5 Most Beautiful Temples to Visit in India

family india temples tourism 14th Aug 2018

A temple, as we all know is a Hindu place of worship where Idols of Hindu deities are kept and worshipped by offering prayers and performing daily rituals. It is still unknown as to when exactly the Indo-Aryans first started building temples. With time, the number and significance of temples increased manifolds. Let’s have a look at some of the most beautiful temples built in India.

1. Akshardham Temple, New Delhi.

Akshardham temple is also referred to as Swaminarayan temple. The complex displays traditional Hindu and Indian culture, spirituality and boasts of magnificent architecture. The artistic display of history, art and culture is worth witnessing with one’s own eyes. It is grand temple complex visited by hundreds of people every day.

Best time to visit:
One might want to visit this temple during weekdays as during weekends there is heavy rush seen.

Things to do:

  • Water show
  • Theme garden
  • Hall of values
  • The IMAX film of Swaminarayan’s house

How to reach:
Akshardham is 10 kilometers far from Delhi railway station, the most convenient way to commute by the metro train or by driving your car. You can also take a cab.

Popular Hotels:
If one is looking for a cheap hotel close to Akshardham then you can stay in Joey’s Hostel, a favourite among the pilgrims. Some of the featured hotels nearby to the temple are Eleven, Ranjan’s Home which is a vacation home and there are many other bed and breakfast options around the place one can opt for.

2. Golden Temple, Amritsar.

The Golden Temple in Amritsar is the holiest place of worship of Sikhs. It is also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib meaning “abode of God” or Darbar Sahib that means “exalted holy court”. It has a man-made sarovar and its exterior is made of gold. Here lakhs of people visit every day and free food or langar is also served to them free of cost.

Best time to visit:
Anytime is a good time to visit this holy place, though November to March is the best time to visit Amritsar when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing as well.

Things to do:

How to reach:
The Amritsar Railway Station connects the city to almost all major Indian cities. Amritsar is located on the National Highway 1, is well connected by road also. Sri Guru Ram Das Jee International Airport of Amritsar is 13 km from the temple.

Popular Hotels:
There are many budget hotels around the Golden temple. To name a few we have , Hotel Heritage Inn, Hotel Alpha Inn, Hotel CJ international which suit one’s pocket quite well. They also have excellent feedback from the guests who have stayed there.

3. Meenakshi Amman Temple

Meenakshi temple is situated in the southern bank of the Vaigai River in the city of Madurai. It is one of the oldest and most important temples for Hindus. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvati and God Shiva. It has both religious and historical significance. There are 12 Gopurams or temple gate towers. The temple is the main monument of 2,500-year-old city of Madurai. It was originally constructed in the 6th century BC by descendents of the Kumari Kandam. Visitors need to follow specific procedure for worshipping.

Best time to visit:
To enjoy the beauty of the place, one should visit the temple early in the morning. Avoid visiting the temple during festivals as it is very crowded. Winter is the best season to visit the temple.

Things to do:

  • Visit the Golden Lotus Pond
  • Walk in the long corridors inside the temple
  • Visit the Temple Museum
  • Explore the Thousand Pillar Hall

How to reach:
Madurai Junction is the closest railway station and Madurai Airport being the nearest airport. There are regular buses from other major cities of the country to Madurai.

Popular Hotels:
You can find budget hotels like Hotel Nambi and Treebo Simap Residency which is in the temple’s vicinity. Other options include Hotel Royal Court, Madurai Residency, Heritage Madurai that is an eco-friendly resort with temple style pool. So, experience spirituality and leisure both while staying here!

4. Virupaksha Temple, Karnataka

Virupaksha temple is a part of the Group Monuments at Hampi and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the most important temples of India built in the AD. We can see a classic scene of Mahabharata portrayed here. The Virupaksha Temple is located 350 km from Bangalore. It is a World Heritage Site of UNESCO and was built under King Deva Raya II. It is visited by devotees in large numbers especially in the month of December. The annual chariot festival is held in the month of February.

Best time to Visit:
Between June and September; the climate is extremely favourable for city tours.

Things to do:

  • Hampi Foot Print (Group of Monuments)
  • Hemakuta Hill temple Complex
  • Stone Doors
  • Monolithic Bull

How to reach:
The closest Airport is Bellary, from where you can take a taxi to reach the temple. Tourist can take a bus from Hospet to reach Hampi and drive further. Trains are available from most of the cities to Hospet.

Popular Hotels:
There are many homestays around the temple and small guest houses in the bazaar. Some of them are Lakshmi Heritage Tourist Home, Rocky Guest House, Thilak Home Stay. Padma Guest House gives a beautiful view of the temple from some of the down to earth rooms.

5. Khajuraho Temples

Of the 85 temples that were constructed by the Chandela dynasty between 900 AD and 1130 AD, only 25 are there today. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and visited by tourists in large numbers. The striking erotic images and carvings, both inside and outside the temple, depict lovemaking scenes. They were built using sandstone and granite, which gives a unique look to the entire temple. The temples are known for their nagara-style architectural symbolism.

Best time to Visit:
Weather between October and March turns to be quite enjoyable and relaxed for city tours.

Things to do:

  • Explore the Kandariya Mahadeva temple
  • Take a look at the erotic wall carvings and sculptures
  • Explore the art and culture of Khajuraho
  • Walk Around the Ancient Cave temples

How to reach:
Nizamuddin Express connects well to Khajuraho. Khajuraho Airport is the nearest airport. Roads that reach Khajuraho are well-constructed and well-connected.

Popular Hotels:
The Lalit Temple View Khajuraho is located at a sophisticated venue, other options are Hotel Khajuraho Temple View. Hotel Clarks Khajuraho and Hotel Harmony can be categorized as budget and comfortable Hotels.

There are ample of Heritage Temples across India, which one can visit to experience the true flavour of Indian history, art and culture. Temple in each region has its own unique looks describing the significance and authenticity of the place.

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