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10 Best Temples to Visit in Kyoto

Misty Fujii is a Canadian who moved to Osaka, Japan, in 2019 and married her Japanese sweetheart. In 2022, they had a baby and moved to Fukui for the clean country air. She is a DJ who teaches English part-time and writes to share Japan with the world. She gets excited about collecting vintage vinyl records, food from all countries, travelling, and renovating her traditional Japanese house.

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Kyoto is where ancient serenity awaits! Prepare to be awed by the captivating blend of history and spirituality at Kyoto’s temples . From the iconic golden splendor of Kinkakuji to the tranquil Zen gardens of Ryoanji, each temple is a masterpiece of architecture and culture. Meander through the grounds of the silver pavilion at Ginkakuji or find inner peace at Kiyomizu-dera’s wooden terrace overlooking the city. Kyoto’s temples offer a window into Japan’s rich past and a chance to connect with your inner zen amidst the bustling cityscape.

With so many temples in this legendary prefecture, let’s check out the 10 best temples to visit in Kyoto. 

1. Kiyomizudera Temple

2. kinkakuji, 3. ryoanji temple and rock garden, 4. ginkakuji, 5. nanzenji temple, 6. tenryuji temple, 7. byodoin temple, 8. sanjusangendo temple, 9. daitokuji temple, 10. saihoji (koke-dera) temple, find other experience, other articles you might be interested in.

Kiyomizudera Temple , founded in 778, sits in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994. This iconic hillside temple offers stunning views of cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in fall. Its remarkable wooden structure, supported by nail-free pillars, is a wonder. 

Stand on the Kiyomizu Stage, extending over the valley, for a samurai-worthy thrill and capture unforgettable panoramas. With its allure and historical importance, Kiyomizudera Temple is a top pick in Kyoto and a must-see for travelers exploring the city’s ancient heritage.

Take bus 100 or 206 from Kyoto Station to Gojo-zaka or Kiyomizu-michi stop. Then, it’s a 10-minute uphill stroll to Kiyomizudera. Or, a 20-minute walk from Kiyomizu-Gojo Station on the Keihan Railway Line.

Kinkaku-Ji Temple is a UNESCO Heritage Site and a golden masterpiece. Evoking “peace on Earth,” its design is meticulous. Originally a shogun’s villa, it became a Zen temple cloaked in gold leaf. Rebuilt after arson in the ’50s, it boasts three unique floors: shinden, samurai, and zen. Kinkakuji’s reflection in the pond is pure magic, its allure gracing postcards. A link to Japan’s history, its design glows through seasons, from cherry blossoms to autumn hues . Experience its beauty, a pilgrimage into Kyoto’s heart, and a timeless cultural treasure.

Reach Kinkakuji from Kyoto Station via bus 101 or 205. Alternatively, use Karasuma Subway Line to Kitaoji, then taxi or bus (101, 102, 204, 205) to Kinkakuji.

Ryoanji Temple is where one of Japan’s most iconic rock gardens resides. Once an aristocrat’s villa in the Heian Period , it’s now a Zen temple belonging to the Myoshinji school. While the garden’s history and design remain mysteries, this only adds to the intrigue. Pebbles surround fifteen rocks and moss patches in a rectangle. Curiously, at least one rock is always hidden from view, no matter what angle you look from. What is the garden’s meaning? Whatever you think! It’s open to interpretation. 

Reach Ryoanji from Kyoto Station by JR bus. Or take a 5-minute bus or 20-minute walk from Kinkakuji.

Ginkakuji, the Silver Pavilion, nestled in Kyoto’s eastern mountains, exudes Zen tranquility. Originally a shogun’s retirement villa in 1482, it was modeled after Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion. Once the shogun’s art haven, it ignited the Higashiyama Culture, spreading tea ceremonies, noh theater, and more nationwide. Today, the grounds feature the Silver Pavilion, temple structures, moss, and sand gardens. Stroll the circular route, soaking in the serene atmosphere and cultural echoes. Fun fact: it’s not really silver, but its elegance rivals the moon’s glow on a quiet night.

Reach Ginkakuji from Kyoto Station by bus 5, 17, or 100. Or walk via Philosopher’s Path from Nanzenji in 30-45 minutes.

Nanzenji Temple, nestled at the foot of Kyoto’s Higashiyama mountains, is another Zen sanctuary. As a vital hub of Japanese Zen Buddhism , it boasts impressive grounds and various sub-temples, forming a vast spiritual haven. Originally Emperor Kameyama’s retreat, it transformed into a Zen temple in the 13th century. 

Wander the serene compound, featuring a grand gate, tranquil pond-centered garden, and distinct sub-temples, each with its own allure. While the main grounds are free to explore, individual sub-temples and the Abbot’s Quarters have separate entrance fees. In autumn, the area transforms into a vivid canvas of red and orange, making it a prime spot for witnessing Kyoto’s enchanting fall foliage.

Nanzenji Temple is a 5-10 minute walk from Keage Subway (Tozai Line) or Nanzenji-Eikando-michi bus stop (Bus 5) near the Philosopher’s Path, linking Ginkakuji at the northern end.

Tenryuji Temple is the heart of Arashiyama’s splendor . It’s the star player among the city’s Zen temples and a revered UNESCO World Heritage Site. Acting as the epicenter of the Rinzai School of Zen Buddhism, Tenryuji was established in 1339 by shogun Ashikaga Takauji, dedicated to the late Emperor Go-Daigo. Takauji’s history with Go-Daigo went from camaraderie to conflict, and the temple served as a peace offering to the departed ruler.

While time and turmoil have taken their toll on the temple’s structures, its soulful garden, designed by the visionary Muso Soseki, remained unchanged. Crafted with artistry akin to his work in Kokedera and other revered temples, the garden embraces a serene pond encircled by stones, pines, and the enigmatic Arashiyama mountains. This haven, dreamed into reality by an Ashikaga, an emperor, and a Zen master, stands as a testament to the timelessness of Japan’s profound culture.

Tenryuji can be accessed by walking from Keifuku Arashiyama Station (Randen trains) or JR Saga-Arashiyama Station (Kyoto Station).

Byodoin Temple embodies Buddhist Pure Land architecture. Sprouting from a Fujiwara clan villa, this temple is a chapter in Japan’s architectural legacy. Initially crafted in 998 as a countryside getaway for power broker Fujiwara no Michinaga, it later transformed into a celestial temple under his son’s decree.

Constructed in 1053, you’ll recognize the ethereal phoenix Hall from the back of a 10-yen coin. Gaze upon its reflection in the serene pond – it’s as if this mythical bird is soaring above the earth. Inside, Amida Buddha catches the sun’s embrace, encircled by Bodhisattvas in harmonious poses. And within the Hosho-kan Museum, treasures await – the original temple bell, door paintings, and the twin phoenix roof adornments. Byodoin, a survivor of the Heian Period, is an open book to Japan’s enchanting history. 

Byodoin is 10-15 minutes from JR Uji Station or Keihan Uji Station.

This is Sanjusangendo, or as it’s affectionately called, the “Hall of Thirty-Three Intervals.” Nestled in eastern Kyoto, this temple is a 1000-army-strong ode to Kannon, the goddess of mercy. Established in 1164 and later reborn from the ashes of a fire, Sanjusangendo is more than meets the eye.

Its 120-meter frame earns it the title of Japan’s longest wooden structure. Imagine a grand assembly of 1000-armed Kannon statues flanked by 500 more on each side, standing in perfect symmetry. They create a spellbinding sight! The temple’s name arises from the 33 intervals between its support columns. Here, you don’t just witness history; you stand amidst it.

To get to Sanjusangendo, take bus 100, 206, or 208 from Kyoto Station, walk 5 minutes from Shichijo Station (Keihan Line), or 20 minutes from Kyoto Station.

Walls and all, the Daitokuji temple complex stands tall in the northern part of the city. Founded in 1315, it faced some fiery trials during the Onin War but emerged stronger thanks to a head priest named Ikkyū, a famous Zen monk and poet. This place isn’t just a temple; it’s a living legend, and it’s even been associated with the tea master, Sen no Rikyū, helping to shape the tea ceremony we know and love today.

Picture a sprawling Zen playground complete with a main temple and twenty-two sub-temples in their walled abodes. Inside, you’ll find Zen gardens, art, and relics that are like a treasure hunt for enlightenment seekers. Take advantage of the grand vermilion gate and peek inside the Buddha Hall; it’s not just for show. 

To get to Daitokuji, take bus 101, 205, or 206 from Kyoto Station or Bus 9 from Kitaoji-Horikawa. Alternatively, you can take the Karasuma Subway Line to Kitaoji Station, plus a short bus ride or 15-minute walk.

Welcome to Kokedera, or as it’s called, the Moss Temple, a star in Kyoto’s UNESCO galaxy. But here’s the secret: you need a reservation to enter this world. Once inside, you’ll be in a picturesque garden full of moss with over 120 varieties. This place isn’t just a random moss garden; it’s a celebration of Japanese garden design.

Kokedera has stories that stretch back to Prince Shotoku’s villa days before it became a temple in the Nara Period. Fast forward to 1339, and the temple gets a makeover by Zen priest Muso Soseki. Now, guests can take part in the temple’s activities. Join the chanting and scripture-copying, called kito and shakyo, as part of a well-worthy reservation.

Kokedera is a 20-minute walk from Matsuo Taisha Station on the Hankyu Arashiyama Line.

Where will you go during your trip to Kyoto? Why not book a knowledgeable guide who can make your trip more memorable?

Japan Wonder Travel Tours in Kyoto

When you are visiting Kyoto and you need some help organizing your trip, you came to the right place. We’re happy to help you make your trip to Kyoto the best trip ever. We can advise you on where to go or even better, show you around with a local, English speaking guide. Let us help you create safe, comfortable, and unforgettable memories in Kyoto!

▶ Kyoto 8h Private Custom Highlight Tour with Licensed Guide On this full-day private tour of Kyoto, you will be able to see the highlights of Kyoto in just one day and at the same time develop a deeper understanding of both the culture of the area and Japan as a whole.

▶ Kyoto 10-Hour HIGHLIGHT Private Tour If you only have a day or two in Kyoto, we offer a full-day tour of the city, enabling you to immerse yourself in and fully enjoy the entire city of Kyoto in just 10 hours!

▶ Explore Nishiki Market: Food & Culture Walk If you’re looking to learn more about the culture and the local cuisine of Kyoto, this is the perfect tour for you! Take part in this Kyoto food and drink tour and explore the 400-year-old market and the famous surrounding areas.

▶ Kimono Rental Kyoto is the best city to explore in kimono, Japanese traditional clothing. You can choose the one you like the most from several patterns and colors at the rental shop. In Kyoto, two locations are both accessible from the main tourist attractions which makes it easy to try it on and explore the city for a day!

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9 Must See Temples In Kyoto Japan

After a bunch of visits to Japan over the years, I’ve put together this Kyoto temple & shrine guide to help you find the best ones!

Kyoto is Japan’s ancient capital and cultural center, so it has a lot of the most famous shrines in Japan, and there are a bunch of must see temples in Kyoto too.

There are actually more than 2,000 temples and shrines in Kyoto, so it can be tough to decide which ones to visit. Read on for my complete Kyoto temple guide!

Table of Contents show Where To Stay In Kyoto Best Traditional Shrines & Temples In Kyoto Japan 1. Kinkaku-ji Temple 2. Ginkaku-ji Temple 3. Tenryu-ji Temple 4. Fushimi Inari Shrine 5. Kiyomizu-dera Temple 6. Yasaka Pagoda 7. Kennin-ji Temple 8. Byodo-in Temple (Uji) 9. Todai-ji Temple (Nara) Kyoto Temple Map Japanese Temple Etiquette Best Time To Visit Kyoto Hotels Best Tours In Kyoto Japan More Japanese Shrine & Temple Guides

Where To Stay In Kyoto

Ryokan Genhouin

The Celestine

Good Nature Hotel

Hotel Keihan

Best Traditional Shrines & Temples In Kyoto Japan

1. kinkaku-ji temple.

The Kinkaku-ji Temple (also known as the Golden Pavilion) is one of the most iconic and famous places in Japan.

It’s the #1 most visited Kyoto temple, and for pretty good reason! It’s almost impossible to take a bad photo here! This is definitely one of the best temples in Kyoto.

A good time to visit is in the morning before the wind picks up, then you can see reflections on the pond. Sadly when we went it was very windy, so no reflections.

Read More: Kinkakuji Temple

The Golden Pavilion probably takes the cake for the nicest looking Kyoto temple.

2. Ginkaku-ji Temple

After you visit the Golden Pavilion, you might like to know that it also has a less famous twin called Ginkaku-ji, the Silver Pavilion! This one is located in eastern Kyoto (Higashiyama), but it’s not too hard to reach.

Also known as the Higashiyama Jisho-ji, this temple dates back to the 15th century, when it was originally built as a mountain villa for the shoguns.

It’s a beautiful building in its own way, and very photogenic, with a dry sand garden and raised cone that looks like Mount Fuji.  

3. Tenryu-ji Temple

This temple was built in the 14th century and it’s located in Kyoto’s Arashiyama district.

It has a nice landscape garden and incredible fall colors if you come near the middle of November. The garden is the main reason this one made my list of the best temples in Kyoto.

Tenryu-ji also borders the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, so chances are you’ll be near it anyway if you’re visiting the top tourist sites of west Kyoto.

4. Fushimi Inari Shrine

This is an 8th century Kyoto shrine with more than 1,000 orange torii gates surrounded by forest.

It’s fun to wander around the maze of gates and there are some nice mountain trails too.

This place can get very crowded with tourists though, so it’s best to come in the early morning or late afternoon.

Bright orange Torii gates at Fushimi Inari, one of the most famous traditional shrines in Kyoto Japan.

5. Kiyomizu-dera Temple

This is probably Japan’s most celebrated temple, and it’s a great place to see fall colors too.

Most people take pictures of the main building, but our favorite part was actually the orange pagoda next to it. In any case, there are loads of good photo ops all around this Kyoto temple!

Kiyomizu-dera is a Buddhist temple that was built in eastern Kyoto in the 8th century.

The photogenic orange pagoda at Kiyomizu-dera Temple

6. Yasaka Pagoda

It’s impossible to visit the Higashiyama district in Kyoto without seeing this iconic pagoda sticking out above the rest of the buildings.

