Saint-Andre Tamil Temples

Saint-André on the east coast has the largest concentration of Tamil temples on Réunion, descended from the indentured labourers brought from South India after abolition to work the cane. The Colosse temple and others in the district are built in South Indian style with tiered gopuram towers covered in painted figures. The most significant ceremonies are the fire-walking rites, held at temples through the year and attended by large numbers.

What you actually see

• The gopuram towers - tiered gateways covered in painted figures.
• The Colosse temple - one of the largest and best known in the district.
• The fire-walking rites - the ceremonies held at temples through the year.
• The Tamil New Year - the festival celebrated across the district.

When to go

Year round; ceremonies follow the Tamil calendar and dates should be checked locally. Fire-walking rites happen at various points in the year. Visits inside temples need arranging.

Honest expectations

These are active places of worship, not attractions; entry needs permission and rules on dress, shoes and photography are strict. Ceremonies are religious events and spectating without invitation is not welcome. Much of the district is workaday.

Nearby

Bras-Panon is south, and Sainte-Suzanne is northwest.