51 Famous Temples of India | Memorable Temple Tour of India

Last Updated on January 15, 2025 by Bharat Saini

India is home to some of the most remarkable temples in the world, each steeped in history, spirituality, and architectural brilliance. From the towering gopurams of Tamil Nadu to the serene Himalayan shrines, these holy sites are living embodiments of India’s rich cultural and spiritual tapestry. This guide to the 51 famous temples of India will help you plan the ultimate temple tour, offering a journey that is as enlightening as it is awe-inspiring.

Let us delve deep into the stories, legends, and spiritual energy of these iconic temples.

Why Visit the Famous Temples of India?

India’s temples are not mere architectural wonders; they are spiritual sanctuaries that have stood the test of time. Each temple offers:

Architectural Grandeur: Intricate carvings, towering spires, and monumental sculptures showcase India’s artistic brilliance.
Spiritual Energy: Temples are centers of worship where millions seek divine blessings.
Cultural Significance: These sacred sites reflect centuries-old traditions, festivals, and rituals that define India’s heritage.

Whether you’re seeking peace, divine intervention, or a glimpse into India’s history, these temples promise a journey of self-discovery.

How to Plan a Memorable Temple Tour of India

To make the most of your temple tour, consider these tips:

Divide by Region: India’s temples are spread across its vast landscape. Plan visits by zones—North, South, East, or West.
Time Your Visit: Certain temples are best visited during specific seasons or festivals. For instance:
- Visit Vaishno Devi during Navratri for a grand spiritual experience.
- Explore Jagannath Temple during the famous Rath Yatra.
Respect Traditions: Follow the dress codes and customs of each temple. Modest clothing is often required.
Travel Essentials:
- Carry cash for offerings or donations.
- Avoid leather items, as they’re not permitted in many temples.
- Plan for long queues at popular temples like Tirupati and Vaishno Devi.

51 Famous Temples of India

Here’s a comprehensive list of the most famous temples in India, categorized by region and significance.

1. Akshardham Temple, Delhi

Akshardham Temple is a modern architectural marvel and a spiritual oasis in the heart of Delhi. Inspired by Yogiji Maharaj, this temple is a tribute to millennia of Hindu culture and values.

Features: The temple boasts intricate carvings, an Abhishek Mandap, thematic gardens, and a captivating Sahaj Anand Water Show.
Highlight: The temple’s grandeur lies in its intricate sculptures and its 10-story-high central shrine.

2. Badrinath Temple, Uttarakhand

Badrinath Temple, located in the picturesque Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, is one of the most revered shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It forms an essential part of the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit, along with Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri, and the Chota Char Dham of Uttarakhand. Nestled amidst the Nar and Narayan mountain ranges, the temple lies on the banks of the Alaknanda River at an altitude of 3,300 meters.

Historical Significance: The temple’s origins date back to the Vedic period. Adi Shankaracharya is credited with re-establishing it as a key pilgrimage site in the 9th century.
Deity: The sanctum houses a black stone idol of Vishnu in the meditative posture of Padmasana.
Best Time to Visit: The temple is open from April to November, as it remains snowbound during winter.

3. Kedarnath Temple, Uttarakhand

Nestled at an altitude of 3,583 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas, Kedarnath Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and accessible via a trek, this ancient temple exudes unmatched spiritual energy.

Legend: According to mythology, the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva’s forgiveness for their sins after the Kurukshetra War. Shiva eluded them, taking the form of a bull and eventually leaving his hump at Kedarnath.
Architectural Highlight: The temple is built from large, grey stone slabs and has withstood natural calamities, including the devastating floods of 2013.
Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to October.

4. Gangotri Temple, Uttarakhand

This sacred temple marks the origin of the River Ganga, referred to as Bhagirathi at its source. Situated at an elevation of 3,100 meters, it is dedicated to Goddess Ganga.

Legendary Status: It is believed that King Bhagiratha performed penance here to bring the Ganges from heaven to earth for the salvation of his ancestors.
Spiritual Significance: The serene environment makes it an ideal place for meditation and prayer.
Best Time to Visit: May to October.

5. Yamunotri Temple, Uttarakhand

Located at the source of the Yamuna River, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, symbolizing purity and divinity. The temple is surrounded by thermal springs, glaciers, and rugged peaks.

Unique Feature: The deity of Goddess Yamuna is sculpted from black marble.
Highlight: Pilgrims cook rice in the hot springs near the temple as an offering.
Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to October.

