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India is a land of diverse cultures and religions, and its temples are a magnificent testament to its rich heritage. These temples are places of worship, architectural wonders, and cultural sites. They offer a glimpse of India's spiritual and artistic heritage, making them a must-visit destination for travellers seeking both inner peace and cultural enrichment.
Here, we will learn about some of the top iconic temples worth visiting in India, each with its own unique charm and significance.
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, in the heart of Varanasi, holds a special place in Hindu spirituality and is situated on the banks of the holy river Ganga, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and is believed to grant liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
2. Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), Amritsar, Punjab
The Golden Temple is the holiest temple of Sikhism, known for its stunning golden façade and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors of all religions are welcome here.
3. Badrinath Temple, Uttarakhand
Located in the Himalayas, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is part of the Char Dham Yatra. It is known for its picturesque mountain views and religious importance. The Badrinath Temple, with its iconic conical roof and attractive façade, blends seamlessly with the mountainous landscape.
4. Meenakshi Temple, Madurai, Tamil Nadu
A masterpiece of Dravidian architecture, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareshwar. Its intricate carvings and vibrant festivals are worth a visit.
5. Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha
Famous for Rath Yatra, this temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The annual chariot festival attracts lakhs of devotees. The main temple of Shri Jagannath is an impressive and wonderful structure built in Kalinga architecture, situated on a raised platform at a height of 65 meters. Many festivals of Shri Jagannath are celebrated in Puri during the year. These are Snan Yatra, Netrotsav, Rath Yatra (Car Festival), Sayan Ekadasi, Chitlagi Ambasya, Shri Krishna Janam, Dussehra etc.
6. Akshardham Temple, Delhi
A relatively modern marvel, this temple displays stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and a fascinating exhibition on Indian culture and spirituality. The Akshardham Temple houses over two hundred statues, representing many spiritual giants from across the millenniums. The spiritual basis of Akshardham is that every soul is potentially divine. Whether we are serving family, country, neighbors, or all living beings around the world, every service can help a person move towards divinity.
7. Brihadeshwara Temple (Big Temple), Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
An architectural marvel built by the Chola dynasty, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its huge gopuram and lingam. It is one of the largest temples in India and is located on the south side of the Kaveri River in Thanjavur in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is Thanjavur Temple Timings: 6:00 am – 12:30 pm & 4:00 pm – 8:30 pm (Everyday).
8. Dilwara Temple, Mount Abu, Rajasthan
These Jain temples are famous for their exquisite marble carvings, making them an important pilgrimage site for Jains. A large number of visitors and pilgrims visit Dilwara temple every day. Visitors can visit the Dilwara temple from 12 Noon to 5 PM.
9. Somnath Temple, Gujarat
Located on the shores of the Arabian Sea, this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva has been rebuilt several times and is a symbol of resilience. The best time to visit Somnath Temple is in the cooler months of October to February, although the site is open throughout the year. Shivratri (usually in February or March) and Kartik Purnima (close to Diwali) are celebrated with great enthusiasm here.
10. Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu
One of the 12 Jyotirlingas, Ramanathaswamy temple is famous for its long corridors, unique corridors, and religious importance. This Temple is a popular place of worship and prominent tourist attraction in Rameshwaram. Lots of devotees visit this temple every year to attain salvation.
11. Amarnath Cave Temple, Jammu and Kashmir
Accessible only during the summer months, this cave temple has an ice Shiva Linga, and the annual Amarnath Yatra is an important pilgrimage. It is located at an altitude of 3,888 meters. These ice structures form during summer and wax and wane with the moon .These ice structures form during summer and wax and wane with the moon. On the day of the full moon, they are in full form whereas on the day of the new moon, they disappear completely.
12. Vaishno Devi Temple, Katra, Jammu and Kashmir
Located on the Trikuta mountain, this temple dedicated to Goddess Vaishno Devi is visited by lakhs of pilgrims trekking to seek the blessings of the Goddess.
13. Kedarnath Temple, Uttarakhand
Located in the Garhwal Himalayas, this temple is one of the Char Dham sites, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and is set amidst breathtaking landscapes. Kedarnath temple opens for devotees every year in the month of April/May and closes in winter around the third week of November.
14. Sun Temple, Konark, Odisha
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is dedicated to the Sun God and is famous for its intricate, wheel-shaped design, mounted on 24 wheels, each about 10 feet in diameter, and pulled by 7 powerful horses.
15. Belur Math, Kolkata, West Bengal
This temple established by Swami Vivekananda is a symbol of unity of all religions and a symbol of harmony of different religions. This temple was consecrated on December 21, 1921. Her temple faces the Ganges because the mother loved the holy river.
Note: To explore these spiritual gems, consider a Tempo Traveller Hire in Delhi for a comfortable and convenient journey with family and a group of friends.
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