Asia, the world’s largest continent, is home to so many beautiful temples that it’s hard to keep track of them all. From ancient temples that date back thousands of years to contemporary religious buildings – Asia has a wonderful mix of fascinating temples in all faiths imaginable.
However, with so many temples to choose from, deciding which ones to visit can be overwhelming. To help you find the very best ones, I reached out to a couple of my favorite world travelers to bring you the absolute best temples in Asia.
Read along to see which ones made our Asian temple-hopping bucket list!
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Table of Contents
Temples of Asia: Quick Overview
From the beautiful temples in East Asia and Southeast Asia and the ancient religious sites in South Asia – this list covers the best Asian temples worth setting your sights on! Before we dive into our top picks in each region, here’s a quick look at which temples in Asia made our list:
- Best Temples in East Asia: Kiyomizu-Dera, Longshan Temple, Baiyang Temple of Heaven, Usnisa Temple, Temple of Heaven, Bulgaksa Temple
- Temples in Southeast Asia: Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, Batu Caves, Schwedagon Pagoda, Hsinbyume Pagoda, Tanah Lot, Borobudur, Angkor Wat, Banteay Srei, Wat Phra Dhammakaya
- Best Temples in South Asia: Tiger’s Nest, Baba Ghundi Shrine, Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple, Golden Temple, Thiksey Monastery, Boudhanath Stupa
24 Most Spectacular Temples in Asia
The Best Temples in East Asia
Kiyomizu-Dera, Japan
Kyoto is chockfull with incredible temples, and Kiyomizu-Dera (or the “Pure Water Temple”) is just one of them. Located on the slopes of Mount Ottawa, this stunning Japanese landmark dates back to 778 AD. It is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Kyoto and a dedicated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The main hall was built without the use of a single nail and features beautiful woodwork and a massive viewing platform offering unobstructed views of the city and lush valley below. While the main hall is arguably the highlight, allow plenty of time to explore the sprawling grounds. The complex houses roughly 30 buildings which include gates, shrines, halls, and cozy tea houses to name just a few. Among the most notable sights are the impressive three-storey Koyasu pagoda and the Otowa Spring, which holy waters are said to bestow longevity.
While Kiyomizu-Dera is open year-round, the best time to visit the temple complex is during spring or autumn. During these seasons, the scenery is absolutely breathtaking! In spring, dreamy pink blooms blanket the grounds, while maple leaves burst into a kaleidoscope of fiery colors in autumn. Be sure not to miss the special night illuminations (open until 9:30 pm) when all the trees and buildings are lit up!
Longshan Temple, Taiwan
If you’re spending a few days in Taipei, a visit to Longshan Temple is obligatory. Built in 1738, during the Qing Dynasty, Longshan Temple is an iconic temple that has truly stood the test of time. It’s seen its fair share of destruction and has survived everything from bomb raids to earthquakes to floods. As a result, Lungshan Temple has actually been restored several times.
Today, it is the oldest temple in the city and one of Taiwan’s most iconic temples. While Longshan Temple is a Buddhist temple worshipping Guanshiyin Buddha, several other faiths, including Taoism and Confucianism, are also practiced here.
Within the temple’s three halls, you’ll find an array of ancient deities, artifacts, and the most ornate architecture imaginable to admire. But that’s not all. The temple is also a great place to get a glimpse into local culture. It’s always busy with locals who come to pray for everything from good fortune to love to better grades.
Since Longshan Temple is in the oldest part of Taipei City, Wanhua District, there are loads to do nearby. For a glimpse into old Taipei, don’t miss Bopiliao Old Street – a historical street full of brick buildings dating back more than 200 years. Also, slip into Huaxi Street Tourist Night Market for some grub and check out the weird stalls at Snake Alley. If that’s not your scene, head to Ximending – Taipei’s hippest shopping district.
Bai Yang Temple of Heaven, Taiwan
Taiwan’s latest addition to its list of remarkable temples is the stunning Bai Yang Temple of Heaven. Located just on the outskirts of Taichung, this stunning Taoist temple is still very much a hidden gem and was only completed in 2020. It took more than 20 years to build and cost an astronomical 1 billion Taiwanese dollars to construct.
