Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Varanasi

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Varanasi
Vishwanath Gali, near Dashashwamedh Ghat, Varanasi
Lord Shiva (as Vishwanath or “Lord of the Universe”)

History & Mythology

One of the 12 Jyotirlingas, considered the holiest.
Destroyed and rebuilt several times. Current structure built in 1780 by Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore.
Mythology says Lord Shiva himself established this lingam and the city rests on his trident.

Why It’s Famous

Spiritual heart of Varanasi.
Believed to liberate from the cycle of birth and death.
Central to the newly redeveloped Kashi Vishwanath Corridor.

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Varanasi

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Varanasi
Near BHU (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi
Lord Hanuman

History & Mythology

Established by Tulsidas, author of Ramcharitmanas.
Legend says Hanuman appeared in his dream and guided him to this spot.
Temple is over 400 years old.

Why It’s Famous

Known for fulfilling wishes and protection from troubles.
Huge crowds on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Believed to ward off evil spirits and misfortune.

Durga Temple (Durga Kund Mandir)

Varanasi

Durga Temple (Durga Kund Mandir)

Varanasi
Durga Kund area, near Tulsi Ghat
Goddess Durga

History & Mythology

Built in the 18th century by a Bengali Maharani.
Called “Monkey Temple” due to monkey presence.
Legend claims the idol is self-manifested (swayambhu).

Why It’s Famous

A major Shakti Peeth in Varanasi.
Huge Navratri celebrations.
Historical charm from adjacent Durga Kund (pond).

Annapurna Devi Temple

Varanasi

Annapurna Devi Temple

Varanasi
Near Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Goddess Annapurna (form of Parvati, goddess of nourishment)

History & Mythology

Legend says Parvati appeared as Annapurna to end famine after Shiva claimed food is an illusion.
Gold idol opened to public only on Annakoot (day after Diwali).

Why It’s Famous

Pilgrims believe no one leaves hungry.
Free food (prasadam) served to thousands daily.
Spiritual connection to Kashi Vishwanath Temple – considered its presiding goddess.

Kal Bhairav Temple

Varanasi

Kal Bhairav Temple

Varanasi
Vishweshwarganj area, Varanasi
Kal Bhairav (a fierce form of Shiva)

History & Mythology

Kal Bhairav is the “Kotwal” (Chief Guardian) of Kashi.
No one can stay in Varanasi without his permission, according to belief.
Temple is ancient and feared as well as revered.

Why It’s Famous

Known for its mysterious and powerful aura.
People seek protection from negative energies.
Entry to Kashi considered incomplete without visiting here.

The Sleeping Protector – Shri Bade Hanuman Ji Mandir

Prayagraj

The Sleeping Protector – Shri Bade Hanuman Ji Mandir

Prayagraj
Near Sangam, beneath Allahabad Fort
Lord Hanuman (reclining form)

History & Mythology

The temple is over 700 years old, with a massive idol of Hanuman lying on his back — a rare posture.
Believed to have been discovered by a devout merchant and installed underground.
Associated with flood control: locals say Ganga only rises to Hanuman’s feet, then recedes.

Why It’s Famous

Only underground reclining Hanuman shrine in India.
Key stop during Kumbh Mela and Sangam pilgrimage
Revered for removing obstacles and fear.

The Vanished Goddess – Maa Alopi Devi Shaktipeeth

Prayagraj

The Vanished Goddess – Maa Alopi Devi Shaktipeeth

Prayagraj
Alopibagh
Goddess Alopi (form of Shakti)

History & Mythology

One of the most mysterious temples: no idol—only a sacred palanquin (doli) is worshipped.
Said to be the spot where Sati’s final body part vanished, ending her cosmic journey.

Why It’s Famous

One of the 51 Shaktipeeths.
A favorite for prayers related to marriage, childbirth, and home protection.
Devotees feel her energy despite the absence of an idol.

The Tree That Will Never Die – Akshayavat

Prayagraj

The Tree That Will Never Die – Akshayavat

Prayagraj
Patalpuri Temple inside Allahabad Fort
Symbolic immortal tree

History & Mythology

Mentioned in Vedic texts, Puranas, and by Hiuen Tsang
Lord Vishnu proclaimed it would survive the apocalypse (Pralay).
Suicide under the tree was once believed to lead to moksha.

