Explore the Rich Spiritual Heritage of India's Temples

India is a country of diverse beliefs, religions, and faiths. Temples are the purest forms of spiritual energy. There are several temples in India where devotees worship the divine in different forms. Every year a large number of pilgrims and devotees, with an unshakeable faith in their hearts, embark on spiritual journeys.

It does not just cleanse their mind, body, and soul, but it is also believed to grant them salvation. If you are planning a religious and spiritual tour in India, then here is a rundown of the most visited temples in India. You must definitely consider including them in your list to engage with the divine and seek their blessings.

Table of Contents

List of the 13 Most Famous Temples of India:

1. Vaishno Devi Temple

So, the first temple on our list is the famous Vaishno Devi Shrine. This temple is located in the Trikuta hills in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir. It is situated at a height of 5200 ft. above sea level. Vaishno Devi Shrine is the holy place where Goddess Vaishnavi spent time performing vows and penances. One of the interesting facts about this temple is that it is visited by 25000 devotees every day from nooks and corners of the world. Also, read 11 Interesting facts about Jammu & Kashmir.

To reach the temple, devotees need to trek around fourteen km from the base of the hill. Arrangements for a pony ride and a helicopter are made for those who are not equipped to do the trekking.

There is no age limit to visiting this shrine. Vaishno Devi Temple can be visited during all seasons of the year. It is open for darshan throughout the day except during Pooja times. The public is not allowed to take photography in the temple. Also Read: Travel Guide 12 Jyotirlingas Temple in India

Why Visit: One of the holiest pilgrimage sites for Hindus, Vaishno Devi Temple is situated in the Trikuta Mountains of Jammu and Kashmir. Devotees visit the temple to seek blessings from Goddess Vaishno Devi.
Top Experiences: Trek the 13 km route to the temple, visit the Bhairo Baba Temple, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding mountains.
Best Time to Visit: March to October, avoiding the winter months due to snowfall.
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Katra, about 2 km from the starting point of the trek.

2. Amarnath Cave

Amarnath is the next popular religious place that you must visit on your tour. It has been considered a highly sacred pilgrimage destination among Hindu devotees. Amarnath cave is located in Kashmir at a height of 12000 ft above sea level. The place is worshipped to pay tribute to Lord Shiva. At this place, Lord Shiva narrated the secret of immortality “Amar Katha” to Mata Parvati. Hence, this place got the name, Amarnath.

One of the lesser-known facts about the Amarnath temple is that it is amongst those places where one of the parts of the body of Goddess Sati fell. This makes this temple considered one of the eighteen Maha Shakti Peeth throughout the globe. An ice-stalagmite as lingam is built inside the cave that resembles Shiva tattva. The moment you enter the cave, your mind fills with happiness, serenity, and calmness.

However, reaching this cave isn’t very easy. You need to trek to this cave that can be arduous for elders. There are two ways to reach the holy Amarnath Cave. One of the ways is the traditional route through Pahalgam. Another route is the Baltal route that is the comparatively shortest and easier route for Amarnath Yatra. There are three options available for devotees to reach the cave, trekking, palki ride, or helicopter ride from both routes. Read Also: Most Famous Places to See around Pahalgam.

There has been put an age restriction for people who wish to visit this place. Children who are less than thirteen years old and adults more than seventy-five years of age are not permitted. Though this place can be visited throughout the year, the best time is the period between July and August. This place is open for darshan throughout the day. It is not allowed to take photographs.

When you are coming to this temple, you must not miss seeing the two immortal doves. As per the belief of people at this place, these doves have heard the secret conversation between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati regarding the immortality and creation of the universe. Since then, this cave has been their abode.

Why Visit: Known for the naturally formed ice Shivling, Amarnath Cave is one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations for devotees of Lord Shiva. The cave is located at an altitude of 3,888 meters in Jammu and Kashmir.
Top Experiences: Participate in the annual Amarnath Yatra, explore the surrounding natural beauty, and visit Panchtarni, the last stop before the cave.
Best Time to Visit: July to August during the annual Amarnath Yatra.
How to Reach: Nearest airport is Srinagar, followed by a helicopter or trek from Pahalgam or Baltal.