The Yasaka Pagoda has 5 stories and even though it was built in the 15th century, it’s part of a temple that dates back to the 6th century.

The best photos are on the outside, of course, but you can also go inside (up to the 2nd floor of the pagoda) for a fee.

Yasaka Pagoda in the Higashiyama ward

7. Kennin-ji Temple

This is a random temple we passed while strolling through the Higashiyama area of Kyoto.

We didn’t know anything about it at the time, but it turns out this is actually considered one of the most important Zen temples in Kyoto. Founded in 1202 AD, it’s also believed to be the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto.

The white and black colors are nice for pictures.

Kennin-ji Temple

8. Byodo-in Temple (Uji)

This is an underrated temple located in Uji, a small city between Kyoto and Nara. It’s very easy to visit from Kyoto.

Byodo-in Temple was originally built in the 11th century, and today it’s even featured on the Japanese 10 yen coin.

The surprising thing is that Byodo-in Temple actually has a twin building in Hawaii that looks just like it and shares the same name!

Byodoin Temple strangely has a twin building in Hawaii that looks just like it.

9. Todai-ji Temple (Nara)

Todai-ji Temple is one of Japan’s biggest and most spectacular landmarks. Even though it’s outside of Kyoto, you can still visit it easily from there.

This massive ancient monument has a lot of cool history behind it. It was the world’s biggest wooden building for a millennium, and it houses the biggest bronze Buddha statue in the world.

We’ve visited Todai-ji a couple of times and it’s a must-see. If you look around the Nara Park, it also has a bunch of other traditional Japanese temples and shrines.

Nara is super easy to visit on a day trip from Kyoto or Osaka, so you should definitely add it to your Japan bucket list!

Read More: Todai-ji Temple

After being finished in the 8th century, the Todai-ji Temple was the biggest wooden building in the world for more than 1,000 years.

Kyoto Temple Map

Here’s a Kyoto temple map you can use to plan your Japan trip. You can click the icons to get more info and directions for each point of interest, but keep in mind some of the locations on this map may be approximate.

For more detailed information on how to get to the Kyoto temples on this map, you can check out my individual travel guides for each location.

Japanese Temple Etiquette

Most traditional shrines and temples in Kyoto Japan are open to tourists, but there are a few basic rules and things to know:

• Always be calm and respectful, not noisy — especially when you’re indoors.
• To go inside of temple buildings, you may have to take off your shoes. This means leaving them at the entrance, or sometimes they’ll provide plastic bags for carrying them with you.
• You can take photos on the temple grounds, but usually not inside of the buildings. If pictures aren’t allowed, it’ll be sign posted.
• Some Kyoto temples and shrines are free, but many are not. If there’s an entrance fee, it’s normally less than 500 Yen ($5 USD) per person and tickets are good for the whole day.
• There are lots of kimono rental shops in Kyoto, and you can wear these to a Japanese temple. If you ask the locals, they aren’t offended by foreigners wearing their traditional dress for pictures, and you’ll see lots of them doing the same.

Best Time To Visit

Kyoto temples and shrines are especially spectacular in the autumn and cherry blossom seasons, but that’s also when they’re the most crowded.

The timing for these seasons is different every year, but you can generally see the sakura season (cherry blossoms) in the last week of March, and fall colors peak around mid November (for the Kyoto area).

Generally the best time of day to visit is early in the morning and late in the afternoon, because the temples can get extremely crowded by midday, especially during holidays and peak seasons.

At any of the temples with ponds (like Kinkakuji ), you’ll want to be there early in the morning anyway to capture the reflections on the pond before the wind picks up.

Kinkaku-ji — the famous golden temple of Kyoto

Kyoto Hotels

Best tours in kyoto japan, more japanese shrine & temple guides.

Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoyed this list of some of the best temples to visit in Kyoto Japan.

Don’t forget to check out my complete list of the best things to do in Japan before you go! You can also find more tips, info, and photos in my Japan Travel Guide .

Happy travels!  

• Best Things To Do In Japan - What To Do In The Islands
• Japanese Temple Guide – Best Traditional Shrines & Temples To Visit In Japan
• Japan Travel Guide – Food, Castles, & Temples

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Great post, photographs, and interesting read. The Kinkaku-ji Temple is my favorite. I love the surroundings.

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How to Visit Borobudur in Indonesia

Borobudur is a 9th-century Buddhist monument in Indonesia . It’s actually the largest Buddhist temple in the world! The ancient complex comprises six square platforms topped by three circular platforms decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues.m

It’s massive!

I’ve always been fascinated by this place ever since I heard about it on National Geographic. I’ve read books about Borobudur and watched TV programs on it. I knew I had to see this place before I died.

And fortunately, I did!

If you’re going to be backpacking Indonesia , be sure to add a visit to Borobudur to your itinerary. It’s a one-of-a-kind monument worth a visit.

To help you make the most out of your visit, here’s my comprehensive guide to visiting Borobudur:

The History of Borobudur

This entire 9th-century Mahayana Buddhist complex is actually a giant allegory for enlightenment. It was constructed under the rule of the Sailendra Dynasty, eventually being abandoned in the 14th century as the region slowly started to convert to Islam.

There is no record of the complex being built, though it was likely founded around the year 800 CE.

The temple was neglected and eventually buried under jungle and volcanic ash. In the 19th century, when the British ruled the region, it was rediscovered. In 1814, with 200 men, Lieutenant Governor-General Thomas Stamford Raffles cut down the surrounding trees to reveal the temple complex. Since then, it’s been a growing tourist draw for the region.

Visiting the temple, you’ll see that the journey begins at the base of the temple and follows a path through the three levels of Buddhist cosmology, namely Kamadhatu (the world of desire), Rupadhatu (the world of forms), and Arupadhatu (the world of formlessness).

The Buddhist pilgrim starts at the bottom and moves up when they have deciphered each relief. Each relief explains a teaching of the Buddha, and when you figure it out, you move on to the next. They progressively get harder, and by the time you finish the last one, you are on the top and — in theory — enlightened.

Tips for Visiting Borobudur

• Arrive early – This place will get crowded fast. Arrive early to beat the crowd (either by doing a sunrise tour or by arriving before 6am to wait for the gates to open).
• Avoid the weekend – The crowds here are biggest on the weekends. Try to visit during the week to beat the tourist rush.
• Dress comfortably – Dress appropriately but also comfortably as you’re going to be on your feet for a while as your explore.
• Bring water – This temple is large, and when you factor in a bus ride you’re going to get thirsty. Bring water and snacks.
• Stay nearby – It’s a 90-minute drive from Yogyakarta. If you want to get here early and beat the crowds, stay closer. It won’t be as cheap but you’ll be able to have a much more enjoyable visit.

How to Visit Borobudur: Logistics

The site is open to the public from 6am to 5pm daily. Ticket are $25 USD per person while a combined ticket for Borobudur as well as the Prambanan temples will cost $40 USD per person, however, it doesn’t apply to sunrise tickets.

There is also a daily Borobudur Sunrise Tour for $35 USD. This is the tour where you can snap those Insta-worthy shots of the temple at dawn (see the top photo on this post for an exmaple!). These are usually arranged by hotels in the area so if you’re staying nearby, chances are your accommodation can assist with this.

You’ll get a flashlight and a lift up to the temple gate at 4:30am, just in time to see the sunrise and explore the site before the tourist crowd arrives. To get the most out of your visit, consider hiring a guide who can explain the reliefs so you can understand the temple a bit better.

Not surprisingly, This site is the most popular tourist attraction in Indonesia. The most common way to get here is via public bus to Borobudur from Yogyakarta, however, this is aimed mostly at Indonesian visitors and only a few tourists venture aboard.

If you are feeling adventurous though, the Trans-Jogya service runs from central Yogyakarta to the Jombor bus terminal in northern Yogyakarta where you can change to another bus to get to Borobudur. The bus will cost around $2 USD.

For a guided full day tour including Borobudur at sunrise, Prambanan, and Merapi Volcano, expect to pay around $95 USD with Get Your Guide .

Visiting Borobudur FAQs

What should I wear to the Borobudur temple? You’ll want to dress respectfully and conservatively, as this is a religious complex. Wear loose-fitting clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. I’d suggest you wear pants as the steps leading to the top of the temple are high and not suited to shorts or skirts. Also, wear comfortable footwear since you’ll be on your feet for a while. Watching the sunrise at the top of the temple can be cool, especially in winter, so bring a light jacket or sweater.

What is the Borobudur temple made of? The temple is made of stone and consists of nine stacked platforms, six squares, and three circular platforms that are topped by a dome.

How do I get to Borobudur? You can take the public bus from Yogyakarta for around $2 USD or take a minibus for around $6 USD. The journey will take between 60-90 minutes.

Can I book a guided tour of Borobudur? Yes! Get Your Guide offers guided full-day tours that include two others sites in addition to Borobudur at sunrise.

How much is the entrance fee to Borobudur? Admission is $25 USD for adults.

Is Borobudur the largest Buddhist temple in the world? Yep! It’s a massive temple complex and actually took 75 years to build!

Borobudur is one of the most amazing historical sites in the world, and also one of the most unique. I’m fascinated by it. A lot of travelers visit Indonesia and simply stay on Bali , but if you make your way off Bali and into Java, be sure to visit this site. You won’t be disappointed.

Book Your Trip to Indonesia: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)

Looking for the best companies to save money with? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!

Want More Information on Indonesia? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Indonesia for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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17 Must-visit Temples and Shrines in Kyoto

Kyoto , a city at the core of Japan's historical tapestry, boasts an array of stunning and culturally vital temples and shrines. Iconic landmarks like the golden and silver pavilions, alongside tranquil Zen temples and lively Shinto shrines, showcase a harmonious mix of spiritual tradition and architectural elegance.

In this blog post, we'll explore Kyoto's most remarkable temples and shrines, delving into their historical backgrounds and significance. Additionally, we'll offer practical advice for those planning to visit these captivating sites.

Best Temples and Shrines in Kyoto

Kinkaku-ji temple (golden pavilion).

Kinkaku-ji, known as the Golden Pavilion , is a celebrated Zen Buddhist temple in northern Kyoto. Officially named Rokuon-ji, this temple was initially the retirement villa of Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, and after he died in 1408, it was transformed into a Zen temple of the Rinzai sect.

The temple's most striking feature is its top two floors, completely covered in gold leaf, showcasing an architectural grandeur that has made it one of the most famous structures in Kyoto. Additionally, Kinkaku-ji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site representing Japan's significant historical and cultural landmark.

Visit Kinkaku-ji with your custom itinerary.

Ginkaku-ji Temple (Silver Pavilion)

Ginkaku-ji , officially known as Jisho-ji, is a Zen temple along the eastern mountains of Kyoto, specifically in the Higashiyama area. It was initially constructed in 1482 as a retirement villa for the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa and later converted into a Zen temple after he died in 1490.

Ginkaku-ji is renowned for its elegant design, set within picturesque grounds that showcase exemplary Japanese landscape architecture. Despite its name, the Silver Pavilion, it was never actually covered in silver; the name is believed to have arisen much later, either as a contrast to the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) or due to the moonlight reflecting off its dark exterior, giving it a silvery appearance.

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Fushimi Inari Shrine , or Fushimi Inari Taisha, is an important Shinto shrine in southern Kyoto dedicated to Inari, the deity of rice and business prosperity. This shrine is renowned for its thousands of striking vermilion torii gates, which create a network of trails on the sacred Mount Inari.

Bright orange Torii gates at Fushimi Inari, predating Kyoto's establishment as the capital in 794, is the principal shrine among thousands across Japan dedicated to Inari. Additionally, the shrine features fox statues, believed to be Inari's messengers, and its historical significance includes being a favored donation site for emperors in ancient times.

Step off the beaten path and join us for an extraordinary hike through Fushimi Inari's hidden trails!

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Renowned as the "Pure Water Temple," Kiyomizu-dera stands amidst the lush hills east of Kyoto and is celebrated as one of Japan's most distinguished temples. Founded in 780 near the Otowa Waterfall, the temple's name derives from the fall's pure waters.

It is famous for its wooden stage, built without nails, jutting out from its main hall 13 meters above the hillside, offering stunning views of Kyoto and the surrounding cherry and maple trees. The temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1994, houses a revered statue of the eleven-faced, thousand-armed Kannon. It is also known for the Otowa Waterfall, where visitors drink from its waters for health, longevity, and success​.

Visit Kiyomizu-dera temple and take in the breathtaking view of Kyoto from its terrace.

Ryoan-ji Temple

Ryoan-ji Temple , located in Kyoto, Japan, is renowned for its iconic "kare-sansui," or dry landscape rock garden, a quintessential example of Zen Buddhist design. This garden is particularly famous for its fifteen strategically placed rocks, set amidst raked white gravel, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere.

The arrangement of these rocks is such that, from any vantage point at the viewing platform, one cannot see all fifteen stones at once, adding to the garden's mystique and symbolic significance. Additionally, Ryoan-ji's extensive temple grounds include larger gardens with lush trees and moss and the Kyoyo-chi pond, which is especially beautiful in autumn, offering visitors a peaceful retreat and an opportunity for reflection.

Visit Ryoanji temple for a unique rock garden experience!

Tenryu-ji Temple

Tenryu-ji Temple , a significant temple of the Rinzai School of Zen Buddhism, is situated in Kyoto's scenic Arashiyama district. Established in 1339 on Emperor Go-Daigo's former villa site, the temple was founded by the ruling shogun Ashikaga Takauji.

Its most notable feature is the Zen garden, dating back to the 14th century, which includes a large pond reflecting the surrounding maple trees and rocks and "borrowed scenery" from the nearby Arashiyama hills. This garden, which has remained unchanged through the centuries, is a masterpiece of design and serves as a prototype for many subsequent Japanese gardens.

See Tenryuji Temple, one of Japan's distinguished Zen Buddhist temples.

Kennin-ji Temple

Kennin-ji Temple , nestled just south of Kyoto's famed Gion district, is the city's oldest Zen temple. Founded in 1202 by the Buddhist monk Eisai, credited with introducing Zen Buddhism and tea cultivation to Japan, Kennin-ji initially combined Zen with Tendai and Shingon Buddhism.

It later became a purely Zen temple under the leadership of its 11th abbot. The temple is renowned for its art and architecture, including a striking ceiling painting of twin dragons and the iconic Wind and Thunder Gods screen. Over its long history, Kennin-ji has undergone several reconstructions due to fires and wars, with most of its current buildings dating from the late 1500s to the mid-1700s​

Discover the tranquility of the Kenninji Zen Buddhist Temple, established in 1202.

