Visiting Temples in Festival Season: Etiquette and Famous Navratri and Dussehra Temples

October is among the busiest times for temples in India. During Navratri and Dussehra, devotees flock to shrines dedicated to the goddess. A little preparation makes the visit smoother and more meaningful.

General etiquette

• Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Many temples have specific dress rules, and some require traditional attire.
• Remove footwear before the entrance and keep to the area indicated.
• Follow the queue. Special darshan tickets exist at some temples, but regular lines are part of the experience.
• Ask before photographing. Many sanctums prohibit cameras and phones.
• Carry only offerings that are permitted. Check rules about flowers, coconuts, oil and incense.
• Be patient and considerate. Festival crowds can reach many thousands.

Non-Hindu visitors are welcome at many temples, though a few have restrictions on entry to the sanctum. Check in advance.

Five temples associated with the goddess

Vaishno Devi, Jammu and Kashmir. A cave shrine in the Trikuta hills near Katra, reached by a trek of about 12 kilometres or by helicopter and ponies. Pilgrim registration is required, and Navratri brings very large crowds.

Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati, Assam. A Shakti Peetha on Nilachal Hill where the goddess is worshipped in the form of a stone, a natural spring and cleft. It is a major centre of Tantric tradition. Its annual Ambubachi Mela takes place in June, and Durga Puja is also grand here.

Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Kolkata. Built in the nineteenth century on the Hooghly river and associated with Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. Kali Puja and Durga Puja bring long queues of devotees.

Chamundeshwari Temple, Mysuru. On Chamundi Hill, overlooking the city, dedicated to the goddess who is said to have slain Mahishasura. It is central to Mysuru's Dasara festivities, described in Dussehra traditions around India.

Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai. One of South India's most remarkable temple complexes, with tall, brightly painted gopurams. During Navratri a Golu display is arranged inside, and cultural performances are held.

Planning tips

1. Check the official temple website or the state tourism board for timings and special arrangements.
2. Go early in the morning, or on weekdays, if possible.
3. Book transport and accommodation well ahead, particularly for Vaishno Devi and Mysuru.
4. Carry water, light snacks and a small bag. Lockers are often available.
5. Keep valuables safe and watch for scams or unofficial guides.

Beyond the visit

Temples are living institutions: they feed visitors, support artisans and sustain classical arts. Consider making a modest donation, attending a cultural evening or buying local handicrafts. For background on the deity honoured on each day, see The Nine Forms of Durga.