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3. Kedarnath Temple

Kedarnath is another very ancient and pious place for devotees all across the world. This temple is a part of the religious “Char Dham Yatra”. Kedarnath is one of the popular pilgrimage destinations located in Uttarakhand. This temple is also the place where renowned saint Shankaracharya’s attained his samadhi. Kedarnath temple is sited at a height of around 3,583 meters in the Uttarakhand mountains. The “Garba Griha” houses the stone lingam that is open for entry for all pilgrims. Every year people come in large numbers to take the Lord’s blessings and rub pure ghee on the idol.

Though the trek to this temple is difficult, it is a blissful experience. The right time to get the darshan at the sacred Kedarnath temple is in the summer months as this temple opens for people only from May to October. It is best to avoid the rainy season as it can pose difficulties in reaching this place.

There is no age limit prescribed for people visiting this shrine. The opening and closing time of this temple is from 4:00 am to 3:00 pm and 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm on all seven days a week. People are not permitted to click photography at this place. Read More: Interesting Facts about Kedarnath Temple

Why Visit: Kedarnath is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and a significant part of the Char Dham pilgrimage. It is set against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas.
Top Experiences: Trek to the temple, visit Vasuki Tal Lake, and explore the surrounding peaks.
Best Time to Visit: May to October (the temple remains closed during winter).
How to Reach: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, followed by a trek from Gaurikund.

Suggested Kedarnath Packages:

4. Gangotri Temple

In Indian tradition, the Ganga river is worshipped as Mata Ganga. The Gangotri temple is dedicated to the Ganga Maa and is widely recognized as her holy origin. This temple is located at a height of 3,415 m along the serene Bhagirathi river in the Uttarkashi town of Uttarakhand. The blissful natural beauty of this place amazes people. A semi-submerged Shiv lingam can be seen in the peaceful waters of this river. It signifies the land where God Shiva intertwined Ganga in the hair. This scared shine opens up for public darshan on the day of Akshaya Tritiya in the month of April or May.

There is no age restriction to visit this temple. The best time to visit the temple is between April to November. It is advised to avoid the monsoon season. The temple is open on all seven days of the week from 6:15 am to 2:00 pm, and 3:00 pm to 9:30 pm. People are not allowed to take photography in this temple. Read Also: List of Religious Places and Temples in Uttarakhand.

Why Visit: Located in Uttarakhand, Gangotri Temple is dedicated to Goddess Ganga and is considered one of the Char Dhams. It marks the origin of the sacred Ganges River.
Top Experiences: Visit the temple, trek to Gaumukh Glacier, and explore the scenic beauty of the area.
Best Time to Visit: May to October.
How to Reach: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, followed by a road trip.

Suggested Gangotri Packages:

5. Yamunotri Temple

Yamunotri Temple is another incredible religious destination that you should definitely visit on your tour. This temple is situated at an altitude of 3291 meters. Yamunotri Temple is the starting place for devotees to begin their spiritual journey covering Badrinath, Gangotri, and Kedarnath. Yamuna River is the major tributary of the sacred Ganga river of the Hindu religion. In this holy shrine, Mother Yamuna is portrayed as holding the sculpture of the Goddess. One of the interesting facts about this temple is that the Yamunotri temple is made up of beautiful black marble that is rarely found in the Garhwal mountains of Uttarakhand.

This temple opens for darshan on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya and closes right after Diwali. The Yamunotri Temple was constructed in the 19th century. It is located in the Uttarkashi town of Uttarakhand. The two fabulous hot water springs “Surya Kund” and “Gauri Kund” and the captivating beauty of the place make it a delightful experience for all the pilgrims.

There is no age bar to visit this temple. The best time to visit the Yamunotri temple is between May to October. It is best to avoid coming to the place in the monsoon season. The temple is open on all seven days of the week from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm. People are not allowed to take photography on the temple premises. Read Also: 10 Best Things to do in North India.

Why Visit: Yamunotri Temple is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna and is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites. It is the source of the Yamuna River.
Top Experiences: Trek to the temple, visit the nearby hot springs, and explore the lush surroundings.
Best Time to Visit: May to October.
How to Reach: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun. The trek starts from Janki Chatti.

