The new travel trend of spending a night in rural temple dormitories or courtyards under the starlight sky is gaining traction
The new travel trend of spending a night in rural temple dormitories or courtyards under the starlight sky is gaining traction (Image:DC)
In India, an unexpected trend is gaining momentum: temple sleepovers. These nights spent in the peaceful surroundings of a temple are offering both locals and city dwellers a chance to reconnect with their spiritual roots and embrace the simplicity of rural life. What was once a part of ancient traditions is now becoming a refreshing escape from the fast-paced, tech-driven world. ANCIENT TRAVEL REVIVAL Temples in India have always been more than just places of worship. They were once hubs for community gatherings, where people would stay for days, participating in rituals, discussions, and devotional activities. The practice of sleeping at the temple has roots in this communal lifestyle, where the night would often be spent in quiet reflection or chanting. Today, many rural temples are once again welcoming visitors to stay overnight. It’s an invitation to experience something rare—an authentic connection with both spirituality and the natural world. For some, it's an escape from the noise of city life, while for others, it’s an opportunity to tap into a deeply rooted cultural experience.
Pandit Vishwanath Shastri, based in Mumbai, explains, “Temples are peaceful sanctuaries, offering people a chance to reconnect with themselves and with the divine. Spending the night here allows visitors to experience a tranquillity that is hard to find in cities.”
SPIRITUAL CONNECTION
The charm of temple sleepovers lies in the experience itself. Away from the hustle and bustle of modern life, visitors find themselves immersed in an environment designed for reflection and devotion. At night, temples become quiet, sacred spaces where the only sounds are the soft chants of prayers and the distant rustling of leaves. The early morning aartis (ritual prayers) and the serenity of the surroundings provide an ideal setting for meditation or contemplation. Whether it’s the gentle glow of oil lamps or the sound of temple bells ringing at dawn, the atmosphere encourages a spiritual reset. One of the unique aspects of temple sleepovers is the opportunity to learn directly from local pandits (priests) or spiritual guides. Visitors can engage in discussions about ancient scriptures, practice mantras, or simply seek advice on personal spiritual growth. These moments of personal interaction provide a deeper understanding of the rituals and philosophies that form the backbone of Hindu spirituality. Pandit Raghunath Acharya, shares his perspective: “Temple sleepovers are a way for people to truly experience devotion in its most raw form, connecting with one’s spiritual journey.”
DIVINE DIGITAL DETOX In today’s hyper-connected world, many city dwellers are turning to temple sleepovers as a form of digital detox. A night in a rural temple offers a break from social media, work emails, and constant notifications. The quiet of the night, combined with the physical distance from technology, allows visitors to recharge both spiritually and mentally. Ravi Krishnan, a software engineer from Chennai, chose to stay at the Rameshwaram Temple during his solo spiritual retreat. “I wanted to disconnect from my fast-paced life and reflect. The temple offers simple accommodations with clean sleeping quarters. Sharing meals with other devotees added to the sense of community.” Most dharamshalas and temple dormitories offer free stays, but some charge a nominal fee. For Ananya Sharma, a postgraduate student from Bengaluru, staying overnight at the Sringeri Sharada Peetham was a cherished memory. “It was part of a cultural immersion program. The serene surroundings and the temple’s hospitality made it an unforgettable experience. The temple provided traditional meals, and evenings were spent participating in prayers.” Rural temples are often nestled in serene locations, surrounded by fields, forests, or mountains— places where nature and spirituality come together. For city visitors, this is a welcome change. “Staying at the temple is a chance to disconnect from everything. I leave my phone behind and simply enjoy the peace,” says Suman Devi, who recently stayed at a temple in Bihar.
CHECK-IN FACTS While temple sleepovers are appealing, they are not without challenges. Some local communities are hesitant to open their temples for overnight stays, fearing the disruption of sacred practices. Additionally, the lack of infrastructure in some rural areas can make it difficult for temples to accommodate visitors. However, as the demand for these experiences grows, many temples are finding ways to balance tradition with modern needs. Pandit Vishwanath adds, “We take great care in maintaining the sanctity of the temple, even as we welcome new visitors. It’s a delicate balance, but it’s worth it for the opportunity to share our spiritual heritage.” Temple sleepovers are more than just a trend—they’re a return to the basics of spiritual living. In the peaceful surroundings of rural temples, visitors are invited to experience a slower, more meaningful way of life. Whether for a night of reflection, a deep spiritual connection, or simply a break from the demands of modern life, temple sleepovers offer something that is both timeless and refreshing. However, each temple has its own set of rules. Hence, it is always best to consult before going. For those willing to step away from the fast pace of everyday life, these sacred spaces offer a chance to reconnect with the divine—and with themselves.
HOUSE OF GOD
Many rural temples offer simple and clean accommodations
• Most dharamshalas and temple dormitories offer free stays
• Travellers take part in prayers and a chance to do community service
• Travellers also share meals with other devotees and do some chores
• People do self-reflection, find spiritual connection, or simply take a break from the demands of modern life
POPULAR TEMPLE STAYS
• Geeta Bhawan, Rishikesh • Tirumala, Venkateswara Temple (Tirupati), AP • Sri Ramanasramam, Chennai • Rameswaram Temple, Tamil Nadu • Shree Jagannath Temple, Puri • ISKCON Temple, Vrindavan • Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai • Saibaba Sansthan Trust, Shirdi • Anand Ashram, Gujarat • Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), Amritsar • Vaishno Devi, Katra (Jammu) • Annapurna, Varanasi
( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
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