Most Visited Temples in India
India, a land adorned with thousands of holy temples, is a treasure trove of spiritual and architectural marvels. From the ancient temples in India, such as the famous Somnath Temple in Uttarakhand, to the intricately carved Badami Cave Temples and the divine abodes dedicated to Lord Krishna, India offers many sacred places to explore.
In this guide, we will discover the ancient Dilwara Temples in the state of Rajasthan, the awe-inspiring Khajuraho Temples in Madhya Pradesh, and the holiest of shrines, the 12 Jyotirlinga Temples scattered across the country. India is a world-famous destination for those seeking spiritual enlightenment and architectural wonders.
List Of Most Famous Temples In India
Vaishno Devi Temple, Jammu and Kashmir:
Vaishno Devi Temple is a famous Hindu pilgrimage site in India in the picturesque mountains of Jammu and Kashmir. People visit Vaishno Devi temple to seek blessings from the goddess. The temple holds great significance and attracts many devotees each year who embark on a spiritual journey to reach the temple, either by trekking or taking a helicopter ride.
How to reach Vaishno Devi Temple:
To reach Vaishno Devi Temple, you can take a flight to Jammu Airport, which is the nearest airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-paid taxi to Katra. Katra is the base camp for the Vaishno Devi Yatra. From Katra, you can start your trek to the temple, which is approximately 13 kilometers uphill. Ponies, palanquins, and helicopter services are also available for those who prefer alternative modes of transportation.
Tirupati Balaji Temple, Andhra Pradesh:
Tirupati Balaji Temple, located in Andhra Pradesh, is a renowned temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. Devotees revere this temple, and visiting this temple is said to bring immense blessings. It is one of the wealthiest temples in India. The temple complex is grand and hosts various rituals and festivals throughout the year, attracting many pilgrims worldwide.
How to reach Tirupati Balaji Temple:
The nearest airport to Tirupati Balaji Temple is Tirupati Airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple. Tirupati Railway Station is well-connected to major cities in India, and you can take a train to reach there. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi, take a local bus, or use the services of shared autos to reach the temple, which is located in Tirumala.
Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), Punjab:
The Golden Temple, Harmandir Sahib, is a world-famous sacred Gurdwara in Amritsar, Punjab. It is the holiest shrine for Sikhs and is open to people from all religions. Golden Temple is one of the most visited temples in India. The temple is known for its stunning golden architecture and peaceful ambiance. Devotees come here to offer their prayers, participate in the community kitchen (langar), and experience the spirituality and inclusiveness of Sikhism.
How to reach Golden Temple:
The nearest airport to the Golden Temple is Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach the temple, which is located in the heart of Amritsar city. Amritsar Junction is the closest railway station, and you can take a train to reach there. The temple is easily accessible by local transportation such as auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws from both the airport and railway station.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh:
Kashi Vishwanath Temple, situated in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the oldest and holiest temples in India. Devotees believe that visiting this temple brings blessings and liberation from the cycle of birth and death. The temple is located on the banks of the sacred Ganges River and holds immense religious and cultural importance.
How to reach Kashi Vishwanath Temple:
The nearest airport to Kashi Vishwanath Temple is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-paid taxi to reach the temple, which is situated in the holy city of Varanasi. Varanasi Junction is the main railway station, and you can take a train to reach there. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi, take an auto-rickshaw, or even walk to the temple, as it is located in the vicinity.
Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha:
Jagannath Temple is a famous Hindu temple in the coastal town of Puri, Odisha. Dedicated to Lord Jagannath (a form of Lord Krishna), it is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. The annual Rath Yatra, a majestic procession where carriers transport the deities on chariots, brings renown to the temple. Devotees from all over the world visit this temple to seek blessings and participate in the vibrant festivities.
How to reach Jagannath Temple:
The nearest airport to Jagannath Temple is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, which is approximately 60 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Puri. Puri Railway Station is well-connected to major cities in India, and you can take a train to reach there. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi, take a local bus, or use cycle-rickshaws to reach the temple, which is located in the heart of Puri.
Meenakshi Temple, Madurai, Tamil Nadu:
Meenakshi Temple, situated in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, is a magnificent temple complex dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi (an incarnation of Goddess Parvati) and Lord Sundareswarar (an incarnation of Lord Shiva). It is one of the most famous Hindu Temples in India. The temple is renowned for its intricate architecture, colorful sculptures, and the bustling atmosphere of devotion. Pilgrims visit this temple to seek blessings, witness the grand rituals, and admire the exquisite craftsmanship.
How to reach Meenakshi Temple:
The nearest airport to Meenakshi Temple is Madurai International Airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-paid taxi to reach the temple, which is located in the city of Madurai. Madurai Junction is the main railway station, and you can take a train to reach there. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi, take a local bus, or use auto-rickshaws to reach the temple, as it is situated in the bustling center of Madurai.
