25 Largest Temples In The World – Holy Places With Magnificant History
Posted on Tuesday, February 15th, 2022 by Navneet Kaur Leave a Comment
Different places have been given great importance in the history of the world. The main reason for this is their religious importance. Temples are a common sight globally; They can be found in almost every corner of the world. There is a huge variety of world best temples, whether you are looking for an ancient or new temple there will be something for every person. In fact, you will find some of the largest temples in the world in different places; some of them explain the most significant historical significance, and some have been teaching us about ancient culture and art for a long time.
List Of Temples In The World
Table Of Content
Temples exist in the world as places of worship and as centres of social and economic life for the people around them. They are massive and ornate, intricate stone carvings with gold leaf ornamentation. Fortunately, there are countless artefacts on the walls of some temples depicting different situations, cultures, and religions. In this article, we’ll explore some of the largest temples in the world and their importance to local communities.
1. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
One such place is the Angkor Wat temple, located in Cambodia. It’s one of the largest temples in the world and has also been given a World Heritage Site status by UNESCO. King Suryavarman II built it in the Khmer (Angkor Wat Style) architecture. Along with that, Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world, with the site measuring 162.6 hectares (1,626,000 m2; 402 acres). It was initially constructed as a Hindu temple dedicated to the God Vishnu for the Khmer Empire, gradually transforming into a Buddhist shrine toward the end of the 12th century. Also, for millions of people around the globe, this place holds great significance as they believe it was constructed to connect them with God and attain peace.
- Location: Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia
- Country: Cambodia
- Nearest Airport: Siem Reap International Airport
- Built-In: 12th century
- Built-By: King Suryavarman II
- Total Area: 1,626,000 m2
- Architectural Styles: Khmer (Angkor Wat style)
- Temple Timings: 7:30 am to 5:30 pm Every day
- Festivals: Angkor Festival
- Best Time To Visit In: November or March
2. Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Tiruchirappalli
Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is the tallest temple in the world. It is dedicated to the deity Ranganatha, located in Srirangam, Tiruchirappalli district in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. This Hindu temple is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, also known as Maha Vishnu – a form of the Supreme God. It is one of India’s most prominent Hindu temples. Also, located in Tamil Nadu, it occupies an area of 155 acres (631,000 m²) with a perimeter of 4,116 m (10,710 feet), making it the biggest temple in India. Firstly, Built by Dharma Varma Chola, this temple is one of the largest religious complexes in the world, attracting the most significant number of tourists globally.
- Location: VM7R+44P, Srirangam, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu 620006
- Country: India
- Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport
- Built-In: Vijayanagara period (1336-1565)
- Built-By: Dharma Varma Chola
- Total Area: 631,000 m2
- Deity: Ranganathar (Perumal); Ranganayaki Thayar (Lakshmi);
- Architectural Styles: Dravidian Architecture
- Temple Timings: 6:00 am to 9:00 pm Every day
- Festivals: Vaikuntha Ekadasi; Uriyadi; Jeeyarpuram
- Best Time To Visit In: January to March
3. Chhatarpur Temple, South Delhi
Chhatarpur Temple is located in the downtown area of South Delhi. It is the world’s largest temple complex, spread over an area of 70 acres. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Katyayani – a part of Navadurga. Built in 1974 by Baba Sant Nagpal Ji, famous for its vast and rare sculptures, it is considered a masterpiece. The temple is also known for its magnificent architecture inside and outside the building. On the roof of this temple, you will find beautiful paintings that depict many stories from Hindu mythology. With all its splendour, Chhatarpur Temple is one of the attractions in the capital of India.
