Imagine standing before a temple so grand that it feels as if time itself has paused to admire it. Bells ring, devotees chant, and the air is filled with centuries-old legends. This is the beauty of Indian temples: they are not just massive structures but intricate pieces of art and architecture that draw you into their world. Whether you are a devotee or an explorer, these ten temples in India are timeless wonders that will completely enchant you.
Temples In India That You Must-Visit
Konark Sun Temple, Odisha
The Konark Sun Temple was constructed in the 13th century by King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga dynasty. This chariot-shaped temple is dedicated to the Sun God Surya and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple features twelve intricately carved stone wheels and seven horses, symbolizing the chariot of the Sun. Renowned for its Kalinga architecture, the temple showcases exquisite stone carvings that depict myths, animals, dancers, and deities.
Where: Konark, Odisha – 752111
When: 6 am to 8 pm
Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple, Delhi
Opened in 2005, the Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple in Delhi is a remarkable blend of architecture, culture, and spirituality. With its lush gardens and intricate carvings, this temple celebrates India’s ancient traditions and spiritual heritage. The main structure, built from white marble and pink sandstone, features elaborately carved domes and pillars. The temple complex also includes thematic exhibitions, a stunning musical fountain, and the world’s largest stepwell.
Where: NH 24, Pramukh Swami Maharaj Marg, Pandav Nagar, New Delhi
When: 10 am to 6:30 pm
Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai
The Meenakshi Amman Temple is a mythologically and historically significant temple dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareshwar (a form of Lord Shiva). The temple is renowned for its Dravidian architecture and is spread across 15 acres, featuring 14 magnificent gopurams. It has a thousand-pillar hall, many mandapams, and a sacred tank, which are all architectural marvels that you must once witness. Under the Pandyas, Cholas, Nayaks, and Vijayanagar rulers, this temple has evolved with many constructions, deconstructions, and restorations.
Where: Madurai Main, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625001
When: 5 am to 12:30 pm and 4 pm to 9:30 pm
Somnath Temple, Gujarat
Situated on the western coast of Gujarat, the Somnath temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to have been built by the Moon god Soma and holds immense religious significance. This present structure, which was built in 1951, represents a blend of spiritual heritage and history, built in the Chalukya style of architecture. It stands tall overlooking the mighty Arabian Sea and draws a huge number of tourists and pilgrims all year round.
Where: Somnath Mandir Rd, Somnath, Prabhas Patan, Gujarat
When: 6 am to 10 pm
Vaishnodevi Temple, Jammu & Kashmir
Maa Vaishnodevi Temple is one of the most well-known pilgrimage sites in India, situated in the Trikuta mountains. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Vaishno Devi, and devotees have to undertake a 12-kilometre challenging trek to the sacred cave shrine from Katra. According to legends, this temple is associated with the goddess’s manifestation and her victory over evil. Devotees believe that visiting this temple results in the fulfillment of all their wishes and is one of the busiest pilgrimage spots in India.
Where: Vaishno Devi Temple, Bhawan, Katra, Jammu & Kashmir
When: 5 am to 12 pm and 4 pm to 9 pm
Virupaksha Temple, Hampi
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Virupaksha temple, is located in Karnataka’s city of ruins, Hampi. This temple is an exemplary example of Vijayanagara-style architecture. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to have been built in the 7th century, which later flourished under the Vijayanagara Empire. The temple complex houses intricately carved-pillared halls, a sacred tank. 50-meter-high gopuram and courtyards. Known as one of the oldest functioning Hindu temples that attracts many devotees and history enthusiasts.
Where: Hampi, Karnataka 583239
When: 6 am to 1 pm and 5 pm to 9 pm
Ramnathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram
Situated on the pristine Rameswaram island, Ramnathaswamy temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is known for its elaborate corridors and is known as one of the longest Hindu temples in India. The temple complex houses an impressive water tank and majestic gopurams. This site is a major pilgrimage destination and is a part of the Char Dham Yatra. According to a popular legend, Lord Rama worshipped Lord Shiva after the war in Lanka.
Where: E Car Street, Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu
When: 4 am to 1 pm and 3 pm to 8 pm
Lotus Temple, Delhi
The Lotus Temple is a Baháʼí House of Worship, renowned for its unique design resembling a lotus flower, constructed from white marble. Completed in 1986, it welcomes visitors from all religions, symbolizing unity and inclusiveness. The temple features nine sides and surrounding pools, creating a serene environment perfect for meditation and prayer. Attracting millions of visitors every year, the Lotus Temple is celebrated for its beauty and spiritual atmosphere.
Where: Lotus Temple Rd, Bahapur, Kalkaji, New Delhi, Delhi
When: 8:30 pm to 6 pm
Murudeshwar Temple, Gokarna
Known for housing one of the tallest statues dedicated to Lord Shiva (123-feet tall), the Murudeshwar temple is located in Karnataka’s Gokarna. This temple is situated on the Kanduka Hill with a very dramatic setting, as it is surrounded by the Arabian Sea on three sides. Murudeshwar is a prominent pilgrimage center and houses a tall 20-storey gopuram that offers panoramic views of the coastline.
Where: Murudeshwar Temple Hwy, Murudeshwar, Karnataka
When: 6 am to 1 pm and 3 pm to 8:30 pm
Brihadeeshwar Temple, Thanjavur
Known as the Peruvudaiyar Kovil, the Brihadeeshwar Temple in Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu was built by Raja Raja Chola I in the 11th century. It is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site and an amazing example of Dravidian architecture. It is made out of granite, has a 66-meter-tall gopuram, frescoes, and massive corridors. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known as the “big temple” because of its grandeur and monumental scale.
Where: Balaganapathy Nagar, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
When: 6 am to 12:30 pm and 4 pm to 8:30 pm
Summing Up
From mysterious caves to sky-high towers, these temples will make you believe in wonder all over again. So, get set, and let’s explore!