Akshardham Temple, Delhi:
Akshardham Temple, located in the capital of India, New Delhi, is a stunning temple complex dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan. It is known for its breathtaking architecture, intricate carvings, and sprawling gardens. The temple showcases the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of India and offers visitors an immersive experience through its exhibitions, light and sound shows, and serene surroundings.
How to reach Akshardham Temple:
Akshardham Temple is located in Delhi, and the nearest airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take the Delhi Metro to reach Akshardham Metro Station. The temple is located near the metro station, and you can easily walk to the entrance. If you prefer other modes of transportation, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the temple.
Somnath Temple, Gujarat:
Somnath Temple, situated in Gujarat, is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas (lingams of light) dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple has a long and fascinating history, and it has been rebuilt several times after being destroyed by invasions. The magnificent architecture and the temple’s location on the shores of the Arabian Sea make it a significant pilgrimage destination.
How to reach Somnath Temple:
The nearest airport to Somnath Temple is Diu Airport, which is approximately 80 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple, which is located in Somnath town. Veraval Railway Station is the closest railway station, and you can take a train to reach there. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi, take a local bus, or use auto-rickshaws to reach the temple.
Ramanathaswamy Temple-Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu:
Ramanathaswamy Temple, located in Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu, is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees revere the site, believing it to be one of the Char Dham pilgrimage destinations. The temple is known for its long corridors, intricate carvings, and the sacred Rameshwaram Teertham (water bodies), where pilgrims take a holy dip to cleanse themselves spiritually.
How to reach Ramanathaswamy Temple:
The nearest airport to Ramanathaswamy Temple is Madurai International Airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-paid taxi to reach Rameshwaram, where the temple is situated. Rameswaram Railway Station is well-connected to major cities, and you can take a train to reach there. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the temple, which is located in the heart of Rameshwaram town.
Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai, Maharashtra:
Siddhivinayak Temple, situated in Mumbai, Maharashtra, is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It is one of the most visited temples in the city and holds great significance for devotees. The temple is known for its idol of Lord Ganesha, which is believed to be self-manifested and has immense blessings. People come here to seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings for success, prosperity, and new beginnings.
How to reach Siddhivinayak Temple:
Siddhivinayak Temple is located in Mumbai, and the nearest airport is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-paid taxi to reach the temple, which is situated in Prabhadevi area. Dadar Railway Station is the closest railway station, and you can take a train to reach there. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi, take a local bus, or use auto-rickshaws to reach the temple.
Konark Sun Temple, Odisha:
Konark Sun Temple, located in Odisha, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a magnificent temple dedicated to the Sun God, Surya. It is one of the oldest temples in India. It is known for its architectural brilliance and intricate stone carvings. The temple is designed as a colossal chariot with detailed wheels and horses, symbolizing the Sun God’s journey across the sky. Devotees and visitors are captivated by the temple’s grandeur and artistic beauty.
How to reach Konark Sun Temple:
The nearest airport to Konark Sun Temple is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, which is approximately 65 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple, which is situated in Konark. Puri Railway Station is the closest railway station, and you can take a train to reach there. From Puri, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the temple.
Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu:
Brihadeeswarar Temple, also known as the Big Temple, is a marvel of Chola architecture in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is one of the largest temples in India and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple’s towering gopuram (gateway tower), magnificent sculptures, and the massive lingam inside the sanctum leave visitors in awe of its architectural and spiritual grandeur.
How to reach Brihadeeswarar Temple:
The nearest airport to Brihadeeswarar Temple is Tiruchirappalli International Airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-paid taxi to reach Thanjavur, where the temple is located. Thanjavur Junction is the main railway station, and you can take a train to reach there. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi, take a local bus, or use auto-rickshaws to reach the temple, as it is located in the heart of Thanjavur city.
Khajuraho Temples, Madhya Pradesh:
The Khajuraho Temples, located in Madhya Pradesh, are a group of medieval Hindu and Jain temples known for their intricate carvings and exquisite sculptures. These are some of the most ancient temples in India. These temples of India are renowned worldwide for their depiction of various aspects of human life, including love, passion, and spirituality. The temples are a testament to India’s rich cultural heritage and architectural brilliance.
How to reach Khajuraho Temples:
The nearest airport to Khajuraho Temples is Khajuraho Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-paid taxi to reach the temple complex, which is located in Khajuraho town. Khajuraho Railway Station is the closest railway station, and you can take a train to reach there. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the temple complex.
Kedarnath Temple, Uttarakhand:
Kedarnath Temple, nestled in the scenic Himalayas in Uttarakhand, is one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is part of the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit and attracts devotees from all over the world. Stunning mountain vistas surround the temple, known for its spiritual significance and the challenging trek devotees undertake to reach its sacred premises.
