Spiritual Trips

Temples Of Kashi; Exploring The Land Of Devo Ke Dev Mahadev

Recognised as the spiritual centre of India, Varanasi is regarded as the origin of Hinduism and a refuge for sages over the ages. According to legend, this city was built by the gods themselves for human habitation, and as civilization developed, many temples were built on the ghats beside the holy Ganges River. Discovering all 2000 of the temples and religious buildings that dot Varanasi’s landscape is a laborious undertaking.  

Nevertheless, here are a carefully chosen few of Varanasi’s most recognised temples, revered for their spiritual essence, historical eminence, architectural beauty, distinctive customs, and more.  

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located next to Dashashwamedh Ghat. As one of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples, it is regarded as one of the oldest and most spiritually significant buildings in Varanasi. The temple is well-known for its magnificent golden spire, which is said to fulfil desires at sight. It has been destroyed and rebuilt numerous times throughout its history. Inside the temple areas, an old well is considered the finest source of water in Varanasi. Legend has it that a priest made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the main deity from Emperor Aurangzeb’s assault. 

Kaal Bhairav Mandir

Established in the 17th century, Kaal Bhairav Mandir is one of the oldest Shiva temples in the city. It is dedicated to worshipping Kaal Bhairav, an angry incarnation of Lord Shiva. Admired as the protector god of Varanasi, people often offer prayers to KaalBhairav when they arrive or exit the city. The frightening representation of the deity, complete with a garland of human skulls, represents its savage side. Temple oil is said to have medicinal advantages, especially for treating dog bites. 

Durga Kund Temple 

The deep red Durga KundMandir is dedicated to the goddess Durga and gets its name from the rectangular pond (or “kund”) that is next to it. The Queen of Bengal ordered it in the eighteenth century, and it is a magnificent example of Nagara architecture. The temple god is said to have appeared by choice. It is best to visit this old temple on Tuesdays and during Durga Puja and Dussehra.  

Maa Annapurna Mandir

Maa Annapurna Temple is dedicated to goddess Annapurna who is said to be an incarnation of Goddess Shakti and was constructed in the mid-18th century in Nagara architectural style by PeshwaBajirao of the Maratha dynasty. The Temple uniquely houses multiple main deities, and devotees offer grains and food items as sacrifices in order to seek blessings and to fulfil their wishes. The sanctum sanctorum features a brass idol for regular worship and an idol of gold, on Annakut, a day before Diwali.  

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Established by St. and poet Tulsidas in the 16th century, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the monkey God. This temple is located near the Assi River and is considered a sacred space that relieves visitors from sorrow, pain and suffering. This temple is renowned as the ‘monkey temple of Varanasi’ as it is home to numerous monkeys. The devotees offer BesanLaddu during special occasions to the deity. 

Kanthwala Temple

Also known as the Nepali Temple, this temple replicates Nepal’s Pashupatinath temple and was constructed in the 19th century by Rana Bahadur Shah. This temple features stone and wood constructions but Terracotta structures and it resembles the iconic sculptures of the Khajuraho group. What adds to its architectural beauty is its termite-resistant wood. 

Vishalakshi Mandir

Also known as the Manikarnika Shrine, this temple pays homage to Goddess Vishalakshi who is believed to be a form of Goddess Sati and is located near the cremation ground of Manikarnikaghat. According to the mythological tales, its origin is rooted in the intervention of Lord Vishnu in the cremation of Goddess Sati which resulted in the formation of 51 sacred Shakti Peethas. This temple holds immense spiritual significance and is famous as one of the region’s most potent temples. 

Bharat Mata Mandir 

With its unique concept, Bharat Mata Mandir is dedicated to Mother India and features a large marble map that depicts the undivided Indian landscape. The temple was constructed in 1939 by a freedom fighter named Babu Shiv Prasad and was inaugurated by the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. This temple serves as a patriotic symbol and festivals such as Republic Day and Independence Day are celebrated with great excitement at this temple. 

Sankata Devi temple 

This temple is dedicated to Sankata Devi who is said to be a form of Goddess Parvati and is considered by women folk for its power to alleviate sorrow, pain and suffering. The temple consists of statues that represent the nine planets and is associated with the Pandava brothers’ visit during their banishment. during the festivities of Navratri, the devotees flock here to seek blessings and solace. 