Why It’s Famous

Known as the immortal banyan
Symbol of eternity, spiritual release, and rebirth.
A sacred landmark for sages and saints.

The Divine Fingerprint – Lalita Devi Temple

Prayagraj

The Divine Fingerprint – Lalita Devi Temple

Prayagraj
Meerapur
Goddess Lalita (Durga form)

History & Mythology

A prominent Shaktipeeth where fingers of Sati’s hand fell.
Connected to ancient Tantric worship traditions.
Survived invasions and continues to draw devotees since Gupta-era times.

Why It’s Famous

Worshipped for fertility, inner strength, and feminine power.
Major events during Navratri and Durga Puja.
A deeply rooted temple in Prayagraj’s Shakti circuit.

The Yajna Ground of Kings–Dashashwamedh Mahadev Temple

Prayagraj

The Yajna Ground of Kings–Dashashwamedh Mahadev Temple

Prayagraj
Near Dashashwamedh Ghat
Lord Shiva

History & Mythology

Linked to Dashashwamedh Yagna, a ten-horse sacrifice ritual performed by Lord Rama or Brahma
Said to cleanse lifetimes of sins and open gates to heavenly realms

Why It’s Famous

Historic yagna site for ancestral blessings.
Pilgrims visit for Pind Daan and liberation rites.
Closely tied to Kumbh rituals and Ganga ceremonies.

The Serpent Kings Sanctuary – Nagvasuki Temple

Prayagraj

The Serpent Kings Sanctuary – Nagvasuki Temple

Prayagraj
Daraganj
Vasuki Naga

History & Mythology

Vasuki, injured during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), rested here.
Temple built in 10th century CE, renovated by Marathas in 18th century.

Why It’s Famous

Remedy for Kaal Sarp Dosh and planetary curses.
Major Nag Panchami rituals held here.
Serpent worship and astrological healing center

The Tower of Tranquility – Shankar Viman Mandapam

Prayagraj

The Tower of Tranquility – Shankar Viman Mandapam

Prayagraj
Near Sangam
Shiva, Vishnu, Lakshmi-Narayan

History & Mythology

Constructed in South Indian architectural style by Tamil devotees in the 20th century.
Not linked to a myth, but amplifies sanctity by proximity to Sangam.

Why It’s Famous

Beautiful multi-tiered shrine.
Peaceful prayer site after a Sangam bath.
A visual and spiritual break from crowded riverbanks.

The Moons Redemption – Someshwar Mahadev Temple

Prayagraj

The Moons Redemption – Someshwar Mahadev Temple

Prayagraj
Arail (across the Yamuna in Naini)
Lord Shiva

History & Mythology

Moon god Chandra was cursed with decay. He performed penance here.
Shiva restored his light, earning the title “Someshwar” – Lord of the Moon.
Temple rebuilt by Peshwa Baji Rao I in 1735.

Why It’s Famous

Trident shifts direction with moon phases.
Bathing in Chandra Kund believed to cure leprosy and TB.
One of the eight sacred tirths of Prayag.

The Graceful Guardian – Maa Kalyani Devi Temple

Prayagraj

The Graceful Guardian – Maa Kalyani Devi Temple

Prayagraj
Near Saraswati Ghat
Lord Shiva

History & Mythology

“Mankameshwar” means the Lord who grants wishes.
Local belief says all pure-hearted wishes made here are fulfilled.
Believed to have been visited by Lord Rama

Why It’s Famous

Known for wish-fulfilling powers.
Devotees offer milk, water, and flowers for blessings.
Prominent during Shravan month and Shivratri.

Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir (Shri Ram Mandir)

Ayodhya

Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir (Shri Ram Mandir)

Ayodhya
Ram Janmabhoomi complex, Ayodhya
Lord Rama

History & Mythology

Believed to be the exact birthplace of Lord Rama, as described in the Ramayana.
Supreme Court of India ruled in 2019 in favor of constructing the Ram temple. Construction began in 2020, and idol installation happened in January 2024.

Why It’s Famous

Spiritual and political symbol for Hindus.
Massive architecture blending traditional and modern styles. One of the holiest sites in Hinduism.

