Are you someone who has started their spiritual journey or someone who wants to explore some beautiful temples of India? Don’t worry, we have got you covered! As we know, India is a country of temples. You can find some of the oldest and most magnificent temples in the southern part of our beautiful country. The historical temples of South India can offer you great insight into its history and culture. Trust me, you’ll be amazed at the gorgeous and grand architecture of the temples.
Did you know most of these temples were built more than 1000 years ago? From different architectural styles like Dravidian architecture to the Vijayanagara style of architecture, from the elaborate pillars of the Chalukyas to the minute stone carvings by Krishnadevaraya, each monument has a different tale to tell.
UNESCO even gives some of these historical temples the status of World Heritage Sites. Isn’t it something to be proud of? Living in a culturally and historically rich country!
Explore the Most Famous Historical Temples of Soth India through This Blog
Are you ready to discover the beauty and history of the stunning temples of South India? These historical temples of South India might end up on your list of “must-visit” places for your next trip to the southern part of India!
1. Brihadeshwara Temple, Thanjavur.
The Historical Temples of South India showcase architecture so grand and timeless that you’ll be awestruck! 😍 These historical temples reflect the grandeur and influence of the Chola Dynasty, especially under King Rajaraja Chola I around 1000 AD.
It’s one of the most famous and visited temples in South India, and it is also part of the “Great Living Chola Temples.” The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and was designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
It should be on your list of places to visit on your tour of Tamil Nadu!
2. Virupaksha Temple, Karnataka
One of the very important religious sites under the Vijayanagar Empire, situated in Hampi, on the bank of the Tungabhadra River in Karnataka, the Virupaksha Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
On my recent visit there, I was just not able to get enough of the beauty of this historical temple, which has tall gopurams, admirable architecture, and intricate carvings.
I was told by a local that the temple was built in the 7th century and underwent many additions by various rulers to display their power.
Furthermore, the sweet local lady told me that the central pillared hall, known as Ranga Mandapa, is the most elaborate addition done by Raja Krishnadevaraya.
Virupaksha Temple is famous as a center of marriages as well as for the festivities of Virupaksha-Pampa in December (you know when to plan your visit to Hampi, don’t you?)
This historical South Indian temple is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.
3. Aihole Temple
On my way from Hampi, just 140 km away, Aihole is another historic site along the Malaprabha River valley in northern Karnataka. It is a group of around 120 temples built in the 4th century AD. This South Indian temple site is also known as the “cradle of Hindu rock architecture.”
I recommend the historical temple site of Aihole to those who are passionate about history, archaeology, architecture, heritage, and ancient temples. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
4. Badami Cave Temple
Badami, which was earlier known as Vatapi, is in Karnataka and was once the capital of the Chalukyas. It is mostly famous for its beautiful rock-cut temples which date back to the 5th and 8th centuries AD.
The Badami cave temples consist of four main caves that have huge historical significance.
It is believed that the Badami cave temples were the earliest region of human settlement in the Deccan, featuring carvings and sculptures related to Hindu and Jain gods. The artistic skills reflect the craftsmanship of the Chalukya period.
5. Sabarimala Temple, Kerala
Sabarimala Sree Dharma Sastha Temple, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, is one of the most respected and significant pilgrimage sites in India.
If you remember, it is the same temple that was in controversy a few years back for its religious rule about prohibiting the entrance of women of a certain age in respect to the celibacy of Lord Ayyappa.
The historical temple is located at the top of the Sabarimala hill in Kerala’s Pathanamthitta district. This sacred pilgrimage site is surrounded by 18 hills within the Periyar Tiger Reserve.
The architectural pattern of the temple follows the traditional Kerala architecture style, characterized by its simplicity and elegance. The main area of the temple has the Lord Ayyappa’s idol along with various structures and shrines.
Sabarimala is one of the largest annual pilgrimage sites in the world, attracting millions of devotees each year from November to January.