- Location: VM7R+44P, Srirangam, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu 620006
- Country: India
- Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport
- Built-In: Vijayanagara period (1336-1565)
- Built-By: Dharma Varma Chola
- Total Area: 280,000 m2
- Deity: Ranganathar (Perumal); Ranganayaki Thayar (Lakshmi);
- Architectural Styles: Dravidian Architecture
- Temple Timings: 6:00 am to 9:00 pm Every day
- Festivals: Vaikuntha Ekadasi; Uriyadi; Jeeyarpuram
- Best Time To Visit In: January to March
4. Akshardham, Delhi
Located on the left bank of the river Yamuna, it is the largest temple across the world and a major tourist destination. Swaminarayan Akshardham (Delhi) was built by Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), under the guidance of Pramukh Swami Maharaj. The Akshardham complex is built on around 100 acres (240,000 m 2 ) of land and includes a visitor centre, a museum, and an art gallery with exhibits depicting the rich Indian heritage. It is also one of the richest temples in India, which displays millennia of traditional Indian and Hindu culture, spirituality, and architecture. Today’s, the present Mandir building was conceived as a modern version of ancient Hindu temples that dot the Indian landscape.
- Location: Noida Mor, Pandav Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi 110092
- Country: India
- Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport
- Built-In: 6 November 2005
- Built-By: Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha and Pramukh Swami Maharaj
- Total Area: 240,000 m2
- Deity: Swaminarayan, Sita-Rama, Radha-Krishna, Shiva-Parvati and Lakshmi-Narayana
- Architectural Styles: Maharishi Vastu Architecture
- Temple Timings: 9:30 am to 8:00 pm; closed on Mondays ( Entry closes at 6:30 pm)
- Festivals: Major Hindu Celebrations
- Best Time To Visit In: July to September, or March
5. Belur Math, Howrah
The famous Ramakrishna temple of Howrah is the largest temple in India. It was built in 1897 by Swami Vivekananda, who wanted to establish a centre for pan-Indian cultural activities in Calcutta. The temple is situated on the west bank of Hooghly River, Belur, West Bengal. The Ramakrishna Mission is an international headquarters, operates centres for social welfare, culture, and religion. Spread in the 40-acre (160,000 m2) campus of the Belur Math also houses a Museum containing articles connected with the history of Ramakrishna Math and Mission. Moreover, reflecting the actual colour of Indian culture, Belur Math is the most prominent tourist attraction globally, attracting a lot of Krishna devotees.
- Location: Belur, Howrah, West Bengal 711202
- Country: India
- Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport
- Built-In: 1897 (Later in 1938)
- Built-By: Swami Vivekananda and Later by Ramakrishna Mission
- Total Area: 160,000 m2
- Temple Timings: 06:00 am to 09:00 pm
- Festivals: Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda and Sarada Devi’s birthdays, Durga Puja, Janmasthami, Christmas, Kali Puja, Shiva Ratri
- Best Time To Visit In: September and October
6. Thillai Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram
Located in Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India, Thillai Nataraja Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Nataraja – Lord Shiva known as a lord of dance and his consort Parvati as Shivakama Sundari. Also, Chidambaram Nataraja temple complex is spread over 40 acres (160,000 m2) in the city’s heart. It is genuinely the world’s largest temple and has been the most important religious location in India. The temple contains other shrines to deities such as Sivakami Amman, Ganesh, Murugan, and Vishnu. Built-in the 10th century by the Chola, this temple is one of the famous temples in India. This ancient site is also known for arts and dance festivals and attracts many devotees every year.
- Location: Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu 608001
- Country: India
- Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport
- Built-In: 10th century
- Built-By: Cholas
- Total Area: 160,000 m2
- Deity: Nataraja (Shiva); Shivakama Sundari (Parvati)
- Architectural Styles: Dravidian Architecture
- Temple Timings: 6:00 am – 12:00 pm and 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
- Festivals: Margazhi Arudra, Aani Thirumanjanam
- Best Time To Visit In: October to March
7. Prambanan, Trimurti Temple, Indonesia
Prambanan is an ancient Hindu temple located in the unique region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Built in the 8th century, this temple complex is dedicated to Trimurti, the manifestation of the Lord as the creator (Brahma), the preserver (Vishnu), and the destroyer (Shiva). Prambanan Temple is one of the largest Hindu temples in ancient Java, as it is a complex consisting of 240 temples. The temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is Indonesia’s largest Hindu temple site and the second largest in Southeast Asia. It is characterized by high and pointed architecture, typical of Hindu architecture, and a 47 m (154 ft) high central building inside a large complex of individual temples. This masterpiece of the classical period in Indonesia attracts many visitors from all over the world.
