Temple

The names temple, shrine, vihara and gompa describe different spaces or functions, but they are not completely separate categories. A monastery may contain a temple, a shrine room and a meditation hall. Their appearance and organisation vary between Buddhist traditions and countries, including among Buddhist communities in Britain.

Buddhists can practise at home, but temples and Buddhist centres provide places to gather with others. They support worship, meditation and learning about the Buddha’s teachings. They are also social spaces where a Buddhist community can meet and support one another.