Standing 54 meters high, it actually surpasses the Temple of Heaven in Beijing by 16 meters. The three-tiered dome is a sight to behold both within its main hall and from the outside. Much of the temple consists of pure copper, and both the inner and outer walls feature ornate carvings and cloisonné work – all done by hand. The main hall is simply breathtaking, boasting glittering black marble floors, floor-to-ceiling pillars, a golden ceiling adorned with paintwork and scriptures, and some 30 lifelike golden statues of religious figures.
Since Bai Yang Temple is completely off the main tourist track, you’re likely to have the temple complex all to yourself! With that said, it’s not the easiest day trip from Taichung, so best to hire a private driver to get here.
Usnisa Palace, China
Explored by De Wet & Jin from Museum of Wander.
The Usnisa Palace in Nanjing is one of the most incredible temples to visit – anywhere in the world.
This modern Buddhist temple only opened in 2015, but it’s built on a much older site that dates back to the Tang Dynasty. The original temple was destroyed in the 1800s, but when a fragment on the Buddha’s skull was found in the area, China went all out and built a new Usnisa Temple at a tremendous cost of more than USD 600 million.
The best way to describe the temple is to think of it as a psychedelic dream. The jumble of colors, textures, overwhelming size, and lavish architecture is incredible and something you should see for yourself to believe.
A highlight of your visit is, without a doubt, the Great Usnisa Hall. Visitors ride a series of escalators that will take them six floors underground. At the bottom, you’ll enter the 10 000 Buddha corridor, and with thousands of Buddhas from floor to ceiling, it’s more than just a catchy name. This surreal corridor will lead you to the Great Usnisa Hall, where the trippy colors, textures, and over-the-top extravagance continue. Just in case you forget, remind yourself that all of these are six floors underground!
Plan to spend at least half a day seeing the temple and lovely parks surrounding it.
Temple of Heaven, China
Explored by Carole from Travels with Carole.
Dating to 1420, Beijing’s Temple of Heaven is China’s largest ancient religious complex and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a must-see. In ancient times, the emperor would visit here one day each winter. The emperor would offer prayers at The Circular Mound Altar platform to assure good weather and harvest.
Made with three levels of marble and featuring lavishly carved dragons and a raised center stone of slate, it was designed to lift the emperor’s voice directly to heaven. Ming- and Qing-era emperors made human and animal sacrifices in the circular, triple-gabled Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests (the original structure was destroyed in 1889 by lightning and fire, so this is a rebuild – made without any nails).
A smaller Imperial Vault of Heaven features an Echo Wall believed to help prayers reach heaven. Local senior citizens spend time at this park-like complex playing card games, and because Chinese people believe gnarly juniper trees grant them powers, a lot of tree touching can also be seen.
Bulgaksa Temple, South Korea
Explored by Anne from South Korea Travel Planning.
Bulgaksa Temple is a Buddhist Temple in Gyeongju, South Korea. It was founded in 528 during the Silla Dynasty. The temple complex was progressively expanded over the centuries until it became one of the finest temples dedicated to Buddhism. Unfortunately, the temple was destroyed by a fire in the 1500s, and since 1920 it has been continuously restored.
The temple is a working Buddhist temple and holds seven national treasures. It’s also a designated World Cultural Heritage Site, along with the nearby Seokguram Grotto with its very large seated Buddha statue. Walking through the temple complex is very enjoyable, with many historical displays, beautiful gardens, and amazing buildings.
You should visit Bulgaksa Temple to gain insight into the ancient Korean culture and Buddhist religion. There is also an option to book a temple stay to learn more about Buddhism, the Silla Dynasty, and their meditation practice.
To get to Bulgaksa Temple, first travel to the township of Gyeongju, and from there catch the regular bus service directly at Bulgaksa Temple (approx. 1 hr). Alternatively, stay on the bus to travel a further 45 minutes up the mountain to visit the Seokguram Grotto.
Klook.comThe Best Temples in Southeast Asia
Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew, or more commonly known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is one of the most beautiful temples in Asia. Located on the same grounds as the Grand Palace (Thailand’s most iconic landmark), Wat Phra Kaew is a must on any Bangkok itinerary.
Besides its exterior beauty, it’s really what lies within the temple that makes Wat Phra Kaew such a must-visit Asian temple. Inside you’ll find the Emerald Buddha – a remarkable masterpiece made from jasper and clothed in gold and diamonds. Interestingly, no one knows exactly who carved the Buddha, nor when it was created. But it’s believed to date back to the 15th century.
Along with the impressive Buddha statue, there are also many other interesting things to do on the palace grounds. Take your time visiting the palace, gardens and temples. It’s easy to explore the Grand Palace independently, but this guided tour is a great way to learn a little more about the complex’s history.
Just a word of warning, Wat Phra Kaew is always busy. If you can, come early in the morning.
Wat Pho, Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew is not the only temple in Bangkok worth setting your sights on. A short walk from there, you’ll find Wat Pho – another important Buddhist temple in the city.
Also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho dates back to 1782 and houses a massive reclining buddha that you simply have to see for yourself. The statue is 46 meters long and 15 meters tall and entirely covered in gold leaf. It’s quite a sight to see!
In addition to the famous reclining Buddha, the temple complex also features several other unique attractions. Take your time wandering through the four ornate chapels and the gorgeous courtyards. It’s full of Chinese statues and colorfully decorated chedis. Also, don’t miss the famous Bodhi tree! Legend has it that it forms part of the same tree under which Buddha became enlightened. Wat Pho is also one of Thailand’s most important medicinal schools. After exploring the complex, treat yourself to a traditional Thai massage right onsite.
Wat Arun, Thailand
Explored by Tanya from Can Travel Will Travel.
Wat Arun (the Temple of Dawn) in Bangkok is one of the most well-known temples in Thailand. Known locally as Wat Chaeng, it was originally built in the Ayutthaya era when it was named Wat Mahok (the Olive Temple). Nowadays, it’s named after the Indian god of dawn – Aruna.
The magnificent, beautiful Wat Arun is located on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River. Its most prominent feature is its main tower, which stands about 70 meters high, and is decorated with brightly colored porcelain. Four smaller towers decorated with a mosaic of seashells and porcelain surround the main tower. It’s possible to climb the steep steps to take in the views of Bangkok and the river, and this is definitely worth the effort.
The easiest way to get to Wat Arun is by boat, which is all part of the experience. You can get to Wat Arun Ferry pier via the Silom line to Saphan Taksin, then walk to the dock.
A top tip is to visit later in the day, then head for one of the rooftop bars on the opposite side of the river to watch the sunset. Despite being called the ‘Temple of Dawn,’ the sunsets there are incredible, as are the temple’s nighttime illuminations.
Wat Arun is certainly a must-see on any Bangkok itinerary.
Wat Phra Dhammakaya, Thailand
Explored by Martina from PlacesofJuma.
Wat Phra Dhammakaya, better known as the UFO Temple, is certainly one of Asia’s most spectacular temple complexes. This exceptionally beautiful temple is located just outside the Thai capital and is an absolute highlight during any visit to Bangkok. It is one of the largest temples in Asia and the largest Buddhist temple complex in the world. Just for comparison, it has the size of 140 soccer fields, and the complex is even four times larger.
Its nickname “UFO Temple” it carries because of its appearance. The design is really unique and resembles a golden UFO. There are 300,000 small golden Buddha statues at the temple, which are almost impossible to see from a distance.
It is best to visit this gigantic temple during one of the major Buddhist holidays like Magha Puja. Then more than 100,000 believers from all over the country come together to participate in a mass meditation – a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Banteay Srei, Cambodia
Explored by Paula from Expert Abroad.
Banteay Srei, which translates to “Citadel of the Women,” is a Hindu temple 20km northeast of Siem Reap in Cambodia. As one of the prettiest temples in the area, it has become more popular over the last few years, despite its distance from the center of town.
The temple, constructed of soft red sandstone, was built during the reign of Queen Rajendravarman II in the late 10th century CE by courtiers Vishnukumara and Yajnavaraha.
Surrounded by a moat and featuring four very well preserved shrines, what makes the temple a must-see are the intricate carvings. Featuring detailed patterns and designs of women and animals that are in excellent condition is genuinely breathtaking.
The sandstone gives off a pink tone, which is even more beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon light. For the best experience, visit as early in the day as you can. The site opens at 7 am, and while everyone is taking in sunrise at Angkor Wat, you may have this beautiful temple all to yourself. Alternatively, visit late in the day. At these times, the pink shades really pop.
The temple is included in the Angkor Wat Ticket (AKA the Angkor Wat Temple Pass), and it’s a must-see if you buy the 3-day pass. Combine it with a visit to Beng Mealea or the Jungle Temple. Another 30km away and less visited than many well-known temples, these two combined show you another side of Siem Reap.
Klook.comAngkor Wat, Cambodia
Explored by Kenny from Knycx Journeying.
Angkor Wat is a national monument that made it on the national flag, and it’s the symbol of Cambodia. The landmark is part of Siem Reap’s Small Tour, amongst other famous locations like Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Kdei.
Khmer King Suryavarman II built Angkor Wat around the year 1110-1150. It was originally a Hindu Temple dedicated to Vishnu but eventually transformed into a Buddhist temple by the end of the 12th century. It took 300,000 workers, 6,000 elephants, and over 5 million tons of sandstones to build. In fact, Angkor Wat is the largest religious structure on earth.
Today, visitors can still see traces of Hindu culture in Angkor Wat. The temple is richly decorated with Hindu elements, natural elements like foliage branches, tendrils, medallions, and Hindu gods like the bas reliefs of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. Don’t forget to check out the magnificent 49-meter wall featuring the Hindu legend “Churning of the Ocean of Milk.” Since being converted, it became one of the three most important pilgrimage sites of Buddhism in Southeast Asia, together with Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon and Borobudur in Java.
Borobudur, Indonesia
Explored by Bec from Wyld Family Travel.
For an absolutely unforgettable Asian temple experience, you cannot go past a visit to the stunning Borobudur temple in Java, Indonesia. Borobudur is on many people’s lists of must-see temples in the world but the pictures you see online do nothing for the absolute magnificence of it.
It is hard to imagine that this amazing temple was lost to the world for years under volcanic ash and thick forest. Long forgotten, it was rediscovered in 1814 and took until 1835 to uncover the massive structure. Being the world’s largest Buddist temple, it is now a UNESCO World Hertigate site.
Borobudur consists of 9 stacked platforms that seem to take you all the way to the sky. The first six are square, and the last three are circular, which is then topped with a large central dome. The central dome holds 72 Buddha statues that are all seated inside their own stupa. You can get a beautiful view of all the surrounding areas and the thick forest that once covered it from the top. And for this reason, sunrise at Borobudur is very popular with people visiting.
While most visitors go straight to the top for the views and the stupas, you should really take some time to walk around as much of the temple as you can. The rest of the temple holds over 500 buddha statues and 2600 carved panels—all magnificent and worth a look.
To gain entry, you must have your passport with you, and purchasing a combined ticket to visit Prambanan will save you some money. Take some extra water with you as the temple is a good walk from the main entry gates. Women visiting Borobudur must also have their knees and shoulders covered during their visit.
Tanah Lot, Indonesia
One of Indonesia’s most iconic attractions is the incredible temple of Tanah Lot. Built during the 16th century by a Shaivite priest named Dang Hyang Nirartha, Pura Tanah Lot is an unmissable stop on any Bali travel itinerary.
The sacred Hindu temple sits right on top of a giant rock formation that juts out from the sea, and if you visit during high tide, the temple appears to float on water. The main deity worshipped here is Baruna, the god of the sea, and legend has it that a giant sea snake guards the temple.
To access the temple complex, visit during low tide when the rock path leading to the temple is open. At the base of the temple, visitors can also get blessed with the holy waters of the Tirta Pabersihan fountain. Since Tanah Lot has one of the most beautiful settings imaginable, it’s a popular spot among photographers and sunset chasers. In fact, it’s one of the best sunset spots in Bali!