- Location: Bokoharjo, Prambanan, Sleman Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta & Prambanan, Klaten Regency, Central Java
- Country: India
- Nearest Airport: Jakarta International Airport
- Built-In: 8th century (850 CE)
- Built-By: Rakai Pikatan (or, believed to be built by Dhaksa, a king of Mendang-Mataram (Hindu-Mataram))
- Total Area: 152,000 m2
- Deity: Creator (Brahma), the Preserver (Vishnu) and the Destroyer (Shiva)
- Architectural Styles: Hindu architecture traditions based on Vastu Shastra
- Visiting Timing: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm .
- Best Time To Visit In: Dry season (April to October) or Wet season (November to March)
8. Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur
The Brihadeeswarar Temple is one of the largest temples in the world, which was built by Chola emperor Rajaraja I between 1003 and 1010 AD. This world famous temple is located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ancient temple is a magnificent edifice with its majestic vimana, sculptures, frescoes, and richness of Tamil inscriptions engraved on stone in superb calligraphy. Spread in a total area of 18.07 ha (44.7 acres), the complex of the temple includes a massive sized Vimanam (Tower) of 216 feet high. It has a monolithic Nandhi weighing about 25 tonnes and is about 12 feet high and 20 feet long. This shrine is one of the tallest temple in India, and the temple is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Location: Membalam Rd, Balaganapathy Nagar, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu 613007
- Country: India
- Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ)
- Built-In: 1010 AD
- Built-By: Rajaraja I
- Total Area: 102,400 m2
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Architectural Styles: Chola Architecture
- Temple Timings: 6:00 am – 12:30 pm, 3:00 pm – 8:30 pm
- Festivals: Maha Shivaratiri
- Best Time To Visit In: Winter Season
9. Annamalaiyar Temple, Tiruvannamalai
Arunachaleswara Temple is a Hindu temple in Thiruvanaikaval, near Tiruvannamalai in Tamil Nadu, India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped here in the form of Agni Lingam and is one of the Padal Petra Sthalams. Arulmigu Arunachaleswarar Temple is the most prominent Hindu temple of Shiva in India. This temple was built by the Cholas in the 9th century and is one of the biggest temples in the world. The temple is made in the Dravidian style of architecture and is built according to the Vastu Shilpa texts, where it is believed that all structures should face east or north and that the temple faces east.
- Location: Pavazhakundur, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu 606601
- Country: India
- Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport
- Built-In: 9th century
- Built-By: Cholas
- Total Area: 101,171 m2
- Deity: Arunachalesvara (Shiva) Unnamalai Amman (Apitakuchambaal – Parvati)
- Architectural Styles: Dravidian Architecture
- Temple Timings: 5:30 am – 12:30 pm, 3:30 pm – 9:30 pm
- Festivals: Karthigai Deepam
- Best Time To Visit In: October to March
10. Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Kolkata
Dakshineswar Kali Temple is a Hindu Navaratna temple located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River in Dakshineswar in West Bengal, India. The present structure of the temple was built in 1855 under the patronage of Rani Rashmoni. Dakshineswar Kali Temple complex is spread over 25 acres (101,171 m2) and is one of the largest temples in the world. Situated in the Dakshineswar section of the city, the Dakshineswar Kali Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, known as Bhavatarini Kali. It is one of the oldest temples in India and is the most famous temple in West Bengal, which attracts many devotees throughout the year.
