Hinduism is one of the oldest religions in the world; it is also one of the most followed as well. However, it is often mistaken that Hindu temples are only found in India – that is not the case at all. Here, we have tried to list 30 of the most popular Hindu temples around the world. Note that there is no set order to this list, and these are our opinions on the most popular Hindu temples. So, without more waiting, let’s get onto it.
Most Popular Hindu Temples in the World
Angkor Wat, Cambodia
While India is the country of temples, the first entry on this list takes us to the beautiful land of Cambodia. Angkor Wat, constructed under the rule of King Suryavarman II of the Khmer Empire, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple, spanning an area of 400 acres, is not just one of the largest religious monuments in the world, but it is also an architectural masterpiece.
Another interesting fact about Angkor Wat is that it is also included on Cambodia’s national flag. Talk about the impact of a monument.
- Main Deity: Lord Vishnu
- Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia
- Timing: 5 AM to 6 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Siem Reap International Airport.
- By Train: Not directly accessible by train.
- By Land: Taxis or tuk-tuks from Siem Reap city.
Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, India
The second temple on this, and the first from the home nation, is the world-famous Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam, Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, one of the many forms of Lord Vishnu, this iconic temple is distinguished by its massive complex and towering Gopurams.
This temple is a classic example of Dravidian architecture and is famed for its intricately carved pillar gateways. In total, the complex has 81 shrines, 21 towers, 39 pavilions, and numerous water tanks. Another noteworthy fact is that this temple holds an annual 21-day festival of Vaikunta Ekadasi – an occasion where millions of devotees converge.
- Main Deity: Lord Ranganatha
- Location: Srirangam, Tamil Nadu, India
- Timing: 6 AM to 9 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (15 km away)
- By Train: Srirangam Railway Station
- By Land: Bus or taxi from Tiruchirappalli
Akshardham Temple, India
Akshardham is one of the newest entries on this list. Located in the national capital of India, the Akshardham Temple is a modern marvel of Indian culture and spirituality. The temple is constructed by the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha and showcases millennia of traditional Hindu and Indian culture through intricately carved walls.
The temple also features a stunning central monument made with Rajasthani pink sandstone and Carrara marble, which attracts devotees and tourists alike.
- Main Deity: Lord Swaminarayan
- Location: Delhi
- Timing: 9.30 AM to 6.30 PM
How to Reach
- By Air: Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport
- By Train: New Delhi Railway Station
- By Land: Metro (Akshardham station on the Blue Line)
Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, India
Tirumala Venkateswara Temple is another major Hindu pilgrimage located on the Indian continent. The temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara, a form of Lord Vishnu & attracts over 50 million devotees annually. This makes it one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in the world.
To reach the main temple complex, devotees need to ascend 3,600 steps – a journey that is infused with spiritual energy and breathtaking views from the seven hills surrounding the temple complex. The temple is also a hub for cultural & social activities.
- Main Deity: Lord Vishnu
- Location: Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh
- Timing: 7.30 AM to 7 PM; 8 PM to 1.30 AM
How to Reach
- By Air: Tirupati Airport (40 km away)
- By Train: Tirupati Railway Station
- By Land: Bus or taxi from Tirupati
Suggested Tour: Tirupati Pilgrimage Tour Packages
Meenakshi Amman Temple, India
Who has not heard of the Meenakshi Amman Temple? Located in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, this temple is a symbol of Tamilian architectural genius and devotion. The temple dates back to the 6th century; however, it was later expanded by the Nayakas.
The temple has 14 Gopurams (clearly indicating the Dravidian influence), each intricately carved and vividly painted with various deities, mythological figures, and stories. The temple premises also have sacred ponds and shrines.
- Main Deity: Meenakshi (Parvati) and Sundareshwar (Shiva)
- Location: Madurai, Tamil Nadu
- Timing: 4 AM to 10 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Madurai Airport
- By Train: Madurai Junction
- By Land: Bus or taxi from within Madurai
Virupaksha Temple, India
The Virupaksha Temple is located in the ancient temple of Hampi, Karnataka. Not only does this great monument showcase the people’s dedication and love to Lord Shiva, but it is also a significant remnant of the once-glorious Vijayanagara Empire. So, it should not surprise readers that this temple attracts both devotees and history enthusiasts alike.
The temple has remained an active place of worship since the 7th century CE. The temple’s annual festivals, especially the chariot festival, draw crowds from all over, keeping the tradition of the Vijayanagara period alive.
- Main Deity: Lord Virupaksha (Shiva)
- Location: Hampi, Karnataka
- Timing: 9 AM to 1 PM and 5 PM to 9 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Hubli Airport (about 143 km away)
- By Train: Hospet Junction (13 km away)
- By Land: Bus or taxi from Hospet
Brihadeeswarar Temple, India
Brihadeeswarar Temple is located on the banks of the Kaveri River in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. The temple was built by the Rajaraja Chola I in 1010 CE and is also known as the Big Temple – because of its sheer size. The temple complex covers an area of around 25 acres, with the central temple tower standing at about 216 feet.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in his Brihadeeswarar form and has a Nandi statue at its entrance, carved from a single rock. The temple is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Main Deity: Lord Brihadeeswarar (Shiva)
- Location: Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
- Timing: 6 AM to 12:30 PM and 4 PM to 8:30 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (about 60 km away)
- By Train: Thanjavur Junction
- By Land: Bus or taxi from Thanjavur
Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal
We have the first entry from the beautiful mountain country of Nepal in the form of the Pashupatinath Temple. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is situated on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu. It is also one of the oldest temples on this list, with its existence dating back to 400 CE.
The temple’s complex covers an area of 600 acres and is an excellent example of pagoda-style architecture. The temple is also a renowned cremation site, where the last Hindu rites are performed along the river banks.
- Main Deity: Lord Pashupatinath (Shiva)
- Location: Kathmandu, Nepal
- Timing: 4 AM to 9 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
- By Train: Not directly accessible by train.
- By Land: Taxi or bus from Kathmandu city center.
Suggested Tour: Pashupatinath Temple Tour Package
Tanah Lot Temple, Bali
Tanah Lot is one of the most iconic and picturesque temples on this list. The temple is located in Bali, perched atop a large rock formation, and is surrounded by the sea – a perfect place for worshiping the sea spirits. The temple also attracts devotees and tourists alike due to its significance in Bali’s culture.
The temple is associated with the legendary priest Nirartha & is a sacred site for Balinese Hindus. It symbolizes the balance between the natural and spiritual worlds.
- Main Deity: Sea Spirits
- Location: Bali, Indonesia
- Timing: 7 AM to 7 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali
- By Train: Not available in Bali
- By Land: Taxi or bus from Denpasar or other parts of Bali
Prambanan Temple, Indonesia
Prambanan Temple or Prambanan Trimurti Temple is a 9th-century Hindu temple located in Central Java, Indonesia. As evident by the name (or should we say the addition of Trimurti), the temple is dedicated to the three great Gods of Hinduism, Brahma, Vishnu & Mahesh.
Prambanan Temple compounds hold over 240 temple structures, one of the largest compounds for any religious monuments in the world. With tall and pointed architecture and featuring intricate carvings and bas-reliefs narrating the Hindu epics, this temple is a must-visit. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Main Deity: Shiva, Vishnu, Brahma
- Location: Central Java, Indonesia
- Timing: 6 AM to 5 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Yogyakarta International Airport
- By Train: Yogyakarta Station
- By Land: Bus or taxi from Yogyakarta
Badrinath Temple, India
Next on this list is the Badrinath temple, one of the most iconic and visited temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu anywhere on this earth. The temple is nestled amidst the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, which is why entry to its complex is only limited to a few months every year.
The current temple was constructed by Adi Shankara in the 8th century and reflects the typical Garhwali architectural style. Travelers can also bathe in the holy Tapt Kund, located nearby, a natural spring known for its therapeutic properties.
Suggested To Read: Famous Hindu Temples to Visit in Uttarakhand
- Main Deity: Badrinath (Vishnu)
- Location: Badrinath, Uttarakhand
- Timing: 4:30 AM to 9 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station
- By Land: Bus or taxi from Rishikesh or Haridwar
Suggested Tour: Badrinath Dham Tour Packages
Kedarnath Temple, India
If we are talking about Badrinath, we must also mention Kedarnath temple as well. Both Badrinath & Kedarnath temples are part of the Chota Chardham Yatra.
Kedarnath temple is located at an altitude of over 3,583 m, one of the highest for any religious site. Constructed thousands of years ago by the Pandavas brothers, the temple has a unique architectural style – it uses large, evenly cut gray slabs of stones. Note that just like Badrinath temple, entry to this temple is limited for a few months.
- Main Deity: Kedarnath (Shiva)
- Location: Kedarnath, Uttarakhand
- Timing: 4 AM to 9 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station
- By Land: Trek or pony ride from Gaurikund
Suggested Tour: Kedarnath Dham Tour Packages
Jagannath Temple, India
The Jagannath Puri temple is one of the most iconic temples on this list. Part of the holiest Hindu Char Dham Yatra, this temple welcomes millions of devotees year-round. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is present here in the form of Lord Jagannath.
The temple is renowned for its unique idols for the deities Jagannath, Balabhadra & Subhadra – all made of wood. These idols are replaced every twelve or nineteen years per tradition. The annual Rath Yatra also attracts millions of travelers.
- Main Deity: Lord Jagannath (Vishnu)
- Location: Puri, Odisha
- Timing: 5 AM to 11 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar
- By Train: Puri Railway Station
- By Land: Bus or taxi from Bhubaneswar
Suggested Tour: Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra Package
Somnath Temple, India
The Somnath temple is another hugely popular temple on this list located on the Indian continent. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has been destroyed and rebuilt 16 times throughout its history. The current Somnath temple was built in the Chalukya period and features carvings and a shimmering Shikhara. The temple is a revered pilgrimage site, as this is the exact place where Lord Shiva appeared as a fiery column of light.
- Main Deity: Lord Somnath (Shiva)
- Location: Somnath, Gujarat
- Timing: 6 AM to 9 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Diu Airport (about 63 km away)
- By Train: Veraval Railway Station
- By Land: Bus or taxi from Veraval
Suggested Tour: Somnath Tour Packages
Kashi Vishwanath Temple, India
Varanasi is one of the ancient cities on the banks of the holy river Ganga, and on the same banks, we can find the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It is one of the most sacred temples on this list and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple complex consists of a series of smaller shrines and is a central part of Hindu mythology. After all, Kashi is the city of Lord Shiva.
- Main Deity: Lord Vishwanath (Shiva)
- Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
- Timing: 3 AM to 11 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi
- By Train: Varanasi Junction
- By Land: Bus or taxi within Varanasi
Suggested Tour: Varanasi Temple Tour Package
Siddhivinayak Temple, India
Next, we have the Siddhivinayak temple, situated in the financial capital of India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Lord Ganesha is the remover of obstacles and financial prosperity, and hence, attracts millions of devotees every year, seeking prosperity & blessings. The idol of Lord Ganesha is carved out of a single black stone and is adorned with gold and jewels offered by his devotees.
You must look out for traditional rituals at this temple. Also, Modak is the offering that you should go with at the Siddhivinayak temple, as they are a favorite of Lord Ganesha.
- Main Deity: Lord Siddhivinayak (Ganesha)
- Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra
- Timing: 5:30 AM to 10 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai
- By Train: Dadar Railway Station
- By Land: Bus or taxi within Mumbai
Batu Caves, Malaysia
Batu Caves, located just outside Kuala Lumpur, is world famous, both as a tourist destination and a pilgrimage site. The Batu Caves are basically a limestone hill that has a series of caves and cave temples. Dedicated to Lord Murugan, it is one of the most popular Hindu shrines outside India.
The temple also hosts vibrant Hindu festivals every year that transform this place into a kaleidoscope of music, dance, and devotion – certainly something you would not want to miss out on!
- Main Deity: Lord Murugan
- Location: Selangor, Malaysia
- Timing: 6 AM to 9 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Kuala Lumpur International Airport
- By Train: KTM Komuter train to Batu Caves station
- By Land: Bus or taxi from Kuala Lumpur
ISKCON Temple, various locations
There is not just one ISKCON temple that we can recommend, as there are many excellent options that will take completely over this list. ISKCON Temples, founded by Srila Prabhupada, can be found around the globe. The temples are dedicated to Lord Krishna and spread the message of Bhakti Yoga through chanting, kirtan, and community service.
- Main Deity: Lord Krishna
- Location: Various locations globally
- Timing: Varies by location
- How to Reach: Depends on the specific temple location
Golden Temple, Vellore, India
The Golden Temple in Amritsar is quite famous, but we have another Golden Temple in the Hindu religion, located in Vellore, Tamil Nadu. Adorned in shimmering gold and surrounded by green hills, the temple is a breathtaking site – even from a distance. The temple is dedicated to Devi Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu and houses intricately carved Gopurams and a magnificent Vimana covered in 1500 kg of gold. No one should be surprised to find the Golden Temple of Vellore on this list.
- Main Deity: Devi Lakshmi
- Location: Vellore, Tamil Nadu
- Timing: 8 AM to 8 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Chennai International Airport
- By Train: Katpadi Junction, Vellore
- By Land: Bus or taxi from Vellore
Muktinath Temple, Nepal
Another entry on this list from the mountain country of Nepal is the breathtaking Muktinath Temple. Situated at a height of 3,800 meters, this temple is a sacred sanctuary for Hindus and Buddhists alike.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Mukti-Nath form. The temple also houses an eternal flame and 108 water sprouts on its premises. The temple is visited year-round by devotees and by folks who are looking for liberation or Moksha.
- Main Deity: Lord Vishnu
- Location: Mustang, Nepal
- Timing: 6 AM to 6 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Jomsom Airport, then a trek
- By Land: Bus or jeep from Pokhara or Jomsom
Suggested Tour: Muktinath Yatra Tour Packages
Thillai Nataraja Temple, India
Thillai Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in this Nataraja form – it is unique in that way. Natarajan is a form of Lord Shiva, of the cosmic dance of creation and destruction that happens at every beginning and the end. And the Thillai Nataraja temple worships this aspect of Lord Shiva.
The temple is also uniquely created; the reflection of the ancient Dravidian architecture is clearly present. The temple is also one-of-a-kind because of the Chidambara Rahasyam, which represents the concept of emptiness of Akasha.
- Main Deity: Nataraja (Shiva)
- Location: Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu
- Timing: 6 AM to 12 PM and 5 PM to 10 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Tiruchirappalli International Airport
- By Train: Chidambaram Railway Station
- By Land: Bus or taxi from within Tamil Nadu
Khajuraho Temples, India
The ancient caves of Khajuraho do not need any kind of introduction to anyone. One of the most popular sites in the Indian peninsula, it also houses the iconic Khajuraho temples – a collection of both Hindu and Jain temples, showcasing the close link both of these religions have.
The Khajuraho temples are renowned for their sensuality and artistic finesses – the intricate carvings on the walls of Khajuraho are world-famous, after all. You must visit this place, whether as a devotee or a traveler.
- Main Deity: Various deities
- Location: Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
- Timing: 6 AM to 6 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Khajuraho Airport
- By Train: Khajuraho Railway Station
- By Land: Bus or taxi from nearby cities
Laxminarayan Temple, India
The busy streets of Delhi have a modern oasis of peace and devotion nestled in between. The Laxminarayan temple, located in the national capital, is dedicated to Laxminarayan, both Devi Laxmi and Lord Vishnu. Also known as the Birla Mandir, the temple has taken inspiration from both Orissan & Mughal architecture.
The temple is a hub for many cultural and religious activities and is surrounded by well-maintained gardens that are famous as picnic spots for families with young children.
- Main Deity: Lord Laxminarayan (Vishnu)
- Location: Delhi
- Timing: 4:30 AM to 1:30 PM and 2:30 PM to 9 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi
- By Train: New Delhi Railway Station
- By Land: Bus or metro within Delhi
Rameswaram Temple, India
At the southern tip of India, we have the Rameshwaram Temple. Situated on the Pamban Island, this temple is a significant part of Hindu mythology. It is this place where Lord Rama prayed & apologized to Lord Shiva for the killing of Ravana, who was the disciple and had the favor of Lord Shiva.
The temple is also known for its architectural magnificence as it has the longest corridor in the world and striking pillared halls that will grab your attention for hours. The temple also has the sacred 22 Theerthams.
- Main Deity: Lord Ramanathaswamy (Shiva)
- Location: Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu
- Timing: 5 AM to 1 PM and 3 PM to 9 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Madurai Airport (about 175 km away)
- By Train: Rameswaram Railway Station
- By Land: Bus or taxi from within Tamil Nadu
Also Read: Popular Hindu Temples in South India
Dwarkadhish Temple, India
Dwarka is the city that was built by Lord Krishna himself. The Dwarkadhish temple was constructed by Lord Krishna’s grandson, Vajranabha, over Lord Krishna’s residential place.
The temple welcomes devotees all year round and houses a 15-foot-tall idol of Lord Krishna, bathing in golden lights. The temple’s complex also has several shrines and halls, each adorned with intricate carvings and paintings of Lord Krishna and numerous other Hindu gods.
- Main Deity: Dwarkadhish (Krishna)
- Location: Dwarka, Gujarat
- Timing: 6:30 AM to 1 PM and 5 PM to 9:30 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Jamnagar Airport (about 126 km away)
- By Train: Dwarka Railway Station
- By Land: Bus or taxi from within Gujarat
Suggested Tour: Dwarka Tour Packages
Guruvayur Temple, India
The Guruvayur temple is located in the heart of Kerala & is dedicated to Lord Krishna in his Guruvayurappan. The temple is also part of the 108 Divya Desams, the holy abodes of Lord Vishnu.
The temple’s complex is unique in its design and is home to a number of shrines, including the sanctum sanctorum – the place where the 12-foot-tall idol of Lord Krishna is enshrined. The temple welcomes pilgrims from all over the world, seeking blessings and fulfillment of their wishes.
- Main Deity: Lord Guruvayurappan (Krishna)
- Location: Guruvayur, Kerala
- Timing: 3 AM to 9:30 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Cochin International Airport (about 87 km away)
- By Train: Guruvayur Railway Station
- By Land: Bus or taxi from within Kerala
Konark Sun Temple, India
The Konark Sun Temple is another temple on this list that needs no introduction whatsoever. Located in the heart of what was once the Kalinga Empire, the Konark Sun Temple is dedicated to Sun God Surya. The temple is known for its unique chariot-shaped design, representing the sun’s journey across the sky.
The walls of the temples are filled with intricate carvings that depict scenes from Hindu mythology and the lives of royal patrons. This temple is an architectural brilliance and is also a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.
- Main Deity: Surya Deva (Sun God)
- Location: Konark, Odisha
- Timing: 6 AM to 8 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar
- By Train: Puri Railway Station (about 35 km away)
- By Land: Bus or taxi from Puri or Bhubaneswar
Suggested Tour: Konark Sun Temple Tour
Neasden Temple, United Kingdom
Hinduism is present around the world. So, it should not surprise anyone that we have an entry from the UK on this list.
The Neasden temple, located in London, also known as the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, is quite similar in design to the Brihadeeswarar temple in Thanjavur. The walls of the temples are beautifully carved with the stories of Hindu mythology.
The Neasden Temple is more than just a place of worship; it is a center of community service and cultural activities.
- Main Deity: Lord Swaminarayan
- Location: London, United Kingdom
- Timing: 9 AM to 6 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Heathrow Airport, London
- By Train: Neasden or Stonebridge Park stations
- By Land: Bus or taxi in London
Mata Vaishno Devi Temple, India
It is highly unlikely that readers of this post have not heard of Mata Vaishno Devi in the Katra region; it is, after all, one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in India. The temple is a sacred destination for Hindus from all over the world. The journey to the temple requires a trek of around 11 km, a steep climb of 13,000 steps. This temple, dedicated to Vaishno Devi, is a beacon of faith for millions of devotees.
- Main Deity: Vaishno Devi
- Location: Katra, Jammu and Kashmir
- Timing: Open 24 hours
How to Reach:
- By Air: Jammu Airport
- By Train: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station
- By Land: Trek from Katra
Suggested Tour: Mata Vaishno Devi Tour Packages
Tirta Empul Temple, Indonesia
The final entry on this list is the Tirta Empul Temple, located in Bali. This is a sacred spring temple that is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
The temple is renowned for its sacred healing spring. Pilgrims from all over Bali and the rest of Indonesia come to bathe in this sacred spring and seek blessing. If you ever want to see a beautiful blend of Balinese architecture, spirituality, and natural beauty, this is the place for you to be.
- Main Deity: Lord Vishnu
- Location: Bali, Indonesia
- Timing: 9 AM to 5 PM
How to Reach:
- By Air: Ngurah Rai International Airport, Bali
- By Land: Taxi or bus from central Bali
Conclusion
Those are the 30 most popular Hindu temples. As one can see, they are present all over the world, though this can make traveling to them a challenge. To fully experience their grandeur and cultural richness, consider hiring a trip planner for a seamless travel experience.
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