Tofuku-ji Temple

Tofuku-ji Temple , established in 1236 by the priest Enni Ben'en, is a significant Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto. It is renowned as the head temple of the Tofuku-ji branch of Rinzai Zen Buddhism and is one of the Five Mountains of Rinzai Zen in Kyoto.

The temple is famous for its stunning autumn foliage, particularly around the Tsutenkyo Bridge, and boasts several impressive landscaped gardens. Notably, Tofuku-ji Temple features Japan's oldest Zen main gate, the Sanmon, which was built in 1425 and is a remarkable example of Buddhist architecture.

Heian Shrine

Heian Shrine , located in Kyoto, Japan, is a relatively recent addition to Kyoto's rich tapestry of sacred sites, constructed in 1895. It was built to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of Kyoto's founding as Heian Kyo. It is dedicated to the first and last Emperors who ruled from the city, Emperor Kammu and Emperor Komei.

The shrine's architecture is a partial replica of the Imperial Palace from the Heian Period, featuring richly-colored buildings and a spacious court, surrounded by extensive, intricately designed gardens in the four cardinal directions. Notably, the shrine's massive torii gate, one of the largest in Japan, and the Shin'en Garden, a representation of Meiji Period garden design, are significant attractions​.

Soak in the tranquility of revered temples including Heian Shrine.

Nanzen-ji Temple

Nanzen-ji , initially known as Zenrinzen-ji, is a prominent Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto's Higashiyama area. Established in 1291 by Emperor Kameyama on the site of his former detached palace, Nanzen-ji has become one of Japan's most significant Rinzai Zen temples.

The temple is notable for its sanmon gate, an exquisite European-style canal, and multiple sub-temples, each offering unique experiences. Despite suffering numerous destructions by fire during the Muromachi period, Nanzen-ji's current architecture mainly dates from the 17th century onwards, continuing to stand as a vital center for Rinzai Zen Buddhism​.

Eikando Temple

Eikando Temple , also known as Zenrin-ji, is a prominent temple in Kyoto belonging to the Jodo-shu Seizan-Zenrinji school of Buddhism. Initially established as a training center for Esoteric Buddhism of the Shingon sect in 853, it was later converted to the Jodo sect by Eikan, its seventh abbot.

Eikando is particularly famous for its autumn colors and the unique Mikaeri Amida Nyorai statue, which depicts the Amida Buddha looking back over his shoulder. The temple is also known for its seasonal illumination event, enhancing its allure during fall.

Sanjusangen-do Temple

Sanjusangen-do , officially known as Rengeo-in, is a notable Buddhist temple in Kyoto, renowned for housing 1,001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. This temple, established in 1164 and later rebuilt after a fire in the 13th century, boasts Japan's most extended wooden structure, which measures 120 meters.

The name Sanjusangen-do, meaning "33 intervals", comes from the number of spaces between the building's columns. Inside, the main hall features a giant central statue of a thousand-armed Kannon, surrounded by rows of 1,000 life-size deity statues, all intricately made from Japanese cypress and adorned in gold leaf.

Visit Sanjusangen-do Temple through a hop-on hop-off bus.

Yasaka Shrine

Gion Shrine, commonly known as Yasaka Shrine , is a significant Shinto shrine in Kyoto's Gion District. The shrine's history possibly dates back to 656, during the Asuka Era, when the spirit of the deity Susanoo-no-mikoto was believed to have been brought to the site.

Yasaka Shrine is renowned for its role in the Gion Matsuri, one of Japan's most famous festivals celebrated annually in July. The festival, dating back a thousand years, features a procession with giant floats and hundreds of participants, highlighting the shrine's cultural and historical importance in Kyoto​.

Explore Yasaka Shrine with a rickshaw ride.

Shoren-in Temple

Shoren-in Temple , located in Kyoto's Higashiyama district, is a significant site of the Tendai sect of Japanese Buddhism. Traditionally, its head priests have been members of the imperial family, reflecting its close ties to Japan's imperial history.

The temple offers a serene experience, winding through various temple buildings and gardens. Visitors can appreciate the temple's architectural and artistic features, including the Kachoden drawing room with its fusuma paintings, and stroll through beautifully maintained gardens with features like a moss garden and a bamboo grove.

Chion-in Temple

Chion-in Temple , located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto, is the head temple of the Jōdo Shū (Pure Land Sect) of Buddhism, founded by Hōnen. It's known for its vast grounds and large structures, including the massive Sanmon Gate, Japan's giant wooden temple gate.

The temple's Miedo Hall houses a statue of Hōnen, and the Amidado Hall contains a statue of Amida Buddha, the central deity of the Jōdo sect. Chion-in is significant not only for its religious importance but also for its historical and cultural value, having received donations from the Tokugawa shogunate during the early Edo period and being constructed by master artisans of that era.

Learn more about Chion-in Temple with a private guide.

Enryaku-ji Temple

Enryaku-ji Temple on Mount Hiei is a significant spiritual center of Japanese culture and a vital part of its religious history. Founded in 788 by the priest Saicho, upon request by Emperor Kammu , it originally served as a protective station against evil spirits for the then newly-founded capital, Heian-kyo (now Kyoto).

This temple, which became the headquarters of the Tendai School of Buddhism, was once a sprawling complex with over 3000 buildings and a large population of monks. However, in 1571, it faced destruction at the hands of warlord Oda Nobunaga, resulting in a loss of much of its structure and reducing it to a fraction of its former glory; despite this, Enryaku-ji continues to exude an aura of power and mystery, holding a significant place in Japan's intellectual and religious history.

Daigo-ji Temple

Daigo-ji is a significant Shingon Buddhist temple in Kyoto, designated as a World Heritage Site. It encompasses an extensive complex in the southeastern part of the city, including lower (Shimo-Daigo) and upper (Kami-Daigo) sections on a mountainside.

With over 1,100 years of history, this temple houses multiple buildings and treasures designated as National Treasures and Cultural Assets, including a wooden statue of Yakushi Nyorai (the Medicine Buddha). The area is particularly famous for its scenic beauty during cherry blossoms and autumn. It features the oldest wooden structure in Kyoto with documented proof of age, a five-storied pagoda completed in 951.

Best Time To Visit

Kyoto's temples and shrines can be enjoyed year-round, but each season offers a unique experience. Spring brings the famous cherry blossoms , painting the temple grounds in soft pink hues.

Autumn is equally spectacular, with the leaves turning fiery red and orange. Avoid the most crowded times by visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Tips on Visiting Temples and Shrines

Respect the customs: Remember to wear your shoes when entering certain temple buildings and behave respectfully.

Entrance fees: Many temples in Kyoto have a small entrance fee. It's worth purchasing a combination ticket where available.

Dress appropriately: Conservative attire is recommended, especially when visiting important Zen temples or Shinto shrines.

How to Get in Kyoto

1. Shinkansen (Bullet Train) : The fastest and most popular way to travel from Tokyo to Kyoto station is via the Shinkansen, which takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. The Nozomi Shinkansen is the quickest, followed by the Hikari and Kodama trains. Fares vary, but a one-way ticket typically costs around 14,000 yen for a reserved seat.

2. Highway Bus : You can take a highway bus for a more economical option. This journey takes approximately 7-8 hours and offers a range of comfort levels, from discount to premium buses. Fares for discount buses start at around 3,500 yen, while premium buses can charge up to 10,000 yen.

3. Air Travel : Another option is to fly, especially if you are coming from further away. The closest airport to Kyoto is Osaka's Itami Airport, which is about one hour by bus from central Kyoto. Flights from Tokyo to Osaka take about one hour, typically 9,000 to 14,000 yen, depending on discounts and booking time.

4. By Car : Driving between Tokyo and Kyoto is also an option, taking about 5-6 hours. However, this can be costly due to expressway tolls, which are around 10,000 yen one way.

5. Local Trains : For the adventurous, there's the option of local trains, which involves multiple transfers and takes about 9 hours.

Once in Kyoto, the city has an excellent public transportation system that includes trains, subways, buses, and taxis, making it easy to explore the various attractions.

Kyoto's Temples and Shrines: A Cultural Journey

Visiting the temples and shrines in Kyoto is not just a journey through Japan's religious sites ; it's a deep dive into the country's history, culture, and architectural grandeur. Whether it's a day trip or a more extended stay, these sacred sites offer a peaceful escape and a chance to witness the enduring traditions of Japan.

Remember, each temple and shrine in Kyoto has its unique charm, making them an essential part of any Kyoto itinerary.

How many temples and shrines are there in Kyoto?

With over 1,600 temples and 400 shrines in Kyoto, picking which ones to visit can be daunting, as preferences vary. It's worth noting that most Kyoto temples are Buddhist temples, often belonging to different Zen sects.

What is the iconic shrine in Japan?

Fushimi Inari-Taisha, a shrine in Kyoto, Japan, and the striking torii gates, painted in vibrant orange, create an iconic scene. These gates, stretching up the slopes of Inari Mountain, are a defining feature and a major attraction, drawing visitors from various backgrounds to this historical spot overlooking Kyoto.

What is the dress code for the shrines in Kyoto?

While Japanese temples and shrines don't enforce a strict dress code, it's advisable to opt for both comfortable and modest clothing. Bearing in mind that these are places of worship frequently visited by people for prayer, dressing respectfully is critical.

What is the purpose of shrines in Japan?

Shinto shrines, known as jinja in Japanese, serve as both places of worship and abode for the kami, the deities of the Shinto religion. Within the most sacred area of these Kyoto shrines, objects symbolizing the kami are kept, typically hidden from public view.

Can you take pictures of shrines in Japan?

Photography is generally allowed on temple grounds but not inside the buildings. Look for signs indicating photography rules or inquire with temple staff for clarification.

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Tirupati Balaji Temple: A Complete Travel Guide

India is a land of culture, where an amalgam of various traditions from different religions can be seen. The country houses various temples, mosques, churches, and gurudwaras, where people pay their respects and pray to the Almighty, irrespective of caste or creed. The unity in people, the fervour with which all the festivals are celebrated – that’s the beauty that India reflects on other countries.

People in the country undertake a lot of pilgrim yatras, which has made some of the religious places well-known amongst tourists. One such famous religious sites in India is the Tirupati Balaji Temple.

Also known as the Lord Venkateshwara Temple, it is one of the richest temples in the country, located in Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh. Perched in the Tirumala Hills, it is said that the temple is constructed where Lord Venkateshwara (a form of Lord Vishnu) took the form of an idol. Tirupati is one of the oldest cities in the country, having various mentions in Vedas and Puranas; Tirupati Balaji’s darshan will bring you closer to such ancient scripts. The Tirumala Hills is a Saptagiri (one of the seven hills), surrounded by the Eastern Ghats. It is believed that the seven peaks are the seven hoods of the Adishesha or the Sheshnag (Serpent God) that cushions Lord Vishnu.

Going Down the Historic Lanes of Tirupati Balaji Temple

Every ancient religious site or forts in India has a history associated with it. Legends that can intrigue you, interest you into visiting the place. And rightfully so, even the Tirupati Balaji Temple has a history that you should know of.

Tirupati’s history has always been associated with the Venkateshwara Temple and its origin predates to the ancient times of kings and rajas. The rulers of various dynasties of the South, over different decades, and their devotion towards Lord Vishnu has helped in preserving the authenticity and beauty of the temple, which visitors can see today by booking their  Tirupati package  for a devotional time.

The Pandayas, Pallavas, Cholas, and Kings of the Vijaynagar Empire were the main contributors who enhanced the wealth and value of the temple. Krishnadevaraya is said to have contributed to the most. What’s more interesting is that he got gold statues of himself and his wives installed in the temple premises. Apart from the main contributors, other Hindu rulers like Ragoji Bhosle also contributed to the wealth of the temple. The treasure of the temple keeps growing every single year as pilgrims and devotees donate part of their earnings and riches to the temple, in the devotion of Lord Venkateshwara.

Deities Residing in the Temple

Along with the 8-feet tall idol of Lord Venkateshwara, other deities that reside in the temple are Dhruva Beram, Sanapana Beram, Kautuka Beram, Utsava Beram, and Bali Beram. Each of the deity is worshipped according to the majestic rituals that were laid down centuries ago. When the rituals are performed, the vibe in the temple becomes so divine that you are bound to slip into a different world. So, if you are booking Tirupati Balaji darshan, you can also pay your respect to the other deities residing there.

The temple is echoed by the non-stop chanting of ‘Om Namo Venkatesaya’, which lifts the spirituality in the aura, making pilgrims submerge themselves in the lap of Lord Vishnu’s devoutness. This is something that attracts tourists and pilgrims from all over the world, making it India’s most-visited temple.

Attractions that Will Make Your Divine Spirit Even More Content

There are a lot of  places to visit near Tirupati ; listed below are some of the temples that you must make a stop at: –

The Tirumala Venkateshwara Temple

This temple has a magnificent architecture that leaves you completely awestruck with its beauty. It has a gold plated Vimanam – the tower that houses the main idol of Lord Vishnu, Bangaru Vakili, Padi Kavali, Vendi Vakili, and Garbh Gruha. The presiding deity, Lord Venkateshwara, is believed to be based here till the Kaliyuga ends. The temple celebrates festivities with grandeur and several Vaishnava festivals are celebrated, making the temple an even more famous attraction for pilgrims and tourists all around the world, let alone India. You can opt for online booking of Tirupati Balaji through their Devasthanam site, in case you don’t opt for a package.

Silathoranam

The Silathoranam is a natural rock formation that resembles a conch, discus, and serpent hood, which is similar to the one of Adishesha. Adishesha is known to be the supporting nether of Lord Vishnu, making the Silathoranam an attraction of utmost importance in Tirumala.

Kapilateertham

Tirupati is known to house mostly Vaishnavites temples; however, Kapilateertham is one of the Shaivites temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and also happens to be one of the  famous South Indian temples  in the country. It is located in the foothills of the Tirumala Hills and houses a water tank, where all the pilgrims take a dip before moving ahead to the Lord Venkateshwara temple.

Govindaraja Swamy Temple

Located near the railway station in Tirupati, the Govindaraja Swamy Temple has a beautiful and prominent Gaali Gopuram that is visible quite from a distance. Along with the idol of Swamy Govindaraja, the temple complex has idols of other deities, who are worshipped by the devotees. During May-June, the temple celebrates Brahmotsavam and devotees and pilgrims from all over India visit the Govindaraja Swamy temple to participate in the celebrations.

Sri Kodandarama Swamy Temple

Sri Kodandarama Swamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and his wife, Sita Maata. Lord Rama is highly revered as the incarnation of Lord Vishnu and Sri Kodandarama Swamy Temple was built in honour of the divine couple’s return from Sri Lanka. It is believed that Lord Rama and Sita Maata stayed inside the temple premises for a few days, making the place even more sacred for their devotees.

Sri Kalyana Venkateshwaraswami Temple

Believed to be the place where the mythological wedding of Lord Venkateshwara and Devi Padamavathi took place, this temple is of high significance to the pilgrims. The temple is located in Narayanavanam and every pilgrim visiting Tirupati Balaji makes a stop here.

It is reported that the temple welcomes around 50,000 pilgrims every day, which is the highest number of devotees visiting a temple in India. The entry for Balaji darshan at Tirupati is through the Vaikuntam Queue Complex. This complex is a series of interconnected halls that lead the pathway to the main temple. The halls of the complex are extremely clean and hygienic, with various facilities that make the pilgrims feel comfortable during their Tirupati Balaji darshan.

City Shopping in Tirupati

It may not be the ideal shopping destination but Tirupati does have places where you can shop for some unique, one-of-its-kind beautiful things. Starting with something that devotees will like – you can find various shops and stalls right outside the Tirupati Balaji temple where you can find beautifully crafted figurines of the deity, CDs filled with religious shlokas and songs, holy prasadams and laddoos that you can relish on.

Apart from this, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (the temple trust that enables online booking for Tirupati Balaji darshan) also publishes various religious books and periodicals that pilgrims can get their hands on. Audio and video cassettes/CDs of Vedas, Sankirtans, and Pravachanams are also released by the Devasthanam. If you plan on taking some souvenir back to your hometown, photo frames, jewellery, and idols made of brass and copper are also available with them.

Coming to the city shopping, Tirupati is famous for housing some of the most skilled craftsmen, who create marvellous paintings and handicrafts for your purchase. You can find various wood-carved toys, pottery items, Kalamkari fabric, and other such artworks that allures you to buy them for yourself and your loved ones.

The Tanjore Style Painting

One of the most famous and proud assets of Tirupati are the traditional Tanjore style gold leaf painting. Also known as the Thanjavur style of painting, it is practised at Mandanapalli, a town near Tirupati and is an authentic form of South Indian art that traces back to 1600 AD. The Tanjore style paintings are vibrant in colour with glittering gold foil, glass beads, and precious gems carved on them. The paintings are done on wooden planks, which are known as Palagai Padam and art-lovers, non-art-lovers, and everyone who sees the gorgeousness of the paintings fall in love with them.

If at all you feel like doing some luxury shopping during your Tirupati Balaji tour– Chandan Ramesh and TMC shopping malls are your places to go. For city shopping, you can visit places like Bazaar Street, Lepakshi Emporium, APCO Handloom House, Beri Street, A.K. Palli Road, and Prakasham Road.

Reaching Tirupati Balaji Temple

The location of Tirupati Balaji temple is accessible by local taxi, autorickshaw, and buses. However, to reach Tirupati, you can opt for travel by air, train, or by road. If you travelling from states like Delhi, Assam, and so on by air – the nearest domestic airport to Tirupati is Reniguta and the nearest international airport is Chennai. From the airport, you can hire a local taxi or cab to reach the actual location of Tirupati Balaji Temple.

The Tirupati Balaji or Lord Venkateshwara Temple is one of the holiest and wealthiest temples in India, where the divine aura will let you forget all your worries and take you to the mystical world of spirituality.

We are an Indian travel company founded in 2013 and excel at domestic and international tour packages including guided group tours, specialty tours, customized holidays, corporate MICE travel, inbound travel and destination weddings.

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Nanzoin Temple: Travel Guide to Fukuoka Reclining Buddha

Last updated on April 27th, 2024

Make a half-day trip with our Nazoin Temple itinerary, showing you the highlights of the historical temple in Sasaguri, Fukuoka.

Nanzoin Temple (南蔵院) is a Shingon Buddhist temple located in Sasaguri, Fukuoka. There’s no shining gold temple waiting for you here. Instead, it’s just an old historical temple calm and serene, surrounded by lush green. It is said to have the world’s biggest bronze statue, a gorgeous 41-meter, 11-meter high reclining Buddha tucked away in the mountaintop. This is what makes the temple so special and why we recommend you to visit it.

We made a trip to Nanzoin temple to see the famously large bronze. The visit to Nanzoin Temple is one of the highlights of our trip to Fukuoka. If you want to see this Fukuoka hidden’s gem, please read this Nazoin Temple Travel Guide Blog.

Table of Contents

From Fukuoka to Nanzoin Temple

A short local train ride on the JR Sasaguri Line from bustling Hakata station to Kidonanzoin-mae station will get you to a different world.

The boarding platform at Hakata Station on the platform#8.

The train journey takes about 25 minutes and costs ¥380. Trains are frequent and cheap. If you have a Japan Rail Pass or JR Kyushu Pass , you can take these trains for free.

Driving to the Nanzoin Temple is also simple. Parking can be found right beside the JR station or at the base of the entrance stairs. If you are planning to self-driving, we recommended check your rental car price from RentalCars.com for various companies for best price.

Nanzoin Travel Guide : Note that the Nanzoin Temple is a place of worship. So please be mindful of the temple etiquette which is to keep quiet, dress modestly, cover tattoos, and be respectful.

Visit Nanzoin Temple

Nanzoin Temple is located in a relatively small-sized town and you can easily explore the area on foot.

Once we left the station, we started walking in the direction of the temple. We were here in the early afternoon and can say that it’s a pretty good time to visit Nanzoin Temple.

Walk across a quirky Melody Bridge where you can borrow a little mallet from the little shelf to play the music. A fun play!

Continue walking across the main road and then walk for a few minutes to the entrance.

 Nanzoin Temple is pretty huge and many areas to explore.

There are several options on how to explore the Nanzoin. We decided to visit the Buddha first and then devote our time to the temple grounds.

To get to the Reclining Buddha at Nanzoin Temple, you can follow the clear sights to guide you along the walking journey to the Recling Buddla.

Firstly, walk and climb up a ramp to the hillside. There’s a lush view of the mountainside all around.

Following the sign, we walked through a tunnel decorated with temple offerings, plenty of little shrines, ponds, walking paths, and lastly to the statue’s platform.

The journey is a bit high hill not particularly easily accessible for wheelchairs or those with walking disabilities.

Fukuoka Reclining Buddha

The Reclining Buddha in Nanzoin Temple is truly impressive. Beautifully smooth and with its color contrasted against a backdrop of the forest and skies!

It’s amazingly huge! The actual dimensions of the Statue are 41 meters long by 11 meters in height and it weighs 300 tons. It’s definitely worth making the trip to see!

In Japan, the most common pose for Buddha statues is sitting, which represents Buddha meditating. The reclining pose, however, represents Buddha about to enter Nirvana.

Don’t miss appreciating Buddha’s intricately designed feet.

The site is very relaxing and serene.

Take a moment to sit down and enjoy the views. We also bought a matcha ice cream (around ¥250) from the small kiosk.

Temple Ground

Next, we then made our way to explore a few other temple grounds that we’d seen along the way. The whole site is free to explore. Entrance is free to see the Buddha as well as to the temple.

The grounds are absolutely packed with sub-temples, little shrines, monuments, and a couple of souvenir shops. So there’s plenty of other things to see and do.

Expect to spend 1 to 2 hours to stroll around this area.

Note that even though you’re able to take photos of the reclining Buddha, there are quite a few things in the surrounding areas where photos are not permitted.

Overall: A Trip to Nanzoin Temple

All in all, Nanzoin Temple is a lovely place to visit and highly recommended. This lesser-known attraction is easily do a half-day trip from Fukuoka. We enjoyed exploring this sacred and spiritual place.

Overall, we spent around 2 hours in Nanzoin Temple before we hopped on the train back to Fukuoka and continued our trip to Lalaport Fukuoka. This makes for an awesome day trip.

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Top 35 famous temples in india.

India being part of the world’s oldest civilizations is a land of rich history, countless beliefs, traditions and legends surrounding the religions. India takes pride in the country’s rich cultural and religious history as it is the birth land of the traditions of Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism and Sikhism. India is a land where people of different religious beliefs live in harmony and brotherhood. Hinduism is believed to be the world’s oldest religion. Unlike other religions, Hinduism does not have a founder but is instead a fusion of religions. Various ancient manuscripts and scholars describe the religion as a traditional way of living, a religion whose beginning and ending cannot be traced.

Also Check out: Popular Religious Tour Packages

The heavenly abode of the Almighty on Earth is referred to as ‘Mandir’ by the Hindus. You will find majestic temples at mostly every corner of the country. Every temple has a unique history and legend attached to it. During the ancient times, the Indian rulers would patronize artists and sculptures for creating exceptional masterpieces in the form of temples under their reign. Tour My India introduces you to some of the most popular and magnificent temples of the country.

List of Most Popular Temples in India

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Badrinath Temple, Uttarakhand

Situated close to the Alaknanda River , the abode of Lord Badrinath is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. This holy shrine of Lord Vishnu is one of the Char Dhams of Hindu religion.

It is also one of the four Chota Char Dham pilgrimage sites (comparatively minor pilgrimage sites). The temple is one of the 108 temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Divya Desams), which finds its mention in the works of Tamil saints who existed in the 6th to 9th century.

The ancient abode of Lord Vishnu can be visited only between the months of April and November because the temple remains closed during the other months due to harsh weather conditions. Two of the most famous festivals related to the temple are –

• Mata Murti-Ka-Mela – A celebration where Lord Badrinath’s mother is worshipped in the month of September.
• Badri-Kedar Festival – A celebration in the month of June for 8 days in the temples of Badrinath and Kedarnath. It seeks to educate people on the local traditions of Uttarakhand.

Also Check out: Shri Badrinath Yatra Tour Packages

Sun Temple, Odisha

The Sun temple is situated in the small town of Konark situated in the Puri district of Odisha. This marvel of architecture is dedicated to Indian God of Sun, Surya. The temple has been built in the shape of his chariot which is drawn by seven horses.

The temple was built in the 13th century by a king called Narasimhadeva. There is an ancient legend attached to this temple, once Lord Krishna cursed one of his own sons with leprosy. To seek penance, his son, Samba worshiped Surya for twelve years.

Pleased with his devotion, Surya healed him. Samba made the Sun temple in return to express his gratitude. The mesmerizing beauty of the place was best summed up by Rabindranath Tagore: ‘Here the language of stone surpasses the language of man.’

Also Read:  Other Popular Pilgrimage Places in Odisha

Brihadeeswara Temple, Tamil Nadu

Brihadeeswara Temple is one of the largest South-Indian temples situated in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. Also known as Peruvudaiyar Kovil and RajaRajeswaram, this 11th century temple was built by the Chola emperor Raja Raja Chola I. Cholas are known for their admiration for art.

The opulence and artistic proficiency of Cholas is well reflected in the grand and magnificent architecture of the temple. Made entirely of granite stone, it was built as per the principles of Vaastu Shastra.

The most remarkable thing about this UNESCO World Heritage Site is that it doesn’t leave any shadow on the ground at noon. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple speaks of the importance of religious beliefs in Hinduism.

Also Read: Popular Tourist Places in Tamil Nadu

Somnath Temple Gujarat

Somnath Temple is one of the oldest pilgrimage centres in India and finds mention in the ancient books of Shiv Puran, Skanda Purana and Shreemad Bhagvat Gita. Soma refers to ‘Moon God’, thus Somnath means ‘Protector of the Moon God’.

According to a legend, the Indian God of Moon, Soma was cursed by his father-in-law to lose his lustre. It was Lord Shiva who cured his illness and later Soma built this temple in his honour. It is one of the most revered ‘jyotirlinga’ among the 12 jyotirlingas of India .

The temple is located in Prabhas Kshetra in Saurashtra (Gujarat). Prabhas Kshetra is where Lord Krishna is believed to have left his mortal body. The place also has a Somnath museum, Junagadh gate, beach and a sound and light show to amuse the pilgrims.

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Kedarnath Temple, Uttarakhand

Situated in the Himalayan range of Garhwal (Uttarakhand), Kedarnath temple is one of the most sacred shrines in the world. The holy abode of Shiva is believed to have been built by the Pandavas to atone for their sins during Mahabharata.

The temple was restored by Adi Sankaracharya in the 8th century. It is one of the Chota Char Dhams of Uttarakhand and requires the pilgrims to trek a distance of 14 kms on the hilly terrain.

Standing at a height of 3,583 metres, surrounded by the glaciers and snow-clad peaks, the temple is closed during winters due to severe weather conditions. Even the idol of Lord Shiva is shifted to Ukhimath during the months the temple remains closed.

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Sanchi Stupa, Madhya Pradesh

Surrounded by the ruins of smaller stupas and monasteries, Sanchi Stupa is an architectural marvel in Sanchi , believed to house the relics of Lord Buddha. Also known as the Great Stupa, this famous pilgrimage site in India was built by the Indian Emperor Ashoka, the Great in the 3rd century BC.

As the oldest stone sculpture of the country, this UNESCO World Heritage Site takes you back in the days of the prosperous Mauryan Era. There are four intricately designed gateways surrounding the Stupa known as toranas, each individually symbolizing the four emotions of love, peace, courage and trust.

• Must See Temples in Madhya Pradesh

Ramanathaswamy Temple, Tamil Nadu

Rameswaram is a small island town in Tamil Nadu known for being one of the pious Char Dhams of the Hindus. As per the legend, Lord Rama with his wife Sita landed on the shore of this island after defeating the demon king, Ravana who was a brahmin.

To seek atonement for killing a brahmin, Lord Rama wanted to pray to Lord Shiva. He asked Hanuman to fly to Kailash and bring a Shivalinga. In the meantime, Goddess Sita made a small lingam. The one made by Goddess Sita is called Ramalingam and one brought by Lord Hanuman is called Vishwalingam.

As per the instructions of Lord Rama, Vishwalingam has to be worshipped before the Ramalingam which is followed even today.