- Location: Dakshineswar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700076
- Country: India
- Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU)
- Built-In: 31 May 1855
- Built-By: Rani Rashmoni
- Total Area: 101,171 m2
- Deity: Bhavatarini Kali
- Architectural Styles: Navaratna
- Temple Timings: 6:00 am – 12:30 pm, 3:00 pm – 8:30 pm
- Festivals: Kali Puja, Snana Yatra, Kalpataru Day
- Best Time To Visit In: October to March
11. Rajagopalaswamy Temple, Mannargudi
Located in the heart of Mannargudi, Tamil Nadu, Sri Vidhya Rajagopalaswamy temple is a Vaishnavite shrine in India. It is a significant tourist attraction and houses many sculptures, including those depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. The Kulothunga Chola built the temple I, Later Chola Kings, in 1070-1125 A.D. Rajagopalaswamy temple is dedicated to SriVidhya Rajagopalaswamy (Krishna) – the form of Lord Vishnu. The temple is spread over 23 acres (93,000 m2) and is one of the world’s biggest temples. The temple is called Dakshina Dwaraka (Southern Dwarka) and Guruvayoor by Hindus. The temple has a thousand pillared hall and a large gopuram (gateway tower) facing east with a temple tank in the northeastern direction.
- Location: MC8V+VFM, Mannargudi, Tamil Nadu 614001
- Country: India
- Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ)
- Built-In: 1070-1125 A.D
- Built-By: Kulothunga Chola I, Later Chola Kings
- Total Area: 93,000 m2
- Deity: SriVidhya Rajagopalaswamy (Krishna)
- Architectural Styles: Dravidian architecture
- Temple Timings: 6:00 am – 12:00 pm, 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
- Festivals: Vaikunta Ekadashi, Navarathri, Uri adi
- Best Time To Visit In: September to February or April to June
12. Ekambareswarar Temple, Kanchipuram
The Ekambareswarar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Kanchipuram in India. It is one of the five major Shiva temples or Pancha Bootha Sthalams (each representing a natural element) on the Earth. Lord Shiva is worshipped as Ekambareswarar or Ekambaranathar, in the form of Lingam, and his consort Parvati is depicted as Elavarkuzhali. It was built by Pallava, Chola kings, in the 9th century and covers 25 acres. It is one of the largest temple complexes in the world and is the tallest temple tower in India, with 11 stories and 58.5216 meters (192 ft).
- Location: Sri Ekambareswarar Temple, Nageshwaram East street, Kumbakonam
- Country: India
- Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport
- Built-In: 9th Century
- Built By: Pallava
- Total Area: 92,860 m2
- Architectural Styles: Dravidian Architecture
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 6:00 am – 12:30 pm, 4:00 pm – 8:30 pm
- Festivals: Mahashivratri
- Best Time To Visit In: June and July
13. Thrissur Vadakkumnathan Temple, Thrissur
Thrissur Vadakkumnathan Temple is a Hindu temple located in Thrissur city of Kerala state, India. This temple is the first of the 108 Shiva temples of ancient Kerala, established by Parashurama, the sixth incarnation of Vishnu. This is one of the oldest Shiva temples in the world, famous for the rarity of murals, of which the Vasukishayan and Nrithamadu murals are significant and are worshipped daily. The temple also houses a museum of ancient wall paintings, wood carvings, and artefacts from ancient times. It is one of the largest Hindu temple in india, which is spread over an area of 65-acres (260,000 m). Thrissur Vadakkumnathan Temple is considered one of the important religious places in India for worshipping and conducting important rituals.
- Location: Thekkinkadu Maidan, Thrissur, Kerala 680001
- Country: India
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
- Built-In: 15th Century
- Built By: Parashurama
- Total Area: 81,000 m2
- Architectural Styles: Architecture of Kerala
- Deity: Lord Shiva is known as Vadakkunnathan
- Temple Timings: 4:00 am – 11:00 am, 5:00 pm – 8:20 pm
- Festivals: Mahashivratri
- Best Time To Visit In: April to June
14. Varadharaja Perumal Temple, Kanchipuram
The Varadharaja Perumal Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is part of the popular Pancharanga Kshetram or Pancharangams, the five divine temples associated with Vaishnavism in the Tamil region. It is also known as the world big temple or Periya Pallivasal (the Great Temple). It was built by the Pallava king Nandivarman in the 8th century AD and is one of the largest temples in the world. The temple covers an area of 23-acre (93,000 m2) and is famous for its holiness and ancient history. The temple is also renowned for its vast umbrella used during festive occasions. Varadharaja Perumal Temple has been a centre attraction for many tourists due to its long back historical importance.
