Plizio Visual Lab

Waterloo Temple

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

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The Waterloo Temple, widely known as the 'Temple in the Sea,' is a remarkable Hindu shrine located in Carapichaima, Trinidad. The temple's history is deeply intertwined with the life of Siewdass Sadhu, an Indian indentured laborer who dedicated his life to building this place of worship. After his initial temple built on land was demolished by colonial authorities, Sadhu chose to build in the sea to bypass land ownership restrictions. For 25 years, he painstakingly carried stones and construction materials by hand into the Gulf of Paria to create the foundation. The current structure is a reconstructed version of the original and was completed in 1995 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Indian arrival in Trinidad. The temple is connected to the mainland by a long causeway and features a serene atmosphere for prayer and reflection. Its architecture features classical Indian motifs and is adorned with religious statues and intricate ornaments. Today, the site stands as a national symbol of religious freedom and the indomitable will of the human spirit.

Location: Trinidad and Tobago
Top sights: Indian Caribbean Museum of Trinidad and Tobago · Temple in the Sea · Carapichaima
Nearby: California (5 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	26	26	27	28	28	27	27	27	27	27	27	26
Rain mm	100	61	52	56	117	222	202	202	141	176	213	178

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Waterloo Temple is an active Hindu temple that is open to visitors. You can enter the temple grounds and admire the colorful shrines and coastal setting.

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Typical hours

The temple is typically open daily from early morning until evening, with breaks for prayer times. Best visiting times are late morning or afternoon.

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Photography

Photography on the temple grounds is usually allowed, but not inside during prayer times. Please remove your shoes before entering sacred areas.

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Time needed

Allow about 30-45 minutes for a visit to the temple grounds. If you wish to attend a ceremony, plan for an hour.

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Combine with

Combine the temple visit with a stop at the nearby Waterloo Beach. The visitation monastery and the coastal mangroves are also worth seeing.

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Getting there

The temple is located on the coastal road between Port of Spain and San Fernando, accessible by car or bus. Parking is usually available on site.

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Insider tip

Visit the temple during a Hindu festival like Diwali to experience the spirited atmosphere. Bring a small donation for the temple, it is customary.

Geography

Coordinates

10.48500, -61.46500

Facts

Built by Siewdass Sadhu in the Gulf of Paria
Sadhu worked alone on the foundation for 25 years
The current structure was officially opened in 1995
Commemorates the 150th anniversary of Indian arrival
A long causeway connects the temple to the mainland
Features sacred statues of deities including Lord Hanuman

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Temple in the Sea<1 km · SWExplore →

Hanuman Statue2 km · NWExplore →

Couva4 km · NWExplore →

Caparo River5 km · NExplore →

Caroni Bird Sanctuary5 km · EExplore →

California5 km · WExplore →

Chaguanas6 km · NExplore →

Caroni River6 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Waterloo Temple (3)

Indian Caribbean Museum of Trinidad and Tobago📍 landmark

A museum in Waterloo showcasing Indo-Caribbean culture.

Temple in the Sea📍 landmark

A Hindu temple built in the sea off Waterloo, Trinidad.

Carapichaima📍 landmark

A town in central Trinidad known for sugar cane plantations.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is there anything to keep in mind when visiting the Waterloo Temple?

Respect the holy site, dress modestly, and remove your shoes.

Is admission free?

Yes, admission is free, but small donations are gratefully accepted.

What is the best time of day to visit?

Visit at low tide to have a good view of the causeway.

Is photography allowed inside the temple?

Outside photos are welcome; inside, please ask first or look for signs.

Is the temple accessible?

Access via the causeway can be difficult for wheelchairs due to uneven ground.

Waterloo Temple: where is it located?

Waterloo Temple is located in Trinidad and Tobago.

Waterloo Temple: what is there to see?

Highlights include Indian Caribbean Museum of Trinidad and Tobago, Temple in the Sea, Carapichaima.

Waterloo Temple: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.

Waterloo Temple: why is it worth visiting?

The Waterloo Temple, widely known as the 'Temple in the Sea,' is a remarkable Hindu shrine located in Carapichaima, Trinidad.