Hinduism, one of the world’s oldest religions, boasts a rich tapestry of spirituality, culture, and architectural marvels. At the heart of this ancient faith lie the grand and awe-inspiring temples, revered by millions of devotees worldwide. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the top 10 largest Hindu temples in the world, each a testament to devotion and architectural prowess.
1. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Angkor Wat stands as a colossal temple complex situated in Angkor, Cambodia, covering a vast expanse of 162.6 hectares (equivalent to 1,626,000 square meters or 402 acres). This remarkable edifice holds the prestigious title of being the largest religious structure globally, as acknowledged by the Guinness World Records. Initially, it was erected as a Hindu temple, a sacred homage to the deity Maha Vishnu, the supreme god of Vaishnavism, under the patronage of King Suryavarman II during the 12th century. Over time, it underwent a transformation, gradually evolving into a Buddhist temple by the close of the same century. Hence, it is often referred to as a “Hindu-Buddhist” temple, reflecting its dual religious significance.
2. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple, USA
Located in Robbinsville, New Jersey, the Swaminarayan Akshardham complex is a prominent Hindu mandir (temple) complex. Within this vast campus, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, one of its key components, was officially inaugurated and made accessible to the public on August 10, 2014. This splendid temple is renowned as the world’s second-largest Hindu temple. Situated strategically at the core of the U.S. Northeast megalopolis, it enjoys close proximity to Newark International Airport, which facilitates direct flights to India.
3. Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, India
The Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple is a sacred site dedicated to Maha Vishnu, the Supreme Deity of Vaishnavism. It holds the distinction of being recognized as the largest operational Hindu temple globally. Situated in the state of Tamil Nadu, this grand temple spans an expansive 156 acres (approximately 631,000 square meters) with a perimeter extending over 4,116 meters (around 10,710 feet). This makes it not only the largest temple in India but also one of the most extensive religious complexes on a global scale.
4. Sri Lakshmi Narayani Devi Temple, Sripuram
The standout attraction of ‘Sriupuram’ is the Lakshmi Narayani temple, distinguished by its golden-covered Vimanam and Ardha Mandapam. This temple enshrines Sri Lakshmi Narayani, the divine consort of Lord Narayana. Sprawled across 100 acres, the temple was erected by the charitable trust, Sri Narayani Peedam, led by the spiritual luminary, Sri Sakthi Amma, affectionately known as ‘Narayani Amma.
5. Chhatarpur Temple, India
Chhatarpur Temple, officially known as Shri Aadya Katyayani Shakti Peetham, is situated in downtown Chhatarpur, Delhi, India. This temple is devoted to the Goddess Katyayani and occupies a vast complex covering 70 acres.
6. Akshardham Temple, India
Akshardham is a sprawling Hindu temple complex located in Delhi, India. This grand complex, also known as Delhi Akshardham or Swaminarayan Akshardham, is a vivid showcase of the rich traditions of Indian and Hindu culture, spirituality, and architecture. The inspiration and guidance for this remarkable structure came from Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha. A dedicated team of 3,000 volunteers joined forces with 7,000 skilled artisans to bring Akshardham to life.
7. Prem Mandir, Vrindavan
Prem Mandir, also known as the Temple of Divine Love, is a Hindu temple in Vrindavan, located in the Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, India. This exquisite temple is dedicated to the divine forms of Radha Krishna and Sita Ram, representing the incarnations of Maha Vishnu, the supreme deity in Vaishnavism. Founded by Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj, the fifth Original Jagadguru, this sacred space is meticulously maintained by the Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat. Spanning a vast 55-acre site on the outskirts of Vrindavan, Prem Mandir houses the divine idols of Radha Krishna on the first level and Sita Ram on the second level.
8. Besakih Temple, Bali
Besakih Temple, located in the village of Besakih on the slopes of Mount Agung in eastern Bali, Indonesia, is not only the largest but also the most sacred Hindu temple in Bali. Situated at an elevation of nearly 1,000 meters on the slopes of Gunung Agung, this temple complex comprises 23 interconnected temples, with Pura Penataran Agung being the most prominent. The temple is structured over six terraced levels, ascending the mountainside. Visitors enter through a distinctive candi bentar, a split gateway, and proceed through the Kori Agung, the entrance to the second courtyard.
9. Statue of Equality (Ramanuja), India
The Statue of Equality, a tribute to the 11th-century Indian philosopher Ramanuja, stands within the Chinna Jeeyar Ashrama and temple complex in Muchintal, Ranga Reddy district, just outside Hyderabad. Notably, it ranks as the world’s second tallest seated statue. The temple compound encompasses 108 Divya Desams on approximately 45 acres of land.
10. Ramakrishna Temple, India
Belur Math, situated on the western bank of the Hooghly River in Belur, West Bengal, India, serves as the central headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission. Founded by Swami Vivekananda, a prominent disciple of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, this institution holds immense significance in Calcutta. The temple at Belur Math stands at the core of the Ramakrishna Movement and is renowned for its unique architectural blend, harmoniously incorporating elements from Hindu, Christian, and Islamic traditions, symbolizing the unity of all religions.
Final Thought
These ten temples are not merely architectural marvels but are integral to the spiritual and cultural heritage of Hinduism. They serve as timeless reminders of devotion, artistic excellence, and the enduring power of faith, touching the hearts of millions and leaving an indelible mark on the world’s religious and architectural history.
