iraivan temple from a distance
The Hindu Monastery located here on Kauai is an amazing place. Beginning with some of the most magnificant scenery to be had anywhere and add to it the peacefulness of a working monastery. The monastery is not just a tourist attraction, it is a world renowned place for individuals who seriously dedicate their lives to hinduism.
When you enter the monastery, you are basically guided to follow a path which leads to the Kadavul Hindu Temple. This is the original temple on these grounds beginning in 1973. The word ‘Kadavul’ actually means ‘He who is both immanent and transcendent’ in Tamil. Serving as private shrine of the worshipping monks who have performed the Sanskrit puja ritual every three hours, around the clock since the temple’s inception.
mt. wai'ale'ale and wailua river
While the Kadavul temple is a private shrine, it is open to the public for worship daily at 9am for the Siva puja. If available, take advantage of a tour of the grounds where you can bear witness to some of the most amazing scenery on the island… and there are amazing sights to be found all around the island. From here, you may get to witness both the sacred Wailua river along with a great shot of Mt. Wai’ale’ale. On the tour, you’ll get to see the spectacular Iraivan Temple which is currently being constructed (visible in the photo above).
Note: Notice the large tree in the lower left corner of the picture. As a result of about 17″ of rain that fell at sea level (a lot more up in the mountains), this tree was washed down river.
monk's quarters
Besides the temples, you’ll get an opportunity to have a glimpse into the life that the monks live daily. The monks live a life of poverty here, living in small quarters and working for most of their needs. In addition to the standard practices one would expect a religious leader to practice, there are animals to care for, plants to maintain and harvest as well as a temple to build. Besides that, the monks also all own macs and iphones which they use to publish books, the magazine Hinduism today and teach the world about hinduism.
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