Hanuman Garhi

Ayodhya

Hanuman Garhi

Ayodhya
About 1 km from Ram Janmabhoomi, near the center of Ayodhya
Lord Hanuman

History & Mythology

According to legend, Hanuman lived here guarding Ram Janmabhoomi.
Dates back to the 10th century, later expanded by rulers and saints. Built on a hill with a 76-step climb.

Why It’s Famous

Key pilgrimage stop before visiting Ram Mandir — said one must visit Hanuman first.
Very popular on Tuesdays and during Ram Navami.

Kanak Bhawan

Ayodhya

Nageshwarnath Temple

Ayodhya

Treta Ke Thakur Temple

Ayodhya

Treta Ke Thakur Temple

Ayodhya
Near Naya Ghat, Ayodhya
Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman, Hanuman, Bharat, and Shatrughna

History & Mythology

Built on the spot where Rama performed the Ashwamedha Yajna.
Original black stone idols believed to be installed by Raja Vikramaditya and rebuilt in the 1700s by Ahilyabai Holkar.

Why It’s Famous

Rare temple with all major Ramayana characters in one sanctum.
Open to public only on Ekadashi of Kartik month (once a year).

Banke Bihari Temple

Vrindavan

Banke Bihari Temple

Vrindavan
Loi Bazaar, Vrindavan
Lord Krishna (as Banke Bihari)

History & Mythology

Established by Swami Haridas, the spiritual guru of Tansen.
The deity appeared miraculously from a Kadamba tree in Nidhivan, representing Krishna in a playful, charming form.

Why It’s Famous

No bells or early morning mangal aarti — to not disturb the Lord’s rest.
The curtain is drawn every few seconds to protect devotees from Krishna’s overwhelming beauty.

Prem Mandir

Vrindavan

Radha Raman Temple

Vrindavan

Radha Raman Temple

Vrindavan
Near Nidhivan, Vrindavan
Radha Raman (Krishna); Radha is symbolically present as a crown

History & Mythology

Established by Gopal Bhatta Goswami, one of the six Goswamis of Vrindavan.
Legend says Krishna manifested from a shaligram shila (sacred stone).

Why It’s Famous

The original deity is still worshipped – not a replacement idol.
Known for its strict, traditional puja and deep spiritual significance.

ISKCON Temple (Krishna Balaram Mandir)

Vrindavan

ISKCON Temple (Krishna Balaram Mandir)

Vrindavan
Raman Reti, Vrindavan
Krishna and Balaram (with Radha-Shyamsundar and Gaur-Nitai)

History & Mythology

Built in the 1970s by Srila Prabhupada, founder of ISKCON.
Promotes global Krishna Consciousness through Bhakti Yoga.

Why It’s Famous

Hub for international devotees, known for daily kirtans, lectures, and prasad.
Srila Prabhupada’s Samadhi Mandir is located inside the complex.

Radha Vallabh Temple

Vrindavan

Radha Vallabh Temple

Vrindavan
Radha Vallabh Gali, near Banke Bihari Temple
Radha Vallabh (form of Krishna); Radha is represented symbolically

History & Mythology

Founded by Hit Harivansh Mahaprabhu, the originator of the Radha Vallabh tradition.
Focuses on the intimate and mystical love of Radha for Krishna.

Why It’s Famous

One of the oldest and most spiritually intense temples in Vrindavan.
Radha is not present as a murti, but felt symbolically through divine presence.

Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga

Ujjain

Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga

Ujjain
Near Rudra Sagar Lake, Ujjain city center
Lord Shiva (as Mahakaleshwar – “Lord of Time”)

History & Mythology

One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.
Only south-facing Jyotirlinga, symbolizing victory over death.
Mentioned in Skanda Purana where Shiva appeared to destroy a demon.

Why It’s Famous

Bhasma Aarti (ash ritual at 4 AM) is world-renowned.
Worship believed to remove fear of untimely death.
Spiritual epicenter of Ujjain.

Kal Bhairav Temple

Ujjain

Kal Bhairav Temple

Ujjain
On the banks of the Shipra River, Ujjain
Kal Bhairav (fierce form of Lord Shiva)

History & Mythology

Guardian deity of Ujjain.
Said to be built by King Bhadresen.
Known for tantric traditions and rituals.

Why It’s Famous

Liquor is offered to the deity as prasad.
Believed to protect from evil forces, court cases, and enemies.
Famous for the mystery of “disappearing liquor”.

