India is a fascinating country with ancient roots. India is a well-known tourist destination with numerous mysterious temples that leave visitors with unanswered questions. It is known as the land of Temples since it is home to 33 million Gods and Goddesses. India’s heart and religion are its temples, which are its soul.
Each temple in India is infused with religious significance and mythical narratives encircled by absolutely surprising mysteries. Here are a few Mysterious Temples of India that defy all logic and scientific thinking. They may also astound you because they leave the logical question unanswered. Let’s get going!
Exploring the Magic and Mystery of India’s Iconic Temples:
1. Kamakhya Devi Temple, Assam
On the summit of Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, Assam, there is a pilgrimage place for Hindus. The yoni (vagina) of Devi Sati, Lord Shiva’s wife, is the only thing that can be worshipped in this temple. A red silk saree drapes across the yoni.
The Goddess has her period every year during the monsoon season, and the temple is closed for three days. Ambubachi Mela also referred to as the Tantric Fertility Festival, is observed here during this period, and it lasts until the fourth day when the temple reopens.
The underground spring that flows through the temple’s interior is what makes it so mysterious. Throughout these three days, it turns blood red. The scarlet cloth that is provided to worshippers to cover the goddess’ yoni over the course of these three days is referred to as prasad. Read More: Unknown Interesting Facts About Kamakhya Temple.
- Location: Guwahati, Assam.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March; during the Ambubachi Mela in June for a unique experience.
- Activities: Participate in the Ambubachi Mela, explore the temple complex, and visit nearby attractions like the Umananda Temple and Assam State Museum.
- Tips: Expect large crowds during festivals, respect the rituals, and hire a guide to learn about the temple’s history and significance.
- Accommodation: Stay in nearby hotels or guesthouses in Guwahati.
2. Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple, Kerala
This temple honors Goddess Bhadrakali, who is the reincarnation of Goddess Kali. A seven-day festival is held at this temple each year, which is its most distinctive feature. The Bharani Festival is the official name of the event.
On this occasion, both genders dress in red, wield swords, and dance and run about the temple like trans people. Using the swords, they cut themselves, and blood spills forth. They sing filthy songs about the Goddess as they enter the temple in this condition.
The sacrifices are hurled at the figure of the goddess, and at the same time, people strike the rafters of the temple over and over with sticks. Even after the festival, the temple is closed for seven days to clean the bloodstains.
- Location: Kodungallur, Thrissur district, Kerala.
- Best Time to Visit: March to April during the Bharani festival.
- Activities: Attend the Bharani festival, witness the fierce rituals, and explore the temple’s architecture.
- Tips: Be prepared for intense and unique rituals during the festival; photography might be restricted during certain ceremonies.
- Accommodation: Stay in hotels or guesthouses in Thrissur or Kodungallur.
3. Veerabhadra Temple, Andhra Pradesh
The Veerabhadra Temple in Andhra Pradesh’s Lepakshi district is a mystery temple known for having one of its 70 pillars dangling from the ceiling. Its building represents the Vijaynagar style and its history dates to the sixteenth century.
The one pillar hanging from the roof of Veerabhadra Temple attracts many people, and as a result, it has gained national recognition not just in Andhra Pradesh. You can also put a cloth in the space between the ground and the pillar to test if it is magical.
When you visit the temple grounds, prepare to be in awe of the old engineering marvels. You can observe carvings of numerous God and Goddess figures on the temple’s walls and pillars. To truly appreciate the rich heritage of Indian culture, see the roof painting. Check more details: Veerabhadra Temple, Lepakshi: History, Location, Timings and Nearby Attractions
- Location: Lepakshi, Anantapur district, Andhra Pradesh.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Activities: Observe the hanging pillar, explore the temple’s intricate carvings, and visit the Nandi statue.
- Tips: Hire a local guide for detailed insights into the temple’s history and architecture, and wear comfortable shoes for walking.
- Accommodation: Stay in budget hotels or guesthouses in nearby towns like Hindupur.
4. Kailasa Temple: Ellora Caves, Maharashtra
The grandest Hindu temple in the 16th-century Ellora Caves is called Kailasa Temple. Your understanding of Indian mythology will grow thanks to this temple. The Kailasa Temple is a monolith building, meaning it is a rock-based cave temple.
The Ramayana is depicted in detail inside the Kailasa Cave Temple. Complex carvings on this three-story temple complex were noticed by the brutal Mughal King Aurangzeb, who later ordered the destruction of the caves. Yet, nothing happened to the Kailasa Cave Temple.
The 30 million Sanskrit sculptures that have yet to be decoded to determine their significance, in the archaeologist’s estimation, number 30 million. Many people think it is a secret temple in India since no modern person can have such excellent craftsmanship. Read Also: Top 10 facts about the Ajanta and Ellora caves, Maharashtra.
- Location: Ellora, Aurangabad district, Maharashtra.
- Best Time to Visit: November to February.
