World’s first and oldest religion, Hinduism has many magnificent temples all over the world. You may be surprised to know that the top two largest temples are not even in India, birthplace of this oldest religion and where most of the Hindu’s lives. India is also birthplace of some other religions including Buddhism, Sikhism, and Jainism. Temples are amazing place welcoming people from all religions, you can feel peace and special spiritual energy inside temples. Let’s see some of the biggest temples in the world inviting devotees and travelers alike.
1. Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Built by King Suryavarman II in 12th century, Angkor Wat temple was originally dedicated to Lord Vishnu had been later transitioned to a Buddhist temple. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest temple in the world. You should definitely visit Angkor Wat Hindu temple, even if you are not a devotee because it will give you an opportunity to dive into ancient architect and culture of Cambodia. Angkor temple features intricate carvings, extensive bas-reliefs, and towering spires that reflect Mount Meru, a sacred Hindu Mountain.
2. Swaminarayan Akshardham, New Jersey, USA
Spread over 183 acres, Akshardham in New Jersey is a stunning spiritual and architectural marvel. This is the largest Swaminarayan Akshardham temple among the three Akshardham temple built by BAPS Sanstha, it is also the second largest Hindu temple in the world. The temple is opened in 2014 and from that time it continues to serve as a centre for worship, education, and cultural events, promoting values of peace, unity, and devotion. It has become a major landmark and pilgrimage site in the United States.
3. Ram Mandir, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
Ram temple Ayodhya is built on Ram Janmabhoomi (birth place of lord Ram). The grand Ram Mandir in Ayodhya has total temple complex area of 70 acres. Its design reflects timeless Hindu Nagara style architectural traditions, with detailed depictions of deities, it features intricate carvings and a majestic sanctum housing Lord Ram’s idol. Built with Rajasthani pink sandstone, the temple reflects India’s rich heritage and devotion. The Ram Mandir has been made in 2024, after a long battle for Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi (Ram birth place). Do not forget to visit ancient Hanuman Garhi temple which is one of the main temples of Ayodhya.
4. Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam, Tamil Nadu
Dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, a form of Lord Vishnu, Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is one of the largest ancient temples in the world. Spanning 156 acres, it is also considered as the first, and the most important of the 108 main Vishnu temples. Sri Ranganathar temple features 21 majestic gopurams (towering gateways), including the towering 239-foot Rajagopuram, the tallest in Asia. The temple’s history spans over a millennium, with contributions from various dynasties like the Cholas, Pandyas, and Vijayanagara rulers. It is must go for all devotee, travelers and history lovers.
5. Akshardham Temple, Delhi, India
Inaugurated in 2005, Swaminarayan Akshardham Delhi, India is also built by BAPS. Spanning across 100 acres, the temple features a stunning 11-foot idol of Swaminarayan, surrounded by other deities. You should explore cultural exhibitions, the Yagnapurush Kund (world’s largest stepwell), and the Sahaj Anand Water Show in Akshardham mandir. If you are visiting Delhi this is must go place for both devotees and travellers.
These are 5 largest temples in the world but this list is going to change soon as there are some big temples which are under construction or planned including Virat Ramayana Mandir in Bihar, which will become largest active Hindu temple in the world. These famous temples in the world showcases the deep-rooted vibrant culture of Hinduism. What topic you want us to write about next? Let me know in comment section.
Until next time, keep travelling and take care of Nature.