Famous Temples in India

Called ‘Mandira’ in Sanskrit, the temple reflects the history and cultural glory of the place. Part of the world’s oldest civilization, India is a country with a rich history and countless beliefs, traditions, and religious legends. India boasts the country’s rich cultural and religious history as it is the birthplace of Hindu, Jain, Buddhist, and Sikh traditions.

India is a secular country, but Hinduism is the predominant religion in the country. The presence of sacred Hindu temples is, therefore, very high in India as well, with rulers of many dynasties building them over hundreds of years and leaving their presence in the lives of the citizens of the country. The religion has been practiced in Hinduism since the time of the Indus civilization and spread long before the establishment of other major faiths such as Islam, Christianity, and Buddhism. India has experienced multiple rulers, monarchies, and rulers long before the rise of any other religion worldwide.

India is where people of different religions live in harmony and brotherhood. Unlike other religions, Hinduism has no founder and is a fusion of religions. Various ancient manuscripts and scholars describe Hinduism as a traditional way of life, a religion that does not have a trace of its beginning and end.

The heavenly residence of the Almighty on earth is called “Mandir” by Hindus. There are majestic temples in almost every corner of the country. Each temple has its history and legend. In ancient times, Indian rulers encouraged artists and sculptors to create outstanding masterpieces in the form of temples under their control. We introduce you to some of the country’s most popular and magnificent temples.

About famous Temples of India 

1. Badrinath Temple, Uttarakhand

Badrinath Temple is highly sacred among Hindus and is considered one of the 108 temples in the world created by Lord Vishnu. Lord Badrinath Temple is near the Alaknanda River in Chamoli District, Uttarakhand. The holy shrine of Lord Vishnu is one of the Char Dhams and one of the four Chota Char Dham. Lord Vishnu’s ancient mansion is only accessible from April until November. The two most famous festivals associated with temples are –

1. Matamurthikamera: A celebration to worship Lord Badrinath’s mother in September.
2. Badri-Kedar Festival: A festival that takes place for eight days in June at the Badrinath and Kedarnath. It depicts the local traditions of Uttarakhand.

Facts about Badrinath Temple

• It is on the Garhwal hills on the banks of the Alaknanda River.
• The temple is at an altitude of 3,133 meters, or 10,279 feet above mean sea level. 

The temple has its name in ancient religious texts, such as the Vishnu Purana and the Skanda Purana.

How to get to Badrinath Temple:

You can travel to Badrinath by road to several railway stations and airports in India, such as Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun, and Chamoli.

2. Kedarnath Temple, Uttarakhand

Located in the Himalayas in Garwal, Kedarnath Temple is one of the most sacred shrines. People believe the Pandavas built Shiva’s sanctuary to atone for their sins during Mahabharata. Adi Sankaracharya restored the temple in the 8th century. It is one in Chota Char Dhams, and pilgrims must walk 14 km through hilly terrain.

At an altitude of 3,583 meters, surrounded by glaciers and snow-capped mountains, the temple is closed in winter due to bad weather. Even the authorities transfer the Shiva idols to Ukimat during the month when the temple remains closed. Kedarnath Temple is not only famous among religious tourists but also very famous among other nature lovers because of its location. The temple sits amidst the majestic Himalayan glaciers, which remain under snow in the winter. Therefore, it is closed for half a year.

Facts about Kedarnath Temple

• In the Himalayas in Garhwal (Uttarakhand).
• Pandavas built this temple. 
• It is one in Chota Char Dhams.
• Pilgrims must walk 14 km through hilly terrain.

 It is an altitude of 3,583 meters.

How to get to Kedarnath Temple:

Travelers can reach Kedarnath by trekking from Gaurikund. You can go there by bus from Rishikesh. Getting to Rishikesh is relatively easy. Rishikesh connects with other parts of India by train.

3. Ramanathswamy or Rameshwaram Temple, Tamil Nadu

The Rameshwaram Temple is famous and considered sacred by Hindus worldwide. It is on an island in Tamil Nadu known as Rameshwaram. It is very religious as it is one of the four holy sites of India or Char Dham. The temple is not only architecturally stunning but also beautifully located.

According to legend, Lord Rama landed on the shores of this island with his wife Sita after defeating the demon king Ravana.

Lord Rama wished to pray to Lord Shiva to seek atonement for the sin of killing a Brahmin. He said to Hanuman to fly to Kailash and bring Shivalinga. Goddess Sita, on the other hand, made lingam. Goddess Sita makes Ramalingam, and the one that Lord Hanuman brought is called Vishwalingam. According to Lord Rama’s instructions, we must worship Vishwalingam before Ramalingam, which the temple authorities still follow.