- Location: W Mada St, Nethaji Nagar, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631501
- Country: India
- Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport
- Built-In: 3rd century
- Built-By: Chola Kings, later Nayaks of Thanjavur
- Total Area: 81,000 m2
- Deity: Varadaraja Perumal (Vishnu); Perundevi Thayaar (Lakshmi)
- Architectural Styles: Dravidian architecture
- Temple Timings: 6:00 am – 12:30 pm, 3:30 pm – 8:30 pm
- Festivals: Vaikunta Ekadashi, Rath Yatra, Adhyayana Utsavam during Margazhi, Rama Navami, Chitra Pournami, Pongal, Aadi Velli, Navaratri & Deepavali, Purattasi Saturdays
- Best Time To Visit In: All around the year
15. Baps Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is a Hindu temple in Neasden, London, England. The temple was built entirely using traditional methods and materials, dedicated to the principal deities Swaminarayan, Radha-Krishna, Rama-Sita, and Shiva-Parvati. Also, it has been described as being Britain’s first authentic Hindu temple and is one of the largest temples complex in the world. This temple was established in 1982 and inaugurated in 1995 by Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Swaminarayan Mandir complex also consists of an Understanding Hinduism exhibition and a cultural centre housing an assembly hall, gymnasium, bookshop, and offices. Along with that, it is Europe’s first traditional Hindu Temple and is a masterpiece of exquisite Indian craftsmanship.
- Location: Pramukh Swami Rd, Neasden, London NW10 8HW, United Kingdom
- Country: United Kingdom
- Nearest Airport: Heathrow Airport
- Built-In: 20 August 1995
- Built-By: Pramukh Swami Maharaj / BAPS
- Total Area: 16,000 m2
- Deity: Swaminarayan, Radha-Krishna, Rama-Sita, Shiva-Parvati
- Architectural Styles: Navaratna
- Temple Timings: 9:00 am – 10:30 am, 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
- Festivals: Diwali, Holi, Ramnavmi or Rama Navami.
- Best Time To Visit In: All around the year
16. Jambukeswarar Temple, Tiruchirappalli
The Jambukeswarar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India. It is also known as Thiruvanaikaval, Thiruvanaikal, and Jambukeswaram. It is one of the famous Shiva temples in India where the form of the lingam worshipped represents the Shiva lingam and has a distinctive shape resembling a yoni. Along with that, it is one of the most important holy shrines in Tamil Nadu. The presiding deity of this Temple, Lord Shiva, is known as Jambukeswarar, and his consort Parvati is known as Akilandeswari. Kochengat Cholan built Jambukeswarar Temple in the 2nd century AD in the Dravidian style of architecture. In fact, it is one of the largest Hindu temples in India, built in an area of 18 acres and measuring 2500 feet by 1500 feet.
- Location: N Car St, Srirangam,, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu 620005
- Country: India
- Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ)
- Built-In: 2nd century AD
- Built By: Kocengannan (Kochengat Cholan)
- Total Area: 72,843 m2
- Architectural Styles: Dravidian architecture
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 6:00 am – 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm – 8:00 pm
- Festivals: Mahashivratri, Navratri
- Best Time To Visit In: All around the year
17. Nellaiappar Temple, Tirunelveli
The Nellaiappar temple, located in Tirunelveli in Tamil Nadu, is an ancient place of worship dedicated to Swami Nellaiappar (Shiva) and Kanthimathi Amman (Parvathi). Pandyas built the temple, and it is one of the most important shrines for worshippers of Shiva in southern India. The temple complex covers an area of 14.5 acres (5.9 ha), measuring 850 feet long and 756 feet wide, and all its shrines are enclosed with concentric rectangular walls. The Nellaiappar Temple is a Hindu religious structure and has more than fifty inscriptions, and most of them are from ancient times. Nellaiappar Temple is on the list of largest temples in the world and has been a popular tourist attraction for many years.
