What would Mauritius be without its population, which forms a rich diversity of traditions, customs and religions? Indeed, Mauritius would not be the same without all these sacred temples, which stand at a short distance from one another. Let’s take a look around!
1. Jummah Masjid Mosque
Photo by Karsten Ratzke, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Built in the middle of the 1800’s, the Jummah Masjid Mosque is situated in the heart of Port Louis, on Queen Street. This majestic edifice cannot go unnoticed with its tall white façades and elegant sculptures. We recommend that you go around the building before you enter it. Inside, it is peaceful and green – a quiet retreat from the bustle of the city and an ideal place for praying. This mosque, which is close to China Town, stands as a token of the island’s cultural diversity. A nice place to visit during the day.
Location: Queen Street, Port Louis | Timings: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
2. Kwan Tee Pagoda
Chinese Mauritians represent only 3% of the general population, but the heritage of their ancestors is still visible, especially in Port Louis. If you did not already know, there are 11 pagodas on the island, all located in the capital city, and the oldest – Kwan Tee Pagoda – is found in Les Salines. Built in 1842, it is the oldest temple of the city and of the southern hemisphere. Inspired by traditional Chinese pagodas, this holy place is attended by devotees who come to ask for protection.
Location: Les Salines, Port Louis | Timings: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
3. Ganga Talao Sacred Lake
This most sacred Hindu place and pilgrimage site for the Maha Shivaratree celebrations, Grand Bassin is guarded by two impressive statues at the entry. According to the legend, someone has poured water from the Ganges back in the 1970s, making it a sacred lake. It is a peaceful and yet curious place for those who are not used to Hindu culture and its profusion of temples, statues, incense smoke, fish, giant eels and monkeys… A little piece of India full of emotion and mystery to visit absolutely!
Location: Grand Bassin, Savanne District | Timings: Open 24/7
4. The Chapel of Cap Malheureux
You cannot miss it! Located on the seafront, the chapel of Cap Malheureux has become an item because of its flaming red roof beautifully contrasting with the blue of the sky and the sea. If you go there on a Sunday, you may attend the church service and listen to religious songs while observing the simple and picturesque life of this chapel. If you are looking for a picture-postcard view, that is the place to be. Hopefully, you will meet some fishermen on the beach with plenty of fish to sell.
If you’re staying at Veranda Paul et Virginie, you’re just a short drive away from the iconic Chapel of Cap Malheureux.
Location: Cap Malheureux, Northern Coast | Timings: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
5. Kaylasson Temple
Photo by J. Philipp Krone, via Flickr
Still in the vicinity of Port Louis – in Sainte Croix more precisely – you will find the oldest Tamil temple of Mauritius, which was first built in 1854. It is actually the major place of worship for the Tamil community of Mauritius and a heritage-listed site. More interesting is the architecture of the temple, which reflects the parts of a human body, with six stations representing different organs and the lotus as the head. Such an analogy is meant to teach devotees to respect the temple as much as their own body. Why not take a closer look at it by yourself? Indeed, Mauritius is not just sun, sand and sea… The various faces of the island are worth a little exploration! Ready to explore the temples of Mauritius? Book your stay with Veranda Resorts and immerse yourself in the island’s cultural wonders.
Location: Sainte Croix, Port Louis | Timings: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
6. Sagar Shiv Mandir
Photo by Vics12, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Built in 2007 by the Ghunowa family, the Sagar Shiv Mandir is situated on Île aux Goyaviers, connected to the mainland by a causeway. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features a 108-foot bronze statue known as Mangal Mahadev. Its serene setting amidst the lagoon and mangroves offers a tranquil retreat for worshippers and visitors alike.
Location: Poste de Flacq, Eastern Coast | Timings: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
7. Sri Prasanna Venkateswara Temple
Established in 1921, this temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, a form of Lord Vishnu. It underwent significant renovations in the 2010s, incorporating traditional South Indian architectural elements. Nestled in the village of La Laura-Malenga, it serves as a spiritual haven for devotees and a point of interest for tourists.
Location: La Laura-Malenga, Moka District | Timings: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
8. Amma Tookay Kovil Temple
Photo by Historic Mauritius, via Flickr
Dating back to the era of indentured laborers, the Amma Tookay Kovil is dedicated to Amma Tookay, a form of Goddess Durga. Situated amidst sugar cane fields, the temple showcases Dravidian architecture and houses deities such as Lord Shiva, Lord Muruga, and Lord Ganesha. It remains a significant spiritual center for the Tamil community in Mauritius.
Location: Riche Bois, near Camp Diable, Savanne District | Timings: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
9. Père Laval’s Shrine
Photo from coup de pouce a mon eglise
Dedicated to the French Catholic missionary Père Jacques-Désiré Laval, known as the “Apostle of Mauritius,” this shrine is a pilgrimage site for many seeking solace and healing. Père Laval was beatified in 1979, and his shrine continues to attract visitors from diverse backgrounds.
Location: Sainte Croix, Port Louis | Timings: Open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:45 PM
10. Chapel and Shrine of Marie Reine de la Paix
Photo by Balou46, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Completed in 1940, this modern chapel features a 3-meter statue of the Virgin Mary crafted from Carrara marble. Situated on a hillside, it offers panoramic views of Port Louis. The site holds historical significance, as Pope John Paul II officiated a mass here during his visit to Mauritius in 1989.
Location: Signal Mountain, Port Louis | Timings: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
FAQ: Visiting Temples in Mauritius
Do I need to wear specific clothing to visit temples
Yes, modest clothing is recommended. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered as a sign of respect for the sacred spaces.
Are there entrance fees to visit temples in Mauritius?
Most temples in Mauritius are free to visit, though donations are welcome.
Can non-devotees visit temples?
Absolutely. Temples in Mauritius are open to visitors of all religions and provide a welcoming environment for those interested in exploring the island’s cultural diversity.
What is the best time to visit these temples?
Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal, as they are less crowded and more serene.