Facts about Rameshwaram Temple:

• One of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples was built in the 12th century.
• It has the longest cloister of any Hindu temple in India.
• Dravidian architecture.
• Creators – Pandyas and Jaffna Kings
• Rameswaram Island and its surroundings are home to 64 tirthas or holy waters.
• Also, one of Char Dham.

How to get to Rameshwaram Temple:

Rameshwaram Railway Station connects all major cities in India, making Rameshwaram easily accessible from all parts of India.

4. Vaishno Devi Temple, Jammu, and Kashmir

Vaishno Devi Temple is the most sacred site for Hindu pilgrims on Mount Trikta in Jammu and Kashmir. According to legend, Vaishno Devi, disguised as a young girl, was pursued by the black magician Bhairo Nath. He urged her to marry him. She fled to the mountains to escape him, but he also followed her. After stopping at Banganga, Chalan Paduka, and Adukwari, the Goddess finally reached the holy shrine. When Bhairo Nath showed no signs of retreating, Vaishnavi had no choice but to kill him.

She cut off his head at the cave entrance, and his head fell on a distant hill. After realizing her mistake, Bhairo Nath begged her for forgiveness. The Goddess took pity on him and blessed him with the blessing that anyone who begins a pilgrimage to the shrine must also visit the Bhaironath temple. Thousands of devotees visit the shrine each year to seek blessings.

Vaishno Devi Temple is widely famous and highly sacred among Hindu people worldwide. This temple is renowned for its religious integrity, and the trek accompanying the Katra journey is stunningly beautiful. Millions of pilgrims visit Ma Vaishno Devi and enjoy the snowy hills surrounding the temple. Those who visit Maa Vaishno Devi consider themselves lucky, as not everyone can meet her.

Facts about Vaishno Devi Temple

• 5200 feet above sea level in Trikuta Hills.
• It’s a cave temple.

How to get to Vaishno Devi Temple:

The nearest airport is Jammu Tawi Airport, which is 47 km from the temple. However, there is no direct transport between these places, so you must trek about 20 km from Katra to reach Vaishno Devi.

5. Brihadeeswara Temple, Tamil Nadu

Brihadeeswara Temple is one of the largest temples in South India. The Brihadiswara Temple in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, is one of India’s most famous and oldest temples. Also known as Peruvudaiyar Kovil and Raja Rajeswaram, Chola Emperor Raja Raja Chola built this temple in the 11th century. Chola is known for his admiration for art. The temple’s grandeur and magnificent architecture reflect Cholas’ luxury and artistry. It is made entirely of granite and built according to the principles of Vastu Shastra.

Not only is this place a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it is truly an architectural wonder. The incredible thing about this UNESCO World Heritage Site is that it leaves no shadow on the ground at noon. Even if you are not religious, please visit the temple at least once and enjoy its splendid architecture.

Facts about Brihadeeswara Temple:

• Also known as Raja Rajeswara Temple in Thanjavur.
• Chola Emperor Raja Raja Chola I built this Dravidian temple.
• It is one of the tallest temples in India, constructed entirely out of granite.
• Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple, one of the great living Chola temples, along with Airavatesvara Temple.
• Also known as Dakshin Meru, it is located on the banks of the Cauvery River.

How to get to Brihadeeswara Temple:

The nearest stations to the temple are Trichur and Madurai. The nearest airport is Tiruchirapalli Airport. So getting it is okay.

6. Somnath Temple, Gujarat

The Somnath Temple is the oldest pilgrimage site in India. The temple is in the ancient books of Shiv Puran, Skanda Purana, and Srimad Bhagavad Gita. Soma refers to the ‘moon god,’ so Somnath means ‘guardian of the moon god.’

The Indian moon god ‘Soma’ was cursed by his father-in-law to lose his radiance. Lord Shiva cured him of his illness. Then, Soma built this temple in his honor. It is one of the most revered ‘jyotirlingas’ among the 12 jyotirlingas of India. The temple is at Prabhas Kshetra in Saurashtra, Gujarat. In Prabha’s Kshetra, there is a saying that Lord Krishna left his physical body. The place also has the Somnath Museum, Junagadh His Gate, the beach, and a sound and light show to entertain pilgrims

Facts about Somnath Temple:

• It is also known as Deo Patan.
• There is no land between the coast from Somnath Temple to Antarctica.
• Built-in the Chalkian style.
• 1947 – Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel ordered the temple’s reconstruction, which was completed in 1951.

