India is known for its diverse culture, architecture, and landmarks; from beaches to snow-capped mountains, the country has it all. The rich history and mythological story behind ancient monuments and buildings make it an intriguing journey to the past and spirituality. Even a pillar, dome, or garden of a historical or modern temple has a story behind its creation. These temples are intricately carved, painted, and sculpted to highlight their religious significance and represent the beautiful architectural styles of India. Here are six such temples that are a must-visit for your next spiritual trip.
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Akshardham temple, Delhi
The Akshardham temple in Delhi is without a doubt one of the most exquisite temples in India and a gem of contemporary architecture. The exterior and interiors are a visual prosperity, combining the perfect vitality of old carvings with modern building methods.
The temple features elaborate, beautiful embellishments that enhance its divine appeal. It is constructed of pink sandstone and white marble. There are several sculptures depicting deities, humans, animals, and other subjects, and the evening light and sound show is a must-watch when it comes to touring the religious landmark of Swaminarayan.
Brihadeshwara temple, Tamil Nadu
One of the best and finest examples of Dravidian architecture is the temple of Brihadeshwara. It was constructed in the eleventh century by Raja Raja Chola and continues to stand in all of its splendor.
The Brihadeshwara temple is magnificent in both height and architecture. Notable features include the 216-foot-tall “stambh” within the premises and the hefty dome perched atop that raises the question of how it was constructed in the 11th century.
Konark temple, Orissa
The Konark Sun Temple, located in Orissa, is another temple renowned for its exquisite architectural design. This temple, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is distinguished by its chariot-like design, enormous wheels, and horses that appear to be pushing the chariot forward. The chariot is adorned with seven horses, twenty-four carved stone wheels, and further sculptures that depict nature, gods, and goddesses.
The wheels of the chariot are supposed to function like sundials at the Konark temple, enabling people to figure out the time in the past.
Kandariya Mahadev, Madhya Pradesh
Tourists are often in awe of the exceptional design and construction of the Kandariya Mahadev temple in Khajuraho, which is another stunning and enormous temple of India. The approximately 100-foot-tall Kandariya Mahadev, devoted to Lord Shiva, is well-known for the magnificent sculptures that adorn the temple from the inside out.
The temple radiates grandeur and an air of antiquity because of its sequence of spires, each somewhat smaller than the one underneath it. The temple is widely studied for its architectural style and history.
Ram Janmabhoomi, Uttar Pradesh
Built on the same land as Lord Ram’s birthplace, the Ram Janmbhoomi temple in Ayodhya is devoted to Lord Ram. The temple’s architecture radiates majesty and grandeur. Like many other Hindu temples in and around India, its architecture consists of tall spires and exquisite carvings all around it. An exquisite idol of Ram Lalla is housed in the Garbha griha, an extensive sanctum sanctorum.
There are intricate carvings depicting various events in Lord Ram’s life inside the temple.
Meenakshi Amman, Tamil Nadu
The Meenakshi Amman is another beautiful temple from Tamil Nadu with outstanding architectural design. Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar, who are incarnations of Mata Parvati and Lord Shiva, are the deities of the temple.
The temple complex spans 14 acres and is constructed in the traditional Dravidian architectural style. The Gopurams, or towers, of the temple are its most well-known feature. They are adorned with sculptures and carvings of many gods and natural symbols. There are several pillars with carvings that are so fine that they cause visitors to stop and gaze in wonder at the perfection of the design.
