India, often described as a land of timeless spirituality and rich cultural heritage, is home to some of the world’s most famous temples. These sacred sites, many of which date back hundreds or even thousands of years, attract millions of devotees and tourists every year. Beyond their spiritual importance, they stand as magnificent examples of India’s ancient architecture, traditions, and devotion.
In this guide, we explore the most famous temples in India, offering insights into their history, locations, and unique features.
Most Famous Temples in India
1. ISKCON Temples
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) is a global Hindu religious organization devoted to Lord Krishna’s teachings. With over 800 temples worldwide, India houses more than 150 of these centers. Established in 1966 by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada in New York, ISKCON not only runs temples but also operates vegetarian restaurants, community centers, and food distribution programs.
- Location: Bangalore, Delhi, Vrindavan, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Siliguri, and Pune.
- Best Time to Visit: Whole year
2. Virupaksha Temple, Hampi
Located along the Tungabhadra River in Karnataka, Virupaksha Temple is one of the oldest famous temples in India still in operation. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it dates back to the 7th century and forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Hampi. Its towering 160-ft gopuram and vibrant chariot festival in February draw numerous visitors.
- Location: Hampi, Karnataka
- Best Time to Visit: October to April
3. Kedarnath Temple
Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, Kedarnath Temple honors Lord Shiva and ranks among the 12 Jyotirlingas. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, reaching this temple involves a 16 km trek from Gaurikund. Its spiritual significance makes it one of the most famous temples in Uttarakhand.
- Location: Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
4. Golden Temple (Sri Harmandir Sahib)
Located in Amritsar, Punjab, the Golden Temple is the holiest shrine in Sikhism. Adorned in gold, it symbolizes universal brotherhood and equality. Its Langar hall feeds nearly 100,000 visitors daily, regardless of caste or religion.
- Location: Amritsar, Punjab
- Best Time to Visit: September to April
5. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Situated on the banks of the Ganga in Varanasi, Kashi Vishwanath is one of the most ancient and famous temples in India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it’s revered as one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. Its gold-plated spire adds to its grandeur.
- Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
6. Bankey Bihari Temple
Located in Vrindavan, Bankey Bihari Temple honors Lord Krishna. The term “Bankey Bihari” reflects Krishna’s charming, three-fold-bent posture. Every weekend, thousands flock to this famous temple in India to experience its divine aura.
- Location: Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
7. Prem Mandir
Dedicated to Radha Krishna and Sita Ram, Prem Mandir is a modern architectural wonder in Vrindavan. The intricately carved white marble temple features evening light and sound shows depicting Lord Krishna’s life.
- Location: Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
8. Badrinath Temple
As one of the Char Dhams, Badrinath Temple holds immense spiritual significance. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it’s set amidst the scenic Himalayas with the Alaknanda River flowing nearby.
- Location: Badrinath, Uttarakhand
- Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to October
9. Meenakshi Temple
In Madurai, Tamil Nadu, Meenakshi Temple stands as a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. Its 985 elaborately carved pillars and Golden Lotus Pond make it one of the most famous temples in India.
- Location: Madurai, Tamil Nadu
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
10. Sanchi Stupa
This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Madhya Pradesh was built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC. It remains a significant monument for Buddhists worldwide.
- Location: Raisen, Madhya Pradesh
- Best Time to Visit: September to April
11. Siddhivinayak Temple
Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Mumbai’s Siddhivinayak Temple is one of India’s wealthiest shrines. Many visit before starting new ventures, believing it brings success and good fortune.
- Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra
- Best Time to Visit: September to August
12. Tirupati Balaji Temple
Located in Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati Balaji Temple is among the top 10 richest and famous temples in India. Devotees offer hair (tonsure) as a symbol of humility and devotion.
- Location: Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh
- Best Time to Visit: September to December
13. Bhimashankar Temple
Situated in Maharashtra’s Sahyadri Hills, Bhimashankar Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. The temple’s Nagara-style architecture and surrounding wildlife sanctuary make it a unique spiritual destination.
- Location: Pune, Maharashtra
- Best Time to Visit: September to April
14. Birla Temple (Laxmi Narayan Temple)
Inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1939, Delhi’s Birla Temple welcomes people from all faiths. Spread across 7.5 acres, it features beautiful gardens, fountains, and an auditorium.