Mangalnath Temple

Ujjain

Mangalnath Temple

Ujjain
Banks of the Shipra River, Ujjain outskirts
Lord Shiva (as Mangalnath, associated with Mars)

History & Mythology

Believed to be the birthplace of Mars (Mangal).
Used for Navagraha shanti pujas.
Referenced in the Matsya Purana.

Why It’s Famous

Astrological remedies for Mangal dosha.
Clear astronomical views of Mars.
Popular for overcoming obstacles.

Chintaman Ganesh Temple

Ujjain

Chintaman Ganesh Temple

Ujjain
Near Fatehabad railway crossing, about 6 km from Ujjain city
Lord Ganesha (as Chintaman – “Remover of Worries”)

History & Mythology

Built during the Paramara dynasty.
Swayambhu (self-manifested) idol.
Restored by Maratha rulers.

Why It’s Famous

Believed to remove anxiety, stress, and life troubles.
Popular among students and professionals for wisdom.
Known for its serene and calming energy.

Harsiddhi Temple

Ujjain

Harsiddhi Temple

Ujjain
Between Mahakaleshwar and Ram Ghat
Goddess Harsiddhi (form of Durga)

History & Mythology

One of the Shakti Peeths – where Sati’s elbow fell.
Revived by King Vikramaditya.

Why It’s Famous

Two massive deep-stambhs lit during Navratri.
Major center of Shakti worship in Ujjain.
Bustling during Durga Puja and Navratri.

Mansa Devi Temple

Haridwar

Mansa Devi Temple

Haridwar
Near Naya Ghat, Ayodhya
Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman, Hanuman, Bharat, and Shatrughna

History & Mythology

Built on the spot where Rama performed the Ashwamedha Yajna.
Original black stone idols believed to be installed by Raja Vikramaditya and rebuilt in the 1700s by Ahilyabai Holkar.

Why It’s Famous

Rare temple with all major Ramayana characters in one sanctum.
Open to public only on Ekadashi of Kartik month (once a year).

Chandi Devi Temple

Haridwar

Chandi Devi Temple

Haridwar
Near Naya Ghat, Ayodhya
Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman, Hanuman, Bharat, and Shatrughna

History & Mythology

Built on the spot where Rama performed the Ashwamedha Yajna.
Original black stone idols believed to be installed by Raja Vikramaditya and rebuilt in the 1700s by Ahilyabai Holkar.

Why It’s Famous

Rare temple with all major Ramayana characters in one sanctum.
Open to public only on Ekadashi of Kartik month (once a year).

Maya Devi Temple

Haridwar

Maya Devi Temple

Haridwar
Near Naya Ghat, Ayodhya
Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman, Hanuman, Bharat, and Shatrughna

History & Mythology

Built on the spot where Rama performed the Ashwamedha Yajna.
Original black stone idols believed to be installed by Raja Vikramaditya and rebuilt in the 1700s by Ahilyabai Holkar.

Why It’s Famous

Rare temple with all major Ramayana characters in one sanctum.
Open to public only on Ekadashi of Kartik month (once a year).

Daksha Mahadev Temple

Haridwar

Daksha Mahadev Temple

Haridwar
Near Naya Ghat, Ayodhya
Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman, Hanuman, Bharat, and Shatrughna

History & Mythology

Built on the spot where Rama performed the Ashwamedha Yajna.
Original black stone idols believed to be installed by Raja Vikramaditya and rebuilt in the 1700s by Ahilyabai Holkar.

Why It’s Famous

Rare temple with all major Ramayana characters in one sanctum.
Open to public only on Ekadashi of Kartik month (once a year).

Bharat Mata Mandir

Haridwar

Bharat Mata Mandir

Haridwar
Near Naya Ghat, Ayodhya
Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman, Hanuman, Bharat, and Shatrughna

History & Mythology

Built on the spot where Rama performed the Ashwamedha Yajna.
Original black stone idols believed to be installed by Raja Vikramaditya and rebuilt in the 1700s by Ahilyabai Holkar.

Why It’s Famous

Rare temple with all major Ramayana characters in one sanctum.
Open to public only on Ekadashi of Kartik month (once a year).

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Rishikesh

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Rishikesh
32 km from Rishikesh, in the hills above Swargashram
Lord Shiva (as Neelkanth – “Blue Throat”)

History & Mythology

Associated with the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean).
Lord Shiva drank the poison (Halahala) to save the world, which turned his throat blue.

