Q&A for How to Be Respectful when Visiting a Hindu Temple

There may be multiple reasons. A likely reason is that the noise of cameras/phones and the action of people taking photographs would distract the worshipers and make the temple feel more like a tourist location than a holy site.

This is likely done as a sign of spiritual preparation and devotion before entering the temple itself.

You should leave all bags and cameras in the baggage cabin in the car park prior to entering the complex.

Gautama Buddha is viewed as an avatar of the god Vishnu in Vaishnava Hinduism.

Always stay quiet. Being a Hindu, I have seen pujaris (priests) get extremely mad when people talk. It is kind of like the feeling when somebody disturbs you in the middle of reading a book. They are usually chanting the mantras for the aradhana of the deity and don't like being disturbed.

Yes, you can bathe after, but it is crucial you bathe before your visit and have clean clothes. After your visit, you are free to bathe again if you wish.

No, it does not have to be covered; many women go into the temple without a scarf or shawl.

Some more traditional devotee touch the top of a priest's foot. However, priests can be uncomfortable with this, as it is a somewhat grandiose sign of respect in some temples and is certainly not required.

Yes. This is common tradition at Indian weddings. Money is the most thoughtful gift for the newlyweds.

No, there is no official conversion ceremony in Hinduism.

Those figures repressent mythological stories. You can take pictures if you want. However avoid doing so if the temple restricts photography.

Many temples are busy and the priests may not have time to answer such questions. However, most temples have an office where you can ask for information.

Yes, western wear is okay. Typical rules on clothing are that you should be covered appropriately (no shorts/short skirts, no tank tops, no low necklines, etc.). As long as you aren't wearing anything too revealing, you'll be allowed in the temple.

Hair is seen as a symbol of pride and ego; to gain spirituality, you must eradicate ego.

It depends on the region you are in and what their standards are for situations like this.

It is likely due to temple laws that restrict foreigners to enter the temple, just like in many temples and jagannath temple.

Just give offerings by your heart. It doesn't matter whether that be 1 rupee or 1000 rupees.

Bringing outside food or drinks into the temple may be seen as offensive to some, so it is advised to refrain from doing so.

Hindu religion leaves healing up to Ishwara, the ultimate God of all beings. However, priests can assist in performing specific rites that are described in the holy books for healing specific conditions.

No, there are no prohibited colors. However, some colors are considered sacred and auspicious - red, yellow, ochre, blue and green. Black is worn on special occasions - usually signifying a resolve of some kind that the wearer intends to fulfill over a period of time.

No, but it is good practice to keep it tied. Not only is that more hygienic - it does not fly off and fall into prasad, for example. It is also considered respectful.

They usually have fruits, but if you are allergic to that, you can always just take the thirty (holy water). Or you can just say that you have allergies and they will be understanding.

You are not a Hindu, so you cannot observe the practices and rituals Hindu people would adhere to. Nor can you practice your own. That leaves simply a respectful stance, silence, quietude. Don't be the center of attention, don't touch or disturb anything, keep your voice low or refrain from speaking entirely. Follow the methods in the article with regard to dress, behavior, etc.

Not at all. You are there to worship God, no one is forbidden to worship God. They might stop you if you are not wearing religious Hindu attire though, but luckily most temples have a shop where you may purchase one.

It depends on the type of scarf, but most probably all clothing is allowed provided it is not made from animal skins.

Yes! That's even better, as people would appreciate seeing foreigners taking interest in Indian culture.

You are free to build a shrine at home. Rules differ according to denomination when it comes to building a public temple.

When you feel like you want to. Nobody will ever force you to go there at any certain time.

Yes. But if you are going to do puja, eat your meat an hour before you go to the temple, so as to be respectful.

Most likely not. You may be able to get it done with special arrangements on another day at the temple, or you can just go to a barber who will do it for you.