Sacred Forest: The Forest Planted by Hindu Monks on Kauai

Shaka Guide

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Decades ago, the monks at the Monastery planted Rudraksha trees. These trees are from the Himalaya region, and produce seeds that are bright blue in color. You might see some on the ground. The inner pit’s red. The monks use the seeds to make prayer beads. These beads are strung into malas - necklaces and bracelets used in meditation. Perhaps you might recall seeing them at the Monastery just now. Wearing these beads is said to concentrate one’s energy and was used as a treatment for diseases in traditional Indian culture.

In the sacred forest, you’ll find a shrine to Ganesha, a Hindu god in the form of an Elephant.

There’s plenty of inspiring things to do - but always remember to be careful and respectful.

Interested in roaming the Sacred Forest?

It's a stop on our Wailua Valley and Waterfalls Tour!