Top 10 Extraordinary Temples in India

India is a land of diverse cultures and religions, and its rich heritage is reflected in its magnificent temples. While the country boasts countless famous temples, there are also lesser-known gems that exude an aura of mystique and uniqueness. In this article, we will take you on a journey to explore the top 10 extraordinary temples in India. Get ready to be captivated by their extraordinary architecture, intriguing legends, and spiritual aura.

1. Karni Mata Temple, Bikaner, Rajasthan

Karni Mata Temple is Located in the city of Bikaner, the Karni Mata Temple is dedicated to the revered goddess Karni Mata, also known as the Rat Temple. It is renowned for its large population of rats, considered sacred by devotees.

How to reach Karni Mata Temple

• You can take a flight to Jaipur, followed by a 4-hour drive to Bikaner.
• Nearest railway station: Karni Mata Temple is approximately 2.5 kilometers from Bikaner Junction.

Karni Mata Temple Nearby Attractions: Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, National Research Centre on Camel.

2. Shani Shingnapur Temple, Maharashtra

Shani Shingnapur Temple is located in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, the Shani Shingnapur Temple is dedicated to Lord Shani, the deity associated with the planet Saturn. What makes this temple unique is the absence of doors in the entire village, as it is believed that Lord Shani protects the residents from theft.

How to reach Shani Shingnapur Temple, Maharashtra

• The nearest airport is in Aurangabad, followed by a 2-hour drive to the temple.
• The nearest railway station to the Shani Shingnapur Temple is Shirdi Railway Station, approximately 65 kilometers away.

Nearby Attractions: Ellora Caves, Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, Shirdi Sai Baba Temple.

3. Kal Bhairav Nath Temple, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Kal Bhairav Nath Temple is situated in the spiritual city of Varanasi, the Kal Bhairav Nath Temple is devoted to Lord Bhairav, the fierce form of Lord Shiva. This temple is known for its strict rituals and the offering of alcohol as prasad.

How to reach Kal Bhairav Nath Temple, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

• The temple is easily accessible from Varanasi Airport, and it is a short drive from the city center.
• The temple is located around 6 kilometers from Varanasi Junction, the nearest railway station.

Nearby Attractions: Dashashwamedh Ghat, Sarnath, Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

4. Jalpa Mata Temple, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh

Jalpa Mata Temple is located in the serene town of Mandi, Jalpa Mata Temple is perched atop a hill and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. What sets this temple apart is its unique architecture, resembling a Buddhist pagoda.

How to reach Jalpa Mata Temple, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh

• Mandi can be reached by taking a flight to Bhuntar Airport, followed by a scenic drive to the temple.
• Mandi Railway Station, approximately 2 kilometers away, serves as the nearest railway station.

Nearby Attractions: Prashar Lake, Bhima Kali Temple, Rewalsar Lake.

5. Chaturbhuj Temple, Orchha, Madhya Pradesh

Chaturbhuj Temple is Situated in the historical town of Orchha, the Chaturbhuj Temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is known for its stunning architecture. The temple does not have any idol inside, as it was originally built to house an idol of Lord Rama that was later shifted to another temple.

How to reach Chaturbhuj Temple, Orchha, Madhya Pradesh

• The nearest airport is in Gwalior, followed by a 3-hour drive to Orchha.
• Jhansi Junction, located around 18 kilometers away, is the nearest railway station.

Nearby Attractions: Orchha Fort, Jahangir Mahal, Ram Raja Temple.

6. Kailasa Temple, Ellora Caves, Maharashtra

The Kailasa Temple is a remarkable piece of architecture carved out of a single rock in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ellora Caves. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and showcases intricate carvings and sculptures.

How to reach Kailasa Temple, Ellora Caves, Maharashtra

• Aurangabad Airport is the closest, followed by a one-hour drive to the Ellora Caves.
• Aurangabad Railway Station, approximately 30 kilometers away, is the nearest railway station.

Nearby Attractions: Ajanta Caves, Bibi Ka Maqbara, Daulatabad Fort.

7. Buland Darwaza, Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh

Buland Darwaza is not a traditional temple, the Buland Darwaza in Fatehpur Sikri is a monumental gateway that holds immense historical and religious significance. It was built by Emperor Akbar to commemorate his victory and has a mosque inside.

How to reach Buland Darwaza, Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh

• The nearest airport is Agra Airport, and a short drive will take you to Fatehpur Sikri.
• The nearest railway station is Fatehpur Sikri Railway Station, located around 1 kilometer away.

Nearby Attractions: Jama Masjid, Tomb of Salim Chishti, Panch Mahal.

8. Chennakesava Temple, Belur, Karnataka

Chennakesava Temple is located in the town of Belur, the Chennakesava Temple is an architectural masterpiece of the Hoysala dynasty. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is adorned with intricate carvings depicting various mythological stories.

How to reach Chennakesava Temple, Belur, Karnataka

• The closest airport is in Bangalore, followed by a scenic 4-hour drive to Belur.
• Hassan Railway Station, approximately 40 kilometers away, is the nearest railway station.

Nearby Attractions: Halebidu, Sravanabelagola, Shravanabelagola Jain Temple.

9. Trilokinath Temple, Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal Pradesh

Trilokinath Temple is situated in the remote valley of Lahaul and Spiti, the Trilokinath Temple is a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist traditions. The temple is revered by both Hindus and Buddhists and is known for its ancient wooden architecture.

How to reach Trilokinath Temple, Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal Pradesh

• The nearest railway station to the temple is Shimla Railway Station, approximately 375 kilometers away.
• The closest airport is in Kullu, followed by a picturesque drive to the temple.

Nearby Attractions: Key Monastery, Chandratal Lake, Kaza.

10. Sathya Sai Baba Temple, Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh

Sathya Sai Baba Temple in Puttaparthi is dedicated to Sri Sathya Sai Baba, a renowned spiritual leader. The temple complex is vast and includes meditation halls, museums, and a planetarium.

How to reach Sathya Sai Baba Temple, Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh

• The closest airport is Puttaparthi Airport, making it easily accessible for devotees.
• Sri Sathya Sai Prasanthi Nilayam Railway Station is located right next to the temple, offering convenient access.

Nearby Attractions: Sri Sathya Sai Space Theatre, Prasanthi Nilayam, Chaitanya Jyoti Museum.

Exploring the unusual temples of India takes you on a spiritual and cultural journey, unveiling the country’s rich tapestry of traditions and legends. These ten temples offer an extraordinary blend of architecture, mythology, and spiritual practices. Whether you seek an offbeat adventure or wish to deepen your spiritual quest, these unusual temples will leave you awe-inspired with their distinct charm and mysticism.