Temples have traditionally stood as symbols of various faiths. In ancient India, besides being a tribute to the gods, they also served as seats of learning and innovation. Which is why nothing less than the best architects, the most skilled artisans and the most beautiful of locations would do. Here are some Temples that make it to our list of top 10 most scenic Temples in the country.

Vaishno Devi Temple is a beautiful Hindu Pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Shakti. Pilgrims, especially Hindus from all over the world visit Vaishno Devi, making it the second most visited shrine in India after Tirupati Balaji Mandir.

The Harmandir Sahib (or Hari Mandir) in Amritsar, Punjab, is the holiest shrine of the Sikhs, commonly known as the Golden Temple. It was officially renamed Harmandir Sahib in March 2005. The temple (or gurdwara) is a major pilgrimage destination for Sikhs from all over the world, as well as an increasingly popular tourist attraction.

The Shantadurga Temple is dedicated to an avatar of Parvati known as Shantadurga, the Goddess of Peace. Shantadurga appeared at the behest of Lord Brahma and mediated between Shiva and Vishnu to stop a deadly war that could have destroyed the Universe. Situated 33 kms. from Panjim, it is a highly affluent Temple, famous for a palanquin made of gold.

Proudly finding it’s place in the list of top 30 nominees of the “New Seven Wonders of the Worlds", the Shri Meenakshi Temple in Madurai, is a complete Indian Temple experience. It is dedicated to Parvati who is known as Meenakshi and her consort, Shiva. It has an estimated 33,000 sculptures in the Temple and attracts around 15,000 visitors a day!

Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu finds the coveted place among the seven sacred cities for Hindus and has several stunning Temples mostly dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu. The Kailashnatha Temple is said to be the oldest in the city and dates back to the 7th century.

The Jains put all their devotional passion into the creation of the most ornate marble temples; with exquisitely detailed relief carvings covering every inch. The same applies to the Temples at Dilwara and Ranakpur. Make sure you visit them at least once in your lifetime!

The town of Khajuraho is famous for its great temple complex, which features intricately carved buildings dating back as far as the 10th century. It has the largest group of medieval Temples and Jain Temples, famous for their erotic sculptures. The monuments have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and ranks among “Seven Wonders" of India.

This awesome Shivastalam in India, stands among the most sacred pilgrimage centres of the country. It is revered as one of the 12 Jyotirlingams . The spiritual leader Adi Sankaracharya is closely associated with Kedarnath. It is a shrine steeped in rich history and religious significance.

Konark is a highly renowned tourist attraction of Orissa. It houses a colossal Temple dedicated to the Sun God. Built in 1278 CE by the Ganga King Narasimha Deva. it is known as the grandest temple of India and is referred to as the Black Pagoda. The tower over the Garbagriha is missing, however the Jagmohana is intact, and even in this state, it is awe inspiring.

Every Hindu knows about the sacred Lord Venkateshwara (Balaji) Temple in Tirupati. The Temple is situated around 10 kms. from Tirupati on Tirumala Hill in Chitoor District. Dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara, it attracts Hindu pilgrims from all over the world. It is the most visited worship site in the world and the second richest worship place in the world after the Vatican in Rome.

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