Pilgrimage

7 Historical Temples of India

Brihadeeswarar Temple, Tamil Nadu

  • Location: Thanjavur
  • Built by: Raja Raja Chola I
  • Period: 11th century
  • Significance: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a stunning example of Dravidian architecture and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple features a massive central dome and intricate sculptures.

Konark Sun Temple, Odisha

  • Location: Konark
  • Built by: King Narasimhadeva I
  • Period: 13th century
  • Significance: Known for its exquisite stone carvings, the temple is designed in the shape of a colossal chariot with intricately carved stone wheels, pillars, and walls. It is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya.

Kedarnath Temple, Uttarakhand

  • Location: Kedarnath
  • Period: Ancient, exact date unknown, reconstructed in the 8th century by Adi Shankaracharya
  • Significance: One of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, this temple is located in the Himalayan range and is a significant pilgrimage site.

Khajuraho Temples, Madhya Pradesh

  • Location: Khajuraho
  • Built by: Chandela dynasty
  • Period: 950-1050 AD
  • Significance: Famous for their erotic sculptures and Nagara-style architectural symbolism, these temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Virupaksha Temple, Karnataka

  • Location: Hampi
  • Built by: Originally built in the 7th century, additions made by the Vijayanagara rulers
  • Period: 7th century, expanded in the 14th century
  • Significance: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is part of the Group of Monuments at Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and showcases remarkable Vijayanagara architecture.

Ranakpur Jain Temple, Rajasthan

  • Location: Ranakpur
  • Built by: Dharna Shah, a local Jain businessman
  • Period: 15th century
  • Significance: Known for its stunning marble architecture, this temple is dedicated to Tirthankara Adinatha and features intricate carvings and 1,444 unique pillars.

Meenakshi Temple, Tamil Nadu

  • Location: Madurai
  • Built by: Ancient origins with significant contributions by the Nayak rulers in the 16th century
  • Period: Significant contributions in the 16th century
  • Significance: This temple is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva). It’s renowned for its towering gopurams (gateway towers) adorned with colorful sculptures.

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