www.ChakraNews.com

World Dharma News: Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism and Jainism News and Insight.

You are here: Home / Dharmic Insight / Top 5 ‘Must Experience’ Hindu Temples You Should Visit Across Asia

Top 5 ‘Must Experience’ Hindu Temples You Should Visit Across Asia

by 3 Comments

Sri Ranganathaswamy - A Hindu Temple in Tamil Nadu (picture by Prabhu B Doss)

Sri Ranganathaswamy – A Hindu Temple in Tamil Nadu (picture by Prabhu B Doss)

By The Chakra team

Prambanan Temple, Indonesia

Prambanan, temple, located in the lush landscape of Indonesia is the largest Hindu temple in Southeast Asia. The temple towers depict the Ramayana epic and the temple is dedicated to the three Great Hindu Divinities:  Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The temples towers, including its highest tower of 47 metres soar  up into the moonlit sky adorning a rich culture and history through its unique architecture. Prambanan Temple was built in the 10th century by two Kings named Rakai Pakatanand and Rakai Balitung. The temple is located approximately 17 kilometres from the city centre among beautiful parks. The temples deities, sculptures and backdrop of greenery amongst  volcanic peaks make for the perfect purifying experience.

         

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple (Srirangam), South India

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple (also known as Vishnu Temple) is located in the Indian city of Tiruchirapalli in Tamil Nadu, and is one of the largest temples in the world and largest temple in India. The temple is dedicated to Vishnu who is seen reclining on a large serpent. One of many legends has it that years and years ago a sage placed down a statue of Vishnu on a serpent while taking a rest. When the sage was ready to leave after his rest, the statue could not move and thus a temple was built over it. The temple grew larger and larger over the years as additions were made to its already existing structure. The outermost wall of the temple is approximately 2.5 miles (almost 4 km) long! Each inner layer of the temple structure is considered more and more sacred. The inner most temple is the oldest and most sacred. Intricate carvings lie among the 11 tiers that get progressively smaller and smaller towards the top tier which is 237 ft. high. History lies within the walls of this temple based on the various dynasties that ruled between the 9th and 16th century. The rich history coupled with the distinctive culture of South India make this majestic palace surrounded by coastal beauty bucket list worthy!

 

Hampi Temples, South India

Hampi, a village in northern Karnataka is known for its splendid sand monuments and intricately sculpted temples. Temples in this city are known for their flowery decor, grand pillars, classic carvings and detailed depictions of Great Hindu epics. Upon arriving this destination the first thing one will notice is that the city’s ruins continue to be an important religious centre for people from all around the world to encounter and experience. Some of the many Hindu temples that are still actively worshipped in are:

  • Achyutaraya Temple
  • Chandramauleshwara Temple
  • Malyavanta Raghunathaswamy Temple
  • Badavi Linga
  • Hazara Rama Temple Complex
  • Krishna Temple Complex
  • Vitthla Temple Complex

Dravidian temples line Hampi which was the last capital of the last great Hindu Kingdom known as Vijayanagar. A mix of decorated pillars, plains, ornate structures, and remains that prove the economic prosperity that once existed (before its takeover and carnage) are likely to allow each visitor to relive the experiences of kingdom dwellers from years ago.

         

Kashi Vishwanath Temple, North India

One of the most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Shiva is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. With a location at the heart of India’s cultural capital, Varanasi, The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the holiest temples for Hindu devotees across the world. It is believed that a simple glimpse at the Jyotirlinga of Shiva can lead to a purifying and spiritual cleansing experience. Built in 1780, the temple consists of 3 grand domes of which 2 are covered by gold. Whether it be for a pilgrimage, a bath for blessing or pouring of flowers in the Ganges River or simply to view the beauty of the temple from the outside, the city of Varanasi including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple are a place to find religion, culture and a rich history of Hinduism.

         

Batu Caves Hindu Shrine, Malaysia

Thirteen kilometres north of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, lies the unique Batu Caves shrine. There are 3 main caves with smaller caves surrounding them. Although discovered in 1892, the caves are made of limestone which is said to be over 400 million years old.  The caverns filled with Hindu temples and shrines are one of the most popular Hindu worship places outside of India. Many people primarily visit to get blessings from Lord Murugan. Two-hundred-and-seventy-two concrete steps lead the way up to various cave temples rising up to 100 meters above ground level. Not only does this place offer a religious sanctuary to Hindus around the world but it also offers an experience like nowhere else as a result of the mix of nature, spirituality and religion.  The beautiful rock formations of centuries along with the flora and fauna keep this place alive. Depending on when you decide to visit, look out for various festivals that take place including the Thaipusam Festival, rock climbing sites and caves devoted to many different divinities. Also, do not forget to bath in the nearby Sungai Batu (Rocky River).

 

Filed Under: Dharmic Insight, Hinduism, Hindus, Social Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. The Chakra is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of The Chakra and The Chakra News does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

Comments

  3. Thank you for the informative post. I was really pleased to know how tradition helps Nature.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

The Chakra

The Chakra (www.ChakraNews.com) is your source for the most comprehensive and up-to-date Dharmic-related (Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Jainism) insights, political news and upcoming festivals. Our online magazine was established with the vision of delivering accurate coverage of all subjects of interest to Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, Jains and the wider Dharmic community.
 
The Chakra views all denominations along ethno-cultural and religious lines to be equal.

Learn more: