorb
Don't rush. Many temples have a seating area where you can sit quietly, meditate, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. This is often the most meaningful part of a visit.
Temple Etiquette
- Silence your phone — keep it on silent and avoid taking calls inside the prayer hall.
- Photography — ask before taking photos. Many temples allow photography in the outer areas but not inside the sanctum.
- Don't point your feet at the deity — when sitting, tuck your feet under you or to the side. Pointing feet toward the shrine is considered disrespectful.
- Ask questions — temple volunteers and priests are usually happy to explain rituals and traditions. Don't hesitate to ask.
- Everyone is welcome — Hindu temples are open to visitors of all backgrounds. You don't need to be Hindu to visit.
What About Kids?
Children are welcome in Hindu temples. In fact, bringing children is a wonderful way to help them connect with their heritage. A few tips:
- Explain what they'll see beforehand — the murtis, the bells, the incense
- Let them offer flowers or ring the bell — involvement helps them feel included
- Keep visits short for young children — even 20 minutes is meaningful
- Many temples offer Sunday school or cultural programs — a great way for kids to learn
Finding a Temple Near You
There are hundreds of Hindu temples across India and the United States, from large stone-carved structures to intimate community mandirs. Browse our temple directory to find one near you, complete with hours, traditions, and visitor information.