Tanah Lot lies just on the outskirts of Canggu, Seminyak’s hip neighbor. If you’re not based in Canggu, hire a private driver or join this sunset tour to get there.
Klook.comHsinbyume Pagoda, Myanmar
Explored by Maya & Sari from Chasing Lenscapes.
If you want to check off one of the most incredible temples in Asia, you have to visit Hsinbyume Pagoda in Myanmar. This white temple is going to take your breath away, plain and simple. It’s like nothing you’ve ever seen before.
This unique temple was built in 1816 by prince Bagyidaw to commemorate his late wife. This huge circular white temple has seven terraces with a wavy structure. Although the original structure was damaged in an earthquake in 1938, King Mindon restored it a few years later.
Hsinbyume Pagoda is located in Mingun village, just near Mandalay, one of Myanmar’s largest cities. You can take a taxi or hop on a ferry to get there. Around Mingun village, you’ll find a few more impressive pagodas, a local market, the enormous Mingun Bell, and some more attractions. The main draw to this village is the Hsinbyume Pagoda, so make sure to get to it first before it gets too busy. Climb up the stairs to the top and walk along the wavy terraces. You won’t be able to stop taking pictures! For more practical information and photos, check out this guide to visiting Hsinbyume Pagoda.
Schwedagon Pagoda, Myanmar
Explored by Brodi from Our Offbeat Life.
The Schwedagon Pagoda is located in Yangon, Myanmar. This former capital city has over seven million people. The Buddhist pagoda is the most sacred site in all of Myanmar. It is very well known because it’s contains relics from four previous Buddhas.
Most of the complex is covered in gold. Every inch of the largest, 326-foot-high bell-shaped tower at the center of the pagoda complex is gold-plated. The sun reflects off the gold at sunrise and sunset and gives the pagoda complex a magical feeling.
The pagoda costs $8USD to enter. Everyone must have covered shoulders and knees to enter, and it’s best to wear easily removable shoes. All Buddhist temples in Myanmar require entrants to walk barefoot throughout the grounds.
There are many smaller temples and historical sites to see near the pagoda. Visiting all the notable stops requires spending multiple days in Yangon. Make some time to stop at the food carts to try the local delicacies made by Yangon residents. These are the best ways to get to know the national cuisine.
Batu Caves, Malaysia
Batu Caves might be Kuala Lumpur’s most Instagrammable spot, but it’s also one of Malaysia’s most iconic landmarks.
Located less than 30 minutes from Kuala Lumpur, this sprawling temple complex consists of several limestone caves full of ancient treasures. The Cathedral Cave is the largest among them, and it’s also here where you’ll find its most sacred Hindu temple. The temple was built in 1891 and is dedicated to Lord Murugan, whose giant statue you can see at the cave’s base. The cavern is massive and also houses a myriad of fascinating shrines and idols. Work on at least 2 hours to really explore all its corners.
To get to the temple, you’ll need to climb a 272-step stairway. It’s quite a climb, but the effort will be more than worth it! Just keep an eye out for the cheeky guardians of the cave – macaques. They’re notorious for snatching anything from sunglasses to cameras, so put your valuables in your bag.
Both men and women need to dress modestly when visiting here. Make sure to cover your knees and shoulders. You can also rent a sarong at the entrance before entering the complex for a small additional fee.
The Best Temples in South Asia
Boudha Stupa, Nepal
Explored by Agnes from The Van Escape.
Boudhanath Stupa is one of the most beautiful temples in Asia and one of the most important for Buddhists. It is located approximately 5 kilometers from the center of Kathmandu, so it’s easy to get there by rickshaw, taxi, or local bus.
Otherwise known as Bodnath, Bagmati, or Khasti, it is one of the holiest places outside of Tibet for Tibetan Buddhists. The Boudhanath Stupa has a dome 35 meters in diameter, making it the largest in Nepal and one of the largest in the world. Its construction dates back to the 5th – 8th century CE, and it has been on the UNESCO list since 1979.
Unfortunately, the Stupa was significantly damaged during the tragic earthquake that hit Nepal in 2015. Substantial financial resources have been invested in its restoration.