6. Vaishno Devi Temple, Jammu

Situated on the Trikuta Hills in Jammu, Vaishno Devi Temple is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in India. Dedicated to Mata Vaishno Devi, a manifestation of Goddess Durga, the temple attracts millions of devotees every year.

Unique Shrine: The sanctum houses three rock formations, known as Pindis, representing the goddess.
Spiritual Significance: A trek of 13 km from Katra takes pilgrims to the temple, believed to fulfill all wishes.
Best Time to Visit: Navratri is the peak season for devotees.

7. Dwarkadhish Temple, Gujarat

Also known as the Jagat Mandir, this temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna in Dwarka, one of the seven ancient cities of India. It is a significant part of the Char Dham circuit.

Unique Feature: The temple features a seven-story structure supported by 72 pillars. The flag atop the temple is changed five times a day, symbolizing the eternal presence of Krishna.
Historical Significance: It is believed that Lord Krishna established Dwarka as his kingdom.
Best Time to Visit: During Janmashtami, the temple witnesses grand celebrations.

Also Read This: Chakrata – the birthplace of Mahabharata

8. Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha

One of the four Char Dham temples, Jagannath Temple in Puri is dedicated to Lord Krishna, along with his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra.

Unique Tradition: The Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival) is an annual event where the deities are taken out in massive chariots, attracting millions of devotees.
Architectural Highlight: The temple is a fine example of Kalinga architecture.
Best Time to Visit: Rath Yatra in June or July.

9. Sri Venkateswara Temple, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh

This iconic temple, located atop Tirumala Hills, is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Vishnu. Known for being one of the wealthiest temples globally, it is visited by millions of devotees annually.

Devotional Practices: Many devotees offer their hair as a mark of devotion.
Architectural Excellence: The temple’s Dravidian architecture is adorned with intricate carvings.
Best Time to Visit: Avoid peak season for a smoother experience.

10. Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai, Tamil Nadu

Dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi (a form of Parvati) and her consort Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva), this temple is an architectural marvel.

Architectural Highlight: The temple has 14 towering gopurams decorated with colorful sculptures.
Cultural Significance: It represents the Tamil culture and is a center for various festivals, including the Meenakshi Thirukalyanam.
Best Time to Visit: April to May during the temple festival.

11. Chhattarpur Mandir, Delhi

This temple complex, located near Mehrauli in Delhi, is dedicated to Goddess Durga and showcases a blend of North and South Indian architectural styles.

Unique Feature: Constructed from white marble, the temple exudes serenity and grandeur.
Best Time to Visit: During Navratri, the temple is beautifully decorated and filled with devotees.

12. Golden Temple, Amritsar, Punjab

Sri Harmandir Sahib, or the Golden Temple, is Sikhism’s holiest shrine and a symbol of equality and brotherhood.

Unique Feature: The temple’s golden facade and the Amrit Sarovar (holy tank) are awe-inspiring.
Highlight: The langar (community kitchen) serves free meals to thousands daily, emphasizing the Sikh principle of selfless service.

13. ISKCON Temple, Delhi

Dedicated to Lord Krishna and built by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, this temple resonates with the continuous chants of “Hare Krishna.”

Highlight: The temple hosts vibrant cultural events and follows a strict standard of worship, including six daily aartis.

14. Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Located in the spiritual city of Varanasi, this temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Spiritual Belief: It is said that a visit here liberates devotees from the cycle of life and death.
Historical Significance: The temple has been rebuilt multiple times, with the current structure commissioned by Rani Ahilyabai Holkar.

15. Kamakhya Devi Temple, Assam – A Sacred Shakti Peeth

Nestled on the Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, Kamakhya Devi Temple is one of the most revered Shakti Peeths in India. Dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya, the temple is renowned for its tantric rituals and rich spiritual heritage. Pilgrims come from all over the world to seek blessings for fertility and spiritual growth.

Unique Feature: The temple is famous for its yoni-shaped stone filled with water, symbolizing the goddess’s fertility and the divine feminine energy. This unique feature attracts devotees and spiritual seekers keen on exploring the tantric traditions of Hinduism.
Festivals: The Ambubachi Mela, held annually, celebrates the goddess’s annual menstruation cycle, drawing thousands of devotees to witness the sacred rituals.

16. Lakshmi Narayan Mandir, New Delhi – A Blend of Devotion and Architecture

Known as Birla Mandir, this temple in Delhi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. It is an architectural marvel, with intricate carvings depicting various scenes from Hindu mythology. Built by the renowned Birla family, the temple is a vibrant place of worship and a symbol of the devotion of the affluent community in India.

