What to wear to a temple visit
Wear clean, modest clothes that cover your shoulders and knees, and shoes that slip off easily, since you remove them before entering. Choose calm or light colours, and bring a scarf to cover your head or shoulders where the temple asks for it.
Three outfits that work
Long dress, cardigan and scarf
- sage long dress
- cream cardigan
- beige scarf
- easy slip-on sandals
A long dress and cardigan cover shoulders and knees, and the scarf is ready if a head covering is asked for.
White shirt, long trousers and knit
- white shirt
- beige long trousers
- navy light knit
- easy slip-on shoes
Long trousers and a shirt with sleeves are respectful and comfortable, and the knit helps if the temple is cool.
Long kurta, loose trousers and scarf
- white long kurta
- white loose trousers
- saffron scarf
- leather sandals
A long kurta and loose trousers are traditional, breathable and easy to sit cross-legged in.
By weather
| Hot22° and up | Light cotton or linen in light colours, sandals you can slip off, and sunscreen for outdoor courtyards. |
|---|---|
| Mild10° to 21° | A long outfit with a light cardigan, and socks for cool stone floors. |
| ColdBelow 10° | A warm coat that you can take off at the door, thick socks and a scarf. |
Do and don’t
- Cover your shoulders and knees
- Wear shoes that slip off easily, as you remove them at the entrance
- Choose clean, modest clothes in calm or light colours
- Follow the guidance of the temple staff or the family you are with
- Wear shorts, short skirts, sleeveless or revealing clothing
- Wear leather items where the temple asks you not to
- Point your feet at shrines or people
- Assume the rules are the same everywhere; temples differ by tradition
Check the night before
- Check the temple’s visitor rules and opening times
- Pack a scarf for your head or shoulders
- Wear socks without holes in case you remove shoes
- Choose shoes that are easy to slip off
- Bring small change or an offering if you want to give one
Questions people ask
What should I wear to a Hindu or Buddhist temple?
Clean, modest clothes that cover shoulders and knees, and shoes that slip off easily. Light colours are common, and a scarf is useful.
Do I have to remove my shoes?
In most temples, yes. You remove your shoes before the entrance, and sometimes socks are allowed.
Can I wear black?
Yes in many temples, although some traditions prefer lighter or brighter colours. When in doubt, choose a calm, light colour.
Do I need to cover my head?
In some temples and gurdwaras, yes; in many Hindu and Buddhist temples it is not required. Bring a scarf to be safe.
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