Why It’s Famous

Major Shiva pilgrimage site.
Surrounded by dense forest, with a scenic mountain view.
Thousands visit during Shivratri and Shravan month.

Trayambakeshwar Temple (Tera Manzil Temple)

Rishikesh

Trayambakeshwar Temple (Tera Manzil Temple)

Rishikesh
Lakshman Jhula, on the east bank of the Ganga
Lord Shiva (as Trayambakeshwar)

History & Mythology

Built in a modern 13-floor style, each floor housing different Hindu gods.
Inspired by the Trayambakeshwar Jyotirlinga in Nashik.

Why It’s Famous

Visible from Lakshman Jhula – iconic part of Rishikesh skyline.
Offers panoramic views of Rishikesh and the Ganges.
Popular for photography and casual temple visits.

Bharat Mandir

Rishikesh

Bharat Mandir

Rishikesh
Near Triveni Ghat, Rishikesh town
Lord Vishnu (as Hrishikesh Narayan)

History & Mythology

Said to be established by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century.
During invasions, the idol was buried and rediscovered later.

Why It’s Famous

Oldest temple in Rishikesh.
The city’s name “Rishikesh” comes from the deity’s name – Hrishikesh.
Special pilgrimage during Basant Panchami with idol procession.

Raghunath Temple

Rishikesh

Lakshman Temple

Rishikesh

Dwarkadhish Temple (Jagat Mandir)

Dwarka

Dwarkadhish Temple (Jagat Mandir)

Dwarka
Gomti Ghat, Dwarka city center
Lord Krishna (as Dwarkadhish – “King of Dwarka”)

History & Mythology

Believed to have been originally built by Vajranabh, Krishna’s great-grandson.
Current structure dates back to the 16th century, but with roots in ancient times.
Krishna ruled from Dwarka after leaving Mathura, making it his capital.

Why It’s Famous

One of the Char Dham (four sacred abodes) in Hinduism.
Also one of the Sapta Puri – seven holiest cities.
Magnificent 5-story temple with 72-pillared hall and a towering spire (Shikhara).

Rukmini Devi Temple

Dwarka

Rukmini Devi Temple

Dwarka
2 km from Dwarkadhish Temple, near the Gomti River
Goddess Rukmini (Krishna’s chief consort)

History & Mythology

Legend says Rukmini was cursed by sage Durvasa to live separately from Krishna.
Hence, her temple is located outside the main town.
The temple dates back over 1,000 years with beautiful carvings and sculptures.

Why It’s Famous

Strong symbolic and mythological value – shows divine feminine presence.
Architecturally exquisite and peaceful.
Often visited with a ritual of offering water due to the curse story.

Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple

Dwarka

Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple

Dwarka
17 km from Dwarka on the Dwarka–Porbandar highway
Lord Shiva (as Nageshwar)

History & Mythology

One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.
Mentioned in the Shiva Purana – said to protect devotees from poison and evil forces.
The name comes from “Naga” (snake), symbolizing cosmic energy.

Why It’s Famous

Massive 80-foot Shiva statue at the site.
Spiritual magnet for both Shaivites and Krishna devotees.
Peaceful spot with great energy for meditation and worship.

Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple

Dwarka

Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple

Dwarka
On a small rock island in the Arabian Sea, near Gomti Ghat
Lord Shiva

History & Mythology

Legend says a Shivlinga was found here naturally in the sea.
During high tide, the temple often becomes surrounded by water.

Why It’s Famous

Unique seaside setting — Shivlinga gets bathed naturally by ocean waves.
Majestic view of the sea and sunsets.
Ideal for spiritual photography and calm Shiva worship.

Gita Mandir (Birla Temple)

Dwarka

Gita Mandir (Birla Temple)

Dwarka
Near Dwarkadhish Temple, on the western edge of Dwarka
Lord Krishna

History & Mythology

Built by the Birla family in the mid-20th century.
Dedicated to Krishna as the speaker of the Bhagavad Gita.
Walls contain engraved verses of the Gita.

Why It’s Famous

Clean, modern temple with peaceful ambience.
Draws philosophy lovers and students of the Gita.
Ideal place to reflect and meditate on Krishna’s teachings.

Famous Indian Temples

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