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Vaishno Devi Temple, Jammu and Kahsmir

One of the most holy sites for Hindu pilgrims, Vaishno Devi Temple is nestled on the Trikuta mountain in Jammu & Kashmir . As per the legend, Vaishno Devi under the disguise of a young girl, Vaishnavi was being chased by a black magician, Bhairo Nath.

He was pestering her to marry him. In order to escape him, she fled to the mountains but he followed her there too. After stopping at present day Banganga, Charan Paduka and Adkwari, the Goddess finally reached the holy shrine. When Bhairo Nath showed no sign of backing down, Vaishnavi was compelled to kill him.

She beheaded him at the mouth of the cave and his head fell at a distant hill top. After realizing his mistake, Bhairo Nath begged for her forgiveness. Taking pity on him, the Goddess blessed him with a boon that anyone who takes up the pilgrimage to the shrine will also have to visit Bhairo Nath Temple, only then will the journey be completed.

Thousands of devotees every year visit the shrine in order to seek blessings from the Great Goddess of power, humility and grace.

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Siddhivinayak Temple, Maharashtra

Located in Prabhadevi, Mumbai, Siddhivinayak Temple is one of the eight Ganesha Temples in Maharashtra. It is also one of the richest temples in India. Lord Ganesha is the supreme deity of the temple who is always the first one to be worshipped before commencing something new in life.

This is the reason why he is also known as Vighnaharta (the terminator of impediments). On the wooden doors of the shrine, eight impressions of Lord Ganapati (Ashtavinayak) are carved. Siddhivinayak temple consists of one of the eight images of Lord Ganesha.

Other distinct images are spread over seven temples situated in Maharashtra. The temple is visited by the devotees all days of the year but Tuesday is the day when maximum numbers of people come to pray to the Lord for good luck.

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Gangotri Temple, Uttarakhand

Nestled amidst the Himalayan range of Uttarkashi district in Uttarakhand, Gangotri Temple is part of the Chota Char Dham Yatra. This temple holds great importance due to its glorifying history.

As per the legends, King Bhagirath performed a rigorous penance for thousand long years in order to please Mother Ganga to come down to Earth from heaven to release his ancestors from a curse. Pleased with his sincere devotion, Mother Ganga agreed to come down to Earth.

But she asked him to persuade Lord Shiva to help her descend to the earth as otherwise the entire planet wouldn’t be able to sustain her. After being pleased with Bhagirath’s prayers, Lord Shiva granted his wish and sustained Mother Ganga in the locks of his hair.

This temple marks the origin of the holy river Ganges from the locks of Lord Shiva.

The holy temple of Gangotri opens up on Akshaya Tritiya (usually falling in the months of April or May). On this occasion, an idol of Ganga Maa is brought back from the Mukhyamath temple (her winter abode), which is at a distance of 20 km. On Diwali, every year, Maa Ganga again travels back to the Mukhyamath temple.

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Golden Temple, Punjab

Sri Harmandir Sahib, also known as Darbar Sahib or Golden temple is the most pious site of pilgrimage in Amritsar, Punjab for people who follow Sikhism. The temple is built on the values of universal brotherhood and equality.

The four doors, opening in the four prominent directions, welcome people from any faith or race to seek religious and spiritual contentment. The structure, revered for its majestic architecture, is built on a lower level than that of the immediate surroundings, symbolizing the value of humility.

The holy book of the Sikhs, Guru Granth Sahib, was first placed in Sri Harmandir Sahib after its completion.

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Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Uttar Pradesh

Located in the oldest surviving city of the world- Varanasi , Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most visited temples in India. It is the most revered of the twelve jyotirlingas located in India.

The temple stands in all-might at the western bank of River Ganges and teaches mankind the true meaning of life and death. A one-time visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is equivalent to the visit to other eleven jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.

This heavenly abode is visited by many distinguished personalities such as Adi Shankaracharya, Swami Vivekananda , Goswami Tulsidas, Gurunanak among others.

A visit to this sacred temple is believed to be one of the ways to attain ‘moksha’ (ultimate liberation of the soul).

Also Read: Pilgrimage Tourism in Uttar Pradesh

Shri Jagannath Temple, Odisha

Built in the 12th century, Jagannath temple is situated in Puri, Orissa and is popularly called Jagannath Puri. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, the temple is one of the Char Dhams of India.

Inside the main temple, with the idol of Lord Krishna (Jagannath) in between, the idols of Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra are placed. Non-Hindus cannot enter the premises of the temple.

They can get a good view of this magnificent temple from the roof-top of the Raghunandan Library located just opposite to the temple. The annual and world famous Rath Yatra conducted at Puri gives a chance to get a good glimpse of the Lord Jagannath along with Balabhadra and Subhadra riding on the chariots.

Thousands of people pulling the sacred chariot makes the yatra a worthy spectacle.

• Major Religious Sites in Odisha

Yamunotri Temple, Uttarakhand

Yamunotri temple was built in the 19th century in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand and was damaged and rebuilt twice due to the damages inflicted by natural disasters.

Dedicated to River Yamuna, the second holiest river of India, the temple also forms part of the four Chota Char Dham Yatra. Located at a height of 3291 meters, the shrine of Mother Yamuna houses the idol of the Goddess in black marble.

The temple opens up on the day of Akshaya Tritiya and closes the day after Diwali. The idol of Mother Yamuna is shifted to a nearby village of Kharsali during winters. The area around the Yamunotri temple doesn’t have any motorable roads, so it has to be reached on foot.

Also Check out: Yamunotri Yatra Tour Packages

Meenakshi Temple, Tamil Nadu

This architectural wonder is situated in Madurai , Tamil Nadu and is dedicated to Goddess Parvati (also known as Meenakshi) and her husband Lord Shiva. Madurai is the second biggest city of India and is also one of the oldest cities of the world.

A dip in the Golden Lotus tank, situated in the temple, is considered auspicious and is usually taken before visiting the main shrine of the God and Goddess. As per a legend, the pond was created by Lord Shiva and is even older than the temple.

The temple has a hall, which consists of 985 pillars; each pillar is intricately carved with distinct figurines. The 12th century colorful temple was among the thirty nominees of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World’.

• Must Visit Famous Temples in Tamil Nadu

Amarnath Cave Temple, Jammu and Kashmir

The holy cave of Amarnath is located at an altitude of 3,888 meters in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Engulfed with snow-clad mountains, the cave mostly remains covered with snow during the year.

In the summer season, between the months of June and August, it becomes accessible and hence opens up for the pilgrims. The cave is believed to be 5000 years old. As per a popular legend, Buta Malik, a Muslim shepherd, met a holy man who handed him a bag of coal.

On reaching home, he found that the coal got converted into gold. Moved by the miracle the shepherd went in search of the saint and instead found the sacred abode of Lord Shiva.

The pilgrimage to Amarnath consists of a 5-day trek during which the devotees brave tough and uncertain climatic conditions and walk for forty miles.

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Lingaraja Temple, Odisha

Lingaraja temple is one of the oldest and largest temples of the ‘Temple City of India’ – Odisha. Built in the typical architectural style of Kalinga, the temple doesn’t only attract religious devotees but also history enthusiasts.

The idol of Lingaraj usually represents Lord Shiva, but in this temple, it symbolizes Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. The combined form of both the Gods is referred to as ‘Harihara’.

A lake called Bindu Sagar touches the temple on one side and is said to have healing powers. Non-Hindus are not allowed to enter the premises; thus, they can see the magnificent structure from a platform outside the temple.

Also Check out: Complete Odisha Tourism Guide

Tirupati Balaji Temple, Andhra Pradesh

Located in the hilly town of Tirumala in Andhra Pradesh, the temple is also known as Tirumala Venkateswara temple . The temple is devoted to Lord Venkateshwara, who is popularly called ‘Balaji’ and is the incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

Venkateshwara Tirupati Balaji is the second richest temple in India . The ancient temple was visited by many rulers of great South-Indian dynasties. The temple celebrates many festivals, most famous of them being Brahmotsavam (also known as ‘Salakatla brahmotsavam’), which goes on for 9 days and witnesses thousands of devotees.

The prasadam offered in the shrine is famous all around the world for its unique delectable taste. As a religious ritual, people get their heads tonsured in large numbers here, so much so that every year about 6 million US dollars are earned through the auction of hairs.

• Interesting Facts About Tirupati Balaji

Kanchipuram Temples, Tamil Nadu

The City of Thousand Temples – Kanchipuram , Tamil Nadu is one of the seven sacred places in India wherein the people can attain moksha, as per the Hindu religion. Every temple in Kanchipuram is a fascinating element of architecture. Among the most revered temples of Kanchi three major ones are mentioned below:

• <>Kamaksstronghi Amman Temple: Goddess Kamakshi is one of the manifestations of Goddess Parvati. Unlike her other idols which are in standing position, the enchanting idol at Kamakshi temple is sitting in Padmasana- a yogic sitting posture.
• Ekambareswarar Temple: This shrine of Lord Shiva is also the largest among all the temples in Kanchipuram. The main lingam of the Ekambareswarar temple is made of sand and is believed to be built by the Goddess Parvati herself.
• Varadaraja Perumal Temple: It is one of the 108 temples of Vishnu (Divya Desams). This temple along with the temples of Kamakshi and Ekambareswarar are collectively called Mumurtivasam meaning home of the trio.
• Best Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu

Khajuraho Temple, Madhya Pradesh

Khajuraho is a town in the state of Madhya Pradesh, which houses several temples built between 10th to 12th centuries. Spread across an area of 20 sq km, the monuments of the town are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The temples are built of sandstone and dedicated to the deities of Hinduism and Jainism. The temples are popular worldwide for the erotic cravings, which can be seen along with other cravings depicting the daily chores of life.

It is believed that there were over 75 temples in the area but only 20 exist today. The temples have been divided into three zones – eastern, western and southern. The Western zone consists of the most famous temples; the largest temple of Khajuraho , Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, falls under this zone.

An annual Khajuraho Dance Festival , celebrating classical dance forms of India, is held against the background of Chitragupta or Vishwanath temple in the first week of February every year.

• Best Places to Visit & Top Things to Do in Khajuraho

Virupaksha Temple, Karnataka

Built in the 7th century, the temple is famous for being a functioning temple ever since it came into existence. Located in the village of Hampi, it is one of the most famous temples among the various other temples of Hampi. All heritage sites of Hampi have been recognized and are a part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

A shrine of Shiva, Virupaksha temple is a very important religious centre as well as a popular tourist destination. The pilgrimage centre has expanded in scale over period of time. Shiva in the form of Virupaksha is the consort of local Goddess Pampa and that is why the temple is also called Pampapathi Temple. Many festivals take place in the temple celebrating the engagement and wedding of the couple.

Also Read: Heritage Tourism in Karnataka

Akshardham Temple, Delhi

Constructed on the principles of Vastu Shastra and Pancharatra Shastra, this temple is situated near the banks of River Yamuna in Delhi. The authenticity of the temple is reflected in its resemblance with ancient Indian architecture and the spirituality the place exudes.

The principal deity of the temple is Lord Swaminarayan, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The 11-feet idol lies below the central dome of the temple. The structure has been built of Rajasthani pink stone and Italian Carrara marble.

The magnificent temple of Akshardham looks more stunning during the night with the beautifully installed lighting arrangements. There are many activities and events like exhibitions, movies, statues and boat rides through which information about the history and philosophy of the Swaminarayan sect and its founder is given to the visitors.

Light and music show, which takes place in the evening, is the most fascinating element of the temple.

Also Read: Popular Hindu Pilgrimage Sites in Delhi

Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir, Delhi

Built during the reign of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in 1656, Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir is the oldest Jain temple in Delhi. Made in the honor of the 23rd Tirthankara, Parashvanath, the temple is made of red sandstone.

Standing right across the Red Fort, the temple consists of a charitable bird hospital, which have different wards for different species, a research laboratory and an intensive care unit.

The hospital came in to being in 1956 and exemplifies one of the basic principles of Jainism, which states that all living beings, no matter how small or insignificant have a right to freedom.

Also Read: Jain Pilgrimage Sites in Delhi

Gomateshwara Temple, Karnataka

Situated in the Shravanabelagola town of Karnataka, Gomateshwara temple is dedicated to Lord Bahubali also known as Gomateshwara. Built in the 10th century, it is one of the most important pilgrimage places for the Jain community.

The statue leaves people around the world in awe because of its unique structure. Standing at an enormous height of 58.8 ft the idol is carved out of a single granite rock. This monolithic structure stands at such a great height without any external support.

The base of the Bahubali idol is decorated with inscriptions written in three different languages – Marathi, Kannada and Tamil. The most important event that is celebrated in the temple once every 12 years is called Mahamastakabhisheka.

It is a very important festival for the Jain community during which Lord Bahubali is bathed and smeared with various ceremonial things like saffron paste, sugarcane, turmeric, milk and vermillion and offered various precious stones and coins of gold and silver.

• Temple Sightseeing Tour in Karnataka

Ranakpur Temple, Rajasthan

Ranakpur is a village in the Pali district of Rajasthan situated between Udaipur and Jodhpur. One of the very famous pilgrimage sites in India, the majestic 15th century Jain temple is dedicated to Lord Adinatha.

It is counted among the five major sacred sites of Jainism. The marvelous architecture of the temple structure listed it among the 77 nominees for determining the new Seven Wonders of the World.

Completely built from light colored marble, the great structure is well supported with the help of about 1400 intricately carved pillars. The temple uses the natural light of sun as the only means of lighting.

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Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, Maharashtra

The holy temple of Sai baba was built in 1922 in Shirdi, Maharashtra. Located about 296 kms from Mumbai, the small town of Shirdi has attained fame due to its association with Shri Sai Baba.

Spread over an area of 200 sq. Km, the shrine was made over the Samadhi of Sai Baba. Each day around 25,000 devotees come to offer prayers to Sai Baba.

Ramnavmi, Guru Purnima and Vijayadashami are the major festivals that are celebrated with great enthusiasm and passion.

Also Read: Popular Religious Tourism Sites in Maharashtra

Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala literally means the ‘City of Lord Anantha’. Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams (sacred dwellings of Lord Vishnu).

The temple can be visited only by the Hindus. There is a strict dress code while entering the temple for men (dhoti without any kind of shirt) and women (sari or skirt and blouse). The elegant and splendid idol of Lord Vishnu is reclining over the five hooded serpents called Anantha in a deep yogic sleep.

