India is a land of diverse natural beauty and cultural treasures, where a plethora of ancient sites exist as symbols of profound philosophical wisdom. From the serene hill stations to the enigmatic caves, tombs, forts, and temples, India offers a rich tapestry of historical and spiritual landmarks.
Among the numerous religious sites in India, the temples stand out as the epitome of grandeur and devotion. In this article, we delve into the top 10 richest temples in India, which not only embody architectural excellence but also showcase the wealth of Indian spirituality and heritage.
These 11 Indian Temples Are The Richest Religiously:
1. Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple
It is a huge and famous temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple has the Dravidian style of ancient India.
Among the temples listed, the Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple is considered the richest temple in the world, with an estimated value of over $20 billion in gold and precious stones. The temple is located in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of the southern Indian state of Kerala.
The wealth of the Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple came to public attention in 2011 when a Supreme Court order allowed the opening of secret vaults within the temple complex. The vaults contained a vast collection of gold, silver, diamonds, and other precious stones, some of which were believed to have been donated by royal families over several centuries.
Location: Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Things to Do:
- Explore the temple’s intricate Dravidian architecture.
- Witness the deity, Lord Vishnu, reclining on the serpent Anantha.
- Participate in major festivals like Alpashy and Panguni.
Travel Tips:
- Dress Code: Strict traditional dress code for both men and women.
- Timings: Open daily, with specific timings for different rituals.
How to Reach:
To reach the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati, one can take a flight to Tirupati Airport, which is approximately 15 km from the temple. Alternatively, one can take a train or bus to Tirupati Railway Station or Tirupati Bus Stand, respectively, which are both located about 5 km from the temple. From there, one can take a taxi or bus to reach the temple.
2. Tirumala Venkateswara Temple – (Tirupati Temple)
Situated in the hill town of Tirumala in Andhra Pradesh, India, the Sri Venkateshwara Temple is considered one of the oldest and most prominent pilgrimage sites in the country. This temple, constructed in the traditional Dravidian style of architecture, houses an 8 feet tall holy statue of Lord Venkateshwara under the gold-gilded dome named Ananda Nilaya Divya Vimana.
The temple receives substantial donations from devotees, with an annual revenue estimated to be around $300 million. As per tradition, it is customary to visit the Varahaswami Temple before heading to the Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple, which is also one of the wealthiest pilgrimage centers globally. Whether seeking spiritual enlightenment or marveling at the grandeur of Indian temple architecture, the Sri Venkateshwara Temple is a must-visit destination.
Location: Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh
Things to Do:
- Participate in the darshan for blessings from Lord Venkateswara.
- Purchase the famous Tirupati laddu as prasadam.
- Enjoy trekking to the temple via the Alipiri or Srivari Mettu paths.
Travel Tips:
- Darshan Booking: Book darshan tickets in advance online.
- Timings: Open 24/7, with peak times during early mornings and weekends.
How to Reach:
The Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple is located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. The nearest railway station to the temple is Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station, which is approximately 1.5 km away. One can also take a flight to Trivandrum International Airport, which is approximately 6 km away from the temple, and then take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
3. Siddhivinayak Temple
Siddhivinayak temple is a famous temple located in Mumbai in the Indian state of Maharashtra, which is included in the rich temples of the world. This temple has been open for visitors since 1900, and there is always a crowd of tourists, it is included among the richest temples of India in today’s time.
You have to reach here on the right day and time, otherwise, you will get enough Congestion, and long lines have to be faced.
Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra
Things to Do:
- Seek blessings from the idol of Lord Ganesha.
- Attend the temple during Ganesh Chaturthi for grand celebrations.
- Explore nearby attractions like Prabhadevi and Dadar markets.
Travel Tips:
- Timings: Open daily from early morning until late night.
- Special Days: Tuesdays see a larger crowd, with special aartis and offerings.
How to Reach:
The Siddhivinayak Temple is located in Mumbai, Maharashtra. The nearest railway station to the temple is Dadar Station, which is approximately 2 km away. One can also take a local train to Prabhadevi Station, which is located about 1 km from the temple, or take a bus or taxi to reach the temple.
4. Shirdi Sai Temple
Shirdi’s Sai Temple is located in the state of Maharashtra, this temple is mainly dedicated to Sai Baba. It is included in the major religious places of India. Here devotees from all over the world come to see Sai Baba, which is about 296 kilometers from the city of Mumbai.
It is a pilgrimage place where people of different religions reach. Shirdi temple is one of the richest temples in India, where food is arranged for the devotees by the trust.
Location: Shirdi, Maharashtra
Things to Do:
- Participate in the aarti and darshan for blessings.
- Visit the Sai Baba Museum to learn about his life and teachings.
- Explore other nearby sites like Dwarkamai and Chavadi.
Travel Tips:
- Accommodation: Numerous hotels and lodges are available near the temple.
- Timings: Open from early morning until night, with specific aarti timings.