Lalita Gauri Mandir

Constructed by the Rana Bahadur Shah of Nepal in the 19th century, Lalita Gauri Temple is dedicated to Goddess Lalita Gauri, who is associated with wealth and prosperity. It lends its name to the adjacent cards as well and is situated near the Nepali Temple. 

Tulsi Manas Temple

The Tulsi Manas temple commemorates the spot where the St. and poet Tulsidas penned the sacred Ram CharitraManas back in the 16th century. This temple was constructed in the 20th century and it features white marble architecture, studded with words and carvings from the epic. This temple is facilitated with expansive gardens, that attract visitors who seek spiritual and literary enrichment. Overall, this temple serves as a cultural destination with a touch of spirituality. 

Mrityunjay Mahadev Temple 

This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated in  Darangar, renowned for its power to prevent untimely or unnatural deaths. The ancient well in the temple premises is believed to contain water that possesses miraculous healing properties, that draws devotees seeking divine intervention and protection. 

Shree Tilbhandeshwar Mahadev Temple

Shree Tilbhandeshwar Mahadev Temple, as the name suggests, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and boasts a naturally occurring deity that grows in length annually. The temple offers a unique spiritual experience as its rituals blend Malayali and Benarasi cultures. Tourists across the world gather here to witness the deity’s growth which symbolizes the divine presence and continuity amongst humanity. 

New Vishwanath temple

Also known as the Birla Mandir, this temple is situated within the premises of the Banaras Hindu University, and replicates the Kashi Vishwanath temple structure to preserve its original form. This temple was built by the Birla group with marble, and it features the world’s tallest temple towers and welcomes visitors of all faiths, nurturing inclusivity and religious harmony. 

Dundi Raj Ganesh Temple

Has been named suggests this temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is one of Varanasi’s oldest Ganesh temples. This temple is famous for its association with Lord Shiva’s visit to Earth. Despite its discreet location near the KashiVishwanathMandir, the locals have it that the deity grants solace and relieves sorrow, pain and suffering, particularly during the festivities of Ganesh Chaturthi.

Ratneshwar Mahadev temple

The Ratneshwar Mahadev temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it boasts a unique location adjacent to ScindiaGhat. This ghat is partially submerged in the Ganges due to its weight. This temple holds immense significance as it is believed that the prayers are offered here for seeking male offspring and divine blessings. This temple is also believed to have been built at the birthplace of Lord Agni, who is the God of fire. 

Vyasa Temple

This temple is dedicated to Veda Vyasa, the sage who composed the Hindu epic Mahabharata, showcasing his banishment from Varanasi by Lord Shiva, due to his temper. The temple symbolizes Vyasa’s exile and serves as a place for reverence and contemplation. It is constructed on the eastern bank of river Ganga.  

Markandey Mahadev Temple 

Located in the Kaithi region of Varanasi, Markandey Mahadev temple is dedicated to the flame form of Lord Shiva known as KalasamharaMurti. This temple narrates the tale of Lord Shiva saving a boy from the God of death, Yama. Devotees visit the temple and seek blessings for a healthy life, especially during the festivities of Shivratri and Mahashivratri. 

Tridev Temple

The Tridev temple was built recently and honouring Salasa Hanuman, KhatuShyam and Rani Sati Dadi, and it stands out for its diverse main deities and modern marble architecture. The couple allows photography and meditation within its premises, attracting grants seeking spiritual enlightenment and comfort. 

Sarnath Temple

Located close to the intersection of the Varuna and Ganga rivers, some 10 km northeast of Varanasi, lies the historically and religiously significant Sarnath Temple. It marks the location where Kondanna’s enlightenment in the deer park gave rise to the Buddhist Sangha. It is well known that Gautama Buddha gave his initial Dharma teachings in Sarnath. A variety of sites can be explored at Sarnath, such as the Chinese and Thai Temple and Monastery, the Ashoka Pillar, the Dhamekh Stupa and Monastery Ruins, the Chaukhandi Stupa, the Archaeological Museum, and the MulagandhaKutiVihar. 

Varahi Devi Temple

Dedicated to goddess Varahi, the Varahi Devi Temple in Varanasi depicts her wearing vibrant red garments. It is thought that Varahi was drawn to Varanasi because of its allure, and that is why she stayed there. The shrine is situated among little lanes close to the Man MandirGhat. As part of Lord Shiva’s spiritual mission, 64 pilgrims were sent to Earth, including Varahi. Beautifully transformed during the Navaratri festival, the shrine is mostly visited by ladies. 

