Spiritually Mauritius: 5 Stunningly Unique Temples

Spirituality and cultural diversity are deeply embedded in the identity of Mauritius – an island where cultural harmony and respect for traditions have found their home. At the island’s diverse spiritual locations,  there is a sense of peace and solace that is experienced by both travellers and locals.

Breathtaking architecture, rich historical significance, a sense of community and togetherness – all of this and more can be experienced at Mauritius’ revered temples. In our special list, we give you a significant glimpse into temples that transport you to another dimension with their folklore, unbeatable views, and wholesome celebrations. 

Here are 5 such sites that you absolutely cannot miss visiting! 

1. Grand Bassin Temple: A Complex of Spirituality

Did you know? 

In 1887 a Triolet ‘pujari’, Pandit Jhummon Giri Gossagne, had a phenomenal dream. In this dream, he saw the water of the Ganga Talao springing from the Ganga River. Since then, Grand Bassin has been considered the most spiritual place in Mauritius, with pilgrims trekking barefoot from around the island to the sacred lake.

Located 6 km southeast of Mare aux Vacoas, in the district of Savanne, the Ganga Talao Temple, also known as Grand Bassin, is situated at an elevation of 1800 feet above sea level. 

The highlight of the temple complex is the Mangal Mahadev, a 108-foot statue of Lord Shiva, which is not only a sight to behold but also one of the tallest statues in Mauritius. 

Mahashivratri and Special Lake 

The spiritual importance of Grand Bassin Temple magnifies during the Maha Shivaratri festival, a major Hindu celebration in honour of Lord Shiva. Thousands of pilgrims embark on a journey to this sacred site, carrying ornately decorated kanwars filled with holy water from the Ganges River. The atmosphere becomes electric with cultural performances and vibrant processions, making Maha Shivaratri at Grand Bassin a spectacle of faith and devotion.

Grand Bassin is also home to a natural marvel—a crater lake believed to be linked to the Holy Ganges River in India. The lake’s water is considered sacred, and devotees collect it to use in religious ceremonies and rituals. The belief in the lake’s spiritual connection adds to its mystique, drawing people from all walks of life to experience its sanctity.

2. Sri Prasanna Venkateswara Temple: A Hidden Gem 

Did you know?

The temple’s idols are embellished with real gold, diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires and other precious jewels. Although it was constructed in the early 1900’s, the temple went through a lot of renovation in the 2010’s with the help of South Indian artists, who crafted it to perfection. 

Tucked away in the village of La Laura-Malenga, the Sri Prasanna Venkateswara Temple is a rare find in Mauritius. This incredible spiritual site is dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara – a form of Lord Vishnu, the Creator of the Universe. 

The temple attracts devotees and tourists alike, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Mauritius.

Architecture and Experience 

One cannot help but marvel at the temple’s architectural brilliance. Elaborate carvings, vibrant sculptures, and ornate pillars adorn the temple complex, depicting various deities and mythological narratives. The vibrant colours and meticulous details create an enchanting ambiance, inviting worshippers and tourists to immerse themselves in the divine aura.

For tourists, a visit to the Sri Prasanna Venkateswara Temple offers a unique opportunity to understand Mauritius’ diverse cultural heritage. Guided tours, cultural performances, and educational exhibits provide insights into Hinduism and the island’s multicultural society. Visitors are encouraged to participate in the temple’s rituals respectfully, embracing the warmth and hospitality of the local community.

3. Sockalingum Meenatchee Ammen Kovil Temple: The Tamil Treasure 

Did you know?

Kovil Kaylasson was built in several stages, beginning as early as 1854, Indian and perfected by Indian craftsmen over the next few decades. Its impressive architecture reflects Dravidian culture, with the temple’s design symbolising the human body in the most unique way! The temple showcases the significance of respecting the temple as one would respect their own body, making it a truly unique experience for visitors. 

Shri Sockalingum Meenatchee Ammen Kovil, commonly known as Kaylasson, is located on the northern outskirts of Port Louis. This beautiful temple is the main religious building of Tamils ​​of Hindu faith in Mauritius, and is one of the most impressive temples on the island. 

