Kailassam Temple, Port Louis
The Kailassam Temple stands as a remarkable testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Tamil community on the island. Established in 1854 on land generously ceded by Emilien de Boucherville to the Madras Hindus of Mauritius, this temple is the oldest in Mauritius.
Constructed in the Dravidian architectural style, the temple has an imposing pyramid-like tower, known as the Gopuram, which can be seen from a distance. This architectural marvel adheres meticulously to Hindu and Dravidian norms, with its layout resembling the human body, complete with six stations symbolizing various organs. The belief that the human body is a sacred temple is underscored by the presence of lotus flower-shaped structures representing the head.
Upon entering the temple premises, visitors are greeted by vibrant frescoes and bas-reliefs depicting Hindu deities and mythological figures, intricately crafted by Indian artists. Among these, the statue of Madurai Veeran stands prominently, adding to the spiritual ambiance of the temple.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, known as the Destroyer, and holds significant importance for the Tamil community in Mauritius. Additionally, it serves as the primary venue for the Cavadee festival, making it a focal point for the Indo-Mauritian population.
Constructed in the Dravidian architectural style, the temple has an imposing pyramid-like tower, known as the Gopuram, which can be seen from a distance. This architectural marvel adheres meticulously to Hindu and Dravidian norms, with its layout resembling the human body, complete with six stations symbolizing various organs. The belief that the human body is a sacred temple is underscored by the presence of lotus flower-shaped structures representing the head.
Upon entering the temple premises, visitors are greeted by vibrant frescoes and bas-reliefs depicting Hindu deities and mythological figures, intricately crafted by Indian artists. Among these, the statue of Madurai Veeran stands prominently, adding to the spiritual ambiance of the temple.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, known as the Destroyer, and holds significant importance for the Tamil community in Mauritius. Additionally, it serves as the primary venue for the Cavadee festival, making it a focal point for the Indo-Mauritian population.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Port Louis. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Kailassam Temple on Map
Sight Name: Kailassam Temple
Sight Location: Port Louis, Mauritius (See walking tours in Port Louis)
Sight Type: Religious
Sight Location: Port Louis, Mauritius (See walking tours in Port Louis)
Sight Type: Religious
Walking Tours in Port Louis, Mauritius
Create Your Own Walk in Port Louis
Creating your own self-guided walk in Port Louis is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Port Louis Introduction Walking Tour
Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius, is a colorful blend of French, Indian, and African influences. Nestled on the northwest coast of the island, this major commercial port boasts a wealth of colonial past carefully preserved and reflected in local architecture.
Initially a Dutch harbor known as Harbour of Tortoises in 1606, the city became the administrative center of Mauritius under French... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
Initially a Dutch harbor known as Harbour of Tortoises in 1606, the city became the administrative center of Mauritius under French... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles