Discover the top 10 ancient and famous temples in India grouped by region. Learn their history, architecture, timings, entry fees, unique facts, and travel tips in simple English for all readers.
India is known as the Land of Temples, where spirituality and history live together. Every temple has a story, a special energy, and architecture that shows the brilliance of ancient India. In this guide, we explore 10 Famous Temples in India You Must Visit Before You Die—a well-researched, easy to understand blog that can be perfect for new travelers, and devotees.
Let’s begin your divine journey!
Why People Love Visiting Famous Temples in India
People visit temples not only for blessings but also for peace, culture, architecture, and connection to India’s long history. With thousands of sacred sites, these famous temples in India attract millions of visitors every year.
Now we will group all of this ancient temple by region: North, South, East, and West India, and cover:
North India – Land of Legends and Himalayan Blessings
1. Kedarnath Temple, Uttarakhand
Why This Temple Is Famous
Kedarnath is one of the holiest Shiva temples and an important part of the Char Dham. It stands high in the Himalayas, giving a magical spiritual experience.
Architecture
Made with huge stone blocks
More than 1,000 years old
Built in classic Himalayan stone architecture
Survived several natural disasters
Logistics
- Location: Kedarnath, Uttarakhand
- Timing: 6 AM–3 PM, 5 PM–9 PM (only open for 6 months)
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: May to June, September to October
Unique Fact
During winter, the idol is moved to Ukhimath because of heavy snowfall.
2. Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), Punjab
Why This Temple Is Famous
The Golden Temple is known worldwide for its golden beauty, Langar (free food for all), and peaceful atmosphere.
Architecture
Entire upper floor covered with real gold
Surrounded by holy water known as the Amrit Sarovar
A mix of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles
Logistics
- Location: Amritsar, Punjab
- Timing: 24 hours open
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: October–March
Unique Fact of this temple
Over 1 lakh people eat at the Langar every day—free of cost.
South India – Home to Grand Architecture & Powerful Deities
3. Meenakshi Amman Temple, Tamil Nadu
Why This Temple Is Famous
It is one of the most beautiful and colorful temples in India, dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareshwar.
Architecture
14 tall gopurams (tower gates)
More than 33,000 colorful sculptures
12–13th-century Dravidian style
Logistics
- Location: Madurai, Tamil Nadu
- Timing: 5 AM–12:30 PM, 4 PM–10 PM
- Entry Fee: Free (camera charges apply)
- Best Time: December–February
Exceptional Fact
The temple is considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World (unofficial).
4. Tirupati Balaji Temple (Venkateswara Temple), Andhra Pradesh
Why This Temple Is Famous
It is the most visited temple in India and one of the richest temples in the world.
Architecture
Traditional Dravidian style
Golden dome on top
Ancient idols made with special shila (stone)
Logistics
- Location: Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh
- Timing: 2 AM–11 PM
- Entry Fee: Free/₹300 Special Darshan
- Best Time: September–February
Rare Fact
Devotees offer their hair as a symbol of devotion; the temple earns crores from selling the hair.
5. Virupaksha Temple, Karnataka
This Temple Is Famous For
Located in Hampi, a UNESCO site, it is one of the oldest living temples in India.
Architecture
49m tall gopuram
Intricate carvings
Elephant blessing tradition
Logistics
- Location: Hampi, Karnataka
- Timing: 6 AM–12:30 PM, 5 PM–9 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹10
- Best Time: October–February
Unique Fact
This temple has been continuously active since the 7th century.
East India – Spirituality from the Land of Rivers & Shakti
6. Jagannath Temple, Odisha
Why This Temple Is Famous
Known for the Rath Yatra, one of the biggest festivals in the world.
Architecture
Classic Kalinga style
Large dome visible from far away
Massive stone wheels and carvings
Logistics
- Location: Puri, Odisha
- Timing: 5:30 AM–10 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: November–February
Unique Fact
No birds fly above the temple, and the temple shadow never falls on the ground.
7. Kamakhya Temple, Assam
Why This Temple Is Famous
One of the oldest and most powerful Shakti Peethas, dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya.
Architecture
Dome structure with layered elements
Nilachal hill location
Blend of Hindu and Tantric architecture
Logistics
- Location: Guwahati, Assam
- Timing: 8 AM–1 PM, 2:30 PM–5:30 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: October–March
Unique Fact
The temple closes for 3 days every year during Ambubachi Mela, symbolizing the Goddess’ yearly cycle.
West India – Where History Meets Divine Majesty
8. Somnath Temple, Gujarat
Why This Temple Is Famous
It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and has been rebuilt several times after invasions.
Architecture
Chalukya style
Facing the Arabian Sea
Built with golden-colored sandstone
Logistics
- Location: Veraval, Gujarat
- Timing: 6 AM–10 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: November–February
Exceptional Fact
An arrow pillar marks that no land exists between Somnath and Antarctica in a straight line.
9. Siddhivinayak Temple, Maharashtra
This Temple Is Famous For
Mumbai’s most famous Ganesh temple visited by Bollywood actors and top politicians.
Architecture
Gold-plated inner sanctum
Dome with carved Ganesha images
Marble flooring
Logistics
- Location: Mumbai
- Timing: 5:30 AM–10 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: August–March
Rare Fact
The temple receives handwritten letters from devotees every week.
10. Dilwara Jain Temples, Rajasthan
Why This Temple Is Famous
The marble carvings are so artistic that even engineers wonder how ancient craftsmen created such details.
Architecture
White marble
Ultra-fine carvings
5 temple complex
Logistics
- Location: Mount Abu, Rajasthan
- Timing: 10 AM–5 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: October–February
Novel Fact
The ceilings have lace-like marble carving that looks almost transparent.
Best Time of the Year for Temple Hopping
To explore these famous temples in India, the months October to March are the most comfortable. Weather is cooler, festivals are happening, and travel becomes easier.
Important Manners While Visiting Famous Temples in India
Since many foreign and local tourists visit these famous temples in India, it is important to follow basic manners:
- Remove Shoes
All temples require shoes to be left outside. This shows respect.
- Photography Rules
Some temples allow photos but many don’t, especially near the main deity. Always check signboards.
- Dress Respectfully
Simple, traditional, or covered clothing is preferred.
- Maintain Silence
Temples are sacred. Avoid loud talking or shouting.
- Don’t Touch Idols
Touching idols is usually not allowed unless the temple permits it.
Conclusion
India’s spiritual heritage is rich, diverse, and inspiring. These famous temples in India offer not just blessings but also beauty, architecture, and history that every Indian must experience. Whether you are from a village or a city, these temples welcome everyone with open arms.
Plan your next trip with devotion, comfort, and excitement.
May your spiritual journey bring peace and happiness!
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