Shree Batuk Bhairav Temple

With great religious significance, the Shri Batuk Bhairav Temple is well-known as a sacred place for Aghori and Tantrik worship. The main deity is Batuk Bhairav, who is said to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The temple is considered particularly holy because it is home to a sacred Akhand deep that is said to have burned for generations. Its oil is said to have medicinal effects, adding to the shrine’s holiness.  

Spiritual Trips

Temples In Madurai; These Historical Temples Are Worth Visiting In South India

Known as the centre of Tamil Nadu culture, Madurai is amongst the oldest and most sacred cities in India. Its temples remain as everlasting reminders of its importance as a major pilgrimage site known as Lotus City due to its well-planned layout and Lotus-like shape. It served as the Pandya dynasty’s seat of power for protracted periods in history. The significant cultural and theological legacy of Madurai is still evident today, having been mentioned in ancient writings such as Arthashastra and acknowledged by Western academics like Ptolemy and Strabo. 

Meenakshi Temple 

Meenakshi Temple is a monument to beautiful architecture that is located in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, on the southern banks of the Vaigai River. It is thought to have been built between 1623 and 1655. Renowned worldwide, this temple honours goddess Parvati, also called Meenakshi, and her spouse Lord Shiva, who are both worshipped within its hallowed grounds.

One of its most notable features is its amazing facade, which is covered in fine details and creative marvels on the walls and pillars. Following the precepts of ShilpaShastra, the Meenakshi Amman temple complex features fourteen soaring entrances, gilded vimanas, shrines honouring the goddess Meenakshi and other gods, and it welcomes thousands of pilgrims and visitors every day.  

Koodal Azhagar Temple  

It is thought that the Pandyas built the magnificent Dravidian-style Koodal Azhagar Temple, which is devoted to Lord Vishnu. While “Azhgar” means “beautiful one,” it alludes to Vishnu and his spouse mata Lakshmi, often referred to as Mathuravalli. The word “Koodal” is associated with Madurai. 

Alagar Koil   

Situated in the northeast of Madurai, Alagar Koil is a holy place for all those who worship  Lord Vishnu. Known as Azhagarkovil, the temple is located in the Alagar hills and is home to a stunning stone statue of Lord Vishnu that was expertly made from kallalgar.  

Tirupparankundram Murugan Temple 

Situated in rugged terrain that is frequently compared to the southern Himalayas, the Tirupparankundram Murugan Temple is a prominent pilgrimage site in southern India and is a magnificent example of artistic craftsmanship. It is devoted to Mother Earth. It is highly respected as a venue for weddings, with several events taking place inside its grounds. 

Mariamman Teppakulam 

Within the grounds of Mariamman Teppakulam, dedicated to Lord Vigneshwara, stands the biggest tank in Tamil Nadu. The idol of the temple is said to have been discovered in the depths of this pond, which adds to its significance and provided inspiration for the building of the temple. 

Pazhamudhir Solai Temple.   

The temple of PazhamudhirSolaihonours Lord Subramaniya features magnificent marble and wood carvings of the deity. In the hopes that their prayers will be answered, devotees go around the temple. 

ISKCON Madurai  

A spiritual haven on Mani Nagaram Main Road, ISKCON Madurai is a well-known Hindu temple devoted to Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha. Its premises include a vegetarian restaurant as well as ceremonies, chants, and the offering of prasad to devotees.  

Edaganathar Temple  

The Edaganathar Temple honours Edaganathar, Lord Shiva’s avatar, and is located on the banks of the Vaigai River. Within its five acres are shrines honouringEdaganathar and his consort, with two gateway towers facing them and sculpted with elaborate stone carvings that show his genesis. Its cultural significance is emphasised by celebrations like MuthuPandal, which take place in February or March. 

Immayilum Nanmai Tharuvar Temple  

Devotees of Lord Shiva go to the Immayilum Nanmai Tharuvar Temple to obtain forgiveness and blessings for leadership positions. Known as Bhoolo ka Kailash, or Shiva’s earthly housing, it is celebrated in February and March with special poojas and festivals including Maha Shivratri and Brahmmotsavam. 

