Top 20 Largest Hindu Temples in the World

Hindu temples are not just places of worship but also architectural marvels that showcase the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of India and other parts of the world. In this blog, we will delve into the fascinating world of Hindu temples and explore the 20 Largest Hindu Temples in the World, the largest Hindu temples in existence, including the biggest Hindu temples in the world. We will also discover which temple in India holds the prestigious number-one spot.

What is a Hindu Temple?

Before we dive into the list of the largest Hindu temples, let’s understand what a Hindu temple is. A Hindu temple, also known as a Mandir, is a sacred place of worship for followers of Hinduism. These temples are dedicated to various deities and are designed with intricate architecture, exquisite sculptures, and vibrant artistry. Devotees visit temples to offer prayers, seek blessings, and connect with the divine.

Also Check: Ayodhya Ram Mandir History

Top 20 Largest Hindu Temples in the World

Here is a list of the top 10 largest Hindu temples in the world based on their architectural and religious significance:

1. Angkor Wat: Located in Cambodia, Angkor Wat is the largest Hindu temple complex globally and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although it is now predominantly associated with Buddhism, it was originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu.
2. Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple (Srirangam Temple): Situated in Srirangam, Tamil Nadu, India, this temple is one of the largest temple complexes in India. It is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, a form of Lord Vishnu.
3. Akshardham Temple: Located in Delhi, India, the Akshardham Temple is the largest Hindu temple in India and a modern architectural marvel. It is dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan.
4. Brihadeeswarar Temple (Thanjavur Temple): Situated in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India, this temple is renowned for its grand architecture and the massive Shiva lingam. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
5. Meenakshi Amman Temple: Located in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India, the Meenakshi Amman Temple is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi (a form of Parvati) and Lord Sundareswarar (a form of Shiva). It boasts an impressive architecture with towering gopurams (gateways).
6. Koneswaram Temple: Situated in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka, Koneswaram Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is known for its coastal location and stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
7. Chennakesava Temple, Belur: Located in Belur, Karnataka, India, this temple is known for its intricate sculptures and Hoysala architecture. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
8. Kailasanathar Temple: Situated in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India, the Kailasanathar Temple is one of the oldest temples in the region and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
9. Ekambareswarar Temple: Also located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalams, representing the element of Earth (Prithvi).
10. Chidambaram Nataraja Temple: Situated in Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India, this temple is dedicated to Lord Nataraja, a form of Lord Shiva as the cosmic dancer. It is known for its unique representation of Lord Shiva in the form of Nataraja.

Biggest Hindu Temple in the World: Angkor Wat

Topping the list as the biggest Hindu temple in the world is Angkor Wat, a breathtaking temple complex located in Cambodia. While Cambodia is predominantly a Buddhist country today, Angkor Wat’s history is rooted in Hinduism. Built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II, this colossal temple complex was originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu.

Angkor Wat is renowned for its stunning architecture, including its iconic central tower that symbolizes Mount Meru, the abode of the gods in Hindu mythology. The temple’s intricate carvings depict scenes from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Angkor Wat is not only a testament to Hindu devotion but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Cambodia’s rich history.

Largest Hindu Temple in India: Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple

In India, a country steeped in Hindu culture and spirituality, you might wonder which temple takes the coveted number one spot. The answer is the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple. Also known as the Srirangam Temple, is indeed one of the largest and most prominent Hindu temples in India. It is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, a form of the Hindu god Vishnu, and is located in Srirangam, a town in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

The Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is renowned for its vast and sprawling complex, which covers an extensive area of around 156 acres, making it one of the largest temple complexes in India. Its architecture, artistry, and religious significance draw millions of devotees and tourists each year.

The temple’s main deity, Lord Ranganatha, is depicted reclining on the serpent Adisesha. The temple complex is surrounded by seven prakaras (enclosures) and has numerous shrines, halls, and gopurams (towering entrance gateways). The Rajagopuram, the main gateway of the temple, is particularly impressive and stands at a towering height.

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple holds immense cultural and religious importance and is a revered pilgrimage site for Hindus. It exemplifies the architectural and artistic grandeur of South Indian temple architecture.

Conclusion

Hindu temples hold a special place in the hearts of millions, not only for their religious significance but also for their architectural beauty and cultural heritage. While Angkor Wat in Cambodia holds the title of the biggest Hindu temple globally, India’s own Akshardham Temple in Delhi is the largest Hindu temple in the country. These temples stand as a testament to the enduring spiritual and artistic legacy of Hinduism, attracting visitors from around the world who come to marvel at their grandeur and seek inner peace.

FAQs on Largest Hindu Temples in the World

Which is No 1 temple in India?

It is difficult to determine the No. 1 temple in India as there are numerous temples with great religious and historical significance. Some of the most popular temples in India include the Tirupati Balaji Temple, Vaishno Devi Temple, and the Golden Temple.

Which is world's largest Hindu temple?

The world's largest Hindu temple is the Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple in Delhi, India. It covers an area of 86,342 square feet and is a popular tourist attraction.

What is called Hindu temple?

A Hindu temple is a place of worship for followers of Hinduism. It is typically a structure designed to house one or more deities and is considered a sacred space for prayer, meditation, and religious rituals. Hindu temples can vary in size, architecture, and design, but they all serve as a place of spiritual connection and devotion.