A Traveler's Guide to Hindu Temples in Indonesia

Hindu Temples in Indonesia are among the most visited tourist attractions today. Some travelers who have already booked a city hotel in Tangerang or Jakarta still head south to Bali where Mother Temple of Besakih, the biggest Hindu temple in the country, is found.

If you’re planning for a holiday in Indonesia this 2014 to see the magnificent and sacred places of worship, read this guide and get to know the temple etiquette for visitors.

Wear Decent Attire

The warm streets of Indonesia may call for cool and breezy outfits, but you have to know that there’s a dress code for visitors at Hindu temples. Traditional attire called “dhoti,” long skirt for men, and “sari,” long dress for women, are always suggested. But if they are unavailable, then any type of modest clothing that is suitable for sitting on the floor will do.

Remove Your Shoes

At the entrance of temples, there’s a sign that says: “Leave Your Shoes Outside”. Aside from keeping the place spotless and tidy, the priests believe that this practice of cleanliness makes the place sacred. You must obey this important rule and place your footwear on the designated shoe racks. Wearing socks inside is fine, but walk carefully on the slippery marble floors.

Greet the Deities

The best way to show reverence to the Gods is by greeting one after the other, and the proper way to do this is by pressing your hands together known as “Namaskara” or “Namaste.” This might be a familiar gesture, as you may have seen it upon checking in at Best Western Indonesia or other Tangerang hotels. It simply means “salutations”. At the temple, flower or fruit offerings can be included with the greeting to invoke “sannidhiya” or the divine presence of the Gods.

Show Respect

Although a Hindu temple is a tourist attraction, remember that it’s still a holy sanctuary. Touching the deities or taking photographs isn’t allowed. Aside from that, there are shrines and chambers visitors shouldn’t enter. When sitting to pray, observe the right way of doing it. Never let your feet point toward deities, priests, or other persons.

Participate in a Ceremony

“Puja” is a ritual performed by priests at the temple. When you notice a gathering of people for this ceremony, sit or stand with the crowd to show respect. Hold your right hand out as soon as the priest walks around with a tray of lamps and fruits or sweets. Give some donation when the ritual is finished to show gratitude to the priest.

List these helpful tips when you include “visit Hindu temples” in your holiday itinerary. If you want to make it a more engaging experience, the kind folks in Tangerang hotels are more than happy to give some suggestions.