How to get to Somnath Temple:

Temple is 6 km from the nearest train station and 65 km from Diu Airport. So you can get there by train or plane, whichever you prefer.

7. Golden Temple, Punjab

In Amritsar, Punjab, the most revered Sikh pilgrimage site is Sri Harmandir Sahib, also known as Darbar Sahib or the Golden Temple. The principles of equality and brotherhood are the foundation of the temple. After completion, Sri Harmandir Sahib received the Guru Granth Sahib for the first time. The temple is primarily composed of gold, and every day, thousands of people receive free meals at the Langar Kana of the temple. In the temple kitchen, volunteers can cook and do dishes. The universal compassion the temple extends to ordinary people gives it its meaning.  

Four doors of this temple that open in four unique directions welcome people of all faiths and races seeking religious and spiritual satisfaction. The building is lower than its surroundings which symbolizes the value of humility.

Facts about Golden Temple:

• A Gurdwara was built in the 15th century. Also known as Harmindar Sahib. Temple
• It was gilded from wealth and materials donated by Maharajah Ranjit Singh in 1980.

How to get to Golden Temple:

Temple is conveniently 2 km from Amritsar Railway Station, making it easy for anyone to reach.

8. Meenakshi Temple, Tamil Nadu

Located in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, this architectural wonder is dedicated to Goddess Parvati and her husband, Lord Shiva. Madurai is India’s second-largest city and one of the world’s oldest cities. A dip in a golden lotus pond in a temple is considered auspicious. People usually dip before visiting the main shrines of gods and goddesses. According to legend, Lord Shiva made the pond and pre-dates the temple.

Meenakshi Temple is from the 12th century, but its architectural splendor does not speak for itself. Every 985 pillars adorn the entire temple and are carved in different ways. Tourists come from all over the world not only for religious reasons but for the splendor of the temple.

Facts about Meenakshi Temple

• It has Dravidian architecture and more than 40 inscriptions.
• The 985 gorgeously carved pillars depict scenes of Meenakshi’s marriage (Parvati) and Sundareswarar (Shiva).
• Famous for its three-story gopuram at the main entrance.

How to get to Meenakshi Temple:

Temple has located 1 km from Madurai Crossing. You can easily reach there by rickshaw or car.

9. Amarnath Cave Temple, Jammu, and Kashmir

The sacred caves of Amarnath were built at 3,888 meters altitude in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Snow-capped mountains surround the temple. Snow covers the temple throughout the year. During the summer, from June to August, it becomes accessible and open to pilgrims. The cave is said to be 5000 years old.

According to a famous legend, a Muslim shepherd Buta Malik met a saint who gave him a sack of coal. When he got home, the coal had turned to gold. Moved by the miracle, the shepherd searched for the holy one and instead found the sacred abode of Lord Shiva.

The pilgrimage to Amarnath consists of a five-day trek, during which devotees brave harsh and unsettled climatic conditions and cover 40 miles. It is at an altitude of 3,900 meters, and it is not possible to visit during the winter because the road to the shrine is closed due to heavy snow. The temple is a worship shrine for Lord Shiva. An interesting fact about this temple is that it is not artificial; people consider it a miraculous structure.  

A natural cavern made of ice worshipped for its uncanny resemblance to Lord Shiva. Millions of travelers from all over the world trek to this cave, but it is challenging to get there. You have to walk 40 miles to enter the cave. Not all tourists can cope with such adverse conditions.

 Facts about Amarnath cave temple:

• A cave temple at an altitude of 3888 meters.
• It is one of his 51 Shakti Peeths.

How to get to Amarnath Cave Temple: 

The trek to Cave Temple starts from Baltar or Pahalgam. You can reach there by car from the nearest airport in Jammu, 178 km from Pahalgam.

10. Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Uttar Pradesh

It is in Kasi, Varanasi, the oldest surviving city in the world. Here are the 12 most revered jyotirlingas in India. The temple is on the west bank of the Ganges and teaches humanity the true meaning of life and death. His one visit to Kashi Vishwanath temple is equivalent to visiting his eleven other jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.

The temple towers are plated with 800 kg of gold and feature magnificent architecture. Inside the temple is a fountain called Jnana Vapi, which Hindus can only visit. Besides the main temple, there are smaller temples such as Kaalbhairav, Virupaksh Gauri, Vinayaka, Vishnu, and Avimukteshwara.

Many notables such as Adi Shankaracharya, Swami Vivekananda, Goswami Tulsidas, and Guru Nanak have visited this heavenly mansion. Visiting this sacred temple is considered one of the ways to achieve Moksha.