- Activities: Explore the monolithic rock-cut temple, visit the other caves in the Ellora complex, and tour the nearby Ajanta Caves.
- Tips: Allocate a full day to explore the Ellora Caves, hire a guide for historical context, and wear comfortable shoes.
- Accommodation: Stay in hotels or guesthouses in Aurangabad.
5. Mehandipur Balaji Temple, Rajasthan
Imagine hearing the loud cries of possessed people at the shrine. Mehandipur Balaji is a famous pilgrimage place in Rajasthan and one of India’s most famous mysterious temples. Here, a priest performs an exorcism to expel any evil spirits from the person.
Yet it is a temple to Lord Hanuman. Remember that many people find it disturbing to visit this temple because they see things like people hanging from ropes and pouring boiling water on themselves. Also, a priest chains people who are possessed by evil spirits.
Because of its peculiar rituals, this temple is a must-visit in Rajasthan for the Tuesday evening Aarti ritual devoted to Lord Hanuman. Mehandipur Balaji sees thousands of individuals daily who want to heal their loved ones from black magic or evil spirits.
- Location: Dausa district, Rajasthan.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Activities: Witness exorcism rituals, participate in prayer services, and explore the surrounding area.
- Tips: Be respectful of the rituals and the people seeking help, photography is often restricted, and it can be an intense experience.
- Accommodation: Stay in nearby hotels or guesthouses in Dausa or Jaipur.
6. Jagannath Temple, Odisha
One of the most respected temples in Puri, Odisha—the Jagannath Temple—holds great spiritual value because of the well-known Rath Yatra and several mysterious facts related to the temple. The Temple of Opposites is another name for this mystery temple in India.
The flag attached to the top of the structure flies against the wind. Only at the Jagannath temple do the morning and evening breezes originate from land and the sea, respectively. It poses a challenging question to all scientific reasoning.
Also, it is stated that no bird ever flies over the temple and never casts a shadow throughout the day. Despite being right on the beach, you cannot hear the waves once inside the temple. Unquestionably a miracle. Explore More: Jagannath Temple, Puri: History, Facts and Other Interesting Details
- Location: Puri, Odisha.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February; during the Rath Yatra festival in June/July for a unique experience.
- Activities: Observe the daily rituals, visit during Rath Yatra, and explore the temple complex.
- Tips: Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the temple; however, you can view it from the nearby Raghunandan Library. Respect local customs and dress modestly.
- Accommodation: Stay in hotels or guesthouses in Puri.
Explore More:
- A Detailed Guide to the Sri Jagannath Temple, Puri
- Jagannath Rath Yatra, Puri 2023: History, Dates, and Highlights
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7. Nidhivan Temple, Uttar Pradesh
If you have a strong devotion to Krishna, you would have been intrigued by this temple in Vrindavan. There is particular energy there that we have felt on numerous occasions. Beginning with the atmosphere, there are trees all around the place that are still green despite being in a dry area.
The trees are relatively short and intertwined, and their trunks and roots are hollow, which is very peculiar. After sunset, the chattering monkeys depart Nidhi Van, where Lord Krishna is believed to perform Raas Leela, the act of love with his Gopis, every evening.
Every night, the priests leave some sacrifices in the temple, discovered scattered the next morning. The Nidhivan Temple attracts curiosity and the unwavering faith of devotees who firmly believe that Lord Krishna is present in every grain of Vrindavan’s sacred soil. Read More: About Nidhivan in Vrindavan – Story & Mysterious Facts.
- Location: Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Activities: Visit the temple in the evening to hear stories of the Raas Leela, and explore nearby temples like Banke Bihari Temple and ISKCON Temple.
- Tips: Respect the local beliefs and customs, hire a guide to learn about the temple’s mysteries, and avoid visiting late at night.
- Accommodation: Stay in hotels or guesthouses in Vrindavan or Mathura.
8. Kaal Bhairav Nath Temple, Uttar Pradesh
The strongest manifestation of Lord Shiva is thought to be Kal Bhairav Nath, and it is said that even death shudders in fear of him. Kal Bhairav Nath Temple is the name of the mysterious temple where this incarnation of Lord Shiva was worshipped.
Although the construction date of the old Kal Bhairav Nath Temple in India is uncertain, it is an ancient temple. Folklore holds that when visiting Varanasi, one should go to this temple first since Lord Kal Bhairav chooses whether or not someone would stay there.
Kal Bhairav is referred to be “Kotwal of Varanasi” by people. This temple is among the most mysterious ones in India because of the intriguing legend surrounding it. The eighth day following the full moon in November is a lucky day for this temple.
Read also: Unveiling the Temples of Rameshwaram
- Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Activities: Participate in the unique rituals involving liquor offerings, explore the temple complex, and visit nearby attractions like Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
- Tips: Respect the unique traditions, hire a guide to understand the rituals, and explore the nearby ghats.
- Accommodation: Stay in hotels or guesthouses in Varanasi.
