Around the world, places of worship often serve as defining characteristics of a particular region, religion, or culture. Among the world’s most recognizable landmarks are magnificent temples that have become symbols of the region to which they belong. These places of worship have over time become little more than famous temples and have become highly valued tourist destinations for visitors who want to see and connect with different cultures from around the world. If you are interested in architecture, history and man-made beauty then these temples from around the world are worth a visit. Get ready to go on a religious tourism journey and see some of the most must-see temples in the world. (Also read: Find Romance on a Budget: Top 5 Affordable Honeymoon Destinations Outside India ,
5 must visit holy temples around the world
Giresh Kulkarni, Founder, Temple Connect and ITCX, talks to HT Lifestyle about five must-see holy temples, each filled with unique rituals and deep significance.
1. Shri Kaal Bhairav ​​Temple, Varanasi
Located in the ancient city of Varanasi, the Kaal Bhairav ​​Temple is one of the most revered Shiva temples in India. Kaal Bhairav ​​is the Kotwal of Kashi. The temple is known for its unique tradition of offering wine and meat to the deity, which is unusual in most Hindu temples. It is said that any holy visit to Kashi Vishwanath Temple is incomplete if the devotee does not take darshan and blessings of Baba Kaal Bhairav.
2. Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi
Located in Varanasi, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most revered Jyotirlingas, making it an important place in Hinduism. The temple is located on the western bank of the holy river Ganges, and it is believed that a visit to the temple and a bath in the river can lead to salvation, liberation from the cycle of life and death. The Ganga Aarti performed every evening is a spiritually uplifting ceremony not to be missed.
3. Shani Shingnapur Temple, Maharashtra
Shani Shingnapur Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shani. It is situated in a small village Shingnapur in Maharashtra. This temple is a awakened temple. This temple is unique as it has no doors or compound, symbolizing the belief that Lord Shani is ever-present and cannot be confined within walls. Devotees come to this temple to seek blessings from Lord Shani and remove obstacles and difficulties in their life.
4. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga, Maharashtra
Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga is one of the 12 revered Jyotirlingas of India. It is located in Trimbak city near Nashik in Maharashtra. It is unique because this Jyotirlinga is installed in the void with three faces symbolizing Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Rudra. The temple is also known for the rare practice of performing Narayana Nagabali puja, which aims to provide peace to the souls of the dead.
5. Pratyangira Devi Temple, Ayyavadi, Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu
Pratyangira Devi Temple is a unique temple dedicated to Goddess Pratyangira who is believed to have the power to remove any obstacles in the form of evil spirits or negative energies. It is located in the small village of Ayyavadi near Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu. This temple is known for its unique ritual, Nikumbala Yagya, which is performed mainly on the new moon day to protect the devotees from evil astrological influences and bring prosperity.
Each of these temples not only offers spiritual solace; They provide a glimpse of the deep cultural heritage and religious practices that have been carefully preserved and cherished in India. Whether you are a devout follower or a curious traveller, these temples promise a rich, enlightening experience.