How to Reach:
The Shirdi Sai Temple is located in Shirdi, Maharashtra. The nearest railway station to the temple is Sainagar Shirdi Railway Station, which is located about 3 km away. One can also take a flight to Aurangabad Airport, which is approximately 130 km away from the temple, or Nashik Airport, which is approximately 75 km away, and then take a taxi or bus to reach the temple.
5. Golden Temple, Amritsar
The Golden Temple is a rich temple located in the Punjab province of India, belonging to the Sikh community. It is mainly dedicated to Harmandir Sahib.
About 400 kg of gold has been used to make the upper part of this temple, hence it is called ‘The Golden Also known as ‘Temple’, the holy book related to Sikhism “Guru Granth Sahib” has been kept in this temple, the building of this temple is very beautiful, which people from all over the world reach to see.
Location: Amritsar, Punjab
Things to Do:
- Participate in the spiritual experience of the daily prayers and kirtans.
- Enjoy a meal at the langar, a community kitchen serving free meals to visitors.
- Visit the Central Sikh Museum and explore the temple complex.
Travel Tips:
- Dress Code: Modest attire is required; head coverings are mandatory.
- Timings: Open 24/7.
How to Reach:
The Somnath Temple is located in Gujarat. The nearest railway station to the temple is Veraval Railway Station, which is located approximately 7 km away. One can also take a flight to Diu Airport, which is approximately 70 km away from the temple, or Rajkot Airport, which is approximately 195 km away, and then take a taxi or bus to reach the temple.
6. Somnath Temple, Gujarat
When it comes to the richest temples in India, then how can one leave out the Somnath temple of Gujarat, the history of this temple is very ancient, this temple is known from the beginning as a rich temple, it has immense gold and silver. Jewellery was included.
This temple has been looted many times by the Turkish ruler Mahmud Ghaznavi and attempts have been made to destroy this temple. In today’s time, this temple expresses the saga of its history and visits this beautiful religious place. People from all over the world reach out to do it.
Location: Prabhas Patan, Gujarat
Things to Do:
- Offer prayers to Lord Shiva.
- Explore the temple’s intricate carvings and sculptures.
- Attend the evening aarti and sound and light show.
Travel Tips:
- Timings: Open from early morning until night.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
How to Reach:
The Golden Temple is located in Amritsar, Punjab. The nearest railway station to the temple is Amritsar Junction Railway Station, which is located approximately 2 km away. One can also take a flight to Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, which is approximately 13 km away from the temple, and then take a taxi or bus to reach the temple.
7. Meenakshi Temple, Madurai
It is included in such temples present in India, where there is always a visit to the visitors, Every day 20-30 thousand devotees reach daily to have darshan. 60 million is earned every year from Meenakshi Temple so this temple is included among the richest temples in India.
This temple is dedicated to Meenakshi Devi. This temple council also has two beautiful golden vehicles which are the center of attraction for the visitors. Beauty and the confidence of the people always keep the hustle and bustle here.
Location: Madurai, Tamil Nadu
Things to Do:
- Explore the 14 gopurams, each adorned with thousands of colorful sculptures.
- Participate in the daily rituals and poojas.
- Visit during the Meenakshi Thirukalyanam festival for grand celebrations.
Travel Tips:
- Timings: Open from early morning until late night.
- Dress Code: Traditional attire is required.
How to Reach:
The Meenakshi Temple is located in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. The nearest railway station to the temple is Madurai Junction Railway Station, which is located approximately 2 km away. One can also take a flight to Madurai Airport, which is approximately 10 km away from the temple, and then take a taxi or bus to reach the temple.
7. Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple, Delhi
Akshardham Temple is a very beautiful temple located in the capital of India, where there is always an influx of devotees who visit. This temple is also one of the richest temples in India, and the architecture of this temple also attracts people.
It is a popular tourist place, where many foreign Shailani also reach to see the temple. Swaminarayan is seated as the main god in this temple, the idol of God is of gold. The name of this temple is included in the Guinness Book of being the largest Hindu temple.
Location: New Delhi
Things to Do:
- Explore the main temple with its intricately carved idols and sculptures.
- Enjoy the Sahaj Anand Water Show and the cultural boat ride.
- Visit the exhibitions showcasing Indian culture and spirituality.
Travel Tips:
- Timings: Closed on Mondays, open from Tuesday to Sunday.
- Security: Strict security measures, with no electronic devices allowed inside.
How to Reach:
The Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple is located in Delhi. The nearest railway station to the temple is Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station, which is located approximately 8 km away. One can also take a flight to Indira Gandhi International Airport, which is approximately 25 km away from the temple, and then take a taxi or bus to reach the temple.
8. Vaishno Devi Temple, Jammu
Vaishno Devi Temple is a famous temple included in the list of the richest temples in India, for which people come from all over the world, this temple is present on a high hill, so to take advantage of its darshan, complete the difficult climb of this temple. The annual income of the temple is about 500 crores. It is the second richest temple in India after Tirupati Balaji Mandir.
Location: Katra, Jammu and Kashmir
Things to Do:
- Trek to the temple, located at an altitude of 5,200 feet.
