Jain Temple

Ornate Jain temple, the only one in East Africa open to visitors

Address Langoni Road, Mombasa

Mombasa's small but ornate Jain Temple on Langoni Road, finished in 1963, is the only Jain temple in sub-Saharan Africa that welcomes non-Jain visitors. The exterior is unremarkable; the interior is a riot of carved marble, mirrored ceilings, and pastel painting that documents the lives of the 24 Tirthankaras. The community is descended from Gujarati traders who came across the Indian Ocean in the late 19th century. Visitors are expected to remove their shoes, dress modestly, and refrain from bringing in leather. Free entry, donations welcome.

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