- Location: Delhi
- Best Time to Visit: September to May
15. Brihadeshwara Temple
Built by Raja Raja Chola I in the 11th century, Brihadeshwara Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its architectural brilliance is unmatched, and remarkably, it casts no shadow at noon.
- Location: Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
- Best Time to Visit: October to July
16. Dwarkadhish Temple
Part of the Char Dham Yatra, Dwarkadhish Temple in Gujarat is believed to be built by Lord Krishna’s grandson. Its Swarg Dwar (gate of heaven) and Moksha Dwar (gate of liberation) fascinate visitors.
- Location: Dwarka, Gujarat
- Best Time to Visit: October to April
17. Shani Shingnapur Temple
Famous for its “doorless village,” Shani Shingnapur Temple in Maharashtra is dedicated to Lord Shani. The village believes Lord Shani himself safeguards them, eliminating the need for locks.
- Location: Nevasa Taluka, Maharashtra
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
18. Amarnath Cave Temple
Located in Jammu & Kashmir, Amarnath Cave Temple houses a naturally forming ice Shivling. Accessible only in summer via a 3-5 day trek, it’s one of the most famous Shiva temples in India.
- Location: Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir
- Best Time to Visit: May to September
19. Vaishno Devi Temple
Situated in the Trikuta Mountains, Vaishno Devi Temple is a Shakti Peeth dedicated to Goddess Vaishno. Devotees undertake a 20 km trek to reach this revered site.
- Location: Katra, Jammu and Kashmir
- Best Time to Visit: February to June & September to November
20. Shirdi Sai Baba Temple
Shirdi is home to Sai Baba’s Samadhi, visited by thousands daily. The temple complex offers all necessary facilities and remains a significant spiritual center.
- Location: Shirdi, Maharashtra
- Best Time to Visit: June to February
21. Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Located in Kerala, this temple of Lord Vishnu is one of the richest temples in India, housing vaults filled with treasure. It also holds great historical and mythological significance.
- Location: Trivandrum, Kerala
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
22. Murudeshwar Temple
Famous for having the world’s second-tallest Lord Shiva statue, Murudeshwar Temple in Karnataka boasts breathtaking sea views and intricate carvings.
- Location: Murudeshwar, Karnataka
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
23. Belur Math
The headquarters of Ramakrishna Mission in West Bengal, Belur Math blends Hindu, Christian, and Islamic architectural styles, reflecting unity among religions.
- Location: Kolkata, West Bengal
- Best Time to Visit: September to March
24. Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple
This modern masterpiece in Delhi showcases Indian culture, values, and spirituality. The temple features exhibitions, musical fountains, and breathtaking stone carvings.
- Location: Delhi
- Best Time to Visit: October to April
25. Dilwara Temples
Located in Mount Abu, Rajasthan, Dilwara Temples are Jain temples renowned for their exquisite marble carvings, representing ancient craftsmanship at its finest.
- Location: Mount Abu, Rajasthan
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Which is the No 1 temple in India?
A. Some of the most famous temples in India include Kedarnath, Kashi Vishwanath, Golden Temple, ISKCON temples, Tirupati Balaji, and Vaishno Devi.
Q. What are the oldest temples in India?
A. Kashi Vishwanath, Amarnath Cave, Meenakshi Temple, Sanchi Stupa, and Dilwara Temples are among India’s oldest temples.
Q. Which city is called the City of Temples in India?
A. Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is famously known as the City of Temples.
Q. Which are the best temples in India?
A. Dilwara Temples, Kashi Vishwanath, Sanchi Stupa, and Shani Shingnapur rank among the best.
Q. What are the famous sun temples in India?
A. India’s top sun temples include Konark Sun Temple, Modhera Sun Temple, Martand Sun Temple, and Katarmal Sun Temple.
Conclusion
The famous temples in India offer a profound journey into the country’s ancient roots, spiritual devotion, and stunning architectural brilliance. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker or a cultural explorer, these temples promise an unforgettable experience filled with peace, history, and divine energy.
