Before you go in
Dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered. Take your shoes off where asked; a pile of shoes outside the entrance is the usual sign. Leather items such as belts and bags may be unwelcome in some Hindu temples, so it is easier to leave them behind if you can.
Some Hindu temples restrict entry, or entry to the inner shrine, to Hindus. This is often shown by a sign or explained by a caretaker. Respect it, and enjoy the temple from the courtyard or outside the gate instead.
Walk clockwise
Walk clockwise around stupas, temples and shrines, keeping them on your right. The same applies to prayer wheels, which are turned clockwise as you pass, and to walls of carved prayer stones. Following the flow of other visitors is the easiest way to get it right.
Offerings, worship and photographs
You will see flowers, rice, red powder, incense and small oil lamps left as offerings, and hear bells rung by worshippers. Avoid touching offerings or images of deities. If a priest offers you a tika or blessed food, it is fine to accept it with your right hand, and a small donation in the box is a kind response.
Ask before photographing people at prayer, and ask before taking pictures inside temples, as photography of inner shrines is often not allowed. Keep your voice low, switch off flash and give way to people who have come to worship.
Temples around Tansen
Tansen has several temples within its old town, and they are part of everyday life rather than tourist sights. Our guides to the Amar Narayan Temple and Bhairabsthan Temple describe two of them. Early morning and evening, when local people come to worship, are often the most atmospheric times to visit.