The idol is very fascinating as it displays the supreme trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh (or Shiva). Lord Brahma is shown sitting on a lotus coming out of the navel of the Lord’s statue. That is why Lord Vishnu is also called Padmanabha, i.e. lotus-navel.

Under the right palm of his stretched hand is a Shiva lingam, completing all three powers into one. The temple is also popular as the richest Indian temple in the world.

Also Read: About Pilgrimage Tourism in Kerala

Dwarkadhish Temple, Gujarat

The holy abode of Lord Krishna, Dwarkadhish temple is situated in the Dwarka city of Gujarat. Also known as Jagat Mandir, the temple has two doors for entry and exit of the pilgrims. The entry door is called the Swarg Dwar (doorway to heaven) and the exit door is called Moksha Dwar (the doorway to liberation).

A part of the pious Char Dham Yatra, the 5-storied temple is supported by 72 pillars. Situated on the banks of River Gomti the temple reaches the height of 51.8 meters and a flight of 56 steps need to be taken to reach the Swarg Dwar. Inside the shrine, Lord Krishna dazzles his devotees through his idol built in black stone.

• Popular Lord Krishna Temples in Gujarat

Laxminarayan Temple, Delhi

Inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1939, the temple was built by the industrialist Baldeo Das Birla in Delhi and can be visited by people of all caste and creed. Laxminarayan is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu when he is with his consort, Goddess Lakshmi.

The primary shrine is devoted to Laxminarayan and the other smaller shrines are dedicated to other Indian Gods like Lord Shiva, Lord Hanuman, Lord Krishna, Lord Ganesh and Lord Buddha.

Spread over an area of 7.5 acres the temple is one of the top tourist attractions in Delhi and has a huge garden, fountains and a large hall called Geeta Bhawan.

• Popular Religious Tourism Places in India

Iskcon Temple, Uttar Pradesh

Also known as the Krishna Balaram Mandir, ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) was built in 1975. Located on the holy land of Vrindavan in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, the temple is believed to be the abode of Lord Krishna in his younger days.

The ISKCON Temple is well known for their utmost standard of cleanliness they maintain. The chants of ‘Hare Krishna’ reverberate in the temple all hours of the day.

The temple belongs to the Gaudiya Vaishnava sect of Hinduism, which was founded by Chaitanya Mahaprabhu in the 16th century. Inside the temple there are idols of Krishna, Radha, Balarama, along with the idols of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and Swami Prabhupada (founder of ISKCON).

Also Read: Mathura Tourism Guide

Mahabodhi Temple, Bihar

Located in the ancient city of Bodh Gaya in Bihar, Mahabodhi Temple literally means the ‘Great Awakening Temple’. It is the sole-surviving shrine out of the 84,000 shrines erected by King Ashoka The Great.

This auspicious abode of peace is where Prince Siddhartha attained nirvana and became Lord Buddha at the age of 35 years. The Great Stupa finds its reference in the travelogue of the well-known Chinese explorer, Huen Tseng.

The temple’s unique and authentic architectural style has earned a place in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Mahabodhi Mahavira as it is popularly called is one of the greatest pilgrimage sites for people who follow Buddhism.

• Best Places to Visit & Top Things to Do in Bihar

Kamakhya Temple, Assam

Nestled in the Nilachal Hill in the western part of Guwahati, Assam, is the Kamakhya Temple. According to Kalika Purana, Kamakhya Temple is one of the four primary shakti-peethas of Goddess Sati. It is also a centre for Tantra worship.

It is believed that the ‘garbhagriha’ of the temple houses the mythical womb of the Goddess. Known across the nation as the unique temple that celebrates womanhood, the Brahmaputra river near the temple turns red every year during the month of June. It is believed that the Goddess menstruates during this period which is celebrated as the power of woman to give birth.

Also Read: Complete Assam Tourism Guide

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Uttarakhand

Built in the valleys of the hill town of Rishikesh, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is one of the most prominent Hindu pilgrimage sites dedicated to Nilkanth, an incarnation of Lord Shiva.

According to the legend, the Devas (Gods) and Asuras (Demons) fought over the potion of immortality during Samundra Manthan. Lord Shiva drank the poison that came with it to save the world from apocalypse, thus marking the place which led to the construction of the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple.

Also Check out: Rishikesh Tourism Information

Mukteswara Temple, Odisha

Constructed in the 10th century, Mukteswara Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva who is the ‘Lord of Spiritual Freedom’ which means freedom from the cycle of life and death.

The temple has earned the title of the ‘Gem of Odisha Architecture’ because of the experimental style of temple architecture. Intricately carved figurines adorn the walls of the temple. The most talked about feature of the temple is its magnificent arched gateway that depicts Buddhist scriptures.

The Odisha Tourism Department organizes the Mukteswar Dance Festival which attracts a huge crowd and is held every year from 14th January to 16th January.

• Popular Pilgrimage Destinations in North East India

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Karnataka

Located in the city of Srirangam in Karnataka, Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is the world’s largest functioning temple. It was consecrated in 984 A.D. by a local chief.

The sanctum houses a reclining form of Lord Vishnu known as Raganatha. Lord Vishnu is seen reclining on his snake, Adisesha under a canopy formed by its seven hoods with Goddess Lakshmi at his feet.

The temple is one of the five most sacred sites of worship called Pancharanga Kshetram.

• Famous Pilgrimage Destinations in North East India
• 15 Famous Pilgrimages in India Which are Hard to Access
• Top Buddhist Pilgrimage Sites in India

To understand India and its various aspects of spirituality and religion, one should start his journey with the temples. Thousands of legends that simplify the complexity of life and death can be heard and seen on the walls of Indian temples.

Imagine getting lost in a land of great knowledge, secret path of nirvana and vibrant cultural beliefs, that is what it feels like to be in a country like India. Spiritual Tourism is not only a trend in the modern world but has been in existence in India since ancient times.

Tour My India brings to you different chapters of this long journey of spirituality, beliefs and reality!

Other Important Pilgrimage Tourism Links

• Hindu Pilgrimage in India
• Muslim Pilgrimage in India
• Buddhist Pilgrimage in India
• Christian Pilgrimage in India
• Jain Pilgrimage in India
• Shikh Pilgrimage in India

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Disclaimer: We do not take credit for some of the licenced paid images used in our blogs, whether from Google Images, Fotolia & Shutterstock. All such images are the copyrights of their respective owners and we try to provide credit for them wherever we can. If, however, any copyright image has been used on our blog, the concerned person can either mail us directly to remove the image or provide credit to whomsoever the image may belong to.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. what are the famous temples in north india, himalayas.

Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri & Yamunotri are the most famous temples in North Himalaya region.

Q. What are the popular temples in South India

Some of the popular temples in South India are:

• Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple
• Tirupati Balaji Temple
• Brihadeeswara Temple
• Ramanathaswamy Temple
• Meenakshi Temple
• Virupaksha Temple
• Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple

Q. Which is the largest temple in India?

The largest temple is believed to be Srirangam Temple in Tamil Nadu.

Q. Do I need to follow any dress code while visiting Hindu temples?

There is no particular dress code for visiting Hindu temples in India. However, women are advised not to wear revealing clothes. They should wear traditional sarees or salwar kameez whereas men prefer wearing dhoti & kurta.

Q. What is Char Dham Yatra?

Char Dham Yatra is a pilgrimage of Hindu devotees where they visit four destinations namely- Badrinath, Dwaraka, Puri and Rameshwaram.

Published: 17 Mar, 2021 | Last Updated:  23 Mar, 2021

About the author

Sheetal Vaid

Sheetal is a passionate traveler of paths less travelled. If curiosity to see places was a person, it would have been her for sure. Impromptu plans run her life. She only has one motive in life, i.e., happily roaming the world. Get on board with her journey to a life filled with places, people and magic!

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Discover Temple Texas

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Guruvayur Temple, Thrissur: What you need to know

As we all know, temples in South India are some of the loveliest in the nation. In addition to their assets, these temples are also famous for their beautiful style and fascinating past. Many temples in Kerala are noteworthy to Hindu pilgrims. In this respect, the Guruvayur temple , for example, is a temple of this type. One of Kerala’s most famous temples is the Guruvayur temple, found in the city of Thrissur. In this blog, let’s see more about Guruvayur Temple, Guruvayur – Kerala Travel Guide.

Table of Contents

A travel guide about the famous Guruvayur Temple:

History of guruvayur temple.

Guruvayur temple of Kerala is an old temple rousing locals for many centuries. It is a temple dedicated to Lord Guruvayurapan, the child form of Lord Sri Krishna and it is the most important and best temple in Kerala. The Bust installed in this temple is a great example of the statue. Likewise, everyone thinks that the idol was given to Brahmaji by Lord Vishnu.

In the Guruvayurappan temple, there is an idol of Lord Shri Krishna. This idol has too many fortes, making this temple unique. This idol of Lord Shri Krishna has four hands; in the first hand, he holds a conch shell. In the second hand, he holds a Sudarshan chakra; in the third hand, he holds a lotus flower; in the fourth hand, he has a mace. Lord Krishna is revered in the form of a child in that idol. Beautiful paintings depict Lord Sri Krishna’s childhood in the Guruvayurappan temple. Vaikuntha Lok is another name for Guruvayur Temple.

Visiting Time of Guruvayur Temple

Throughout the year, the Guruvayur Temple remains open.

In Guruvayur temple, the doors open at 3:00 in the morning and close at 9:15 in the evening. This temple is very famous in southern India due to its various rituals performed during this time. These rituals, including the morning, afternoon, and evening poojas, can be attended by devotees.

From 12:30 PM to 4:30 PM, the Guruvayur Temple remains closed.

• At 7:00 in the morning, the Palabhishekam (Abhishekam with milk), Navabhishekam (Abhishekam with nine silver pots filled with water), and Pantiradinaivedyam are performed.
• Between 7:30 PM and 8:15 PM, Athazha Pooja and Athazha Naivedyam are performed.
• Between 9 PM and 9:15 PM, the Tripuka (worshipping the shrine with nine sacred gums) and Olavayana (reading out the day’s income and expenditure) take place.
• There is only access to the temple complex for Hindu believers.
• Newly married couples are not permitted to enter the Temple Complex immediately following their wedding.
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The Architecture of Guruvayur Temple

A typical example of Kerala’s temple style is the Guruvayoor temple, depicted in an old treatise on architecture (the Vastuvidya). This temple faces towards the East and has 2 Gopurams, one at the West (Padinjarendra) and the other at the East (Kizhakkenada). Anapanthal is the entire area between these Gopurams and is roofed with tiles. There is a square-shaped pillar hall called Nalambalam at the center of the temple, and its outer wall is fixed with a corridor of oil lamps. There is a sub-shrine of Lord Ayyappan or Sastaon on the south side of the Nalambalam.

In the olden times, dance concerts were held in the Koothambalam on the northeast side of this shrine. Bellikkal and Deepastambas – Pillar of Lights are located on the front and east sides of Nalambalam. In the temple, there are numerous such light pillars. There is great interest in the Deepastambas, which are found at the base of each gopuram.

In the Deepastambam on the eastern side, thirteen circular tins hold the wicks, 24 feet in height. At West Gopuram, one of the other two structures is in the shape of a tree. A flagstaff of around 70 feet in height, fully decorated with gold, is known as Dwijasthamba.

Two stairs lead up to the Sreekovil, which is square and has three rooms. Garbhagriha is the innermost room (where the idol of Lord Krishna is found). The two doors and the top of the edifice are covered with gold. In the Garbhagriha, all of the articles are made of gold.

Mukhamandapam is the name of the outer room. There are ancient murals on Sree Kovil dating back to the 17th century. A pyramid-shaped building is situated in front of the Sree Kovil. It is known as the Namaskara Mandapam. An adjacent pillared square hall, called Nalambalam or Chuttambalam, surrounds the temple. There is a gallery of oil lamps mounted on the wall of Nalambalam. Sree Kovil is home to the temple well called Manikinar, located on its north-eastern side. There’s a little shrine to Devi called Edathirithi Kavu on the temple’s north side.

Located on the temple’s north side is Oottupura, the site of Prasadauttu, where fans receive their daily lunch. Near the north side of the temple can be found the temple tank Rudratheertha.

Dress Code for Guruvayur Temple

There are different types of rules for visiting Guruvayur Temple.

• Inside the Temple, Hindus are let in, and no other religion is allowed to take entry.
• Before entering this temple, remove your shoes outside and cover your head completely.
• Entry is allowed to those people who wear only classic dresses. It Is advised that men should not wear shirts inside the temple. Men should wear dhotis and towels and women wear sarees or salwar kameez.
• Visiting the temple’s inner part may take 5-6 hours, depending on the season.
• Electronic devices such as mobile phones, cameras, and other electronic devices are not permitted inside the temple.
• You will find a facility outside the temple for safely storing your footwear. Lockers are also provided for the safe storage of electronic gear.
• There is no entry for leather products.
• In order to maintain the virtue of the temple, outside food and drinks are not permitted.
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The Best Places to Visit near Guruvayur Temple:

1. vadakkunnathan temple.

The Vadakkunnathan temple is one of the biggest and oldest Lord Shiva Temples in Kerala. This temple is about 1 km from Thrissur Railway Station, where the world-famous Thrissur Pooram festival is marked every year from April to May.

Among all the temples in South India , this temple is believed to be the oldest. A temple dedicated to Parashurama was established here. The Vadakkunnathan temple is a great example of Kerala’s unique style of architecture.

2. Athirapally Waterfalls

Located about 59 kilometers from Thrissur in Kerala , Athirapalli Waterfall is one of the country’s best waterfalls and a popular tourist lure.

The place is popular with weekenders from Coimbatore, Munnar , and Kochi . There’s a beautiful waterfall near the Chalakudy river in the Thrissur district at the gate of Sholayar hill Shrunkhaja. Read More: Athirappilly Falls Thrissur: Things To Do, Nearby Attractions, Guide & Tips .

3. Thiruvambadi Krishna Temple

There’s also a temple called Thiruvambadi Krishna Temple located about 2 km from Thrissur Railway Station. There’s a lot to like about Tiruvambadi Krishna Temple.

A group of worshipers from Thiruvambadi Krishna Temple participates in Thrissur Pooram. Vishnumaya Devi and Lord Sri Krishna are worshipped here. The temple was built after the original was established in the 16th century.

