What is the proper dress code for visiting South Indian temples? Many people including, me, want this question answered. On my recent trip down south, I knew I would travel to many temples. So I packed accordingly. This road trip, taught me that some temples have strict dress code guidelines whereas, others are flexible. It caused a few delays and hassles. Fortunately, we quickly resolved them and visited all the temples on my list. Therefore, to prevent you from repeating my mistakes, I have explained the approved dress codes for visiting South Indian temples.

On my road trip down south, I travelled to a few famous Hindu temples such as, Brihadeshwar Temple, Padmanabhaswamy temple, Aazhimala Shiva temple and others.

In this guide, I will be listing the dress code for South Indian temples for both men and women. Some temples have strict rules whereas, some temples are flexible in this regard.

DRESS CODE FOR WOMEN FOR SOUTH INDIAN TEMPLES

A few years ago, the dress code for South Indian temples were made precise for all visitors. Below are the dress code guidelines women should follow when entering temples.

The first and most important rule is, women should cover their shoulders and legs when entering temples. This rule is prevalent in all temples across India. Therefore, women must wear clothes that cover their shoulders and legs.

The temples in Tamil Nadu have a strict dress code. Women can wear a saree or half saree when visiting temples. A half saree refers to a long skirt with a blouse and a dupatta. Also, while entering temples, carry dupattas. Jeans, shorts, tight leggings are not allowed. Most temples do not allow western clothes.

I faced this problem when I was visiting the Padmanabhaswamy temple in Trivandrum. I was wearing a kurta with jeans. Since, jeans are a big no-no I couldn’t enter. Fortunately, a local suggested I buy a lungi at one of the stalls. So with the lungi wrapped around like a skirt, I walked inside. After that incident, I carried that lungi to every temple I visited. At times the lungi came in handy and, while at times, I didn’t need it.

Some temples allow salwar kurta whereas, some do not. Always be prepared.

DRESS CODE FOR MEN DOR FOR SOUTH INDIAN TEMPLES

Similarly, men too have to follow a dress code when visiting temples. However, these rules are flexible at few temples.

The first rule is that no western clothes inside the temple. Men can wear pyjamas, dhoti or formal pants (allowed in some temples). Western clothing like jeans, shorts are banned inside the temples.

The second rule is no shirts inside the temple. Men have to remove their shirts before entering temples. They can wrap an upper cloth. Some temples like Padmanabhaswamy temple follow this rule and, some don’t. This rules changes from temple to temple.

The third rule is some temples do not allow leather belts and bags inside. Many renowned temples like Ramanathaswamy temple, Padmanabhaswamy temple have locker facilities nearby.

DRESS CODE FOR CHILDREN

There is no dress code for children per se but, it is expected the children are fully dressed.

Respect the culture and dress accordingly. Pack sarees and ethnic wear when traveling to South Indian temples. It will prevent hassels.