Highlight: The temple is especially lively during Janmashtami (celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna) and Diwali (the festival of lights), where it hosts grand celebrations filled with music, dance, and prayers.
What Makes It Special: The temple’s serene ambiance and divine energy make it an ideal place for both prayer and reflection. It is open to all, welcoming visitors regardless of their faith or background.

17. Lotus Temple, Delhi – A Universal Place of Worship

The Lotus Temple, located in New Delhi, is a Bahá’í House of Worship known for its stunning lotus-flower-like architecture. The temple is a symbol of unity, as it welcomes people of all faiths to come together for meditation and prayer.

Significance: The temple is a space for spiritual seekers who believe in the principle of the unity of all religions. The serene atmosphere of the temple provides a perfect setting for reflection and quiet prayer.
What Makes It Unique: The design of the temple, with 27 marble-clad petals forming the shape of a lotus, is both breathtaking and calming. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in inclusive spirituality and peaceful places of worship.

18. Somnath Temple, Gujarat – The Resilient Jyotirlinga

Standing on the shores of the Arabian Sea, Somnath Temple in Gujarat is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple holds a special place in Hindu history for its resilience; it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times due to invasions.

Highlight: The seaside location of Somnath adds to its beauty and allure. Visitors can enjoy the serene view of the sea while offering prayers to Lord Shiva.
Symbol of Resilience: Somnath is a symbol of spiritual resilience, having been rebuilt after every destruction. The current structure, rebuilt in the 1950s, continues to attract pilgrims year after year.

19. Siddhivinayak Temple, Maharashtra – The Iconic Ganesha Temple

Located in the heart of Mumbai, Siddhivinayak Temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. The temple is known for its divine energy and the uniqueness of the idol of Ganesha, which has a trunk turned to the right.

Special Days: Tuesdays see the highest footfall of devotees, as it is considered an auspicious day for Lord Ganesha. The temple is especially vibrant during Ganesh Chaturthi, when the entire city comes alive with celebrations.
Why Visit: Besides its religious significance, the temple is also a cultural hub, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Also Read This: What Countries Can I Visit if I Speak the Arabic Language?

20. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Uttarakhand – A Sacred Retreat for Shiva Devotees

Located at an altitude of 1,675 meters in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple commemorates the mythological event when Lord Shiva consumed venom during the Samudra Manthan, turning his throat blue, earning him the name Neelkanth (the blue-throated one).

Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by lush green forests and serene mountains, the temple offers a peaceful retreat for those looking for both spiritual solace and a connection to nature.
Religious Significance: This temple is a key site for Shiva devotees and offers a unique opportunity to delve into ancient Hindu mythology.

21. Amarnath Temple, Jammu & Kashmir – The Ice Lingam of Lord Shiva

Located in the rugged terrain of Jammu & Kashmir, Amarnath Temple is famous for the naturally formed ice lingam of Lord Shiva. The lingam grows in size during the summer months and is believed to be a manifestation of Shiva’s power.

Highlight: The temple is only accessible during the summer pilgrimage season (from July to August), and the journey to the temple is a challenging yet spiritually rewarding experience.
Why Visit: The Amarnath Yatra attracts hundreds of thousands of devotees every year, making it one of the holiest pilgrimages in India.

22. Bhairon Mandir, Delhi

Bhairon Mandir is dedicated to Lord Bhairon, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva.

Unique Tradition: Devotees offer alcohol as a prasad, a practice that sets this temple apart from most others.
Historical Significance: It is believed to have been constructed by the Pandavas during their exile.

23. Dakshineshwar Kali Temple, Kolkata, West Bengal

Built by Rani Rashmoni in 1855, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali.

Cultural Importance: The temple is associated with the spiritual teachings of Ramakrishna Paramhansa, a revered saint.
Temple Complex: It also houses 12 Shiva temples and a Radha-Krishna temple.

24. Mansa Devi Temple, Haridwar, Uttarakhand

Mansa Devi Temple is a revered Shakti Peeth dedicated to Goddess Mansa, a form of Shakti.

Devotional Practice: Devotees tie threads to the branches of a sacred tree, wishing for their desires to be fulfilled.

25. Virupaksha Temple, Hampi, Karnataka

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this temple is dedicated to Lord Virupaksha, a form of Shiva.