How to reach Kedarnath Temple:
The nearest airport to Kedarnath Temple is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Gaurikund, which is the starting point of the trek to Kedarnath Temple. Rishikesh Railway Station is the closest railway station, and you can take a train to reach there. From Rishikesh, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Gaurikund.
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Badrinath Temple, Uttarakhand:
Badrinath Temple, located in Uttarakhand, is another important shrine in the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit. The breathtaking Himalayan ranges house the temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple holds great religious significance and is known for its striking architecture, serene atmosphere, and the hot springs nearby. Devotees visit this temple to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu and experience spiritual solace.
How to reach Badrinath Temple:
The nearest airport to Badrinath Temple is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Badrinath. Rishikesh Railway Station is the closest railway station, and you can take a train to reach there. From Rishikesh, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Badrinath, which is situated in the Garhwal Himalayas.
Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya, Bihar:
Mahabodhi Temple, situated in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a sacred place for Buddhists. Believers hold that Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree at this spot. The temple complex is an important pilgrimage site, attracting Buddhists from around the world who come here to meditate, offer prayers, and explore the roots of Buddhism.
How to reach Mahabodhi Temple:
The nearest airport to Mahabodhi Temple is Gaya Airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-paid taxi to reach Bodh Gaya, where the temple is located. Gaya Junction is the closest railway station, and you can take a train to reach there. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi, take a local bus, or use auto-rickshaws to reach the temple.
Dilwara Temples, Mount Abu, Rajasthan:
The Dilwara Temples, located in Mount Abu, Rajasthan, are considered the most important Jain temples in India. They are known for their stunning marble architecture and intricate carvings. These temples were built between the 11th and 13th centuries and are considered a fine example of Jain craftsmanship. Visitors are mesmerized by the temples’ ornate pillars, delicate sculptures, and the spiritual ambiance that permeates the air.
How to reach Dilwara Temples:
The nearest airport to Dilwara Temples is Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur, which is approximately 185 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Mount Abu, where the temples are situated. Abu Road Railway Station is the closest railway station, and you can take a train to reach there. From Abu Road, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Mount Abu.
Akshardham Temple, Gandhinagar, Gujarat:
Akshardham Temple in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, is a modern Hindu temple known for its architectural splendor and spiritual ambiance. The temple complex showcases various aspects of Indian culture, art, and spirituality through its beautifully crafted structures, exhibitions, and light and sound shows. It is a popular destination for devotees and tourists, offering a serene environment for prayer and contemplation.
How to reach Akshardham Temple:
The nearest airport to Akshardham Temple in Gandhinagar is Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-paid taxi to reach Gandhinagar, where the temple is located. Gandhinagar Capital Railway Station is the closest railway station, and you can take a train to reach there. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi, take a local bus, or use auto-rickshaws to reach the temple.
Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, Maharashtra:
Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, located in Maharashtra, is a prominent shrine dedicated to the revered saint Sai Baba. Devotees from all over the world visit this temple to seek the blessings and guidance of Sai Baba. The temple holds an aura of devotion and spirituality, and visitors can witness the deep faith and devotion of Sai Baba’s followers.
How to reach Shirdi Sai Baba Temple:
The nearest airport to Shirdi Sai Baba Temple is Shirdi Airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-paid taxi to reach the temple, which is located in Shirdi. Kopargaon Railway Station is the closest railway station, and you can take a train to reach there. From Kopargaon, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the temple.
Vaishali Mahabodhi Temple, Vaishali, Bihar:
Vaishali Mahabodhi Temple, situated in Vaishali, Bihar, is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. Believers hold that the place is where Lord Buddha preached his last sermon before attaining Mahaparinirvana (final liberation). The temple stands as a testament to the rich Buddhist heritage of Vaishali and attracts devotees and tourists who seek spiritual solace and enlightenment.
How to reach Vaishali Mahabodhi Temple:
The nearest airport to Vaishali Mahabodhi Temple is Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport in Patna. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Vaishali, where the temple is located. Hajipur Junction is the closest railway station, and you can take a train to reach there. From Hajipur, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Vaishali.
Amarnath Cave Temple, Jammu and Kashmir:
Amarnath Cave Temple is a sacred Hindu shrine in the picturesque mountains of Jammu and Kashmir. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and holds great religious significance. The temple is famous for the ice lingam that forms naturally inside the cave during the summer months. Devotees undertake a challenging trek to reach the cave and witness this divine manifestation.
How to reach Amarnath Cave Temple:
To reach Amarnath Cave Temple, you can take a flight to Srinagar International Airport or Jammu Airport, both of which are well-connected to major cities in India. From Srinagar or Jammu, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Baltal or Pahalgam, the base camps for the Amarnath Yatra. From there, you need to undertake a strenuous trek to reach the Amarnath Cave Temple.