Sri Veeraraghava Perumal Temple 

Devoted to Lord Vishnu, the Sri Veeraraghava Perumal Temple features idols of Lord VeeraRaghava, Narsimha, and Utsavar with Sridevi and Bhoodevi. Not far from the temple, a local tank is thought to bring blessings and healing, and its gopurams and Dravidian art tell stories from myths.  

Draupadi Amman Temple  

Built to restore Madurai after a disastrous fire, the Draupadi Amman Temple is devoted to Maa Parvathi, who is said to have the ability to control all of the elements of the Earth. In addition to Maa Draupadi, there are shrines dedicated to Saturn and Jupiter at the temple, where ladies go to ask for blessings for happiness and wealth in their families. 

Thirumohoor Kalamegaperumal Temple 

Known also as Tirumogoor or Thirumoohoor temple, Thirumohoor Kalamegaperumal Temple is located in the Madurai region of Tamil Nadu, close to Melur. Lord Vishnu, who is revered as Neelamegha Perumal, and his consort Lakshmi, also known as Tirukannapura Nayagi, are the lords of this sacred shrine. Being one of the 108 Divysdesham devoted to Lord Vishnu, it has historical and spiritual value in addition to its Dravidian-style construction. Three of the temple complex’s four bodies of water are surrounded by a granite wall, adding to the site’s holy atmosphere.  

Thirumeninathar Temple  

The Thirumeninathar Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva as Thirumeninathar and his wife Thunaimalaiyammai Amman, is situated near Tiruchuli in the Virudhunagar district. This temple is classified as a Paadal Petra Sthalam, as stated in the Tevaram, the seventh-century Tamil Saiva canonical text, written by saint poets called nayanmars.  

Kalaiyar Kovil 

In Madurai’s temple history, Kalaiyar Kovil, located in the Sivaganga district, has a rich past. Its architectural and spiritual significance is enhanced by the presence of three shrines representing the creation, preservation, and completion of life, as well as three distinct shrines honouring male and female deities from well-known Shiva temples.   

Arulmigu Solaimalai Murugan Temple   

The Arulmigu Solaimalai Murugan Temple is one of Lord Muruga’s six primary residences. It is situated near Pazhamudircholai, on a hill surrounded by thick trees, some 25 km north of Madurai. The temple, which is under the direction of the Tamil Nadu government’s Hindu religious and charitable endowments department, draws pilgrims looking for peace of mind in the serene setting of nature. 

Narsingam Yoga Narsimha Perumal Temple  

Located in the Narasingam village close to Madurai, the Narasingam Yoga Narasimha Perumal Temple is devoted to Yoga Narasimha Perumal. Built by Madurakavi, also known as Marankaari, a minister to Madurai King Parantaka Nedunjadaiyan, around 770 A.D., it features statues that highlight the unique sculpting technique associated with the Pandya monarchy. 

Sri Mavoottru Velappar Temple  

Situated amidst gorgeous mountains 75 miles from Madurai, Sri MavoottruVelappar Temple honours Lord Murugan as its chief deity. Run by Paliyar tribes from the area, the temple attracts followers looking for rituals and holy baths that promote bodily and spiritual renewal. It has a natural spring that is said to have medicinal qualities. The temple’s attraction as a place of calm and heavenly worship is enhanced by its beautiful surroundings and rich cultural legacy.  

Spiritual Trips

Temples Of Dwarka; Exploring The Nagri Of Shree Dwarkadhish

The city of Dwarka is located on the western edge of the Saurashtra peninsula in Gujarat, and it holds deep-rooted historical and religious significance as one of India’s ancient cities. It is also known as Dev Bhumi Dwarka and it stands out as a city that is a part of both the Chardham as well as Sapta Puris, mentioned in Hindu mythology. Dwarka is associated with the ancient Kingdom of Lord Krishna which adds to its significance and it houses the famous Nageshwar Jyotirlinga temple which is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. Apart from this, there are many other temples in Dwarka that are worth exploration. Let’s take a moment and have a look at these temples and their significance. 

