Olivia TaylorYou know how they say you should “find your inner peace”? Well, my inner peace was missing for years—as in, total MIA!
One day, I was scrolling through Instagram, saw my friend posing at a stunning temple, and thought, “Why shouldn’t I?” Fast forward, and I found myself standing in awe at the most stunning temple I’ve ever seen—which totally helped me restore my zen!
Now, whether you’re chasing some zen too or just need an excuse to procrastinate on your chores (been there), Ottawa’s temples have got you covered. Here’s a roundup of the best ones in the city that you have to visit—let’s dive in!
- Hindu Temple of Ottawa Carleton
- Vishva Shakti Durga Mandir Association
- Ottawa Buddhist Vihara
- Saint Patrick Basilica
- Kehillat Beth Israel
- Ottawa Sivan Temple
- Iskcon Ottawa, International Society for Krishna Consciousness
- Ottawa Muslim Association
- Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa
- Assunnah Muslims Association
- Hilda Jayewardenaramaya Buddhist Monastery
- Ottawa South Mosque
Hindu Temple of Ottawa Carleton
– Media credit: nayan_ahir7
Website: http://www.hindutemple.ca/
Address: 4835 Bank St, Gloucester
Contact details: +1 613 822 1531
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM, 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM
Cost: Free entry (accepts donations)
The Hindu Temple of Ottawa-Carleton is one of the most iconic temples in the region, serving as both a spiritual haven and a vital cultural hub for the local Hindu community. The building itself is super impressive, with stunning traditional architecture.
But the real magic is inside: rituals, prayers, and festivals take place throughout the year, and they’re always welcoming to visitors, no matter your background.
Beyond the daily worship, the temple offers a whole range of services, from spiritual discourses to cultural events. If you’re lucky, you might catch one of the big celebrations like Ganesh Chaturthi or Diwali, where everyone gathers for prayers, food, and festivities.
| Pro tip: For people who love learning, they host discussions about Hindu philosophy and culture. |
Vishva Shakti Durga Mandir Association
– Media credit: creator_in_canada
Website: http://www.durgatemple.ca/
Address: 55 Clarey Ave.
Contact details: +1 613 321 0675
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 6 PM to 8 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 1:30 PM
Cost: Free entry (accepts donations)
Nestled right in the heart of downtown Ottawa, the Vishva Shakti Durga Mandir is where spirituality meets accessibility. What stands out here is the temple’s dedication to Goddess Durga, a figure in Hindu culture associated with strength and protection.
The temple actively engages with the community through regular satsangs (spiritual gatherings), where hymns and scriptures are recited, fostering a strong sense of unity among attendees.
There’s also a focus on cultural education, making it a great place for kids and adults to learn more about Hindu practices, values, and festivals. After all, the temple’s aim is to bring people together, and you’ll likely find a mix of regular devotees and newcomers.
| Pro tip: Since the temple is downtown, you might as well make a little day trip out of it! Check out Lansdowne Park afterward for some shopping, or grab a snack nearby on Bank Street! |
Ottawa Buddhist Vihara
– Media credit: ksatyabarua
Website: http://www.ottawabuddhistvihara.ca/
Address: 4 Christie St.
Contact details: +1 613 565 0842
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 5 PM
Cost: Free entry (accepts donations)
The Ottawa Buddhist Vihara is a gem for anyone looking to explore Buddhist philosophy and practices. This small but vibrant monastery proudly supports the local Buddhist community with regular meditation classes, dhamma teachings, and mindfulness practices.
The temple follows Theravada Buddhism traditions, focusing on guidance from the teachings of Buddha and the path to enlightenment. One standout feature is their meditation retreats, which are open to the public.
Furthermore, the monks here are approachable and genuinely passionate about sharing their knowledge, so it’s also a great place for asking questions if you’re new to the practices.
| Pro tip: Ottawa Buddhist Vihara often hosts inclusive events and programs, often featuring free food, so time your visit right if you’re interested in engaging with the community. |
Saint Patrick Basilica
– Media credit: monsieurlebun
Website: https://www.basilica.ca/
Address: 220 Kent St.
Contact details: +1 613 233 1125
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 6:30 AM to 5:45 PM
- Sunday – 7 AM to 2 PM, 6 PM to 8 PM
Cost: Free entry
Saint Patrick Basilica is one of Ottawa’s most historic and beloved spiritual landmarks. Dedicated to Roman Catholic worship since the 19th century, this basilica stands tall as a symbol of faith, tradition, and service in the community.
Its neo-Gothic architecture is breathtaking, but what really stands out is its active role in offering religious services, from daily confessions to Sunday Mass. The basilica is widely known for its strong music program too, with its choir filling the space with melodies.
