Hinduism, one of the oldest religions in the world, is rich in spiritual traditions and architectural marvels. Hindu temples are not just places of worship; they are also epicenters of art, culture, and history. Spanning continents, many temples stand out for their size, devotion, and architectural grandeur. Here are the Top 10 Hindu Temples in the World:
- Angkor Wat – Cambodia
Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia
Built: 12th century by King Suryavarman II
Highlights: Originally a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world. It’s known for its intricate carvings, massive scale, and harmonious layout.
- Brihadeeswarar Temple – India
Location: Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
Built: 1010 CE by Raja Raja Chola I
Highlights: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this Dravidian masterpiece is a testimony to the engineering genius of the Chola dynasty. The 66-meter-tall Vimana (tower) is a standout feature.
- Akshardham Temple – India
Location: Delhi, India
Inaugurated: 2005
Highlights: A modern architectural marvel, Akshardham combines traditional design with modern construction techniques. It features exhibitions, a musical fountain, and the intricately carved central mandir.
- Meenakshi Temple – India
Location: Madurai, Tamil Nadu
Highlights: Dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi (a form of Parvati) and Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva), this temple is famous for its towering gopurams (gateway towers) covered in thousands of colorful sculptures.
- Prambanan Temple – Indonesia
Location: Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Built: 9th century
Highlights: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Prambanan is the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia, dedicated to the Trimurti: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.
- Virupaksha Temple – India
Location: Hampi, Karnataka
Built: 7th century onward
Highlights: Part of the Group of Monuments at Hampi (UNESCO site), Virupaksha is one of the oldest functioning temples in India, known for its richly carved towers and historical importance.
- Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple – India
Location: Srirangam, Tamil Nadu
Built: Earliest parts date back to 6th century
Highlights: This temple complex is one of the largest in the world and is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha (Vishnu). The Rajagopuram (main tower) is among the tallest in Asia.
- Pashupatinath Temple – Nepal
Location: Kathmandu, Nepal
Built: 5th century (current structure from 17th century)
Highlights: A sacred temple of Lord Shiva located on the banks of the Bagmati River, Pashupatinath is a major pilgrimage site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir – London, UK
Location: Neasden, London
Inaugurated: 1995
Highlights: One of the largest traditional Hindu temples outside India, this white marble and limestone marvel is a symbol of devotion and diaspora identity.
- Tanah Lot Temple – Indonesia
Location: Bali, Indonesia
Highlights: A picturesque sea temple dedicated to the sea god Baruna, Tanah Lot is a major cultural icon in Bali and a blend of Hindu faith with local tradition.
From ancient shrines built by dynasties to modern marvels constructed by global communities, Hindu temples around the world reflect the religion’s deep spirituality and artistic expression. These ten temples not only inspire devotion but also showcase the grandeur of Hindu culture across continents.
