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A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Central Java, Indonesia, Prambanan is the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia and one of the most spectacular in Southeast Asia. Built in the 9th century, it is dedicated to the Trimurti (Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva). The central compound features towering, intricately carved temples, with the largest dedicated to Shiva. Though damaged by earthquakes, restoration efforts highlight its architectural grandeur, reflecting the region's historical Hindu-Buddhist cultural fusion.
Situated in Ranakpur village, Rajasthan, this spectacular 15th-century Jain temple is dedicated to Adinatha (Rishabhanatha), the first Tirthankara. Built from light-colored marble, it is renowned for its intricate carvings and architectural complexity, featuring 1,444 uniquely carved pillars, numerous domes, and detailed ceilings within its vast Chaumukha (four-faced) layout. Considered one of the most important and architecturally brilliant Jain temples in India, it attracts pilgrims and tourists alike.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, part of the Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, the Shore Temple dates back to the 8th century CE during the Pallava dynasty. Built with granite blocks on the Bay of Bengal coast, it comprises two main shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and a smaller one to Lord Vishnu. It exemplifies early Dravidian structural temple architecture and has withstood centuries of coastal erosion, standing as an iconic landmark of Pallava artistic and building achievements near the vast ocean.
Fayaz Tepe, located near Termez in Uzbekistan, is an important archaeological site revealing extensive Greco-Bactrian and Kushan-era Buddhist monastery ruins dating from the 1st to 3rd centuries CE. Excavations uncovered stupas, courtyards, sanctuaries, monks' cells, and numerous artifacts including sculptures, murals, and pottery reflecting Gandharan artistic influences. These ruins provide valuable insights into the spread and practice of Buddhism along the ancient Silk Road routes connecting India and Central Asia in ancient times.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Odisha, the Konark Sun Temple is a 13th-century architectural marvel dedicated to the Sun God, Surya. Designed as a colossal chariot with 24 intricately carved wheels pulled by seven horses, it showcases the pinnacle of Kalinga architecture. Built by King Narasimhadeva I, the temple, though partially ruined, astounds visitors with its detailed stone sculptures depicting life, deities, and famous erotic figures. It stands as a testament to ancient India's artistic and engineering genius.
Located in Deoghar, Jharkhand, Baidyanath Temple is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site, enshrining one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the holiest representations of Lord Shiva. Known as Baba Baidyanath Dham, the complex comprises the main Shiva temple and 21 other temples dedicated to various deities. It attracts vast crowds, particularly during the Shravan Mela, where devotees carry sacred water from the Ganges to offer to the Jyotirlinga. The site holds immense religious importance for Hindus across India and beyond.
Located in Solapur, Maharashtra, the Siddheshwar Temple is situated within a picturesque lake (Siddheshwar Lake) and is dedicated to Siddheshwar, considered an incarnation of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. The temple complex, associated with the Lingayat saint Siddharameshwar, includes various shrines and is connected by pathways over the water. It's famous for the annual Gadda Yatra fair held during Makar Sankranti, attracting large numbers of devotees for worship and celebration at this unique lakeside location.
Situated on the banks of the Hooghly River near Kolkata, Belur Math serves as the global headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, founded by Swami Vivekananda. Its unique architecture synthesizes Hindu, Christian, and Islamic motifs, reflecting the movement's philosophy of religious harmony. The serene campus includes temples dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna, Sarada Devi, and Swami Vivekananda, attracting spiritual seekers and visitors from around the world. It's a center for spiritual learning and philanthropic work.
Located in the Sahyadri hills near Pune, Maharashtra, Bhimashankar Temple is one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva. Nestled amidst dense forests, which form the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, the temple features Nagara style architecture. It's the source of the River Bhima. The site attracts numerous pilgrims seeking blessings and trekkers exploring the surrounding natural beauty, making it a significant religious and ecological destination, deeply revered by devotees across many regions.
Perched atop Chandranath Hill near Quepem in South Goa, the Chandreshwar Bhootnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as the Lord of the Moon (Chandreshwar). The temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Its Shiva Linga is uniquely carved from rock that reportedly oozes water on full moon nights. The temple complex, accessible via steps or road, is an ancient and important pilgrimage site in Goa, attracting devotees seeking blessings and enjoying the serene hilltop atmosphere.
A UNESCO World Heritage site in Belur, Karnataka, the Chennakesava Temple is a stunning example of Hoysala architecture, commissioned by King Vishnuvardhana in the 12th century. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple is renowned for its intricate soapstone carvings, detailed sculptures depicting epics, dancers (Madanikas), and elaborate friezes. Its star-shaped platform and lathe-turned pillars showcase the zenith of Hoysala craftsmanship, attracting art lovers and historians from all over the world to see it.
Built in the 11th century in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, the Brahmeswara Temple is a fine example of mature Kalinga architecture. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this sandstone temple is noted for its pyramidal tower (rekha deul) and attached porch (jagamohana). Its walls are adorned with intricate carvings depicting deities, musicians, dancers, and religious scenes. While not as large as Lingaraj Temple, Brahmeswara is significant for its detailed sculptural work and architectural finesse, representing a key phase in Odia temple building history.