Calm and grounded tranquility spiral up my body and mind once I step foot on the tropical soil of the Kauai Hindu Monastery. The monastery, on 376 lush acres near the Wailua River, contains botanical gardens, waterways, and ponds. Sitting at the foot of the extinct volcano, Mount Waialeale, the spiritual sanctuary invites visitors to slow down and make a true connection.
Our Visit to the Kauai Hindu Monastery
Dan and I are here at Kauai’s Hindu Monastery for the free 30-minute self-guided tour that covers the entrance area.
They neatly mark off parking spaces with tree branches, and nearby sits a gazebo. Underneath, a beautiful artist’s rendition of the grounds complements the information posters that acquaint you with the Kauai Hindu Monastery’s history. The grounds are vibrant, pulsing with the life of beautiful trees, flowers, and birds.
Trees, Statues, and Stunning Architecture
Next to the entry gate is a statue of Ganesha, Remover of Obstacles and God of Good Timing, waiting for your prayers. A slate pathway at the Kauai Hindu Monastery winds its way to one of the most amazing things: the largest Banyan tree I have ever seen! Dan guesses it’s about 3600 square feet.
As we make our way down the narrow side path, the ancient tree nearly enfolds us inside of itself. Its green canopy and gnarly branches create a feeling of safety. The imperfect, twisted branches convey perfection in the way the tree stands, resplendent in itself. In the center is a statue of Lord Shanmuga, a six-faced God who guides the transformation of the instinctive into pine wisdom.
The self-guided tour of Kauai’s Hindu Monastery ends at the Kadavul Temple. Shrouded by giant trees, willowy branches hang down as oversized ivy leaves crawl up their trunks.
A 16-ton black granite bull faces the entrance to the temple. We are not allowed to go inside, since morning worship is going on.
We learn of the Iraivan Temple, the crown jewel of Kauai’s Hindu Monastery, and we decide to come back for the free weekly guided tour. Master stone masons hand-carved the temple in India. Then they transported it to Kauai, where resident artisans from India are piecing together the 3,000 blocks of stone.
How to See the Kauai Hindu Monastery
The front monastery area is open daily from 9 a.m. to noon for self-guided tours. Guided tours of Kauai’s Hindu Monastery have been suspended since Covid, but we hope they’ll resume soon.
There are worship times for Hindu visitors and special programs for those on formal pilgrimages.
top photo by @justinsfpics on Flickr