Beyond being a place of prayer, it’s also deeply entrenched in charitable activities and services. Whether it’s supporting local food banks or organising holiday drives, the basilica plays a big role in lifting the community.
| Pro tip: Saint Patrick Basilica hosts workshops and study sessions if you’re interested in deepening your Catholic faith. Also, when you’re done at the basilica, stroll to the nearby Sparks street pedestrian mall for local shops or an outdoor coffee break. |
Kehillat Beth Israel
– Media credit: kehillatbethisrael
Website: http://www.kehillatbethisrael.com/
Address: 1400 Coldrey Ave.
Contact details: +1 613 728 3501
Operating hours: (Weekly Services)
- Monday to Friday – 7:30 AM
- Sunday to Thursday – 6 PM
- Sundays and Public Holidays – 8:30 AM
- Friday (Erev Shabbat) – 5:30 PM
- Saturdays – 9 AM
Cost: Free entry
Kehillat Beth Israel is one of Ottawa’s most significant Jewish congregations, offering a unique place for worship, tradition, and community. The synagogue hosts a wide range of services for all ages and stages of life, from daily prayer to family-focused programs.
This synagogue also goes beyond worship by offering educational opportunities and events that deepen your understanding of Jewish culture. Their adult education classes are particularly popular, allowing members to explore topics like Torah study and ethics.
They even have programs tailored specifically to youth and young families, with activities that focus on Jewish values in everyday life. For anyone new to Judaism or simply looking to reconnect, the team here can guide you to your spiritual journey.
| Pro tip: On Fridays, Kehillat Beth Israel hosts a family-friendly Shabbat dinner that’s open to the public. If you’re curious about Jewish traditions, this is a lovely introduction. |
Ottawa Sivan Temple
Website: http://www.ottawasivantemple.com/
Address: 2104 Roger Stevens Dr, North Gower
Contact details: +1 613 489 1774
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 1:30 PM, 5:30 PM to 9 PM
Cost: Free entry
Tucked away in the serene countryside of North Gower, the Ottawa Sivan Temple is a Hindu temple devoted primarily to Lord Shiva. It serves as a sacred place of worship for Ottawa’s growing Hindu community and those who want to learn about Sanatan Dharma.
With its distinctive architecture and tranquil surroundings, the temple provides a calming retreat for prayer, meditation, and reflection. Regular pujas (prayer services), rituals, and celebrations of festivals like Maha Shivaratri make it a vibrant centrepiece.
There are also classes for children that cover Vedic principles, stories, and values, so they can stay connected to their heritage. Adults will appreciate the spiritual discourses and yoga sessions offered periodically.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to visit the Lime Kiln Trail—just a 14-minute drive away—after your trip to the temple for a peaceful nature walk. Also, remember to check their calendars for events, as some often include delicious prasad (sanctified food) offerings. |
Iskcon Ottawa, International Society for Krishna Consciousness
– Media credit: iskconottawa
Website: https://iskconottawa.ca/
Address: 212 Somerset St. E Unit B
Contact details: +1 613 565 6544
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 4:30 AM to 7:30 AM, 12 to 2:30 PM, 3:30 PM to 7 PM
- Sunday – 7:30 AM to 9 AM, 3 PM to 5 PM
Cost: Free entry
Iskcon Ottawa is an incredible spiritual hub dedicated to promoting the teachings of Lord Krishna and the Bhagavad Gita. As part of the global Hare Krishna movement, this temple serves as a sanctuary for devotion, education, and cultural milestones.
The moment you walk through the doors, you’ll likely hear melodic kirtans (devotional chants) filling the air. Weekly programs, such as their Sunday Feast, are especially popular, as people gather for prayer, discourse, and a sumptuous vegetarian meal.
They also host Gita study groups to delve deeper into the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, offer meditation workshops, and even provide counselling. This temple is also known for its vibrant cultural celebrations, particularly Janmashtami (the birth of Lord Krishna).
| Pro tip: After attending the Sunday Feast, take a short stroll to Strathcona Park nearby for a relaxing post-meal break. Also, during major festival celebrations, the temple often offers discounted copies of the Bhagavad Gita and other spiritual texts. |
Ottawa Muslim Association
– Media credit:abuhamza_abdirahman
Website: http://www.ottawamosque.ca/
Address: 251 Northwestern Ave.
Contact details: +1 613 722 8763
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8 AM to 4 PM
Cost: Free entry
Serving as the heart of Ottawa’s Islamic community, the Ottawa Muslim Association (OMA) mosque welcomes worshippers and visitors with open arms. Here, expect daily prayers, weekly Friday (Jumu’ah) congregational prayers, and educational programs.
