Kauai's Hindu Monastery, Iraivan Temple

Google Visited this wonderful temple about 5 years ago, and will remember the amazing experience for ever. Beautiful temple; very serene under the banyan tree; mala made from their own rudraksh trees near by; amazing views.5 Stars

Google A must-stop for a unique cultural experience! Get there before noon to be able to go inside the temple and gardens. Beautiful.5 Stars

Yelp Tourist take: Yeah, you need to see this. The cultural tapestry of Kauai is enveloping enough as it stands, so sugar coating your adventures with this Hindu monastery monstrosity (I mean, it is a monstrosity, in the enlightened sense) will warp your worldview and hone a zentastic dynamic to your daily struggle of correctly pronouncing the streets and cities of Kauai. (La-hoo-ey? La-houie? La-howye?) Forget about all that for a moment, and escape to a place where the Hindu authorities, way back in the 1970's, decided they needed to place their stamp of spiritual approval. They've crafted a jaw-dropping haven of inner peace, lush opulence and, coincidentally, a mosquito temple. The basics: you should sign up for a tour, head to the website. We didn't, because we had an "in" with one of the monastery members. Our visit was brief, but mind-bending. Over the decades this Academy has imported materials from overseas and hand-built an elaborate playground of humility, just 30 minutes on the grounds delivers that Sacred thing you're looking for. Be respectful should you choose to meditate/pray, don't forget to visit the Banyan tree, and before you leave, peep the shop, where you can support the center and load up on tweetable answers to everyday Hindu queries.Also, cover yourself. Ladies, definitely wear shirts that cover your shoulders. Guys, polo shirts suffice. Wear pants or jeans, if you have 'em. They provide sarongs free of charge, should you neglect to cover your naughty parts. And here's my sole wonder: These monks, these devoted gurus, they spend years in these parts, devoting their lives to this wondrous discipline. So during meditation, how do they resist itching those skeeter bites?5 Stars

Yelp Absolutely fabulous. It was quite informative. Out of respect, please be sure to wrap up if you are wearing shorts, short dress or tank top. Sarongs are available at the entrance. Be sure to make an appointment for the tour and to reserve a parking space. Here are a few photos I took.5 Stars