Architectural Brilliance: The temple complex has intricately carved pillars and a grand gopuram.
Cultural Significance: It is a testament to the Vijayanagara Empire’s architectural ingenuity.

26. Jwalamukhi Temple, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh

This temple is dedicated to the Goddess Jwalamukhi, who is worshipped in the form of flames.

Natural Phenomenon: Eternal flames emerge from fissures in the rock, symbolizing the goddess’s presence.
Shakti Peeth: It is one of the 52 Shakti Peethas in India.

27. Har Ki Pauri, Haridwar, Uttarakhand

Har Ki Pauri is a sacred ghat on the banks of the Ganges, known for its evening Ganga Aarti.

Spiritual Significance: A dip in the waters here is believed to absolve one of sins.
Highlight: The mesmerizing evening aarti creates an atmosphere of devotion and tranquility.

28. Kalighat Kali Temple, Kolkata, West Bengal

One of the 51 Shakti Peethas, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali.

Mythological Connection: It is believed to be the site where the toes of Goddess Sati fell.
Unique Tradition: The rituals here are steeped in tantric practices.

29. Tirumala Tirupati Temple, Andhra Pradesh

This temple, dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, is one of India’s richest and most visited pilgrimage sites.

Devotional Practice: Many devotees shave their heads as an offering to the deity.
Crowd Management: Over 50,000 devotees visit daily, with elaborate systems in place to handle the influx.

30. Shani Shingnapur, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra

This temple is dedicated to Lord Shani, the personification of Saturn.

Unique Feature: The temple does not have a traditional idol but a black stone symbolizing Lord Shani.
Cultural Belief: Houses in the village of Shingnapur have no doors, as it is believed that Lord Shani protects them.

31. Mukteshwara Temple, Bhubaneshwar, Odisha

A gem of Kalinga architecture, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Architectural Beauty: Its ornate archway and detailed carvings make it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
Significance: It represents the culmination of earlier architectural styles in Odisha.

32. Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, Maharashtra

This temple is dedicated to Sai Baba, a spiritual leader revered by both Hindus and Muslims.

Highlight: The temple’s serene atmosphere and the teachings of Sai Baba attract millions of devotees.
Popularity: Thursdays are the busiest days, as they are considered auspicious for Sai Baba.

33. Nathdwara Shrinathji Temple, Rajasthan

Located in the Aravalli Hills, this temple is dedicated to Shrinathji, a manifestation of Lord Krishna.

Historical Significance: The deity was brought here from Mathura to protect it from Mughal invaders.
Cultural Importance: The temple is a center for Pushtimarg, a sect of Vaishnavism.

34. Jain Temple, Ranakpur, Rajasthan

This marble temple is dedicated to Adinatha, the first Tirthankara of Jainism.

Unique Feature: The temple has 1,444 intricately carved pillars, with no two pillars being identical.
Architectural Marvel: The temple uses natural light to illuminate its interiors.

35. Hanuman Temple, Delhi

This ancient temple in Connaught Place is dedicated to Lord Hanuman.

Historical Significance: It is believed to date back to the Mahabharata era.
Unique Offering: The temple is famous for its special laddoo prasad.

36. Khajuraho Temples, Madhya Pradesh

These UNESCO World Heritage temples are renowned for their erotic sculptures and carvings.

Cultural Significance: They reflect the blend of spirituality and earthly desires.
Architectural Style: Built during the Chandela dynasty, the temples are masterpieces of Nagara-style architecture.

Also Read This: 10 Ways to Make the Most out of your Gap Year

37. Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu

Also known as the Big Temple, it was built by Raja Raja Chola in 1010 AD.

Architectural Excellence: The temple features a towering vimana and a massive Nandi statue.
UNESCO Status: It is a part of the “Great Living Chola Temples.”

38. Vittala Temple, Hampi, Karnataka

This temple is a prime example of Vijayanagara architecture.

Highlight: The stone chariot and musical pillars are its most captivating features.
UNESCO Status: It is part of the Hampi World Heritage Site.

39. Lingaraj Temple, Bhubaneshwar, Odisha

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is a fine example of Kalinga architecture.

Highlight: The 54-meter-high spire dominates the Bhubaneshwar skyline.
Cultural Significance: It is one of Odisha’s oldest temples.

40. Konark Sun Temple, Odisha

This 13th-century temple is shaped like a massive chariot, dedicated to the Sun God.

Architectural Highlight: The temple features 12 intricately carved wheels symbolizing time.
UNESCO Status: It is a World Heritage Site and a symbol of Odisha’s rich heritage.

