HINDU TEMPLE
Shiv Shakti Hindu Temple (Shree Shiv Shakti Mandir) is one of the few Hindu temples in Stone
Town, Zanzibar. It was built in 1958 on the site of an earlier temple that dated back to around the
1870s, making it a place of long-standing spiritual importance for the Hindu community. Located on a small street and not easily visible from the outside, the temple reflects the cultural and religious
traditions of Gujrati-Indian people living in Zanzibar.
It was constructed with reinforced cement concrete and features distinctive Hindu architecture,
including three colourful pointed towers, a dome and intricate decorations that make it stand out in the area. The temple is dedicated to the lord Shiva and goddess Shakti and is used for daily worship, ceremonies, festivals, and community events. It remains a vital part of Stone Town’s religious life and showcases the cultural diversity of the region. Preserving the temple is important for maintaining Zanzibar’s rich, multicultural heritage.
The current condition of the structure highlights the need for conservation as an important
example of Zanzibar’s modern heritage. Protecting and maintaining the temple is essential for
preserving the identity and history of the Hindu community in the region.


Front elevation

Section

Groundfloor