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Located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, the Rajarani Temple, dating to the 11th century, is admired for its architectural elegance and exquisite sculptural details, particularly the graceful female figures (alasakanyas). Built from reddish-gold sandstone ('Rajarani' stone), it features a distinctive spire (rekha deul) and porch (jagamohana). Uniquely, it does not house a presiding deity and is maintained as a historical monument by the ASI. Its artistic merit makes it a significant example of Kalinga architecture here.
Located near Morena, Madhya Pradesh, the Chausath Yogini Temple at Mitaoli is a unique circular, hypaethral (roofless) temple dating back to the 11th century. Dedicated to the 64 Yoginis (powerful female deities), it features 64 subsidiary shrines lining the inner circumference and a central Shiva shrine. Its distinct architecture is believed to have inspired the design of India's old Parliament House. This archaeological monument offers insights into tantric worship practices and early medieval temple design.
Situated atop a small hill near the banks of the Gomati River in Udaipur, Tripura, the Bhubaneswari Temple is a historic Hindu shrine. Built by Maharaja Govinda Manikya in the 17th century, it gained prominence through Rabindranath Tagore's play 'Rajarshi' and novel 'Bishorjan'. The temple, dedicated to Goddess Bhubaneswari, features typical Bengali 'char-chala' architecture. Though modest in size, its historical and literary connections make it a significant landmark, attracting visitors exploring Tripura's past.
Situated in the Mustang district of Nepal, Muktinath is a sacred pilgrimage site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. Located at high altitude in the Himalayas, the temple complex features the main Vishnu temple, Buddhist gompas, eternal flames fueled by natural gas, and 108 waterspouts (Muktidhara) where pilgrims bathe. Hindus consider it a 'Mukti Kshetra' (place of liberation), while Buddhists regard it as a place of Dakinis (sky dancers). Its unique blend of traditions attracts diverse spiritual seekers globally.
Located in Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, the Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a vibrant Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Rebuilt in the 16th century after destruction, it features a towering gopuram adorned with colorful stucco figures depicting Puranic legends. The temple complex includes shrines for Shiva (Kapaleeshwarar) and Parvati (Karpagambal). It's known for its lively atmosphere, intricate sculptures, and the annual Arupathumoovar festival celebrating the 63 Nayanmars (Saivite saints).
Located atop a hillock between Warangal and Hanamkonda in Telangana, the Bhadrakali Temple is dedicated to the fierce goddess Bhadrakali. Believed to have been built during the Chalukya period, it showcases their architectural style and features a unique stone image of the deity with eight arms holding various weapons. The temple, situated near the scenic Bhadrakali Lake, is an important pilgrimage site in the region, attracting devotees seeking the blessings of the powerful goddess, especially during Navaratri festivals.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Madhya Pradesh, the Khajuraho Group of Monuments comprises stunning Hindu and Jain temples built by the Chandela dynasty between the 10th and 12th centuries. Famed for their Nagara-style architecture and intricate sculptures, including renowned depictions of eroticism alongside daily life and deities, these temples represent a zenith of medieval Indian artistry. Though only about 25 temples survive, they offer profound insights into the era's culture, beliefs, and artistic expression.
Situated in Prabhadevi, Mumbai, Maharashtra, Shree Siddhivinayak Temple is one of the most famous and wealthiest temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Originally consecrated in the early 19th century, the temple complex has undergone significant expansion. The main idol features Ganesha with his trunk turned to the right, considered particularly auspicious. It attracts massive crowds daily, including celebrities and politicians, seeking blessings from Siddhivinayak ('Ganesha who grants wishes') for good fortune.
Located in Sarahan, Himachal Pradesh, the Bhimakali Temple is a revered Shakti Peeth dedicated to Goddess Bhimakali, the presiding deity of the former Bushahr rulers. This unique temple complex showcases a distinctive blend of Hindu and Tibetan architectural styles, featuring towering structures built primarily of wood and stone. Situated amidst stunning Himalayan scenery, it attracts pilgrims and tourists alike, drawn to its spiritual significance, historical importance, and remarkable architectural character in the mountains.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, the Mahabodhi Temple Complex marks the location where Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, is said to have attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. The present temple, dating mainly from the late Gupta period, features a towering spire and houses a gilded statue of the Buddha. The complex includes the sacred Bodhi tree, numerous stupas, and monasteries, making it the most revered pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide, a place of deep peace and contemplation.
Located near Nagercoil in Kanyakumari district, Tamil Nadu, the Kundankuzhi Mahadevar Temple is an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. This lesser-known temple holds local significance and reflects regional architectural styles. Devotees visit to seek the blessings of Mahadevar. Its placement in the southernmost part of India adds to its unique geographical context within the vast network of Shaivite temples spread across the diverse landscape of the Tamil Nadu state, preserving local worship traditions well.
Located near the Line of Control in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, Sharada Peeth is the ruins of an ancient center of learning and a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Sharada (Saraswati). Considered one of the Maha Shakti Peethas, it was a major pilgrimage site and educational hub for centuries. Though now inaccessible to most Indian pilgrims and largely in ruins, it remains a powerful symbol of Kashmiri Pandit heritage and the region's shared scholarly and religious past, awaiting much needed focus.