Suggested Yamunotri Package: 10 Nights 11 Days Chardham Tour Package from Haridwar

6. Golden Temple

The Golden Temple is located in Amritsar. It is called the “Harmandir Sahib Gurudwara”. Sri Harmandir Sahib means the “Shrine of God”. Golden temple is the first place where the holy scripture of the Sikh religion, “Guru Granth Sahib” was placed. It is coated all in gold and snuggled in the center of the Sarovar. Golden temple is a retreat for all spiritual people without discriminating against anyone on the grounds of faith, race, color, region, caste, and creed. This holy shrine is open to everyone who seeks religious contentment.

There is no age bar for pilgrims to visit this temple. This temple is best to be visited throughout the year. The temple is open on all seven days of the week between 3.00 am to 10:00 pm. People are not allowed to take photography in the shrine. However, it is allowed in the temple complex.

Why Visit: The Golden Temple, or Harmandir Sahib, in Amritsar is the holiest shrine of Sikhism. It is known for its stunning golden structure and the spiritual peace it offers.
Top Experiences: Participate in the daily prayer services, have a meal at the Langar, and take a stroll around the holy lake.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
How to Reach: Nearest airport is Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, Amritsar.

Suggested Golden Temple, Amritsar Packages:

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7. Meenakshi Amman Temple

Meenakshi Amman Temple is a very famous temple known for its incredible architectural work. This religious place is located in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. This holy shrine is dedicated to all the devotees of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva. Meenakshi Amman Temple got constructed in the 12th century. It is known as one of the most ancient temples in south India. This 2500-year-old temple has around 33, 000 idols and is listed among the top thirty nominations for the “New Seven Wonders of the World”. This temple is one of the sources of attaining and rejoicing in spiritual bliss. The powerful positive ambiance in the temple makes you feel an instant connection with the Divine.

There is no age restriction to visit this temple. The best time to visit the temple is between October to May. The temple is open on all seven days of the week from 5.00 am to 12:30 pm, and 4:00 pm to 10.00 pm. People are not allowed to take photography in this temple.

Why Visit: Located in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, the Meenakshi Amman Temple is renowned for its magnificent architecture, towering gopurams, and intricate carvings. It is dedicated to Goddess Parvati (Meenakshi) and Lord Shiva.
Top Experiences: Explore the temple’s architecture, attend the evening aarti, and visit the Thousand Pillar Hall.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
How to Reach: Nearest airport is Madurai International Airport, about 10 km away.

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8. Shirdi Sai Temple

Shirdi Sai Baba is a popular temple located in the Shirdi town of Maharashtra. This temple is a refuge for all devotees of ancient saint Sai Baba. This temple is built in 1922 over the place of the samadhi of Shri Sai Baba. This pure soul taught valuable teachings of God, like charity, patience, love, and forgiveness. This temple is one of the highly visited shrines in Maharashtra where devotees from all backgrounds and faiths come to pay their tribute and take ashes as a blessing. The fire that was lit by Sai Baba has been kept burning till today.

There is no age restriction to visit this temple. This temple can be visited throughout the year. The temple is open on all seven days of the week from 7.00 am to 1.30 pm, and 4:00 pm to 10.00 pm. People are not allowed to take photography in this temple.

Why Visit: Dedicated to Sai Baba, the Shirdi Sai Temple in Maharashtra is one of the most visited temples in India, attracting millions of devotees every year.
Top Experiences: Attend the daily aarti, visit the Dwarkamai Mosque, and explore nearby attractions like Shani Shingnapur.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
How to Reach: Nearest airport is Shirdi Airport, 14 km from the temple.

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9. Shani Shingnapur Temple

Shani Shingnapur Temple is one of the most noted temples in Maharashtra. In ancient Hindu mythology, this temple is devoted to the son of Surya Dev, Lord Shani Dev. Shani is among the nine “Navagraha” and is renowned as the Lord of Justice. Shani Shingnapur Temple houses a 5-and-a-half ft. high black stone, that is an embodiment of the Lord placed in the open air. This sacred shrine is believed to be one of the humblest Hindu temples of Western India. One of the interesting facts about this village is the houses that do not have a door or lock. Due to the blessing of Lord Shani Dev, there have never been any incidences of theft and stealing. Read more information on the 10 Most Famous Religious Places in Maharashtra.