Also, the pilgrimage has a unique tradition that symbolizes harmony and the inclusive nature of it, as it includes a visit to the Vavar mosque.
check out our blog to explore the temples of Odisha: https://itihaaskikhoj.in/7-historical-temples-you-must-visit-in-odisha-a-spiritual-and-cultural-journey/
6. Tirupati Balaji Temple
The famous Tirupati Balaji Temple, also known as Venkateswara Temple, is a divine Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. Folktales say the temple, located in the Tirupati district of Andhra Pradesh, is where Lord Vishnu resides during Kali Yuga.
While visiting the historical temple, you can witness the splendid Dravidian architecture with towering gopurams. You can wear a traditional saree and lungi for the proper feel.
The temple also offers extensive facilities for pilgrims, contributing significantly to the local economy and preserving cultural heritage.
7. Ramanathaswamy Temple, Tamil Nadu
Did you know that South India is renowned for its stunning temple architecture and intricate carvings?
If you’re going to Rameswaram, you must visit this historical temple of south India, an absolutely beautiful temple situated on the serene island of Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu.
The historical temple of South India has a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, and visiting this temple will also help you tick off one of your Dwadasa Jyotirlingas.
According to stories, Lord Rama worshipped Lord Shiva here to absolve his sins after the battle against the demon king Ravana.
This historical temple is also famous for its architecture, featuring one of the longest and most beautifully designed corridors among South Indian temples.
8. Shri Meenakshi Temple
The Meenakshi Temple, dedicated to goddess Parvati, known as Meenakshi, and her companion, Lord Shiva, is one of the prominent historical temples of South India.
Situated on the southern banks of the Vaigai River, and also referred to as Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, this architectural marvel is a vibrant center of culture and art.
The current structure, constructed between 1623 and 1655 CE, was among the top 30 nominees for the “New Seven Wonders of the World.”
Upon visiting the temple, you can see notable features including the shrine of Meenakshi holding a parrot and the Nataraja with a raised right leg.
9. Suchindram Temple, Kanyakumari
Also called the Thanumalayan Temple, this majestic South Indian monument was built in the 17th century. The architectural brilliance of this historical temple is a treat to the eyes of visitors and devotees.
It attracts numerous pilgrims from neighboring states and is associated with the legends of Anasuya and Ahalya.
The temple’s unique features include four musical pillars, one hanging pillar, and a single Linga representing the trio of Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh.
This historical temple will leave you awestruck and might have you visiting it again during your next trip there.
10. Airavateswara Temple, Kumbakonam
Situated in the town of Darasuram near Kumbakonam, the Airavatesvara Temple is a splendid example of Dravidian architecture. This historical temple, constructed in the 12th century CE by Rajaraja Chola II, is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It is devoted to Lord Shiva, and folktales say that the temple was named after a white elephant named Airavata, who belonged to Indra and was believed to have worshipped Shiva here to regain his lost color.
The temple is famous for its various mythological stories, and its unique design and artistic excellence continue to attract visitors and devotees from around the world.
11. Guruvayur Shree Krishna Temple, Kerala
In the town of Guruvayoor, the Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple is a very important pilgrimage site in Kerala. This historical temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped here as a child, known as Balkrishna.
The idol, called Unnikrishnan, has four hands holding a conch, a mace, a discus, and a lotus. The deity is decorated with a Tulasi garland and a pearl necklace, shining brightly and blessing all the devotees who visit.
The major festivals celebrated here are Guruvayur Ekadasi, Krishna Janmashtami, Vishu, and a ten-day festival in Kumbham.
These festivals draw large crowds of devotees, adding to the temple’s vibrant cultural and spiritual atmosphere. The temple’s serene ambiance and rich traditions make it a cherished destination for worshippers. This historical temple of south India will take you on a journey where we can enhance our peace and unite ourselves with the soul.
Conclusion
We hope this overview of the 11 historical temples of South India has captured your attention and made it a part of your next trip’s itinerary. We are sure that you’ll be awestruck by the magnificent architecture and spiritual aura of these temples, just like we were. To learn more about the temples and monuments of these states, you can visit our website!
nice and impressive content