India is a country of diversity. People of different religions with their customs and beliefs lived here. Over the centuries, many kings and rulers ruled the country and built marvellous temples. During that time, temples were symbols of wealth and power. The bigger the temple is, the greater power the King had. Some temples were destroyed during the war. Temples are well known for their styles, intricate carvings, and spiritual significance. Here are a few mesmerizing temples in India:
1.Meenakshi Temple, Madurai:
Located in the city of Madurai in Tamil Nadu, the Meenakshi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar. It is dedicated to a form of Parvati and a form of Shiva. This temple complex is known for its vibrant and detailed Dravidian architecture, with its towering gopurams (ornate entrances), intricately carved pillars, and stunning sculptures. This temple is famous for its golden lotus pond. There is a specific dress code for entering the temple that needs to be followed rigidly. Males should wear dhotis or pyjamas along with a shirt and females have to wear sarees or proper suits. Without this dress code, your entry is not permitted in the temple. The temple has 4 Raja gopurams for entrance. These 4 splendid gopurams signify 4 directions. These Raja gopurams have statues carved out.
2.Kashi Vishwanath Temple:
It is situated in the holy city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most sacred Shiva temples in India. It is characterized by its gold-spired domes and intricate marble work. The temple attracts millions of devotees and is a significant pilgrimage site. It comes under 12 jyotirlingas. It has been built using the Nagara style of architecture. There is no entry fee for the temple and a person must need 2 to 3 hours to properly visit and look at the temple. On Mondays, it takes longer than normal. The constant sound of bells and chants builds an ambience of spirituality and peace.
3.Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur:
Raja Raja Chola I constructed this temple which is also known as the Big Temple. The Brihadeeswarar Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. Built during the Chola dynasty in the 11th century, this temple is a fine example of ancient Dravidian architecture. It is renowned for its towering vimana (temple tower) which is 216 metres high and that makes it the largest temple tower in the world. This temple is celebrated for its longest Shiva linga in India and exquisite sculptures. It is located at a distance of 2 km from Thanjavur Junction Railway Station & distance from New Bus Station is 5 km away. One can easily avail transport facilities to visit this temple. To make your tour comfortable and pleasant, visit this temple during the winter season. The timings in the morning are from 6:00 am to 12:30 pm and in the evening it is from 4:00 pm 8:30 pm. It is assumed that several underground secret paths have been built to link it to other significant temples in that area. Dance celebrations are also organised during February around Shivratri.
4.Akshardham Temple, Delhi:
Located in the heart of Delhi, Akshardham Temple is a modern marvel of architecture and craftsmanship. Built relatively recently in 2005, it showcases a blend of traditional Indian architectural styles and modern technology. The temple complex features intricately carved sandstone, stunning exhibitions, and a captivating musical fountain show. The timings of this temple are from 9:30 am to 8:00 pm. It is closed on Mondays. The entry to the temple strictly closes at 6:30 pm. It takes you around half an hour to one hour in getting inside the temple because of the crowd and security checkings. The temple has a light show and a water show. The boat ride is popular among visitors at Akshardham temple. The 12 minutes boat trip takes you on a pilgrimage to go through the lifestyle of the Vedic era. The entry to main temple is free but all other shows and activities have fees. A person needs at least 4 to 6 hours to visit this temple. The AC halls are impressive in which small movies are displayed related to the temple. All electronic items like phones and cameras are strictly prohibited. You have to deposit your bags and items in the cloakroom available there. The nearest metro station is Akshardham. The temple is located within walking distance from the metro station. Delhites should visit this temple once in their lifetime.
5.Jagannath Temple, Puri:
Situated in the holy city of Puri, Odisha, the Jagannath Temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu). The form of Krishna is worshipped here. It is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites for Hindus. The temple is known for its towering spire, beautiful architecture, and the Rath Yatra festival, where the deities of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra are taken on a grand procession. This temple is famous for organising Rath Yatra. People travelled long distances to participate in this yatra. Consider yourself lucky enough if you get the chance to touch the rope of Rath. It is advisable to go barefoot there. The direction of the flag remains an enigma as it blows against the direction of the wind. The flag of the temple changes every day. The prasad(blessed food) here is made over firewood in 7 earthen pots. Nothing flies over this temple including birds and aeroplanes. The deities are beautified with distinct clothing and jewels according to the season. The food is offered to the deity six times a day. The timings of the temple are from 5:00 am to 10:30 pm.
These are just a few of the mesmerizing temples in India that showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage. Each temple has its own unique story, architectural style, and spiritual significance, making them truly captivating destinations for visitors.