It’s also a place of guidance, offering services like marriage counselling, family support, and zakat (charity distribution) assistance. Beyond these, their programs cater to all ages and include Quranic study groups, youth initiatives, and family-oriented events.
Special efforts are made here during Ramadan, with nightly Taraweeh prayers and Iftars (breaking of fast) that bring people together in celebration.
| Pro tip: If you’re visiting during Eid, don’t miss the large prayer gatherings and festivities—they’re some of the most joyous and welcoming you’ll find in Ottawa. |
Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa
– Media credit: ottawafgsofficial
Website: http://www.ibpsottawa.org/
Address: 6688 Franktown Rd, Richmond
Contact details: +1 613 759 8111
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Saturday – 9:30 AM to 4 PM
- Sunday – 8:30 AM to 4 PM
Cost: Free entry
Fo Guang Shan Temple is a hub for Chinese Mahayana Buddhism and is actually an extension of the well-known Fo Guang Shan monastic order from Taiwan. It features a serene atmosphere surrounded by greenery.
At the heart of the temple is the figure of Buddha, providing visitors a tranquil place for prayer or silent reflection. Moreover, the temple hosts regular meditation sessions, Dharma talks, and community events.
If you’re interested in traditional Buddhist rituals, you can partake in or observe ceremonies that often involve chanting and offerings. The temple also has a small bookstore and library filled with Buddhist scriptures, educational materials, and more.
| Pro tip: Don’t miss the walking trails near the temple grounds. The paths add an extra nature-inspired dimension to your visit. Additionally, keep an eye out for announcements about their free community workshops. |
Assunnah Muslims Association
– Media credit: amacentre
Website: https://www.amacanada.org/
Address: 1216 Hunt Club Rd.
Contact details: +1 613 523 9977
Operating hours:
- N/A
Cost: By donation
While primarily serving as a mosque for prayer and spiritual growth, the Assunnah Muslims Association is much more than a place to worship. The association fosters a welcoming environment where anyone is introduced to the teachings of Islam.
From five daily prayers to Friday sermons (khutbahs), the imam provides deep insights into challenges faced in today’s fast-paced world. What’s more, they offer Qur’an classes for children and adults, interfaith dialogues, and workshops on Islamic culture.
| Pro tip: During Ramadan, they often distribute free Iftar boxes to anyone attending evening prayers. Even if you aren’t fasting, you’re welcome to join the dinner afterward. |
Hilda Jayewardenaramaya Buddhist Monastery
– Media credit: iamnisansala
Website: http://buddhisttempleottawa.org/
Address: 1481 Heron Rd.
Contact details: +1 613 321 5677
Operating hours:
- Guided meditation – 9 AM to 9:45 AM
- Sutta study class – Saturdays – 8 PM to 9 PM
Cost: Free entry
The Hilda Jayewardenaramaya Buddhist Monastery is a gem in the city for those seeking an authentic Theravada Buddhist experience. Established by the Sri Lankan Buddhist community, it’s where you can partake in mindfulness and spiritual growth.
The monastery is known for its emphasis on meditation practices and regular Dhamma talks by the resident monks. Visitors are always welcome to join their meditation sessions, observe religious rituals, or simply make offerings to the monks.
The annual Vesak celebration, honoring Buddha’s life events, is one of their standout community gatherings and shouldn’t be missed if you’re able to time your visit accordingly.
| Pro tip: If you’re visiting during lunchtime, make sure to inquire whether the monks are accepting food offerings for their Dana ceremonies. You can participate, learn about the process firsthand, and even share a meal with them. |
Ottawa South Mosque
– Media credit: ottawasouthmosque
Website: https://ottawasouthmosque.ca/
Address: 240 Sunnyside Ave.
Contact details: +1 343 262 6612
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 5:30 AM to 8 PM
Cost: Free entry or by donation
Though Ottawa South Mosque remains modest in size, its activities and contributions to the community are impressive. The mosque offers the standard five daily prayers and Jummah (Friday) prayers.
The educational opportunities here are robust as well—from Qur’an recitation classes and kids’ Islamic studies programs to interfaith dialogue for adults. Special Islamic holidays, like Eid celebrations, are vibrant festivals here, and everyone is welcome.
While the mosque is primarily a prayer space, it hosts workshops that cover everything from personal development to mental health awareness.
| Pro tip: If you’re lucky enough to visit during a special charity drive, they often offer free snacks or meals—it’s a wonderful way to mingle with the community while supporting a good cause. |