Its interior supposedly hides relics of Buddha Kashyapa. The faithful circle Stupa follows the movement of the sun. A characteristic feature of the object is the all-seeing eyes of the Buddha painted on the four walls of the Stupa, which attract attention, pervade the souls.
Around Boudhanath Stupa is a street with colorful houses full of shops, cafes, and restaurants. It is the most colorful place in the entire Nepal capital. It is worth eating a local meal, drinking coffee, and buying souvenirs to support locals who often lost all their property and many relatives in the tragic earthquake.
Thiksey Monastery, India
Explored by Avantika from Wayward Wayfarer.
Located in Thiksey village, some 20 kilometers away from Leh town, Thiksey Monastery or Thiksey Gompa is associated with the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism (also known as the Yellow Hat School).
Perched atop a sacred hill with its traditional white and red block-like buildings, Thiksey Monastery is also known as “Mini Potala” thanks to its resemblance to Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet. The monastery lies in the Indus Valley at an altitude of 3,600 meters above sea level and is one of the largest monasteries in central Ladakh.
The monastery houses many important artifacts such as scriptures and thangka paintings. But the one most remarkable thing about the monastery is its 15 meters high statue of Maitreya Buddha, which has now become a point of interest for most visitors. This statue takes up two stories of the monastery and is the largest statue of Maitreya Buddha in all of Ladakh. Within the monastery itself, there are several temples and halls worth visiting for their peaceful aura, history, and ancient paintings. Some of these include the Tara Temple, Lamokhang Temple, and the nunnery.
The monastery’s festival, known as the Gustor festival, takes place every October and November. Festivities include the making of traditional sand mandalas and the Cham or masked dance.
Tiger’s Nest, Bhutan
Explored by Raksha from Solo Passport.
Built in 1692, the Tiger’s Nest monastery is a very important Buddhist temple in the Paro valley of Bhutan. There are nine temples in the monastery, all dedicated to Guru Rinpoche. The temples are built around the cave where Guru Rinpoche first meditated and introduced Buddhism in Bhutan. And hence the monastery marks as the birthplace of Buddhism in Bhutan.
According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress, and this place was used to tame the tigress daemon. There is also another legend that states that the disciple of Guru Rinpoche transformed into a tigress and then carried Guru Rinpoche to the monastery.
The best time to visit the monastery is during the dry season (between October and December), and it is best to avoid the monsoons. With an elevation of 10000 feet, the only way to get to the monastery is by hiking from the mountain base. The hike is about 10 kilometers return, and it usually takes about 5 to 6 hours. The trail is spectacular, and it consists of a mix of forests, barren land, and stairs.
There is holy water available in the main temple behind the stupa. Ensure to carry an empty water bottle to fill with the sacred water. Also, the temple does not allow any electronic items inside. But there is a locker at the entrance where one can store phones and wallets.
Golden Temple, India
Explored by Mariellen from Breathe Dream Go.
Harmandir Sahib, or more commonly known as the Golden Temple is stunning to behold and one of the best places to visit in Amritsar, India.
The Golden Temple is a Gurdwara, a Sikh house of worship, and the most famous in the world. It is at the center of the Sikh religion – and the center of the city. Many people in Amritsar (and Punjab) are Sikh, and of course, many more are drawn to the city to visit this fantastic place.
The Golden Temple complex is massive and buzzes with people night and day. Yet, it is surprisingly and profoundly peaceful, instilling in visitors a deeply spiritual feeling that must be experienced.
At the center of the complex, the gold-covered temple rises from a serene tank of water known as the Amrit Sarovar, which means “the pond of the nectar of immortality.” It dates back to the 16th century when both the Harmandir Sahib and the city of Amritsar were founded. In fact, the name Amritsar comes from the “Amrit” that flows in the Amrit Sarovar.
While visiting this peaceful and beautiful place, you can also participate in the langar – the free vegetarian meal prepared by volunteers and served to anyone who shows up. It is quite an experience to sit on the floor, in a huge hall, with hundreds of other visitors and partake in the langar. The Golden Temple serves upwards of 50,00 people per day!
