Up in the mountains there was a small, but notable Hindu Monastery. It was a long trip on a rainy day to go see, but we did have some planned stops along the way.
We actually intended on going to see the Iraivan Temple (http://www.himalayanacademy.com/ssc/hawaii/iraivan/ ) , but were foiled. When we called in the morning we were informed that you could go and visit any time of day, just to find out that the tour to the Iraivan Temple was only available by reservation at 9 am.
What was truly odd about the experience was all the white people. I mean, all the monks were white people, the visitors were about half white half not. Somehow, and this is the weird part, it felt less genuine that each of these monks chose to be, instead of grew up in a Hindu society. It is a feeling that this space is somehow "fake", an almost Disney "this is a temple" feel, instead of having the feeling it is a temple.
This assertion is; completely, absolutely, unquestionably unfair. I have no doubt that the people worshiping here regard their religion in the highest esteem. But, well, that's how it feels.
It also doesn't help that I'm a stupid tourist who doesn't understand their traditions.
jon
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