There is no age restriction for pilgrims to visit this temple. The best time to visit the temple is between July to August. The temple is open on all seven days of the week from 5.00 am to 11.00 pm. People are not allowed to take photography in this temple.

Why Visit: The Shani Shingnapur Temple is dedicated to Lord Shani (Saturn). It is unique for its open-air shrine and the belief that the village has no doors due to the deity’s protection.
Top Experiences: Participate in the rituals, explore the nearby village, and visit other temples in the region.
Best Time to Visit: November to February.
How to Reach: Located about 70 km from Shirdi, accessible by road.

10. Brahma Temple

Pushkar has been recognized as one of the most pious cities in the country. This city houses the famous Brahma temple and is also revered as the creator of the universe. Brahma temple is amongst the few temples dedicated to the Lord Brahma in India. According to the legends and ancient scriptures, it is also believed that the sacred “Pushkar Lake” was built by the petals of the lotus of Lord Brahma. Also, read more details on the 10 Most Famous Temples in Pushkar.

There is no age limit to visiting this temple. This temple can be visited throughout the year. The temple is open on all seven days of the week throughout the day. People are not allowed to take photography in this temple.

Why Visit: Situated in Pushkar, Rajasthan, the Brahma Temple is one of the very few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma. It holds significant religious and historical importance.
Top Experiences: Visit the nearby Pushkar Lake, attend the evening aarti, and explore the local markets.
Best Time to Visit: October to March, especially during the Pushkar Camel Fair.
How to Reach: Nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport, 150 km away.

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11. Kaal Bhairav Temple

Kaal Bhairav Temple is a popular temple located in the land overflowing with spirituality, Varanasi. This temple is located in the heart of Uttar Pradesh state and is known to be one of the most primitive Lord Shiva shrines in Varanasi. This place amazes you with the silver-faced sculpture of Lord Shiva who is portrayed in a fierce form, “Kaal Bhairav”. Even death gets scared just by looking at this site. This grand idol is decorated with a garland of skulls and delicate peacock feathers.

There is no age restriction to visit this temple. The best time to visit the temple is throughout the year. The temple is open on all seven days of the week between 6.00 am to 9.00 pm. People are not allowed to take photography in this temple.

Why Visit: The Kaal Bhairav Temple in Varanasi is dedicated to Kaal Bhairav, a fierce form of Lord Shiva. It is considered one of the oldest temples in the city.
Top Experiences: Participate in the rituals, explore nearby temples, and take a walk along the ghats of the Ganges.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
How to Reach: Nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi.

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12. Badrinath Temple

People come to this temple in huge numbers to pay their respect to Lord Vishnu who is worshipped in the form of Badrinath. This temple is situated on the Himalayan mountain range on the banks of the Alaknanda river in Uttarakhand. This temple is listed as one of the ancient 108 temples devoted to Lord Vishnu. This holy shrine is also included as a significant part of the religious tour “Char Dham Yatra”. Badrinath temple is a blessing of the supreme Almighty.

There is no age bar to visit this temple. The best time to visit the temple is between May to October. It is best to avoid coming to the place during the monsoon season. The temple is open on all seven days of the week between 4.00 am to 12.00 pm and 3.00 am to 9.00 pm. People are not allowed to take photography in this temple.

Why Visit: Badrinath Temple, part of the Char Dham pilgrimage, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located in the beautiful town of Badrinath in Uttarakhand.
Top Experiences: Attend the morning and evening aarti, visit nearby attractions like Mana Village and Vasudhara Falls, and enjoy the spiritual atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit: May to October.
How to Reach: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, followed by a road journey.

Suggested Badrinath Packages:

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13. Baijnath Temple

Located in the foggy foothills at an altitude of 3,707 feet, the Baijnath shrine is a very famous temple in Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the places where devotees gather to worship Lord Shiva. This is a hundred 100 years old temple where Baijnath spent time worshipping Lord Baidyanath, who is known to be the “Lord of all Physicians”.

This spectacular temple honors Ravana. Unlike places where the effigies of Ravana get demolished, this place preserves the effigies of Ravana on Dussheradue to the belief that the Demon King “Ravana of Lanka” was the major disciple of Lord Shiva. The Baijnath temple is located in the place where the demon king Ravana positioned Lord Shiva in the lingam form. This serene place is known to amplify spiritual bliss.