 Facts about Kashi Vishwanath temple:

• The original Vishwanath Temple was destroyed in 1194 AD by the forces of Qutub Uddin Aibak, who defeated the Raja of Kannauj.
• Temple has a small well called Jana Vapi, also written as Gyan Vapi.
• Emperor Aurangzeb demolished the temple in 1669 and built the Gyanvapi Mosque.
• In 1780, Ahiryabai Holkar, daughter-in-law of Malhar Rao, built the present temple next to the mosque.

How to get to Kashi Vishwanath Temple:

Varanasi has its train station and is only 2 km from the temple. 

11. Akshardham Temple, Delhi

Built on the rules of Vastu Shastra and Pancharatra Shastra, this temple is on the banks of the Yamuna River in Delhi. The temple’s authenticity reflects in its similarity to ancient Indian architecture and the spirituality that this place exudes. The temple’s main deity is Lord Swaminarayan, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The 11-foot-tall statue is under the central dome of the temple. 

The structure is of pink Rajasthani stone and Italian Carrara marble. The majestic Temple of Akshardham looks even more enchanting at night thanks to its beautifully placed lighting arrangements. Many activities and events, such as exhibitions, films, statues, and boat trips, provide visitors with an insight into the history and philosophy of the Swaminarayan. The most attractive element of the temple is the light and music show that takes place at night.

Reflecting the beauty and architectural grandeur of Indian culture, Akshardham Temple is a beautiful Hindu temple and spiritual complex. Also known as Swaminarayan Temple, its name is recorded in the Guinness Book of Records due to the largest comprehensive Hindu temple in the world. Home to around 20,000 deities, this place reflects the beauty of India’s rich history.

Facts about Akshardham Temple: 

• This temple is on the banks of the Yamuna River in Delhi. 
• The 11-foot-tall statue is under the central dome of the temple. 
• The structure is of pink Rajasthani stone and Italian Carrara marble.

How to get to Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple:

Delhi Metro connects the temple well. The nearest metro station to the temple is Akshardham Metro Station on the Blue Line. Less than 5 minutes walk from there.

12. Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Kerala

The capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, literally means ‘City of Lord Anantha.’ Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple is one of 108 Divya Desams. Hindus can only visit the temple. There is a strict dress code for men (shirtless dhoti) and women (sari or skirt and blouse) when entering the temple. 

Lord Vishnu’s graceful and glorious idol rests in deep yogic sleep on her five cloaked serpents named Anantha. This idol is beautiful as it represents the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. Lord Brahma is seated on a lotus that emerges from the navel of the Lord’s statue. Under the palm of his outstretched right hand is Shiva’s lingam, which combines the three powers into one. The temple is also famous as the wealthiest Indian temple in the world.

Gold-covered temples are of great importance among Hindus. The temple’s main deity is Lord Padmanabha, one of his incarnations of Lord Vishnu. 

This temple is a replica of his Adikesavaperumal temple at Thiruvattar. It is a well-preserved ancient site believed to have existed for about 5,000 years. This temple also has its name in the Bhagavad Gita. 

Facts about Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple: 

• The means’ City of Lord Anantha.’ 
• Temple is one of 108 Divya Desams. 
• Hindus can only visit the temple. 
• There is a strict dress code for men (shirtless dhoti) and women (sari or skirt and blouse).

How to get to Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple: 

You can drive from Chalai Market Road. This temple is easily accessible by car.

12. Siddhivinayak Temple, Maharashtra

The Siddhivinayak Temple in Prabhadevi, Mumbai. It is one of the eight Ganesha temples in Maharashtra. Lord Ganesha is the supreme deity of the temple and is always worshipped first before starting anything new in his life. 

For this reason, he is also known as his Vighnaharta (remover of obstacles). The eight footprints of Lord Ganapathi (Ashtavinayak) have their imprint on the wooden door of the shrine. The Siddhivinayak Temple consists of one of eight statues of Lord Ganesha. The temple is visited by devotees all year round, but Tuesday is when most people come mainly to pray for good luck.

Facts about Siddhivinayak temple:

• One of the wealthiest temples in India.
• Built in 1801 by Laxman Vithu and Dubai Patil.

How to get to Siddhivinayak Temple:

You can also take a local train (Central, Western, Harbor) to reach Dadar and go to the temple. You can take a shared or regular taxi to Prabhadevi from Dadar Station. People generally prefer walking to the temple, which is only 15 minutes from the train station.