Dwarkadhish Temple   

Dwarkadhish temple, also known as Jagat Mandir exemplifies Chalukya-style architecture and is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It has its roots in the Mahabharata. The five-storied mandir, which is constructed of limestone and sand is believed to be have built over the reclaimed land from the sea by Lord Krishna himself. The complex sculpting of the temple and the black idol of Lord Krishna is what attracts devotees from far and wide. The devotees perform a ritual of taking a dip in the Gomti River before entering the temple through the Swarga Dwar, which translates to the gate of heaven. This further adds to the spiritual experience, especially during the celebrations of Janmashtami festivities. 

Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple 

The Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is between Gomati Dwarka and Bait Dwarka Island. This temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, where devotees seek liberation from worldly attachments, sins and even snake bites. This temple houses an 80-foot-tall statue of Lord Shiva and the Linga facing towards the South. Devotees flock here during the festivities of Shivratri and Mahashivratri to seek blessings from the divine.  

Rukmani Temple   

Rukmani Temple is located about 1.5 km. away from the city centre and this ancient temple narrates the story of Rukhmini Devi and Lord Krishna. As per the Hindu mythology, Rukhmini Devi was separated from Lord Krishna due to a curse. This temple dates back to the 12th century and has intricate carvings and architectural style that serve as a reminder of their eternal bond. 

Gita Temple  

The Gita temple is dedicated to preserving the teachings of Bhagavad Gita and was built by the Birla family in the 1970s with white marble. Various verses from the Gita have been engraved onto the temple walls adding to its charm and beauty. This provides the devotees with a serene and soothing atmosphere for spiritual reflection and self-awakening. 

ISKCON Temple  

ISKCON is a famous temple that is established all over India to promote Krishna consciousness and this temple in Dwarka houses idols of Lord Krishna and Radha Rani. The temple is constructed entirely of stone, and it serves as a centre for Vedic culture and education and offers spiritual programs and guidance to the devotees. 

Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple  

The Bhadkeshwar Mahadev temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features a self-manifested shivling that was found in the Arabian Sea. This sample is over 5000 years old and is usually submerged during the monsoon season. However, the temple emerges as a sacred site during other times of the year and attracts a lot of devotees seeking spiritual sense.  

Samudra Mahadev Temple  

This Samudra Mahadev temple honours Goddess Gomati and features shrines dedicated to various deities and is situated at the meeting point of the Gomati River and the Arabian Sea. This temple is also a renowned tourist spot, and the serene ambience and picturesque surroundings make it a popular destination for all seekers of spirituality. 

Gayatri Shaktipeeth  

The Gayatri Shaktipeeth is dedicated to Maa Gayatri and it holds significance during the Dham Yatra pilgrimage. The Annukat ceremony is celebrated here annually and it involves offering vegetarian dishes to Maa, as a gesture of gratitude, reflecting the devotee’s admiration and devotion.

Spiritual Trips

Temples Of Hampi; Let’s Explore The Historical Temples

Hampi is famous worldwide for its historical ruins and rich heritage, with its temples that stand as the primary attraction alongside the banks of river Tungabhadra. It has also earned the prestigious status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It served as a former capital for the Vijayanagara Empire. As one of the largest post-Mughal era empires, Hampi offers visitors an opportunity to marvel at the diversity of temple complexes. Let us take a look at various historic temples that are housed in this city. 

Achyutraya Temple 

Also known as the Tiruvengalanatha Temple, the Achyutraya temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and it features a modern architectural style that is different from other temples in Hampi. The walls, pillars and monolith blocks are skillfully crafted that depict various mythological legends.  

Badavilinga  

Translating to Big Shivalinga, the Badavilinga is carved out of a single boulder, standing 3 meters tall amidst water and serves as a prominent attraction in Hampi. This temple is a revered symbol of Lord Shiva and is situated near the Lakshmi Narasimha temple. 

Virupaksha Temple  

The Virupaksha temple, also known as the Pampapathi temple, is dedicated to Lord Shiva in his Virupaksha form and dates back to the 7th century. From being just a small shrine, it now stands as the most famous temple in Hampi, which is adorned with stone inscriptions that date back centuries and showcase the rich heritage of the area. 

Vithala Temple 

The Vithala Temple dates back to the 16th century and is regarded as the most impressive structure in Hampi. This table stands as a magnificent example of the rich architecture of the century. The most iconic feature of this temple is the stone chariot that is located within the temple premises. The features of the temple complex include the elaborately carved walls and pillars that depict various gods and their forms. 

