Helensburgh is located around 55 kms south of Sydney city and is close to the beautiful
Royal National Park. Helensburgh has been home to the
Hindu temple devoted to Lord
Sri Venkateshwara since 1978. Hinduism is one of the predominant religions in India and this temple gives a sneak peak into the Hindu culture and Gods.
The temple is built atop a hilly area around 400 feet above sea level and is built based on the ancient principles of Hindu temple construction. The front of the temple is a beautiful white structure called the
gopuram. It marks the entrance to the temple.
Devotees are supposed to leave their footwear outside and wash their feet before they enter the temple. The temple area inside has small shrines for each of the Gods. There will be a priest performing rituals to each of the shrines at a pre-determined time. There is a temple counter inside which will provide visitors with more information about temple rituals and prayers.
To the left of this temple area is another temple shrine devoted to Lord Sri Venkateshwara. There are special rituals held during the day at this shrine too.
The temple premises also has a canteen that sells fresh vegetarian food. The south indian snack 'Dosa' is not to be missed.
The temple is easy to reach by train on the Wollongong line. The temple is located 2 kms from the Helensburgh station and there is a private bus that shuttles between the station and temple.
Apart from the temple, you can also plan a picnic at Kelly Falls, or see koalas and kangaroos at the
Symbio Wildlife Gardens.