13. Gangotri Temple, Uttarakhand

Located in the Himalayas in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, the Gangotri Temple is part of the Chota Cha Dam Yatra. This temple is of great importance for its glorious history. 

According to legend, King Bagiras has performed severe penance for thousands of years to please Mother His Ganga and descend from heaven to earth to free his ancestors from the curse. Satisfied with his sincere devotion, Mother Ganga agreed to drop to earth. However, she asked him to persuade Lord Shiva to help her descend to earth. After rejoicing in Bhagirat’s prayers, Lord Shiva granted his wish and supported Mother Ganga with his hair. 

Gangotri’s sacred temple opens on Akshaya Tritiya (usually in April or May). On this occasion, the priests bring Gangama’s idol back 20 km away from Muhuyamath temple. Maahi Ganga comes back to the Muhuyama Temple every year on Diwali.

Facts about Gangotri Temple: 

It is situated on the Bhagirathi River bank at an altitude of 3,415 m.

How to get to Gangotri Temple:

The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, 234 km before Gangotri on State Highway 58, well connected to major destinations in India by the rail network. Trains to Rishikesh run frequently. Taxis and buses are available to Gangotri from Rishikesh, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarkashi, and many other destinations.

14. Yamunotri Temple, Uttarakhand

Yamunotri Temple is in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. The Yamunotri temple was rebuilt after being damaged twice by natural disasters. 

Dedicated to his second holiest river in India, the Yamuna River, this temple is also part of his four Chota Char Dham Yatras. At an altitude of 3291 meters, the shrine of Mother Yamuna houses a black marble idol of the Goddess. The temple opens on Akshaya Tritiya and closes on the day after Diwali. Mother Yamuna’s idol is moved to the nearby village of Harsari in winter. There are no roads around Yamunotri Temple, so you have to walk.

Facts about Yamnotri Temple

• It is located at an altitude of 3,291 meters. 
• Bandarpunch in the background.
• It is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna.

How to get to Yamunotri Temple:

You can book a train to Dehradun, the nearest railway station to Yamunotri and the capital of Uttarakhand. From Dehradun, you can travel further afield by private vehicle, reserved car, shareable jeep, or other public transport. The Yamunotri route also has a small trekking section.

Conclusion

To understand the many facets of India, its spirituality, and its religion, you must begin your journey with the temples. Thousands of legends simplifying the complexities of life and death can be seen on the walls of Indian temples.

Imagine losing yourself in a land of excellent knowledge, secret paths to nirvana, and vibrant cultural beliefs. It is what it feels like to be in a country like India. Spiritual tourism is not just a trend in the modern world; it has existed in India since ancient times.

All the temples listed above have their way of preserving their integrity, as they are sacred not only to Hindu people but also to people of other religions. Several tourists from all over the world visit India to visit these temples and learn about the culture and traditions of the country. So if you’re planning a vacation in India, spend some time exploring these temples.

FAQs

1. What are the famous temples of the Himalayas?

Ans: Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri are the most famous temples of the North Himalayas region.

2. What are the most famous temples in South India?

• Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple
• Tirupati Balaji Temple
• Ramanathaswamy Temple
• Virupaksha Temple
• Shri Ranganathaswamy Temple
• Brihadeeswara Temple
• Meenakshi Temple

3. Why are shoes prohibited in temples in India?

Ans: Removing shoes before entering a temple helps preserve the sanctity of the temple. It is a sign of respect, and that is why, especially in Indian culture, we apologize when we touch something or someone with our feet.

4. Which cities in India are famous for the number of temples?

Ans: Some cities in India have many Hindu temples, but Varanasi, Jaipur, Kashi, Gaya, Chennai, etc., all have over a thousand temples.

5. Which is the wealthiest temple in India?

Ans: Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is the wealthiest temple in the country.

6. When is the best season to visit Badrinath Temple?

Ans: Badrinath is in Uttarakhand, India; you can reach there by calling the temple between May-June and September-October.

7. Do I have to follow a dress code when visiting Hindu temples?

Ans: There is no specific dress code for visiting Hindu temples in India. However, women should refrain from wearing revealing clothes. Men prefer to wear a dhoti and kurta but should wear a traditional sari or salwar kameez

8. When will Badrinath Temple close?

Ans: Badrinath Temple will remain closed for six months. The date is around 29th October or the time of Baidooj after Diwali.

9. What is India’s oldest temple?

Ans: Although not scientifically proven, the Mundeshwari Devi Temple is said to be India’s most senior. This temple has existed for centuries in the Kaimur district of Bihar.