Sabarimala Temple, Kerala:
Sabarimala Temple, nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is a prominent Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. The temple is known for its strict pilgrimage traditions and attracts millions of devotees each year, especially during the annual Mandala-Makaravilakku season. Pilgrims follow a strict code of conduct and undertake a demanding trek through the forested hills to seek Lord Ayyappa’s blessings.
How to reach Sabarimala Temple:
The nearest airport to Sabarimala Temple is Cochin International Airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the Pamba base camp. Pamba is the starting point for the trek to Sabarimala Temple. Chengannur Railway Station is the closest railway station, and you can take a train to reach there. From Chengannur, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Pamba.
Naina Devi Temple, Himachal Pradesh:
Naina Devi Temple is a revered Hindu temple situated in Himachal Pradesh. Devotees dedicate the site to Goddess Naina Devi and hold it in immense religious significance. The temple is atop a hill and offers breathtaking views of the mountains and the scenic Naini Lake. Devotees visit this temple to seek the blessings of Goddess Naina Devi and experience spiritual serenity.
How to reach Naina Devi Temple:
The nearest airport to Naina Devi Temple is Chandigarh International Airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Naina Devi, which is located in the Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh. Anandpur Sahib Railway Station is the closest railway station, and you can take a train to reach there. From Anandpur Sahib, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Naina Devi.
Chamunda Devi Temple, Himachal Pradesh:
Chamunda Devi Temple, located in Himachal Pradesh, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Chamunda Devi, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The temple is nestled amidst the picturesque hills and is known for its spiritual aura. Devotees visit this temple to seek the blessings of the goddess and to experience a sense of peace and divine energy.
How to reach Chamunda Devi Temple:
The nearest airport to Chamunda Devi Temple is Gaggal Airport in Kangra. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Chamunda Devi, which is located in Kangra district. The nearest railway station is Chamunda Marg Railway Station, which is a small station with limited connectivity. The best way to reach Chamunda Devi is by road, either by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from nearby towns.
Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Kerela:
Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a renowned Hindu temple located in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, India. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is considered one of the most sacred places in India. The combination of three words: “Sri,” meaning wealth or prosperity; “Padmanabha,” referring to Lord Vishnu; and “Swamy,” meaning the presiding deity, derives from the temple’s name. The temple is known for its architectural grandeur, intricate carvings, and religious significance. Devotees from all over the world visit this temple to seek blessings and experience its spiritual aura.
How to reach Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple:
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is the nearest airport to the temple, located at a distance of around 6 kilometers. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-paid taxi to reach the temple. Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station is the nearest railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi, take a local bus, or use auto-rickshaws to reach Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, situated in the heart of the city.
The Temples of Hampi, Karnataka:
The temples of Hampi are a mesmerizing collection of ancient structures located in Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka, India. Hampi was once the capital of the mighty Vijayanagara Empire and served as a significant cultural and religious center. The temple complex is spread across a vast area and showcases stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and a rich historical legacy. Exploring the temples of Hampi is like stepping back in time, immersing yourself in the grandeur of a bygone era.
How to reach the temples of Hampi:
The nearest airport to Hampi is Hubli Airport, located approximately 144 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Hampi. Hospet Junction is the nearest railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Hospet, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the temple complex in Hampi. The site is easily accessible by road, and you can also opt for local transportation or hire a guide to explore the temples and their surroundings.
The Badami Cave temples:
The Badami Cave temples are a magnificent rock-cut temple complex in Badami, a historic town in Karnataka, India. The Chalukya dynasty, who ruled the region from the 6th to 8th centuries, created these magnificent temples by carving them out of sandstone cliffs, showcasing their architectural brilliance. The Badami Cave temples are known for their intricate sculptures, impressive rock-cut architecture, and religious significance. The complex consists of four main caves dedicated to Hindu deities, such as Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, along with Jain cave temples nearby. Exploring the Badami Cave temples is like embarking on a captivating journey through time, witnessing the ancient art and devotion of the past.
How to reach the Badami Cave temples:
The nearest airport to Badami is Hubli Airport, located approximately 110 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Badami. The nearest railway station is Badami Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in the region. From the railway station, you can hire a local taxi or take a rickshaw to reach the cave temples. Badami is also well-connected by road, and you can easily reach the site by private vehicle or public transportation from nearby towns and cities.
India is a remarkable destination for those who seek spiritual enlightenment and are fascinated by the divine. The country is adorned with temples spread throughout its length and breadth. Each temple has its own unique stories, legends, and breathtaking architecture. These temples are not only places of worship but also hold deep cultural and historical significance. They offer a profound spiritual experience and serve as a gateway to connect with the divine. Whether you are a seeker of enlightenment or simply captivated by the beauty of sacred places, India’s temples provide a remarkable journey of discovery and awe-inspiring experiences.
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