Hidden between two boutiques on Avenue Paul-Vaillant-Couturier, this Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva is astonishing for its vibrant colors and singular pyramid shape. Located in La Courneuve, it welcomes many devotees every day. The commune is home to one of the largest Hindu communities in the Paris region.
A hidden Hindu temple in Paris
Established in the late 1990s, it was rapidly expanded in response to strong demand from local believers. Inside, a rainbow of colors awaits you. Entrance to the temple is free. Shoes and coats must be left outside in a designated area. Hair may be tied back as a sign of respect, especially if you’re attending a religious ceremony.
Afterwards, you can buy offerings for the deities present in these places, such as Shiva, Brahma, Vishnu and others. Once inside the temple, traffic flows in a clockwise direction. You’ll admire the superb brass niches, imported from India and assembled on site to house the various gods and goddesses, all dressed and adorned in jewels. You can greet them by joining hands in prayer to make a namaste, and bowing your head slightly as a sign of respect.
All around you, sculptures and paintings adorn the walls, propelling you straight back to India. At the time of the Pooja (religious ceremony), everyone is welcome.
📍Location: Temple Sivan Parvathi, 159, avenue Paul-Vaillant-Couturier, La Courneuve (Seine-Saint-Denis)