9. Stambheshwar Mahadev Temple, Gujarat
One of India’s most amazing and well-known mystical temples is Stambheshwar Mahadev Temple in Gujarat. This temple’s daily submergence and reappearance make it distinctive. Visit this location if you want to see this natural extravaganza.
An old temple named Stambheshwar Mahadev can be seen in Kavi Kamboi. Gujarat’s shrine is located halfway between the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Cambay. Every day during high tide, this Shiva Temple is submerged under water and reemerges.
Once again, it will be accessible to everyone. People travel from all over the nation to see this magnificent sight. According to the myth, Lord Kartikeya himself installed this Shiva Ling. One legend claims Lord Kartikeya (Shiva’s Son) feels bad about killing the demon Tarakasura.
- Location: Kavi Kamboi, Bharuch district, Gujarat.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Activities: Witness the temple submerged in seawater during high tide, visit during low tide to explore the temple, and enjoy the scenic coastal surroundings.
- Tips: Check tide timings before planning your visit to ensure you can see the temple both submerged and exposed. Wear waterproof footwear and be cautious of slippery surfaces.
- Accommodation: Stay in hotels or guesthouses in Bharuch or nearby towns.
10. Brahma Temple, Rajasthan
Lord Brahma, who is regarded as the creator of the universe, is honoured in the Brahma Temple, also known as the Jagatpita Brahma Mandir, which is situated in Pushkar, Rajasthan. As the sole Brahma temple in India, it draws thousands of pilgrims each year.
The Brahma Temple gives the quiet town of Pushkar an air of holiness. It is also mentioned in the world’s top ten religious sites and the five important Hindu pilgrimages in India. Originally constructed in the 14th century, the Brahma Temple is considered 2000 years old.
Originally built by the sage Vishwamitra, it underwent numerous renovations under Adi Shankara. It is made of marble and gigantic stone slabs and has statues of Lord Brahma and his two wives, Gayatri and Savitri. The priesthood of the Sanyasi (ascetic) sect is in charge of the shrine.
- Location: Pushkar, Rajasthan.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March; during the Pushkar Camel Fair in November for a vibrant cultural experience.
- Activities: Visit the only prominent temple dedicated to Lord Brahma, explore the Pushkar Lake and ghats, and participate in the Pushkar Camel Fair.
- Tips: Dress modestly and respect the local customs, hire a guide for historical insights, and take part in the evening aarti at the lake.
- Accommodation: Stay in hotels, guesthouses, or heritage properties in Pushkar.
The Bottom Line
We have only covered a few of India’s most strange and mysterious temples above. There are a tonne more. Many temples, some dating back more than 2000 years, were built during Hinduism’s early history. India is, after all, a nation of miracles. That is why we refer to India as “Incredible”.
FAQs
1. What are the top 5 mysterious temples in India?
- Kamakhya Temple, Assam: Known for its unique festival celebrating menstruation.
- Kailasa Temple, Ellora, Maharashtra: Carved out of a single rock, with no clear historical record of its construction.
- Veerabhadra Temple, Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh: Features a hanging pillar that does not touch the ground.
- Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha: Known for its annual Rath Yatra and the mysterious replacement of idols every 12 years.
- Karni Mata Temple, Rajasthan: Famous for housing thousands of rats considered sacred.
2. What makes Kamakhya Temple mysterious?
The Kamakhya Temple is mysterious due to its celebration of the fertility festival Ambubachi Mela, during which the main deity is believed to menstruate.
3. Why is the Kailasa Temple at Ellora considered mysterious?
The Kailasa Temple is mysterious because it was carved from a single rock, and historians are puzzled by the ancient techniques used for its construction.
4. What is unique about the Veerabhadra Temple in Lepakshi?
The Veerabhadra Temple is unique for its hanging pillar, which does not touch the ground. It remains a marvel of ancient engineering.
5. What is the mystery behind the Jagannath Temple in Puri?
The Jagannath Temple is mysterious due to the annual Rath Yatra and the process of idol replacement, where new idols are carved and infused with divine energy every 12 years.
6. What makes the Karni Mata Temple in Rajasthan unusual?
The Karni Mata Temple is unusual because it houses thousands of rats, which are fed and revered by devotees as sacred beings.
7. Are there other mysterious Shiva temples in India?
Yes, the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Tamil Nadu is another mysterious Shiva temple, known for its massive structure and the fact that its shadow never falls on the ground at noon.
8. What is the legend behind the Bastar Krishna Temple?
The Bastar Krishna Temple is said to have a mysterious occurrence where a statue of Krishna appears to move and change expressions, intriguing visitors and devotees.
9. What is special about the Velorvattom Sri Mahadeva Temple?
The Velorvattom Sri Mahadeva Temple is known for its miraculous healing powers, where devotees claim to be cured of ailments after offering prayers.
10. Which is considered the most dangerous temple in India?
The Kamakhya Temple is often considered dangerous due to its association with occult practices and tantric rituals, which can be unsettling for unprepared visitors.
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