When we want to meet our superiors or persons highly placed in life, we observe certain etiquette, norms and decorum. Therefore it is but natural that the devotee who wants to visit the Lord of the universe in a temple, is expected to observe a certain code of conduct. Taking bath, wearing freshly washed clothes is a must. If and when possible, this should be done in the Puskarini attached to the temple. After entering the precincts of the temple, he should observe silence and try to withdraw the mind into the thoughts of God. After having the darshan of the deity and getting his individual worship if any, performed, he should circumambulate the main shrine three, five or seven times. Then he should bow down to the deity from a place outside the dhvajastambha, taking care to see that his feet do not point in the direction of any of the minor deities. Visiting the shrines of the minor deities is his next duty. Before leaving the precincts of the temple, he should sit quietly in some corner and meditate. Since distribution of alms to deserving beggars in the vicinity of the temple is considered meritorious, the devotees are advised to do so.

Apart from these general rules to be observed by the devotee, he should also be aware of the daivapacaras, modes of behaviour which will offend the deity in the temple. This is very important because when a temple is built and the image consecrated ceremonially, the power of the deity will manifest itself through that image. This is technically called arcävatara.