What to Wear to a Hindu Temple

One of the most common questions from first-time visitors is what to wear. Every temple sets its own expectations, but a few simple guidelines will make you comfortable almost anywhere.

The general rule: modest and comfortable

Choose clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. You will be removing your shoes, and at some temples you may sit on the floor or on carpets, so loose clothing that lets you sit cross-legged is ideal.

Good choices include:

• Long trousers or jeans without rips
• Long skirts or dresses
• Tops with sleeves (short sleeves are usually fine)
• A light shawl or scarf, which is useful if the hall is air-conditioned

Things to avoid:

• Shorts, mini skirts and sleeveless tops
• Very tight or see-through clothing
• Clothing with slogans or images that could be offensive

Do I need to wear Indian clothes?

No. Visitors in Western clothing are welcome everywhere. Many regular devotees in the US wear everyday clothes on weekdays and switch to traditional clothing for festivals or special occasions. If you would like to wear Indian clothing, a kurta with trousers, a salwar kameez or a saree are all appropriate.

Leather and other materials

Some temples, particularly in South Indian and Jain traditions, prefer that visitors do not bring leather items such as belts, wallets or bags into the inner areas. This is not universal, but if you see a sign, simply leave those items in your car or the shoe area.

Head coverings

Covering your head is not generally required in Hindu temples, although some women choose to cover their heads with a scarf as a mark of respect. If you are also planning to visit a Sikh gurdwara, which some Temple Navigator listings include, head coverings are required for everyone there.

Festival days and celebrations

On major festivals such as Diwali, Navratri or Janmashtami, temples are often crowded and people dress up in bright, festive clothing. You are welcome to do the same. During Navratri, many temples host garba and dandiya dances in the evening, and comfortable clothing you can move in is a good idea.

Weddings and special pujas

If you are invited to a wedding, a housewarming puja or another ceremony held at a temple, ask the host about the dress code. Bright colors are usually welcome at celebrations, while white or very dark outfits may be associated with mourning in some communities.

Children

The same guidelines apply to children, with comfort as the priority. Easy-to-remove shoes save time at the entrance.

Socks and feet

You will be walking barefoot or in socks. In winter, especially in the northern US and Canada, clean socks make the experience more comfortable on cold floors.

When in doubt, dress as you would for a formal family gathering, and you will fit right in.