- Location: 62, E Car St, Tirunelveli Town, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu 627006
- Country: India
- Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport
- Built-In: 700 CE
- Built-By: Early Pandyas, Medieval Cholas
- Total Area: 71,000 m2
- Deity: Swami Nellaiappar (Shiva), Kanthimathi amman (Parvathi)
- Architectural Styles: Tamil architecture
- Temple Timings: 5:30 am – 12:30 pm, 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
- Festivals: Aani Brahmostavam, Aadi Pooram l, Avani Moola Utsavam, Puratasi Golu Darbar, Iypasi Thirukalyanam, Iypasi Visu, Kandha Shasti, Karthigai Thiruvananthal, Margazhi Thiruvathirai, Thai Poosam Theerthavari, Thai Amavasya, Masi Sivarathri, Panguni Uthram, Chitirai Pournami Theerthavari, Vasanthosthavam, Vaikasi Sheerabhishegam, Koratham, Visagam.
- Best Time To Visit In: October to February
18. Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai
Located on the southern bank of the Vaigai River in Madurai, Meenakshi Amman Temple is a historic Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Parvati and her consort, Sundareshwar, a form of Shiva. King Kulasekara Pandya built the temple in 1190–1216 CE. Meenakshi Temple complex is spread over 14 acres (5.7 ha); its courtyard is close to a square with each side of about 800 feet and a rectangle with one side about 50 feet long. It is an example of Dravidian architecture and has been regularly expanded and rebuilt over the centuries. The temple is one of the most prominent tourist destinations in Tamil Nadu and is on the list of largest temples globally.
- Location: Madurai Main, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625001
- Country: India
- Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport
- Built-In: 1190–1216 CE
- Built By: King Kulasekara Pandya
- Total Area: 70,050 m2
- Architectural Styles: Dravidian
- Deity: Meenakshi (Parvati), Sundareswarar/Chokkanathar (Shiva)
- Temple Timings: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (everyday)
- Festivals: Chithirai Thiruvizha, Navaratri, Cradle festival, Aavanimoolam, Meenakshi Tirukkalyaanam, Alagar’s river plunge
- Best Time To Visit In: December to February
19. Batu Caves, Malaysia
Batu Caves is a limestone hill containing many caves and cave temples in Gombak, Selangor, Malaysia. They are Malaysia’s most visited tourist attraction and have long been a spiritual place for humans. These modern structures are renowned as one of the largest Hindu temples in the world. The cave is one of the most famous Hindu temples outside India, dedicated to Lord Murugan. At the base of the hill are two important cave temples containing the most significant number of Hindu sculptures and paintings. The complex was renovated and opened in 2008 and has become the focal point of the Tamil festival of Thaipusam.
- Location: Gombak, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor, Malaysia
- Country: Malaysia
- Nearest Airport: Kuala Lumpur International Airport
- Built-In: 1920
- Built-By: Rani Rashmoni
- Total Area: 65,000 m2
- Deity: Murugan
- Architectural Styles: Dravidian Architecture
- Temple Timings: 6:00 am to 9:00 pm
- Festivals: Thaipusam
- Best Time To Visit In: May and July
20. Vaitheeswaran Koil, Vaitheeswaran Kovil
Vaitheeswaran Koil is a Hindu pilgrimage centre dedicated to Lord Shiva in South India. Lord Shiva is worshipped here as ‘Vaiteeswaran – God of healing, and hence the temple got its name Vaiteeswaran Koil or Vaitheeswarankoil. A unique feature of this temple is that it has separate shrines for Thayyal, Nayagi Selva Muthu Kumaraswamy, Dhanvanri Siththar, and Jeeva Samadhi. In fact, Vaitheeswaran temple is one of the largest temples in the world, which is enclosed by seven concentric walls with a total length of 32,592 feet or over six miles. And, it was built in 7th-century by Saiva Nayanars with 21 gopurams. Located in Tamil Nadu, India, this Temple was built in Dravidian architecture attracts the most significant number of devotees every year.
