India is recognized for its magnificent and widely recognized temples. These are not just massive structures for worship; they are also remarkable because they house numerous treasures and historical stories. They are significant because they connect people to their cultures and beliefs. People come to worship, sing, and find peace in these sacred spaces. The biggest temple in India provides a glimpse into the country's rich history, culture, and spirituality.
In this article, we'll take you on an exciting tour to these extraordinary tеmplеs. Let all learn about their majesty and reputation by exploring themes such as the most magnificent temples in India, the largest temple in India, India's wealthiest temple, and many more.
Save The Biggest Temple Of India For Your Next India Tour
Are you planning to do another India tour? Don't miss the opportunity to explore the country's largest temples! These breathtaking temples reflect India's rich cultural and spiritual legacy, providing a look into centuries of dedication and spectacular design. Whether you seek spiritual consolation or are attracted by majestic grandeur, including India's largest temples on your trip itinerary for an amazing experience.
1. Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam, Tamil Nadu:
Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, located in Srirangam, Tamil Nadu, is considered to be India's largest temple. This massive building covers 156 acres, defining it as one of the world's biggest religious complexes. The temple, dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, a reclining avatar of Vishnu, is a stunning example of Dravidian architectural design.
The temple site is so large that it resembles a little city, with its very own streets, marketplaces, and even a post office. The temple is surrounded by seven circular walls, each topped by imposing gopurams (gateway towers) embellished with elaborate sculptures. With almost 600 old inscriptions, the temple is an incredible source of historical knowledge, providing views into the region's history.
2. Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple, Delhi:
The Akshardham Temple in Delhi, India's second largest temple, was inaugurated in 2005 and spans an astonishing 100 acres, making it one of the largest Hindu temples worldwide. It is dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan and has over 20,000 elaborately carved stone statues of various deities, saints, and legendary animals.
The temple's centerpiece is a stunning 141-foot-tall structure made entirely of finely carved granite and marble. Its architectural marvels include 234 intricately carved pillars, 9 domes, and 20,000 murtis (holy pictures). The temple's displays highlight India's cultural diversity and heritage through interactive pieces, with the Hall of Values drawing millions of visitors each year.
3. Belur Math, Belur, Kolkata:
Swami Vivekananda opened Belur Math. This pilgrimage place is located on the banks of the Hooghly River in Kolkata. This campus has temples dedicated to Swami Vivekananda, Sri Ramakrishna, and his spouse Sarada Devi.
The campus's architecture is a blend of South Indian temple style, European central dome, Buddhist elements, Christian styles, and so on. Aside from the temples, there is a big museum that has remains from the times of Swami Vivekananda, Ramakrishna, and Sarada Devi.
4. Brihadeeswara Temple, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu:
Brihadeeswara Temple is one of the biggest South Indian temples, located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. This 11th-century temple, also known as Peruvudaiyar Kovil and RajaRajeswaram, was constructed by Chola ruler Rajaraja Chola I. The Cholas are recognized for their appreciation for art.
The temple's majestic construction reflects the Cholas' richness and creative talent. It was created using Vaastu Shastra principles and is entirely made of granite stone. The most striking feature of this UNESCO World Heritage Site is that it casts no shadows on the ground during midday. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple emphasizes the value of religious beliefs in Hinduism.
5. Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh:
Kashi Vishwanath Temple, located in the world's oldest surviving city, Varanasi, is one of India's most popular temples. It is the most respected of the twelve jyotirlingas in India. The temple sits majestically on the western bank of the Ganges, teaching humanity the fundamental meaning of both life and death.
A single visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is similar to witnessing all eleven of Lord Shiva's jyotirlingas. Many prominent people, including Adi Shankaracharya, Swami Vivekananda, Goswami Tulsidas, and Gurunanak, have visited this wonderful sanctuary. A visit to this holy place is thought to be one of the methods to achieve moksha' (ultimate spiritual emancipation)
6. Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya, Bihar:
Mahabodhi Temple, located in Bihar's historic city of Bodh Gaya, translates to 'Great Awakening Temple'. It is the only surviving temple out of the 84,000 built by King Ashoka The Great. This blessed sanctuary of serenity is where Prince Siddhartha reached nirvana and became Lord Buddha at the age of 35.
The Great Stupa is mentioned in the travelog of famous Chinese traveler Huen Tseng. The temple's unique and original architectural style has earned it a position among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Mahabodhi Mahavira, as it is widely known, is one of the most important pilgrimage locations for Buddhists.
7. Lingaraja Temple, Bhubaneswar, Odisha:
The Lingaraja Temple is one of the oldest and biggest temples in Odisha. The temple, which is built in the particular Kalinga architectural style, attracts not only religious followers but also historical buffs. Lingaraj's idol generally depicts Lord Shiva, however at this temple it represents both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.
'Harihara' refers to the united form of both gods. Bindu Sagar Lake, which is reputed to have healing abilities, touches the temple on one side. Non-Hindus are not permitted to enter the grounds; hence, they can only admire the spectacular building from an elevated spot outside the temple.
8. Dwarkadhish Temple, Dwarka, Gujarat:
Dwarkadhish Temple, the sacred home of Lord Krishna, is located in Gujarat's Dwarka city. The temple, also known as Jagat Mandir, has two doorways through which pilgrims can enter and depart. Swarg Dwar (doorway to heaven) and Moksha Dwar (doorway to freedom) are the names given to the entry and departure doors.