Akshardham Temple, India
Explored by Vipin from Misfit Wanderers.
Unity in diversity – that’s what they tell you in India. Indians take pride in their diverse culture, arts, people, and history. And if you want to see a glimpse of India’s vivid art and history, Akshardham Temple will do justice.
Akshardham Temple or Swaminarayan Akshardham is a Hindu temple located in the capital city of Delhi. It epitomizes Indian culture, architecture, tradition, and spirituality. The temple holds the Guinness World Record as World’s Largest Comprehensive Hindu Temple.
The place exhibits 234 carved pillars, quadrangle spires, elaborated domes, and more than 20000 sculptures of Indian spiritual personalities. You’ll also love the lush green thematic garden around the temple complex.
The other complex attractions are Abhishek Mandap, exhibitions, an IMAX theatre, a boat ride, and a water show. The IMAX theatre or Neelkanth Darshan shows the story of a yogi, Neelkanth, India’s vast culture and heritage.
If you want to immerse yourself in diverse Indian culture or possess an inclination towards architecture and spirituality, visit Akshardham. It’s not only one of the best places to visit in New Delhi but also entire India.
The temple complex remains open throughout the week except Mondays from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm IST. Temple tours are free, while exhibitions and musical fountain shows require a fee.
Note that you can’t take any electronic items, bags, wallets, or personal belongings inside the temple complex. A cloakroom facility is available for such things at the entry gate.
Baba Ghundi Shrine, Pakistan
Explored by Samantha from Intentional Detours Travel Blog.
One of the most spiritual places you can visit is the Baba Ghundi Shrine, a beautiful Sufi Shrine in Chapursan Valley, Pakistan, that feels like it’s at the end of the world. The shrine itself is dedicated to Baba Ghundi, a Pir from Ghund in Afghanistan who came to the region centuries ago.
Chapursan Valley borders Afghanistan’s Wakhan, and Baba Ghundi is credited with bringing Islam to the entire Hunza Valley, of which Chapursan is a part. He was said to have performed miracles and, in doing so, rid the valley of evil.
Today, you can see the shrine at the end of Chapursan Valley, a stunning hamlet in Pakistan’s majestic Hunza region.
Even non-religious people won’t deny the intense, warm spiritual energy that took up the entire shrine. You might have visited other shrines and temples before, but nothing can quite compare to this at nearly 10,000 feet. Although the shrine was built semi-recently in 1924, it feels like it’s as old as the saint himself. A water tap nearby is also said to have magical powers.
You can’t take photos inside the shrine, but getting a few from the outside is possible. People come here from all over Hunza and Pakistan, and it’s definitely one of the top religious places in Asia!
Lotus Temple, India
Explored by Larch from The Silver Nomad.
Walking through the gates at The Lotus Temple in Delhi, India, you get glimpses of the temple through the trees, and serenity descends. Once it comes into full view, the Lotus Temple stops you in your tracks.
The Lotus Temple is an elegant and stunning building. The 27 petals that make up the temple are clad in white marble. The nine sides of the Lotus shape are made up of three of these petals.
The temple is surrounded by nine pools and has nine doors that lead into a central hall with wooden benches that can hold up to 2,500 worshippers. The ceiling is over 34 meters high and makes the space light and airy.
At the other end of the wide path to the temple is a museum that explains more about The Bahá’í Houses of Worship. The fifteen Houses of Worship around the world are open to people of all religions and faiths.
Every Bahá’í temple has a central dome and nine entrances. The building of the first was started in 1912 in Illinois, North America, and the Lotus Temple was completed in 1986.
If you are a foreigner visiting, particularly a blonde female, be prepared to have your photo taken covertly or surrounded by Indians and tourists eager to take their photo with you.
Klook.comBeautiful Asian Temples in Conclusion
As you can see, Asia is home to some of the most incredible temples in the world! While there are thousands of stunning temples in Asia, this list of the best religious sites is a great starting point!
Know another temple that deserves a spot on this list of Asia’s best temples? Let us know in the comments below so that we can add it to our Asian temple bucket list!
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