Best Ways to Reach Guruvayur Temple:

This temple is close to Thrissur railway station. You can use local services to get to this temple.

This temple is about 51km from Cochin airport, the closest airport. You can use local services or a taxi to get to this temple.

The Thumpuran bus stop is the closest bus stop to this temple. It’s only 1km away. Thrissur is connected to Bangalore, Kochi, Coimbatore , Trivandrum , Kozhikode , Mysore , and Palani by bus. It’s easy to get here by car from anywhere in the country.

This blog mentions the Guruvayur Temple travel guide. This temple is so amazing and every year, lakhs of devotees visit this temple. Therefore, it is a perfect idea to visit Guruvayur Temple to mark the beginning of your great future.

Find out more about Kerala:

• Top 10 Destinations to See in Thrissur That You Must Visit
• 10 Most Famous Places to See in Guruvayur
• Top 8 Popular Places to Visit in Kozhikode
• 8 Famous Luxury Resorts Near Periyar National Park
• Family Holidays in Kerala: How to Plan?
• Top 10 Destinations to See in Kannur
• 8 Famous Bird Sanctuaries In Kerala

About The Author

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• A Detailed Guide to Vaishno Devi Trip with Family

30 Nov 2021

Vaishno Devi is regarded as one of the holiest pilgrimages and the famous cave abodes the Mata Vaishno Devi temple at the Trikuta Mountains. It is one of the oldest holy shrines in India, and devotees from all across the world come here to seek blessings. Here the goddess is manifested in three forms namely Maha Kali, Maha Saraswati, and Maha Lakshmi. Known by various names such as Mata Rani, Trikuta, or Vaishnavi. The trek to the temple is a 13 km path with mesmerizing views throughout. If you are planning a Vaishno Devi trip with family , then here is a guide that details all the things you need to know before planning an escape to this holy destination.

Ways to do Vaishno Devi Yatra

Vaishno Devi is indeed visited by more than 1 crore worshippers of Mata Vaishno Devi every year who plan to climb for 12 km to seek the blessings of Mata Rani. Let’s give you a sneak peek at different choices that you can pick to reach from Katra to Ardhkuwari and then from Ardhkuwari to Bhawan on your Vaishno Devi trip with family.

1. Trekking

Image Credit: Vinayaraj for Wikimedia Commons

Vaishno Devi’s trip with family must be well planned while choosing trekking as your mode to reach from Katra to Bhawan which is nearly 13 km. There are two routes from Katra to Ardhkuwari, each differing in distance and the same is with Ardhkuwari to Bhawan having two routes. Bhairavnath shrine is a few more kilometers up the Vaishno Devi temple, you can either indulge in a Vaishno Devi hike to the temple, or there are many ponies and palkies available on the route.

Must Read: Trekking Routes in Jammu and Kashmir Updates

2. Helicopter Ride

Image Credit: Varunkau for Wikimedia Commons

All the kids, adults and the elderly, a helicopter ride would add the spark of fun and excitement to the overall experience. The tourists must book the helicopter ride at least 2 months in advance. The helicopter ride takes approximately 8 minutes and can accommodate 5 to 6 passengers at a time. The helipad of Katra located on Udhampur road, is at a distance of 2 km from Katra bus station.

After reaching Sanjhichhat point, it takes almost half an hour to reach Vaishno Devi Bhawan. You can choose ponies, porter, palkis services according to your convenience or prefer to walk to the temple. For a helicopter ride, a one-way fare from Katra to Sanjhichhat will cost around Rs. 1800 for a single person, and for both sides, it will cost Rs. 3600 per person.

3. Ponies and Palanquins

Image Credit: Nckumbhkar for Wikimedia Commons

For some devotees, it might be an arduous task to walk for 12 to 13 km at a stretch to reach Vaishno Devi Bhawan so, many of the pilgrims prefer to avail themselves of different services including ponies and palanquins. The municipal committee manages all the ponies, porters, and palanquins services for the convenience of the travellers. Also make sure you are checking all the options before planning your Vaishno devi trip from Delhi.

Suggested Read:  Places Near Jammu

Temples to Visit on a Vaishno Devi Yatra

The following are the prominent temples that you will be visiting on your Vaishno Devi trip with family:

1. Mata Vaishno Devi Temple

Regarded as one of the most important temples and religious sites amongst Hindus, Mata Vaishno Devi Temple is dedicated to Vaishno Devi. The temple is considered to be one of the 108 Shakti Peethas that is dedicated to Durga who is being worshipped as Vaishno Devi. It is the must visit place on your Vaishno Devi family trip.

2. Adh Kumari Temple

Adh Kuwari is considered as a halfway mark to the main Bhawan of Vaishno Devi situated at a distance of 6 km. The term Adh Kuwari means the eternal virgin and is regarded as one of the most essential temples on the way to the holy cave.

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3. Bhairon Nath Temple

Situated just 2 km away from Mata Vaishno Devi Temple, Bhairon Nath Temple is dedicated to Baba Bhairavnath. It is believed that Bhairav was killed by the Vaishno Devi goddess as he was about to attack her and then she acquired the form of Kali and beheaded him. However, he repented for his sins and the goddess forgave him and specified that pilgrimage to Vaishno Devi would be incomplete without seeking the blessings of Bhairon Nath.

4. Charan Paduka

Charan Paduka is situated at an altitude of 3380 feet and is about 1.5 km from Banganga. Imprinted on a rock slab, Charan Paduka is a religious site where the imprints of Goddess pious feet are believed to be. The visitors pay their obeisance to the footprints of the Mata which is engraved on a rock slab and then proceed further for the yatra.

Suggested Read:  Things To Do In Kashmir In June

3 Best Places to Stay in Katra

The tourists will only discover a property that is available in Katra when they are planning for a visit to Vaishno Devi. However, you can plan your stay at Katra. The below-mentioned hotels are located in Katra which are famous for their best-in-class amenities offering comfortable stay for their guests. Let’s have a glimpse at our curated list of hotels in Katra for those on a Vaishno Devi trip with family.

1. Hotel Rama Trident

Image Credit: davidlee770924 for Pixabay

The property comprises modern architecture and the rejuvenating hotel is just 14 minutes walking distance from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra train station. You can choose to indulge in nearby things to do such as visiting Baba Dhansar Temple which is just 24 minutes away. You can go for a leisure walk in the Shalimar Garden, located 8 minutes away from the hotel. Cooperative staff, spacious rooms, delicious food, and a good location are some of the amenities preferred by the guests.

Star Category: 4-star Starting Price: INR 6,500 per night Location: Railway Rd, near Ambika Chowk, Katra, Jammu and Kashmir 182301

2. AMR Hotel

Image Credit: Peterweideman for Pixabay

The hotel is located close to a shopping mall and is situated nearby Shri Mata Vaishno Devi train station, which is around a 4 minutes walking distance from the property. The AMR hotel offers a safe and hygienic environment for its guests. The rooms are available in different categories such as Superior room, deluxe room and deluxe family room.

Star Category: 3-star Starting Price (For Night): INR 3,ooo Location: Ground Floor, Jammu Road, near main bazaar Vaishno Devi Katra Jammu and Kashmir, 182301

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3. Hotel Hari Resort

Image Credit: ManuelaJaeger for Pixabay

Hotel Hari Resort offers various amenities such as free Wifi, full-service laundry and rooms with air conditioning. The hotel is popular for organising special occasion arrangements. There are different categories of rooms available at the resort including double deluxe AC, double deluxe non AC, and super deluxe room. With its close proximity to major points, a stay in this property in your Katra tour plan with the family trip to Vaishno Devi will be a wonderful idea.

Star Category: 3-star Starting Price (For Night): INR 2,500 Location: Dak Bungalow Road, opp. Shalimar Park, Katra, Jammu and Kashmir 182301

How to Reach Vaishno Devi

Vaishnodevi trip with the family can be done by road, train, or flight. The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway station is the nearest terminal located at a distance of 20 km from the holy shrine of Vaishno Devi temple. There are frequent buses to Katra from Jammu Tawi, Amritsar, New Delhi, and other major cities of India. One can also reach Katra, which is about 50 km from Jammu, it serves as the base camp for the yatra. Jammu is well connected by flight from all the major cities, another way is to take a train to Jammu. There are many daily and weekly trains that operate from major cities to Jammu and there are few trains that have been extended till Katra. Given the connectivity and options you can easily plan a Vaishno devi trip from Mumbai.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Srinagar 

Best Time to go on Vaishno Devi Yatra

Vaishno Devi remains crowded throughout the year, but it is mostly visited by tourists during the months of March to July as the weather is pleasant and comforting for the devotees. The maximum temperature is 31 degrees Celsius, and the minimum temperature is 17 degrees Celsius making it appropriate for darshan and because of this many travellers prefer scheduling their Vaishno Devi trip plan with family during these months.

It usually rains between August and September, the weather conditions can get a little extreme this time, but despite that many devotees prefer travelling around this time. November to February are the winter months and many travellers do not prefer travelling during these months because weather conditions are harsh and Vaishno Devi trekking distance becomes difficult to cover around this time.

Further Read: Valleys In Kashmir

Now that you know all about Vaishno Devi and everything you need to keep in your mind before planning your trip. Your Vaishno Devi trip with family will be made convenient with our ultimate guide described above. Do plan a trip to Vaishno Devi  as it is considered a home to spiritual culture and a sacred site for Hindus. Schedule your vacation in the season of summer when there is a nice ambience amidst the hills.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Vaishno Devi Trip with Family

How can I plan a Vaishno Devi trip with my family?

You can plan your Vaishno Devi family trip with 3 to 4 days in hand. 3 to 4 days will be enough for a relaxing vacation, you can easily spend 1 night in Katra, 1 night at the Bhawan and return back to Katra.

How much does a Vaishno Devi trip cost?

The cost will largely vary on the basis of the number of days you decide to be on the trip, choice of accommodation, and other facilities such as breakfast, transfers. Having said that, the trip will cost you around Rs.10,950 for single occupancy and Rs. 7,850 for double occupancy, this will include your 1 night stay in Katra and transfers from and to Jammu. The darshan cost is not included in this.

How difficult is the Vaishno Devi trek?

The mother Goddess shrine is located in the Trikuta mountains which are at a height of 5200 feet and 61 km from the city of Jammu. The devotees have to plan a journey of 13 km on foot starting from Katra. The trekk is not that difficult, it is a bit tiring due to the steep slopes at a few patches. However, there are helicopters, ponies, and palanquins available that would help the devotees to reach the shrine.

Which month is good for travel is Vaishno Devi?

The months of April to October are considered ideal for traveling to Vaishno Devi due to the pleasant weather and accessibility of the pilgrimage site during these months.

How much time is sufficient for Vaishno Devi?

Typically, 2 to 3 days are sufficient for a visit to Vaishno Devi, allowing you to complete the pilgrimage, have darshan, and return. However, the duration can vary based on your pace and desire to explore the surroundings.

How far is Patnitop from Katra?

The distance between Patnitop and Katra is approx. 85 km by road, 38 km by flight. The travelling time by road is approx. 1 to 2 hours.

Which month is crowded in Vaishno Devi?

October and November remain the most crowded in Vaishno Devi, where the pilgrims can be seen chanting “Jai Mata Di.”

Is Vaishno Devi hot or cold?

The temperature of Vaishno Devi varies from season to season. It is bearable during summers, gets low in monsoon season, and gets down below zero degrees during the winter months of December and January.

What is the Vaishno Devi walking distance from Katra?

Vaishno Devi is 15 km away from Katra. It can take 4.5-5 hrs to reach if you prefer to walk.

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2 Days Amritsar Itinerary: A Perfect Plan for Sightseeing

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Destinations > Amritsar > 2 Days Amritsar Itinerary: A Perfect Plan for Sightseeing

Closely associated with the history of Sikhism, Amritsar is a vibrant city famous for its cultural heritage, religion, and cuisine. But more than anything else, it is known for being home to two iconic attractions in the country – the magnificent Golden Temple and the historical site of Jallianwala Bagh. An Amritsar itinerary will offer you ample opportunities to explore the historical and religious attractions dotting the city. You can also get a taste of the Punjabi way of life by gorging on lip-smacking delicacies, dancing to the beats of bhangra , indulging in street shopping, and more.

Looking to experience the best of its attractions, culture, and food? Here’s a comprehensive itinerary outlining places to visit in Amritsar in 2 days.

7.30 am – 9.30 am: Visit the glorious Golden Temple and have a holy meal in breakfast

Visit the glorious Golden Temple | 2 Days Itinerary Amritsar

We suggest you start your first day in Amritsar by visiting the most iconic attraction in the city – the Golden Temple also known as Harmandir Sahib. One of the most celebrated gurudwaras in the world and the holiest shrine for the Sikhs, the temple stands amidst a tranquil water body, offering a spellbinding sight to visitors. While the sanctum exterior is adorned with gold foil, the inner walls feature exquisite meenakari work, glasswork, and semi-precious stones.

• Timings:  4.00 am to 11.00 pm; every day
• Soak in the serenity of the temple
• Listen to soulful melodies and bhajans
• Relish the kada prasad
• Sit near the sacred pond for sometime

After spending some time enjoying the beauty and tranquility of the temple, you can head straight to the langar or the community kitchen where thousands are fed every day. Have a delicious meal here – this is something you can experience only in Amritsar.

9.30 am – 1.00 pm: Explore other attractions around Golden Temple

Other attractions around Golden Temple | 2 Days Itinerary Amritsar

The area in and around the Golden Temple complex is dotted with many other attractions including historical sites and religious spots. Take a leisurely walk around the temple to explore some of these attractions before you head off to Jallianwala Bagh, another must-visit historical place in Amritsar . An everlasting reminder of one of the most poignant chapters in India’s freedom struggle, Jallianwala Bagh can be easily reached on foot from Harmandir Sahib.

What to see

• Dukh Bhanjani Beri
• Beri Baba Budha Ji
• Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai
• Har ki Pauri
• Jallianwala Bagh

When in Amritsar, you must act like a local and tuck in a filling lunch comprising of Punjabi delicacies like freshly prepared kulchas and a large glass of lassi . You will find many restaurants and eateries near the Golden Temple complex where you can suffice your taste buds with an authentic Punjabi fare.

Where to eat

• Kulche Wala
• Kulwant Singh Kulche Wala – Old
• Bhai Kulwant Singh Kulchian Wale
• Kesar Da Dhaba

Got a taste of Punjab’s unique flavor? Now, proceed to the Durgiana Temple, located a short distance away.