- Offer prayers and seek blessings from the Goddess.
- Explore Bhairavnath Temple, located nearby.
Travel Tips:
- Trekking: Ponies, palanquins, and helicopter services are available for the trek.
- Accommodation: Various lodging options are available in Katra.
How to Reach:
The Vaishno Devi Temple is located in Jammu. The nearest railway station to the temple is Katra Railway Station, which is located approximately 3 km away. One can also take a flight to Jammu Airport, which is approximately 50 km away from the temple, and then take a taxi or bus to reach the temple.
9. Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi
Kashi Vishwanath Temple is included in the rich temples of India as well as a prestigious temple where devotees from all over the world reach to visit. The world is popular, it is believed that more than 30 lakh Indians and more than 2 lakh foreign tourists reach here every year to visit.
There are a total of 3 beautiful domes in this temple, out of which two are covered with a layer of gold. This temple receives Rs 4-5 crore as an annual donation.
Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Things to Do:
- Offer prayers to the Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva.
- Take a dip in the holy Ganges River.
- Attend the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Travel Tips:
- Timings: Open from early morning until late night.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
How to Reach:
Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi: The nearest railway station to Kashi Vishwanath Temple is Varanasi Junction, which is approximately 5 km away. Visitors can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or cycle-rickshaw to reach the temple.
10. Jagannath Temple, Puri
Jagannath Temple is a prosperous temple present in India, which has been recorded in the list of rich temples of India. It is a major pilgrimage site in India. According to a 2010 report, more than 150 crore rupees are deposited in the bank of Jagannath Temple.
A large number of donations are made by the devotees, due to which the income of the temple complex increases. Before some time, 1.72 crore rupees were also donated to this Jagannath Temple by a European devotee and it is a big amount donated by a foreigner.
Location: Puri, Odisha
Things to Do:
- Participate in the daily rituals and seek blessings from Lord Jagannath.
- Visit during the Rath Yatra festival to witness the grand chariot procession.
- Explore the nearby Puri Beach and Konark Sun Temple.
Travel Tips:
- Timings: Open from early morning until night.
- Dress Code: Modest attire is required.
How to Reach:
Jagannath Temple, Puri: The nearest railway station to Jagannath Temple is Puri Railway Station, which is approximately 2 km away. Visitors can take a taxi or cycle rickshaw to reach the temple.
Conclusion
These are the most famous and richest temples in India. If you want to go then you can choose any place to visit on your next trip. All temples trust sometimes hide their actual revenue and profit so the data shown here are based on reports.
Check out the information below as well.
- Popular Shiva Temples of Uttarakhand
- Temples You Must Visit in Thrissur
- Most Popular Temples in Malappuram
- Temples and Monasteries in Himachal Pradesh
- A Travel Guide To Golden Temple, Amritsar
- Meenakshi Temple, Madurai Complete Travel Guide
- A Detailed Guide to the Sri Jagannath Temple, Puri
- Read More Information on Matrimandir Auroville Pondicherry
- Most Interesting Facts About Somnath Temple You Should Know
- Karni Mata Temple, Bikaner: Things To Do, Timings, How To Reach & Activities
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which is the richest temple in India?
The Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Kerala is considered the richest temple in India.
2. What is the estimated worth of Padmanabhaswamy Temple?
The Padmanabhaswamy Temple’s estimated worth is over $20 billion, including its gold, jewels, and antiques.
3. Which temple has the highest income in India?
The Tirumala Tirupati Venkateswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh has the highest annual income, earning over ₹3,000 crores.
4. What is the most donated temple in India?
The Tirumala Tirupati Venkateswara Temple receives the highest donations in India.
5. Which temple is the richest in terms of donations received?
The Tirumala Tirupati Venkateswara Temple is the richest in terms of donations received.
6. Which temple has the highest revenue collection in India?
The Tirumala Tirupati Venkateswara Temple has the highest revenue collection in India.
7. What is the net worth of Padmanabhaswamy Temple?
The net worth of Padmanabhaswamy Temple is estimated to be over $20 billion.
8. Which temple is considered the most powerful in India?
The Tirumala Tirupati Venkateswara Temple is often considered one of the most powerful temples in India.
9. Which is the richest temple in the world?
The Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Kerala is considered the richest temple in the world.
10. Which temple has the highest collection of money in India?
The Tirumala Tirupati Venkateswara Temple has the highest collection of money in India.
11. What are the top 5 richest temples in India?
The top 5 richest temples in India are Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Tirumala Tirupati Venkateswara Temple, Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, Siddhivinayak Temple, and Vaishno Devi Temple.
12. Which is the second richest temple in the world?
The Tirumala Tirupati Venkateswara Temple is considered the second richest temple in the world.
13. What is the estimated annual income of Tirumala Tirupati Venkateswara Temple?
The estimated annual income of Tirumala Tirupati Venkateswara Temple is over ₹3,000 crores.
14. Which temple in Tamil Nadu is the richest?
The Meenakshi Temple in Madurai is among the richest temples in Tamil Nadu.
