Here are simple, respectful tips for visiting a Jain temple during Diwali (Deepawali):

Do’s

• Dress modestly and neatly. Prefer modest, clean clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
• Remove shoes before entering the temple and avoid stepping on sacred areas. If you must carry shoes, keep them in a bag and store them away from the temple path.
• Take off hats or caps and avoid loud talking or boisterous behavior inside the temple.
• Observe silence or speak softly. Walk slowly and do not run.
• Cover your feet when approaching deities or a prayer hall, and avoid touching idols unless invited by a temple guide or priest.
• Follow local customs about photography. If photography is allowed, be discreet, avoid flash, and respect ongoing prayers.
• Respect monk/nun and temple staff. If a swami or guru is present, bow with proper reverence (a small namaskar or pranam as taught by the temple).
• Practice non‑violence in thought and action; avoid bringing leather items inside if the temple requests it (some temples ask visitors not to carry leather belts, bags, or wallets inside).
• If you participate in aarti (ritual singing of prayers), join quietly and follow the leader’s cues. Do not interrupt the sequence.

Mistakes to avoid

• Don’t wear revealing clothing, loud jewelry, or clothing with slogans; avoid distracting outfits.
• Don’t touch or rearrange idols, bells, lamps, or offerings unless explicitly allowed.
• Don’t take food or drink inside the garbhagriha or prayer halls unless the temple clearly provides for it outside.
• Don’t use phones or cameras during prayers or puja times unless permitted; avoid talking on the phone in prayer spaces.
• Don’t bring meat, eggs, or alcohol into temple premises; many temples expect strict vegetarian conduct.
• Don’t tease or mock others’ devotional practices, and avoid noisy demonstrations of devotion that disrupt others.
• Don’t assume all temples celebrate Diwali in the same way; local customs vary between Digambar and Shwetambar traditions—follow the cues of the temple priest or volunteers.
• Don’t ignore temple rules about cleanliness and order (littering, leaving offerings unattended, or handling sacred items roughly).

If you’re unsure about a particular rule at a temple, just observe what others do and follow the temple staff’s guidance. The aim is to show respect for the sacred space and for the devotion of others during this auspicious festival.