Visiting Kauai’s Hindu Monastery in the Hills Above Kapa’a

It rains a lot on Kauai and sometimes you have to shift your plans and find something new to do. We happened upon the Hindu Monastery above Kapaa by accident and had a wonderful visit. Kauai’s Hindu Monastery is beautiful, set above the Wailua River, surrounded by gardens. Visitors are welcome to respectfully visit, and that’s what we’re going to share about. I think it’s important to have a little background information before visiting religious areas, and that includes places that are open to the public just for appreciation. This is a traditional Saivite Hindu temple/monastery. It’s dedicated to the God Siva.

Have you been here to the Hindu Monastery on Kauai before? If not, I would recommend it for a morning visit when most of the grounds are open to the public. If you have questions about visiting the Monastery or spending time in Kapa’a, please leave a comment or send us a note. We’re always happy to share more and help other plan a memorable Hawaii trip.

Highlights of Visiting Kauai’s Hindu Monastery

Kauai’s Hindu Monastery was the first place of this type anyone in our family had been. I’ve been to many temples in China, but am very unfamiliar with Hindu beliefs or stories. Visiting the monastery with kids was wonderful because we all arrive with the same amount of knowledge and curiosity, so had a collective learning experience.

In addition to getting to learn about Hinduism, the highlight really was the amazing grounds we were welcome to wander. Beautiful flower gardens, quiet spaces, views and an enormous banyan tree all make wandering the grounds a wonderful experience. With all of it, there’s a sense of calm and the setting really is unique. This was a great experience with kids.

Note: there are actually tours provided around the Hindu Monastery throughout the week. If you’re interested, you can call ahead and find out tour times for when you’re around (contact information below)

Tips for a Nice Visit to the Monastery

When you visit Kauai’s Hindu Monastery it’s a short experience, but a special one. I am not religious in any form but have a lot of respect for the people who follow a belief system that is peaceful and does good for others. The people of the Monastery have opened their grounds to visitors who would like to visit in a respectful way and learn. Visiting doesn’t mean any form of ministry/witnessing, but just some education about different Hindu beliefs and why practitioners are here. It’s a quiet place and there is a fair amount of information if you want to know more.

Whether you’re here to learn or just to wander through the beautiful gardens, you’re expected to respect the dress code set down by Kauai’s Hindu Monastery. Visiting is being a guest in another’s space and even if you do not hold the same beliefs if you would like to be here to enjoy the gardens, meditate in your own way, or just to observe, it’s kind (and so simple) to follow the dress code request. For example, no shorts or short dresses, tank tops or t-shirts are allowed. If you’re not within the dress code, it’s requested that you cover up using the provided sarongs. There is instruction posted on how to appropriately tie a sarong or how to cover. In addition to properly covering up, there are places on the grounds where it’s requested that you remove your shoes.

What to Expect for your Day

Spending time at Kauai’s Hindu Monastery isn’t something you need to pack for really. It’s a very quiet, calm place and you’re here for a retreat or have been invited for an event, you can just show up for your visit. Dress appropriately (see above) and if you’re planning to spend a long time in the gardens or here for meditating, be sure to bring water with you.

If you want to bring a camera for photographing the gardens and some parts of the monastery, that’s okay, but in all things be non-intrusive and don’t photograph anyone who hasn’t invited you to take their photo. Being at a religious site is a unique experience, especially on Kauai as so much of what you’ll doing during a trip is adventurous or beachy, so just keep in mind where you are.

Parking at the Hindu Monastery

Parking is quite limited when you arrive at the Hindu Monastery on Kauai. There is a small lot directly at the entrance and then more parking just beyond. If it’s been raining, you’ll have to avoid puddles on your walk to the entrance, but it’s not too bad. You will want to drive to the Monastery because the way up the hill has lots of beautiful stops to make. It’s not really a place to take a taxi or Uber to.