41. Chamundeshwari Temple, Mysore, Karnataka

Perched atop the Chamundi Hills, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, a fierce form of Goddess Durga.

Mythological Significance: The goddess is believed to have slain the demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Architectural Highlight: The temple features a towering seven-story gopuram adorned with intricate carvings.
Best Time to Visit: During Dussehra, the temple becomes the focal point of grand celebrations in Mysore.

42. Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala

This temple is renowned as the wealthiest temple in the world, dedicated to Lord Vishnu reclining on the serpent Anantha.

Unique Feature: The temple’s vaults house immense treasures, symbolizing divine abundance.
Architectural Style: A blend of Kerala and Dravidian architectural styles with granite pillars and a golden sanctum.

43. Sabarimala Temple, Kerala

Located in the dense forests of the Western Ghats, this temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa.

Pilgrimage Significance: The temple attracts millions during the Mandalapooja and Makaravilakku festivals.
Customs: Pilgrims observe a 41-day fasting period and wear black or blue attire as a mark of devotion.

44. Sripuram Golden Temple, Vellore, Tamil Nadu

This temple is an architectural marvel, coated with gold both inside and out.

Spiritual Significance: The temple is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity.
Unique Feature: The temple’s star-shaped path symbolizes the journey toward enlightenment.

45. Moti Dungri Ganesh Temple, Jaipur, Rajasthan

Located atop a small hill, this temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha.

Historical Significance: The temple’s architecture resembles a Scottish castle, and the palace nearby was once home to Rajmata Gayatri Devi.
Cultural Highlight: The temple is especially vibrant during Ganesh Chaturthi.

46. Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu

This temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and an integral part of the Char Dham pilgrimage.

Mythological Importance: Lord Rama is believed to have worshipped Lord Shiva here to seek penance for killing Ravana.
Architectural Wonder: The temple boasts the world’s longest corridor with 1,212 intricately carved granite pillars.

47. Jakhoo Temple, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple is located on Jakhoo Hill, the highest point in Shimla.

Highlight: The temple houses a 108-foot-tall statue of Hanuman, visible from various parts of the city.
Legend: It is believed that Hanuman rested here while searching for the Sanjeevani herb during the Ramayana.

48. Belur Math, Kolkata, West Bengal

The headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission, this temple is a symbol of religious harmony.

Architectural Style: The temple’s design blends elements from Hindu, Christian, and Islamic architecture, reflecting the unity of all religions.
Spiritual Significance: Founded by Swami Vivekananda, it is a serene retreat for meditation and learning.

49. Kanchipuram Temples, Tamil Nadu

Known as the “City of Thousand Temples,” Kanchipuram is home to several iconic temples:

Kamakshi Amman Temple: Dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, a form of Parvati.
Ekambareswarar Temple: Represents Lord Shiva’s form as Earth.
Varadraja Perumal Temple: Devoted to Lord Vishnu and famed for its exquisite carvings.
Architectural Significance: These temples showcase the Pallava and Chola dynasties’ artistic brilliance.

50. Kanyakumari Temple, Tamil Nadu

Located at the southernmost tip of India, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Kumari Amman, a form of Parvati.

Mythological Connection: The goddess is believed to have performed penance here to marry Lord Shiva.
Unique Feature: The temple offers breathtaking views of the confluence of the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea, and the Indian Ocean.

51. Shore Temple, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu

Overlooking the Bay of Bengal, the Shore Temple is one of the oldest structural temples in South India.

Architectural Style: Built in the 8th century by the Pallava rulers, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlight: The temple complex includes shrines dedicated to both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, showcasing early Dravidian temple architecture.

FAQs

What are the top five temples to visit in India?

Badrinath, Kedarnath, Meenakshi Amman, Golden Temple, and Jagannath Temple.

Which temples are UNESCO World Heritage Sites?

Konark Sun Temple, Shore Temple, and Khajuraho Temples.

What is the best season for a temple tour in India?

October to March is ideal due to the pleasant weather and festivals.

Conclusion

India’s temples are not just architectural wonders but also profound spiritual sanctuaries. They tell stories of devotion, resilience, and artistic excellence. By visiting these 51 famous temples of India, you embark on a journey through time, culture, and faith.

Whether you seek divine blessings, architectural inspiration, or cultural enrichment, these temples promise an unforgettable experience. Start planning your memorable temple tour of India today and let the sacredness of these temples guide you toward peace and enlightenment.

Bharat Saini 5 days ago