- Location: Vaitheeswarankoil, Tamil Nadu 609117
- Country: India
- Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ)
- Built-In: 7th century
- Built-By: Saiva nayanars
- Total Area: 60,780 m2
- Deity: Vaidyanatha Swamy, Thayyal Nayagi, Selvamuthukumarasamy, Dhanvanri Siththar Jeevasamathi
- Architectural Styles: Dravidian Architecture
- Temple Timings: 6:00 am to 1.00 pm and 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm
- Festivals: Brahmotsavam, Karthigai, Kantha Sashti
- Best Time To Visit In: All around the year
21. Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha
Jagannath Temple is the largest and the richech temple in the world which is located in Puri, Odisha. The Jagannath Temple is more than 800 years old and was built by King Chodaganga Deva of the Ganga Dynasty. Also, the Jagannath Temple complex covers an area of over 400,000 square feet (37,000 m2) and is surrounded by a high fortified wall. This site had previously been used as a sacred place of worship for Hindus. The Jagannath Temple (also known as Shri Gundicha Temple) is a Hindu temple dedicated to the deity Lord Jagannath, located at Puri in the state of Odisha, India. It is considered one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites and is one of the four sacred Dhams among the many thousands of Hindu temples scattered throughout India.
- Location: Grand Rd, At post, Puri, Odisha 752001
- Country: India
- Nearest Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport
- Built-In: 12th century
- Built By: Indradyumna
- Total Area: 37,000 m2
- Architectural Styles: Hindu temple architecture, Dravidian architecture, Kalinga architecture
- Deity: Jagannath
- Temple Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Festivals: Navratri, Mahashivratri
- Best Time To Visit In: June to March
22. Shri Laxmi Narayan Temple (Birla Mandir), New Delhi
Laxminarayan Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in the capital city of India, New Delhi. Also known as Birla Mandir, the temple is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu, who is believed to have appeared here for the wellbeing and prosperity of humankind. Jugal Kishore Birla built this world’s largest temple in 1933 and 1939. Laxmi Narayan Temple is spread over 3 hectares (7.5 acres), adorned with many shrines, fountains, and a large garden. That’s why, with Hindu and Nationalistic sculptures and houses, Geeta Bhawan for discourses is considered one of India’s biggest temple. Shri Laxmi Narayan Temple is one of the major attractions in India, which attracts thousands of devotees on the occasion of Janmashtami and Diwali.
- Location: Mandir Marg, Near Gole Market, Gole Market, New Delhi, Delhi 110001
- Country: India
- Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport
- Built-In: 1939
- Built-By: Baldeo Das Birla
- Total Area: 30,000 m2
- Deity: Laxmi Narayan (Vishnu with his consort Lakshmi)
- Architectural Styles: Nagara style of Hindu temple architecture
- Temple Timings: 4:30 am – 1:00 pm, 2:30 pm – 9:00 pm
- Festivals: Janmashtami, Diwali
- Best Time To Visit In: August to November
23. Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Karachi, Pakistan
Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is a Hindu temple located in Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan. The temple was built in 1788 and was a refugee camp in 1947. The temple is believed to be visited by both Hindu and Islam followers, which adds to its notability. It is dedicated to the Hindu deities Nara Narayan and Swaminarayan. Over 32,306 square yards (27,012 m2) on M A Jinnah Road in Karachi city, the temple is notable for its size and façade. Importantly, major festivals like Swaminarayan Jayanti, Ram Navami, Janmashtami, Dussehra, Diwali are celebrated by Hindus in this temple. Also, it is the centre of attraction for the devotees during the festival of Holi. Shree Swaminarayan Temple is considered one of the largest temples in the world, which has been the centre of attraction for tourists due to its popularity and importance.
- Location: V235+Q66, Serai Quarters Seari Quarters, Karachi, Karachi City, Sindh, Pakistan
- Country: Pakistan
- Nearest Airport: Jinnah International Airport (JIAP)
- Built-In: 1788
- Total Area: 27,012 m2
- Deity: Nara Narayana and Swaminarayan
- Architectural Styles: Hindu Temple Architecture
- Temple Timings: 7.30 am to 12.15 pm & 4.00 pm to 8.30 pm
- Festivals: Swaminarayan Jayanti, Ram Navami, Janmastami, Dussehra, Diwali
- Best Time To Visit In: October to March
24. Dhakeshwari Temple, Bangladesh
Dhakeshwari Temple is located in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and is the national temple of Bangladesh. It was built during the 12th century by Ballal Sen, the ruler of the Sena Empire. Dhakeshwari Temple is a famous Hindu temple of Goddess Dhakeshwari situated in the centre of the city. It is considered one of the most sacred temples for Hindus in Bangladesh and is one of the Shakti Peethas, where the crown jewel of Goddess Sati fell. Along with that, Dhakeshwari Temple, also known as Dhakeshwari Jati Mandir, is considered one of the largest temples in the world. Thousands of devotees gather here every year to celebrate and worship the Goddess of Dhaka.
- Location: Dhakeshwari Rd, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Country: Bangladesh
- Nearest Airport: Shahjalal International Airport
- Built-In: 12th century CE
- Built-By: Ballal Sen
- Total Area: 12,140 m2
- Deity: Dhakeshwari
- Temple Timings: 6:00 am – 12:30 pm, 3:00 pm – 8:30 pm
- Festivals: Durga Puja
- Best Time To Visit In: March to April
25. Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu, Nepal
Pashupatinath Temple is the largest temple in the world dedicated to Lord Shiva, located at the western bank of the holy Bagmati River in the town of Pashupatinagar within the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal. The temple’s primary deity is Lord Shiva – one of the trinity gods of Hindus. According to Gopalraj Aalok Vhat, Pashupatinath Temple was built by Prachanda Deva, a Licchavi king in the 5th century. The Pashupatinath Temple complex covers 264 hectares and is surrounded by a 518-meter long structure. In fact, Pashupatinath Temple is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Nepal and is considered the most sacred Temple in Nepal.
- Location: Unnamed Road, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
- Country: Nepal
- Nearest Airport: Tribhuvan International Airport
- Built-In: 4380 B.C (5th century)
- Built-By: Rani Rashmoni
- Total Area: 6,000 m2
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Architectural Styles: Pagoda, Hindu Temple Architecture
- Temple Timings: 5:00 am – 6:45 pm
- Festivals: Shivaratri, Teej, Bala Chaturdashi
- Best Time To Visit In: October to March
The universe is the body of God, and each living being in it is an embodiment of one of his(God) many aspects. So, if you love to travel and are in search of an exciting place to visit, then the above list of the largest temples in the world is for you!
Visiting the biggest temples in the world can be a life-changing experience. They all have fascinating histories that showcase how religion has changed over time and impacted civilizations for millennia. We understand that planning a vacation can be an exciting and enjoyable process, but at the same time, you need to do extensive research and book flights, hotels, etc. Book your trip with Travanya, India’s most trusted and renowned travel agency.
We have many years of extensive experience, and we have been providing some valuable services to our clients. You can book your flight tickets with us at affordable prices, and our travel agent will assist you with the best travel plans. For more information, you can contact us on +91 800 023 5865.
About Navneet View All Posts
Navneet Kaur is a Professional Content Writer with 5+ years of experience, she started her career as a Content Writer. Apart from having good knowledge of marketing and business, she firmly believes in dreaming big and making them come true. She lives with a passion to explore and learn about adventure, destinations, history and live events happening around. Including her travel writing skills, she has also written about places, arts and entertainment, personal experiences, nature and its beauty, etc.
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