There is no age limit for devotees to visit this temple. The best time to visit the temple is throughout the year. However, it is advised to avoid visiting during the monsoon season. The temple is open on all seven days of the week between 6.00 am to 9.00 pm. People are not allowed to take photography in this temple.

Why Visit: Located in Himachal Pradesh, Baijnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its stunning Nagara-style architecture. The temple is set amidst scenic surroundings.
Top Experiences: Explore the temple’s intricate carvings, enjoy the serene atmosphere, and visit nearby tea gardens.
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November.
How to Reach: Nearest airport is Kangra Airport, 50 km away.

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Temples in India :

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What are some of the most famous temples in India?

Some of the most famous temples in India include Vaishno Devi Temple, Golden Temple, Tirupati Balaji Temple, Meenakshi Temple, and Jagannath Temple.

2. Where is the Golden Temple located?

The Golden Temple is located in Amritsar, Punjab.

3. What is the significance of Vaishno Devi Temple?

Vaishno Devi Temple, located in Jammu and Kashmir, is considered one of the holiest shrines for Hindu pilgrims, dedicated to Goddess Vaishno Devi.

4. Which temple is known for its elaborate architecture in Tamil Nadu?

The Meenakshi Temple in Madurai is famous for its detailed carvings and beautiful architecture.

5. Where can I find the Jagannath Temple?

The Jagannath Temple is located in Puri, Odisha, and is known for the annual Rath Yatra festival.

6. Which temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in Varanasi?

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most important temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.

7. Where is the Tirupati Balaji Temple situated?

The Tirupati Balaji Temple, also known as Sri Venkateswara Temple, is located in Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh.

8. What is special about the Somnath Temple?

The Somnath Temple in Gujarat is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and is known for its spiritual significance and historical importance.

9. Which temple is known for the Sun God?

The Konark Sun Temple in Odisha is dedicated to the Sun God and is famous for its chariot-shaped architecture.

10. What is unique about the Kedarnath Temple?

Kedarnath Temple is situated in the Himalayan mountains in Uttarakhand and is accessible only during certain months due to heavy snowfall.

11. Where can I visit the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple?

The Shirdi Sai Baba Temple is located in Shirdi, Maharashtra, and is dedicated to Sai Baba, a spiritual saint.

12. Which temple is known for its intricate rock carvings?

The Kailasa Temple at Ellora Caves in Maharashtra is known for its incredible rock-cut architecture.

13. What is the main attraction of the Akshardham Temple?

The Akshardham Temple in Delhi is famous for its grand architecture, light and sound shows, and cultural exhibits.

14. Which temple in Rajasthan is famous for Jain pilgrims?

The Ranakpur Jain Temple in Rajasthan is known for its beautiful marble pillars and is a popular Jain pilgrimage site.

15. What is the story behind the Amarnath Temple?

The Amarnath Temple in Jammu and Kashmir is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is famous for the natural ice Shiva Linga that forms inside a cave.

List of the Most Popular Temples of India (2024 Updated)

List of the 13 Most Famous Temples of India:

1. Vaishno Devi Temple

2. Amarnath Cave

3. Kedarnath Temple

4. Gangotri Temple

5. Yamunotri Temple

6. Golden Temple

7. Meenakshi Amman Temple

8. Shirdi Sai Temple

9. Shani Shingnapur Temple

10. Brahma Temple

11. Kaal Bhairav Temple

12. Badrinath Temple

13. Baijnath Temple

Frequently Asked Questions:

About The Author

Tusk Travel Team

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List of the 13 Most Famous Temples of India:

1. Vaishno Devi Temple

2. Amarnath Cave

3. Kedarnath Temple

4. Gangotri Temple

5. Yamunotri Temple

6. Golden Temple

7. Meenakshi Amman Temple

8. Shirdi Sai Temple

9. Shani Shingnapur Temple

10. Brahma Temple

11. Kaal Bhairav Temple

12. Badrinath Temple

13. Baijnath Temple

Frequently Asked Questions:

About The Author

Tusk Travel Team

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