• By road: 15 minutes’ drive

1.15 pm – 2.15 pm: Pay your respect at the Durgiana Temple

Durgiana Temple | 2 Days Itinerary Amritsar

Durgiana Temple is one of the top Hindu shrines in Amritsar that offer a glimpse into the city’s religious heritage. Located in the middle of a lake, the temple’s stunning architecture bears a striking resemblance to the Golden Temple. Also known as Lakshmi Narayan Temple, this 16 th -century shrine dedicated to Goddess Durga features a pair of intricately carved silver doors.

• Timings:  6.00 am to 10.00 pm

Once you have spent enough time at the temple, it’s time to take a long drive to Wagah Border that marks the boundary line crossing between India and Pakistan.  

• By road: 60 minutes’ drive

3.30 pm – 6.30 pm: Watch the Change of Guard ceremony at Wagah Border followed by a quick bite at the famous Sarhad Restaurant

Watch the Change of Guard ceremony at Wagah Border | 2 Days Itinerary Amritsar

Located at the Radcliffe Line, the Wagah Border or Attari-Wagah serves as a border crossing and a transit point between India and Pakistan. The Beating Retreat and Change of Guard ceremony held here every evening offers a visual treat and draws hundreds of visitors. Make sure to reach the border at least an hour before the ceremony to get a seat.  

• Ceremony Timings: 15 pm to 5.00 pm (winter); 5.15 pm to 6.00 pm (summer)
• Entry Fee : Free

Once the ceremony is over, drive away your hunger pangs by digging into some authentic dishes from Amritsari and Lahori cuisines at the Sarhad Restaurant, located about 2 km from the border. As we have nothing else planned for the day, you can head back to the city and retire to your hotel room.

7.30 pm onwards: Enjoy your dinner and relax

After the long day, you are longing to stretch your feet and relax in the comfort of your room, aren’t you? You can have your dinner at the hotel or a nearby restaurant. Catch a good night’s sleep to re-energize yourself for a fresh round of sightseeing on the following day. 

10.00 am – 11.30 am: Visit Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum

Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum | 2 Days Itinerary Amritsar

Begin your second day with a visit to Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum, a top tourist attraction in Amritsar . Housed in one of the summer palaces of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, this museum offers a glimpse into the life and times of the great ruler through a rich collection of artifacts and archival records from his court.

• Timings : 9.00 am to 7.00 pm (winter); 9.00 am to 6.00 pm (summer); closed on Mondays and Public Holidays
• Entry Fee: ₹ 10 per person

Your next stop is the Gobindgarh Fort, where you can experience a rich blend of history, heritage, and fun.

12.00 pm – 2.30 pm: Explore Gobindgarh Fort followed by lunch inside the fort premises

Explore Gobindgarh Fort | 2 Days Itinerary Amritsar

Gobindgarh Fort is not just a historical structure; it also serves as a live heritage museum. Spend some time inside this 18 th -century majestic fort to know more about its glorious history and enjoy its many attractions.

• Timings:  10.00 am to 10.00 pm; every day
• Entry Fee (valid up to 5.00 pm only):  ₹ 25 for Indians; ₹ 100 for foreigners
• Admire the architectural beauty of the fort
• Watch folk performances
• Enjoy fun activities like dancing to the beat of dhol, riding on camels and horses, trying your hands at pottery making, dart-aiming, etc.
• Visit Pagdi and Sikh Art Museum
• Learn more about the fort’s history at the War Museum
• Shop for handicrafts at Haat Bazaar

While you are busy enjoying the various attractions and activities inside the fort, take out some time to explore the flavors of Punjab in true dhaba style.    

• Ambarsari Zaika Dhaba

After exploring the fort and relishing your lunch, set out for Ram Tirath Ashram located on the city outskirts.

• By road: 30 minutes’ drive

3.00 pm – 4.30 pm: Visit Ram Tirath Ashram, the renowned shrine in Amritsar

Visit Ram Tirath Ashram | 2 Days Itinerary Amritsar

Sri Ram Tirath Ashram is believed to be the spot where sage Valmiki gave shelter to Sita after Lord Ram had abandoned her. Legend has it that she later gave birth to her twin sons, Luv and Kush, at this very place. Also known as Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal, the main attraction of the ashram is a stunning gold-plated statue of Valmiki weighing 800 kilograms.  

• Timings: 00 am to 9.00 pm; every day

Now, it’s time to explore another impressive religious structure of Amritsar, namely Jama Masjid Khairuddin

5.00 pm – 6.00 pm: Take a tour of the iconic Jama Masjid Khairuddin

Iconic Jama Masjid Khairuddin | 2 Days Itinerary Amritsar

Witness the architectural beauty of this grand mosque that has a deep connection to the country’s freedom struggle. Adorned with four minarets and three domes, it is a fine example of the Islamic style of architecture. 

• Timings: 00 am to 7.00 pm; every day

Once you are done with exploring the mosque, indulge in some shopping at the nearby Hall Bazaar. 

• By walk: 5 minutes

6.00 pm – 7.00 pm: Shop for some local items at Hall Bazar

One of the oldest and liveliest markets in Amritsar , Hall Bazaar is a shopper’s paradise. Among other things, it offers an amazing variety of dress materials and designer dresses with intricate Phulkari work.

Now that you have filled your shopping bags with souvenirs, how about ending your 2-day trip to Amritsar with a lavish dinner at Lawrence Road?

• By road: 10 – 15 minutes’ drive

7.15 pm onwards: Proceed to Lawrence Road for a lip-smacking dinner

Lawrence Road Dinner | 2 Days Itinerary Amritsar

Whether you want to dig into a rich platter of Amritsari tikkas and kulchas or try some desi desserts or just settle down for a cup of coffee and some snacks, you will find several options at Lawrence Road.  

• Timings: 00 am to 10.00 pm; every day
• Sanjha Chulha
• Surjit Food Plaza
• Chaupati Restaurant
• Taste of Amritsar – Hotel Punnu International
• Metro – Humble Hotels

By now, you must be pretty exhausted. Call it a day, head back to your hotel in Amritsar / airport, and bring down the curtain on your Amritsar trip.

[showhotelbycity hotelcity=’Amritsar’]

Nice and informative blog.

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President Droupadi Murmu to visit Ayodhya's Ram Temple tomorrow

President droupadi murmu will visit ayodhya and have the darshan of ram lalla on wednesday..

President Droupadi Murmu will visit Ayodhya and have the darshan of Ram Lalla on Wednesday. According to the Rashtrapati Bhavan press release, President Murmu will also perform the Saryu pujan and aarti.

"During her stay in Ayodhya, the President will make darshan and aarti at Shri Hanuman Garhi Temple, Prabhu Shri Ram Temple, and Kuber Teela. She will also do the Saryu pujan and aarti," the release stated. The 'Pran Pratishtha' of Shri Ram Lalla at Ayodhya's historic temple was held on January 22, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi performing the Vedic rituals, led by a group of priests.

The ceremony was attended by representatives of all major spiritual and religious sects in the country. People from all walks of life, including representatives of various tribal communities, will also attend the ceremony. The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir is constructed in traditional Nagara style. Its length (east-west) is 380 feet; width is 250 feet and height is 161 feet; and is supported by a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors.

The pillars and walls of the temple showcase intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, Gods, and Goddesses. In the main sanctum sanctorum on the ground floor, the childhood form of Bhagwan Shri Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed. Meanwhile, lakhs of devotees kept thronging Ayodhya after the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Lord Ram Lalla. Many are visiting the Hanumangarhi Ram Temple every day and their footfall has been increasing rapidly. (ANI)

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Dr. Joseph Lozovyy was born into a Christian family in Elektrostal, Moscow Region, and was raised in a pastor’s home. From the age of fifteen, he began actively participating in the music ministry of the Baptist Church in Mytishchi, where his father served as a pastor, and also played in the orchestra of the Central Moscow Baptist Church. From 1989, he participated in various evangelistic events in different cities of Moscow Region and beyond. From 1989 to 1992, as a member of the choir and orchestra “LOGOS,” he participated in evangelistic and charitable concerts, repeatedly performing on the stages of the Moscow State Conservatory, the Bolshoi Theatre, and other concert halls in Russia and abroad. In 1992, his family moved to the United States. In 2007, after completing a full course of spiritual and academic preparation, Joseph moved to Dallas, Texas, to engage in church ministry. In 2008, he founded the Russian Bible Church to preach to the Russian-speaking population living in Dallas, Texas.

– Bachelor of Arts in Music (viola) from the Third Moscow Music School named after Scriabin, Russia (1987-1991)

– Master of Theology (Th.M); Dallas Theological Seminary, Texas (1999-2003);

– Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) Hebrew Bible (Books of Samuel): University of Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (2007).

– Doctoral research (2004-2005) Tübingen, Germany.

– Author of a theological work published in English: Saul, Doeg, Nabal and the “Son of Jesse: Readings in 1 Samuel 16-25, LHBOTS 497 [T&T Clark/Continuum: Bloomsbury Publishing]).

https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/saul-doeg-nabal-and-the-son-of-jesse-9780567027535/

Joseph and his wife Violetta and their son Nathanael live in the northern part of Dallas.

Saul, Doeg, Nabal, and the “Son of Jesse”: Readings in 1 Samuel 16-25: The Library of Hebrew Bible/Old Testament Studies Joseph Lozovyy T&T Clark (bloomsbury.com)

Joseph, his wife Violetta and their son Nathaniel live in North Dallas, Texas where he continues ministering to Russian-speaking Christians and his independent accademic research.

Published Work

1. bloomsbury:, 2. buy at christian book distributors:, 3. buy on amazon:.

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Hot Oceans Worsened Dubai’s Dramatic Flooding, Scientists Say

An international team of researchers found that heavy rains had intensified in the region, though they couldn’t say for sure how much climate change was responsible.

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By Raymond Zhong

Scenes of flood-ravaged neighborhoods in one of the planet’s driest regions stunned the world this month. Heavy rains in the United Arab Emirates and Oman submerged cars, clogged highways and killed at least 21 people. Flights out of Dubai’s airport, a major global hub, were severely disrupted.

The downpours weren’t a total surprise — forecasters had anticipated the storms several days earlier and issued warnings. But they were certainly unusual.

Here’s what to know.

Heavy rain there is rare, but not unheard-of.

On average, the Arabian Peninsula receives a scant few inches of rain a year, although scientists have found that a sizable chunk of that precipitation falls in infrequent but severe bursts, not as periodic showers. These rains often come during El Niño conditions like the ones the world is experiencing now.

U.A.E. officials said the 24-hour rain total on April 16 was the country’s largest since records there began in 1949 . And parts of the nation had already experienced an earlier round of thunderstorms in March.

Oman, with its coastline on the Arabian Sea, is also vulnerable to tropical cyclones. Past storms there have brought torrential rain, powerful winds and mudslides, causing extensive damage.

Global warming is projected to intensify downpours.

Stronger storms are a key consequence of human-caused global warming. As the atmosphere gets hotter, it can hold more moisture, which can eventually make its way down to the earth as rain or snow.

But that doesn’t mean rainfall patterns are changing in precisely the same way across every part of the globe.

In their latest assessment of climate research , scientists convened by the United Nations found there wasn’t enough data to have firm conclusions about rainfall trends in the Arabian Peninsula and how climate change was affecting them. The researchers said, however, that if global warming were to be allowed to continue worsening in the coming decades, extreme downpours in the region would quite likely become more intense and more frequent.

Hot oceans are a big factor.

An international team of scientists has made a first attempt at estimating the extent to which climate change may have contributed to April’s storms. The researchers didn’t manage to pin down the connection precisely, though in their analysis, they did highlight one known driver of heavy rain in the region: above-normal ocean temperatures.

Large parts of the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans have been hotter than usual recently, in part because of El Niño and other natural weather cycles, and in part because of human-induced warming .

When looking only at El Niño years, the scientists estimated that storm events as infrequent as this month’s delivered 10 percent to 40 percent more rain to the region than they would in a world that hadn’t been warmed by human activities. They cautioned, however, that these estimates were highly uncertain.

“Rainfall, in general, is getting more extreme,” said Mansour Almazroui, a climate scientist at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and one of the researchers who contributed to the analysis.

The analysis was conducted by scientists affiliated with World Weather Attribution, a research collaboration that studies extreme weather events shortly after they occur. Their findings about this month’s rains haven’t yet been peer reviewed, but are based on standardized methods .

The role of cloud seeding isn’t clear.

The U.A.E. has for decades worked to increase rainfall and boost water supplies by seeding clouds. Essentially, this involves shooting particles into clouds to encourage the moisture to gather into larger, heavier droplets, ones that are more likely to fall as rain or snow.

Cloud seeding and other rain-enhancement methods have been tried around the world, including in Australia, China, India, Israel, South Africa and the United States. Studies have found that these operations can, at best, affect precipitation modestly — enough to turn a downpour into a bigger downpour, but probably not a drizzle into a deluge.

Still, experts said pinning down how much seeding might have contributed to this month’s storms would require detailed study.

“In general, it is quite a challenge to assess the impact of seeding,” said Luca Delle Monache, a climate scientist at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, Calif. Dr. Delle Monache has been leading efforts to use artificial intelligence to improve the U.A.E.’s rain-enhancement program.

An official with the U.A.E.’s National Center of Meteorology, Omar Al Yazeedi, told news outlets that the agency didn’t conduct any seeding during the latest storms. His statements didn’t make clear, however, whether that was also true in the hours or days before.

Mr. Al Yazeedi didn’t respond to emailed questions from The New York Times, and Adel Kamal, a spokesman for the center, didn’t have further comment.

Cities in dry places just aren’t designed for floods.

Wherever it happens, flooding isn’t just a matter of how much rain comes down. It’s also about what happens to all that water once it’s on the ground — most critically, in the places people live.

Cities in arid regions often aren’t designed to drain very effectively. In these areas, paved surfaces block rain from seeping into the earth below, forcing it into drainage systems that can easily become overwhelmed.

One recent study of Sharjah , the capital of the third-largest emirate in the U.A.E., found that the city’s rapid growth over the past half-century had made it vulnerable to flooding at far lower levels of rain than before.

Omnia Al Desoukie contributed reporting.

Raymond Zhong reports on climate and environmental issues for The Times. More about Raymond Zhong