India, the land of spirituality and faith, is home to thousands of temples. From ancient rock-cut shrines to grand architectural marvels, each temple carries deep religious significance and cultural heritage. If you’re planning a spiritual journey, these are the Top 10 Famous Temples in India you should not miss.
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple – Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
One of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, this temple sits on the western bank of the holy Ganga River. It’s considered the holiest temple in Hinduism.
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Specialty: Spiritual capital of India
- Tip: Visit during Ganga Aarti in the evening
2. Vaishno Devi Temple – Katra, Jammu & Kashmir
Situated at 5,200 ft above sea level in Trikuta hills, this temple attracts millions of pilgrims every year.
- Deity: Mata Vaishno Devi
- Specialty: 13 km uphill trek
- Best Time to Visit: March to October
3. Tirupati Balaji Temple – Andhra Pradesh
Also known as Sri Venkateswara Temple, this is one of the richest and most visited temples in the world.
- Deity: Lord Venkateswara (Balaji)
- Highlight: Daily footfall of over 50,000 devotees
- Tip: Book darshan slots online in advance
4. Somnath Temple – Gujarat
The first among the 12 Jyotirlingas, this temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times in history.
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Significance: Rebirth of faith over centuries
- Best Time: November to February
5. Golden Temple – Amritsar, Punjab
Known as Harmandir Sahib, it is the holiest site for Sikhs and a symbol of equality, peace, and harmony.
- Deity: Guru Granth Sahib (Holy Scripture)
- Highlight: The temple is surrounded by a holy lake
- Must Experience: Langar (free meal served to all)
6. Meenakshi Amman Temple – Madurai, Tamil Nadu
A Dravidian architectural wonder, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar.
- Deity: Goddess Meenakshi (Parvati)
- Specialty: 14 gopurams, 33,000 sculptures
- Festival: Meenakshi Thirukalyanam (April)
7. Jagannath Temple – Puri, Odisha
Part of the Char Dham Yatra, this temple is known for the famous Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival).
- Deity: Lord Jagannath
- Highlight: Mysterious flag that always flutters in the opposite direction of the wind
- Note: Non-Hindus not allowed inside sanctum
8. Kedarnath Temple – Uttarakhand
One of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in the Himalayas and part of the Chota Char Dham circuit.
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Specialty: Located at 11,755 feet
- Open Season: April to November only
9. Ramanathaswamy Temple – Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu
Linked with the Ramayana, this temple has the longest temple corridor in India.
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Importance: Part of the Char Dham Yatra
- Must-Do: Holy bath in 22 sacred wells inside the temple
10. Akshardham Temple – Delhi
A modern marvel known for its breathtaking architecture and peaceful ambiance.
- Deity: Swaminarayan
- Specialty: Boat ride, exhibitions, and musical fountain
- Tip: Mobile phones not allowed inside
Bonus Temples to Explore:
- Mahakaleshwar (Ujjain)
- Sabarimala (Kerala)
- Kamakhya Temple (Assam)
- Dakshineswar Kali Temple (Kolkata)
- Shirdi Sai Baba Temple (Maharashtra)
Final Thoughts
Whether you seek spiritual peace, architectural beauty, or cultural richness, these temples of India offer all. Each temple tells its own story, echoing centuries of devotion and heritage.
Planning to visit one? Use Fiyoma.in to find the nearest temple, check details, and learn rituals. Your spiritual journey starts here.