The 5-storey temple is part of the sacred Char Dham Yatra and is supported by 72 pillars. Situated on the banks of the River Gomti, the temple reaches a height of 51.8 meters and requires a flight of 56 steps to reach Swarg Dwar. Inside the temple, Lord Krishna amazes his worshipers with his black stone statue.
9. Somnath Temple, Saurashtra, Gujarat:
Somnath Temple is one of India's most ancient architectural wonders, located in Saurashtra, Gujarat. It honors the Moon God and has a fascinating history. The temple has been demolished and rebuilt multiple times during the last thousand years.
According to legend, the temple has been built by Lord Shiva and is one of India's twelve Jyotirlingas. Even if you are not interested in history, you should visit Saurashtra once to view the magnificence and hear the intriguing legends about the temple for yourself.
10. Kedarnath Temple, Garhwal, Uttarakhand:
is well-known not just among religious travelers, but also among nature enthusiasts due to its location. The temple is nestled among the spectacular Himalayan glaciers, but in the winter, the entire region is blanketed with snow.
That is why it is closed for half the year. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is said to be constructed by the Pandavas from the Mahabharata. Pilgrims have to walk for more than 14 kilometers to reach their destination.
11. Shree Ram Janmbhoomi, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh:
The Ayodhya Ram Temple is not only a tribute to religion, but also a work of architectural genius. The temple's design incorporates traditional and modern features to highlight India's cultural diversity. The towering spires, elaborate sculptures, and stately sanctum sanctorum all contribute to an awe-inspiring atmosphere.
As you look at the Shree Ram Mandir Ayodhya temple, you can't help but admire the skill that went into creating a visual symphony of devotion.The temple becomes a holy sanctuary where people seek consolation, wisdom, and a closer connection to the divine. The rituals, prayers, and holy ambiance provide followers with a sense of calm and spiritual fulfillment.
12. Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha:
Jagannath Temple, also known as Jagannath Puri, was built in the 12th century and is located in Puri, Odisha. Devoted to Lord Krishna, the temple is one of India's Char Dhams. The idols of Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra are located within the main temple, with Lord Krishna (Jagannath) at the center. Non-Hindus are not permitted to enter the temple's premises.
They can enjoy a wonderful view of this majestic temple from the roof of the Raghunandan Library, which is right opposite the temple. The yearly and world-famous Rath Yatra in Puri allows visitors to see Lord Jagannath, as well as Balabhadra and Subhadra riding atop chariots. With thousands of people dragging the sacred chariot, the yatra is a must-see event.
Conclusion
The biggest temples in India are not only magnificent stunning structures but also deeply symbolic of the country's rich spiritual tradition. These temples, including the breathtaking Akshardham, Brihadeeswarar, and Jagannath Temples, represent centuries of religion, culture, and devotion. They draw millions of tourists and pilgrims from all over the world, providing an insight into India's unique religious rituals and creative excellence.
Visiting these holy places is both a spiritual experience and a chance to learn about the country's rich history. Whether you seek spiritual solitude or want to admire the splendor of old Indian architecture, these temples are a tribute to the ageless traditions that have inspired centuries. Standing under their shadows, you sense the mystical energy and the lasting heritage they symbolize, making them a must-visit place for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. What is the biggest temple in India?
The Akshardham Temple in Delhi is frequently acknowledged as the largest Hindu temple in terms of space. However, the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Tamil Nadu is one of the largest and best-known.
2. What is the tallest temple in India?
The Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam boasts the highest gopuram (temple tower), measuring 239.5 feet.
3. What is the oldest big temple in India?
The Brihadeeswarar Temple in Tamil Nadu was constructed in the 11th century and is one of India's oldest big temples.
4. What is special about the Brihadeeswarar Temple?
The Brihadeeswarar Temple is famous for its gigantic construction, rich sculptures, and the fact that its 80-ton capstone was set without modern technology.
5. Which temple has the most visitors?
The Venkateswara Temple at Tirupati is one of the world's most popular temples, attracting millions of visitors each year.
6. Can non-Hindus visit Indian temples?
It depends on the temple. Some temples, such as the Akshardham Temple in Delhi, welcome people of all religions, while others, like the Jagannath Temple in Puri, are solely open to Hindus.
7. What is the largest temple complex in India?
The Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam, Tamil Nadu, is India's biggest temple complex at 156 acres.
8. What is the architectural style of India's major temples?
The architectural styles differ, with Brihadeeswarar Temple representing Dravidian architecture, Akshardham displaying contemporary temple design, and temples like Jagannath Temple having Kalinga architecture.
9. Can I visit these temples as a tourist?
Yes, most large temples in India welcome tourists; however, visitors must stick to local customs, clothing requirements, and temple standards.
10. Do these temples charge an entrance fee?
Some temples, such as Akshardham in Delhi, might charge for exhibits or shows, but most temples offer free admission. All donations are optional.
11. Do these temples have special rituals?
Yes, each temple has its own set of rituals, which include daily prayers, offerings, and festivals specific to the god and location.
12. When is the best time to visit these temples?
The best times to visit are either early in the morning or during a festival. The season also plays an important part; winters are often more pleasant for trips.
13. Are there particular restrictions on photographing in the temples?
Many temples, including Akshardham and Brihadeeswarar, restrict photography on their premises. Always read the instructions first.
14. How can I go to these temples?
Most of these big temples are simple to reach by road, train, and air. Visitors may easily get around in cities such as Delhi, Chennai, and Puri.