Shiva Temple, Mombasa

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Shiva Temple, Mombasa

Shiva Temple, Mombasa

The Lord Shiva Temple is one of the symbols of the Hindu faith in East Africa, situated at the intersection of the city’s Old and New Towns. This sacred site is the largest temple dedicated to Lord Shiva on the African continent. Built by Gujarati settlers who arrived during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the temple reflects both their devotion and their craftsmanship. Its ornate sculptures, colorful murals, and serene courtyards create an atmosphere of deep reverence amid Mombasa’s lively streets.

The temple’s architecture follows traditional Gujarati design, with vivid carvings and paintings depicting deities and mythological scenes that draw visitors into Hindu cosmology. Within its spacious halls, devotees and curious visitors alike find a tranquil refuge for meditation and prayer. From noon to 4:00 pm, the temple observes a quiet period for reflection, but outside those hours, visitors are welcome to explore, interact with the priests, or simply enjoy the peaceful environment. The adjoining gardens and shaded paths offer a calm space for contemplation and leisurely walks.

For those eager to experience Hindu culture firsthand, the temple provides guided tours that introduce the core principles of the religion while showcasing its art and architecture. Nearby attractions, such as Mombasa’s bustling Spice Market, complement the visit with insights into the city’s multicultural fabric. Alongside the Swaminarayan Temple on Haile Selassie Road and the Gombeshwar Mahadev Temple in Nyali, the Lord Shiva Temple completes a fascinating trio of sacred sites that continue to define Mombasa’s spiritual landscape.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Mombasa. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911±¬ÁÏÍø: 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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Shiva Temple on Map

Sight Name: Shiva Temple
Sight Location: Mombasa, Kenya (See walking tours in Mombasa)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Mombasa, Kenya

Create Your Own Walk in Mombasa

Create Your Own Walk in Mombasa

Creating your own self-guided walk in Mombasa 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.
Mombasa Shopping Tour

Mombasa Shopping Tour

Mombasa is the best place in Kenya for souvenirs, because most of the country’s unique handicrafts are made right here in the city. You can get many amazing African art pieces, handmade jewelry and home decorations like captivating wooden statues. Take our tour to find the best shopping spots in the city, from the beach to the Old Town district.

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.7 Km or 1.1 Miles
Mombasa's Top Religious Sites

Mombasa's Top Religious Sites

Mombasa has a strong Arab influence, a fact which is reflected in the great number of old mosques in this Kenyan city. But here you’ll also find many Hindu temples and Christian churches that have been established over time. Take our self-guided tour to explore the religious life of the city.

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles
Mombasa Introduction Walking Tour

Mombasa Introduction Walking Tour

Kenya's second-largest city Mombasa is a bustling metropolis and a major regional cultural and economic hub. Owing to its strategic location on the country's east coast, facing the Indian ocean, Mombasa enjoys steady influx of visitors as both, a seaport and tourist destination. The most notable local landmarks include the famous "Tusks", Swaminarayan Temple, Jain Temple, Fort...  view more

Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 5.2 Km or 3.2 Miles