Kadalekalu Ganesh Temple  

 The Kadalekalu Ganesh temple is situated on Hemakuta Hill and houses a colossal 15-foot monolithic idol of Lord Ganesha which is believed to be one of the largest idols in the world. The traditional stone architecture and detailed carving contribute to its beauty. The belly of Lord Ganesha is sculpted to resemble Bengal gram.  

Hanuman Temple 

Embedded on the top of Anjaneya hill, the Hanuman Temple dates back 500 years is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and offers mesmerizing views of the surroundings. Shree Vyasaraja, the Rajaguru of the Vijayanagara Kingdom, installed the deity’s idol. 

Lakshmi Narasimha Temple  

Narsimha translates to half man- half lion who was an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The Lakshmi Narasimha temple features the largest idol of Narasimha with the deity seated on a SheshNaag who is known as the seven-headed snake. The idol of Goddess Lakshmi adds to the sanctity of the temple. 

Hazara Ram Temple  

The Hazara Ram Temple was the place of worship for the Royals and is located at the heart of the Royal Center. This temple depicts the rich heritage of Hampi as it is decorated with intricate carvings on its walls and pillars. This temple holds immense historical significance that dates back to the 15th century, despite being smaller in size as compared to other temples. 

Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex  

The Hemakuta Hill Temple complex is a place that is well protected by a fort and provides a serene and captivating atmosphere for worship and self-awareness. This complex houses numerous temples that are all dedicated to Lord Shiva. 

Sasivekalu Ganesh Temple  

The Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple exhibits a monumental monolithic idol of Lord Ganesha that stands over 8 feet tall. The temple depicts the legend of Ganesha tying a snake around his belly to prevent it from bursting after eating excess food and was created in honour of King Nasimha II.  

Sri Krishna Temple  

Sri Krishna Temple stands as an example of the unique architectural style of King Krishnadevaraya. This temple is famous for its complex carving of Lord Krishna and the Indian mythology. This temple idolizes the child version of lord Krishna known as Bala Krishna, and is one of the favourite destinations for Krishna devotees and architecture enthusiasts.  

Ganagitti Temple   

The Ganagitti Temple is among Hampi’s notable Jain temples and was constructed by Iruguppa Dandanayaka during the reign of Vijayanagara King Harihara II in 1386 AD. Despite being a small shrine, this temple draws a considerable number of tourists and attention owing to its historical significance. 

Kodanda Rama Temple 

The Kodanda Rama Temple is dedicated to Lord Ram and holds immense historical as well as religious significance as this is known to be the site where Lord Ram slew Vali, as depicted in the epic of Ramayana. The temple stands as a declaration of Hampi’s cultural heritage and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Pattabhirama Temple   

The Pattabhirama temple is dedicated to Lord Ram and though lesser known, it rivals the elegance of the Vittala Temple. The beautiful garden and expansive temple marriage hall add to its beauty and make it a noteworthy destination for visitors. 

Prasanna Virupaksha Temple  

The PrasannaVirupaksha temple is addicted to Lord PrasannaVirupaksha who is known as the incarnation of Lord Shiva and dates back to the 14th century AD. Like many other temples, this temple is also famous for its Vijayanagar-style architecture and simplicity, and it occasionally floods during the monsoon season due to its underground structure. 

Saraswati Temple   

Saraswati Temple, as the name suggests, is dedicated to the goddess Saraswati, and features complex carvings and terracotta stucco figures ornamenting its pillars. This temple was constructed in the 13th century. On the opposite side of the temple lies a rock that bears a beautifully carved view of the Goddess. 

Varaha Temple 

The Varaha temple is dedicated to Varaha, one of Vishnu’s 10 avatars, and it features a rectangular compound that beautifies the intricate carvings of boars on its walls. The walls depict rich history, and it is a witness to the architectural efficiency of the Vijayanagara dynasty.  

Chandikesvara Temple   

The Chandikesvara temple honours Lord Vishnu and consists of striking carvings that depict Hindu mythology themes and stands as one of the iconic temples in Hampi. The temple is a prominent attraction for tourists as it is located on the main road. 

Chandramouliswara Temple 

The Chandramouliswara temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated on an island on the northern bank of the Tungabhadra River. The detailed carvings of the temple have passed the test of time, and this makes it a hidden gem that is worth exploring.