Visiting temples directly may result in a bad journey experience, so request a different return time. It also gives no blessing for appearing at the wrong time. Visiting a temple can be a meaningful and culturally enriching experience. Learn more about how to visit temples step-by-step.
Here are some general steps to consider when planning a visit to temple:
- Research the Temple
- Dress Appropriately
- Check the Timing
- Observe Etiquette and Behavior
- Remove Shoes
- Respect Religious Practices
- Greet and Bow
- Don't Touch Sacred Objects
- Follow Photography Rules
- Make a Donation
- Participate Respectfully
- Ask Permission
- Leave No Trace
- Reflect and Be Respectful
Step by Step: How to Visit Temple
↪Research the Temple
1. Research the Temple: Before visiting, research the temple you plan to go to. Learn about its history, significance, religious practices, and any specific rules or guidelines for visitors. Many visitors return home without knowledge of the particular city, its important places, and you may end up planning again to visit the same place.
↪Dress Appropriately
2. Dress Appropriately: Many temples have dress codes that visitors are expected to adhere to out of respect for the sacred space. Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. Avoid wearing revealing or inappropriate clothing.
If you are traveling to any Indian temples, you are not required to follow any dress code. However, choosing a white shirt and gray pants may make you more appealing. Thus, if you are over 60 years old, I suggest you wear a scarlet colour kurta. The color is believed to be more auspicious in Hinduism.
↪Check the Timing
3. Check the Timing: Temples often have specific opening hours and may close during certain times of the day for rituals or ceremonies. Verify the temple's opening hours before you go. The timing may open up positive vibrations and be the best time to receive blessings.
↪Observe Etiquette and Behavior
4. Observe Etiquette and Behavior: When inside the temple, maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor. Speak softly, turn off your mobile phone or put it on silent, and avoid disruptive behavior. Adhering to gentlemanly behavior may be appreciated by the organizing committee.
↪Remove Shoes
5. Remove Shoes: It's customary to remove your shoes before entering the temple premises. Look for designated areas or racks where you can place your shoes. There is a reason why you should remove your shoes to allow positive energy to enter your body directly. This is one of the rituals for entering the temple.
↪Respect Religious Practices
6. Respect Religious Practices: If the temple is in use for worship or ceremonies, observe from a respectful distance. Do not interrupt or interfere with ongoing rituals. It is better to wait for your turn. Until the ritual is over, you may sit in Padamasana to fully transfer the positivity into your body and transform the energy.
↪Greet and Bow
7. Greet and Bow: If you're comfortable and it's appropriate in the context, you can offer a respectful greeting, such as a slight bow, when you enter the main sanctum or prayer area. You may also try your favorite Yoga asana to show classic respect to God.
↪Don't Touch Sacred Objects
8. Don't Touch Sacred Objects: Avoid touching any religious icons, statues, or altars unless you're explicitly given permission by a temple authority. It is always good to touch and receive extra blessings.
↪Follow Photography Rules
9. Follow Photography Rules: Some temples allow photography in certain areas, while others do not. Always ask for permission and respect any photography restrictions. Nowadays, many temples have banned cameras and taking photographs.
↪Make a Donation
10. Make a Donation (if desired): Temples often rely on donations to maintain their facilities and carry out charitable activities. If you wish to make a contribution, look for designated donation boxes or areas. Making a donation or buying food for the temple would definitely have some moral benefits in your life.
↪Participate Respectfully
11. Participate Respectfully: If there's an ongoing ceremony or prayer, you can participate if you feel comfortable. However, follow the lead of the local worshippers and do not disrupt the proceedings. However, you may try it for yourself if you wish. Therefore, consulting the temple office may help you plan well in advance. Keep reading on tweakHow.com