Come and Experience Krishna Consciousness
First-time visitors, families, students and seasoned practitioners are all warmly welcome. Here is everything you need to feel at home from the moment you arrive.
Open Daily
Vishnu Charan Das
0402 598 103
iskcon.canberra@gmail.com
Happy to help with directions, group visits, access needs or any questions.
You Do Not Need to Know Anything to Come
You do not need to be Hindu, speak Sanskrit or understand Vedic philosophy. There is no membership and no cost to visit. Come as you are, sit wherever you are comfortable, and join in as much or as little as you like.
If you are unsure of anything, simply ask any devotee. Everyone is happy to help, and first-time guests are always given a warm welcome.
A Few Simple Customs
These small gestures of respect help keep the temple a peaceful, sacred space for everyone.
Shoes Off
Please remove your shoes before entering the temple room. Socks are fine.
What to Wear
Comfortable, modest clothing is ideal. Covered shoulders and knees are appreciated.
Phones on Silent
Please keep phones silent and conversations quiet to preserve a peaceful mood.
Children Welcome
Families are very welcome. Children usually love the kīrtan and prasādam.
What Happens at the Sunday Feast
The Sunday Feast is the perfect first visit. Here is how a typical evening unfolds.
Leave your shoes at the entrance and step into the temple room. Someone will be glad to show you around.
Call-and-response singing of the Hare Krishna mantra with live music. Sing along, clap, or simply listen.
A short, practical talk from the Bhagavad Gītā on life’s deeper questions. Questions are welcome.
An offering of lamp, incense, flowers and song to the Deities. A beautiful ceremony to witness.
A delicious, pure vegetarian meal offered to Krishna and shared with everyone. Stay, eat and make new friends.
A Ceremony of Love
Ārati is a ceremony in which the priest offers items such as a ghee lamp, incense, water, a cloth and flowers to the Deities, accompanied by kīrtan. Several āratis take place each day, beginning with Maṅgala Ārati at 5:00 AM. Visitors are welcome to watch and join the singing.
Sanctified Food
Prasādam means “mercy”. It is pure vegetarian food, cooked with devotion and first offered to Krishna. Sharing prasādam is one of the simplest and most joyful parts of temple life, and it is offered to everyone.
Common Questions
Is there a cost to visit?
No. Visiting the temple and joining regular programs is free. Donations are welcome but never expected.
Do I need to book?
No booking is needed for regular programs. For group visits, school excursions or ceremonies, please call Vishnu Charan Das on 0402 598 103.
Can I take photos?
Please ask a devotee before taking photos in the temple room, especially during ārati.
Is the temple accessible?
If you need help with prams, mobility or other access needs, please call before visiting and we will do our best to help.
Where can I park?
Please call 0402 598 103 for the best current parking advice near the temple.
Can I bring an offering?
Yes. Fresh fruit, flowers, milk products and other vegetarian items without meat, fish, eggs, onion or garlic are welcome. If you are unsure, please ask.
Come and Experience Krishna Consciousness
17 Whittle St, Hughes ACT 2605. Open every morning and evening. Your first visit is just a short drive away.