The temple showcases the significance of respecting the temple as one would respect their own body, making it a truly unique experience for visitors. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this architectural marvel while touring the capital city, Port Louis.

Festivals and Community 

The Sockalingum Meenatchee Ammen Kovil Temple is particularly vibrant during the Thaipoosam Cavadee festival, celebrated annually in January and February. For a ten day period, people fast, offer prayers and refrain from all kinds of worldly pleasures. Afterwards, magnificent celebrations are held in the Hindu temples everywhere, including the Sockalingum Meenatchee Ammen Kovil, where you are likely to see kavadis, a wooden box decorated with peacock feathers and flowers and idols that is carried to the temple.

The Sockalingum Meenatchee Ammen Kovil epitomises the spirit of unity in diversity that Mauritius is known for. Devotees from various backgrounds and ethnicities gather here, fostering a sense of community and cultural harmony. The temple serves as a venue for numerous religious and cultural events, including traditional ceremonies, dance performances, and musical recitals, offering a unique blend of spirituality and artistic expression.

4. Hare Krishna ISKCON Temple: An Ode to Krishna’s Lifetime

Did you know?

The whole temple complex of the Hare Krishna ISKCON temples is surrounded by umpteen paintings. These paintings depict the life of the much-loved Lord Krishna,  and legend says that each of these frames took around 6 months to complete!

The Hare Krishna ISKCON Temple, situated in Bon Accueil, stands as a beacon of spiritual enlightenment, cultural richness, and communal harmony. 

Devotees of the Hare Krishna ISKCON Temple engage in daily spiritual practices, including chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra (kirtan), meditation, and reading scriptures. Visitors are often encouraged to participate, immersing themselves in the meditative and uplifting energy of the temple.

Foundation and Outreach 

The Hare Krishna ISKCON Temple in Mauritius is part of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), a worldwide spiritual movement founded by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada in 1966. Since its establishment in Mauritius, the temple has grown into a thriving community, drawing devotees and seekers from various backgrounds.

The Hare Krishna ISKCON Temple in Mauritius is also actively involved in community outreach programs. Devotees engage in charitable activities, providing food distribution, educational initiatives, and medical assistance to those in need. The temple’s spirit of service and compassion extends beyond its walls, embodying the teachings of love, peace, and unity.

5. Kwan Tee Pagoda: The Oldest Buddhist Shrine 

Did you know?

Kwan Tee Pagoda is the first and oldest Buddhist Temple built on the Indian Ocean. This distinctly designed Chinese shrine uses red, green and yellow as its predominant colours, representing happiness, prosperity and purity, respectively.

The Kwan Tee Pagoda exudes a serene ambiance, constructed within a vast, picturesque landscape and surrounded by gardens. Coconut trees grace both the front and the backyard, complemented by a scattering of seasonal fruit trees. 

Despite its location in the heart of Mauritius’ capital, this pagoda stands as a tranquil oasis, providing an ideal environment for meditation.

History and Celebrations 

The pagoda was built by Hahime Choissane, and his followers inaugurated the site on 29 January 1842 as the Cohan Tai Biou or Kwan Tee. There are smaller altars inside the pagoda honouring gods like Ma Chou, Protector of Sailors and Kwan Yin, Giver of Children. The oldest tablet in the pagoda was affixed in 1841 and was restored in 1890. There is also a bell which dates back from 1871 and another tablet from 1868, which is believed to have been created by Hahime Choissane.

Each year, on the 24th day of the sixth lunar month, Kwan Tee’s birthday is celebrated. This celebration is known as “Fête Mine”, an important event in the city of Port Louis. That day, offerings are made to the highest rank of the warrior deity. After a religious ceremony, fried dishes and noodles are distributed to the guests.

Truly Unique, and Incredibly Divine! 

In the long list of breathtaking places to visit in Mauritius, these temples are an important addition. The options are aplenty – from quaint shrines to magnanimous statues and structures, all bound together by the peaceful, spiritual energy of the island and its people. So, don’t forget to add these architectural masterpieces to your itinerary when planning your trip to Mauritius!