Top 20 Best Religious Institutions In India 2023

The top 20 Best Religious Institutions Company In India 2023 are:

1. Akshardham Temple

Akshardham Temple is a Hindu temple complex located in Delhi, India. It was opened in 2005 and is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan. The temple complex is spread over 100 acres and includes a main temple, as well as several other structures such as exhibition halls, water shows, gardens, and a cultural center.

The temple’s architecture is inspired by ancient Hindu architecture, and it features intricate carvings, sculptures, and paintings. The main temple is made of pink sandstone and white marble, and it is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.

Visitors to the Akshardham Temple can take part in a variety of activities, including watching the water show, exploring the exhibition halls, and visiting the temple’s gardens. The temple is also home to a vegetarian restaurant that serves traditional Indian cuisine.

The Akshardham Temple is considered to be one of the most popular tourist attractions in Delhi, with millions of visitors coming from all over India and the world to see its beauty and experience its spiritual energy.

2. Golden Temple

Golden Temple, also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, is a Sikh temple located in the city of Amritsar in the state of Punjab, India. The temple was built in the 16th century by Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Sikh Guru, and it is considered to be the holiest shrine of Sikhism.

The temple’s architecture is a fusion of Hindu and Islamic styles, and it is surrounded by a large pool of water, which is considered sacred by Sikhs. The temple’s dome and walls are covered with gold leaf, which gives it its distinctive appearance and name.

The Golden Temple is a place of worship for Sikhs from all over the world, and it is open to people of all religions and backgrounds. Visitors are required to cover their heads and remove their shoes before entering the temple complex. The temple also serves free food, known as langar, to all visitors regardless of their religion or social status.

The Golden Temple is considered to be one of the most beautiful and spiritually significant places in India, and it attracts millions of visitors each year. It is also a symbol of the Sikh community’s devotion to God, equality, and service to humanity.

3. Tirumala Venkateswara Temple

Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, also known as the Tirupati Temple, is a Hindu temple located in the town of Tirupati in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and it is considered to be one of the most visited and richest temples in the world.

The temple’s architecture is a blend of Dravidian and Rajasthani styles, and it features a tall gopuram (tower) at its entrance. The temple is situated on the seventh peak of the Tirumala Hills, which is believed to be a sacred place in Hindu mythology.

The temple attracts millions of pilgrims from all over India and the world, who come to seek the blessings of Lord Venkateswara. The temple is known for its elaborate rituals and traditions, which are carried out daily by the temple priests.

One of the most popular rituals at the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple is the darshan, which involves seeing the idol of Lord Venkateswara in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. The temple also serves free food, known as prasadam, to all visitors.

The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple is considered to be a symbol of Hindu devotion and spirituality, and it is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus around the world.

4. Siddhivinayak Temple

Siddhivinayak Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, located in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. The temple was built in the 19th century and is one of the most popular and significant temples in Mumbai.

The temple’s architecture is simple yet elegant, with the main idol of Lord Ganesha made of black stone and adorned with gold and precious stones. The temple’s walls are adorned with intricate carvings and paintings, and it features a peaceful and serene atmosphere that attracts thousands of visitors every day.

The Siddhivinayak Temple is believed to be a place of great spiritual power, and it is said that praying to Lord Ganesha at this temple can bring good luck, prosperity, and success. The temple is especially popular among businessmen, who often come here to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha for their ventures.

The temple also hosts various festivals and celebrations throughout the year, including the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, which is celebrated with great pomp and splendor. During this festival, a large number of devotees come to the temple to offer their prayers and seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha.

Overall, the Siddhivinayak Temple is a significant symbol of Hindu culture and spirituality in Mumbai, and it is an important pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Ganesha.

5. Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the holy city of Varanasi in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. The temple is one of the most revered and ancient temples in India, and it is considered to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas (divine representations of Lord Shiva) in the country.

The temple’s architecture is a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles, and it features a towering spire that is covered in gold. The temple is situated on the banks of the sacred river Ganges, and it attracts millions of devotees from all over India and the world.

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is considered to be a place of great spiritual power, and it is believed that a visit to this temple can wash away one’s sins and grant liberation from the cycle of birth and death. The temple is especially popular among devotees of Lord Shiva, who come here to offer their prayers and seek his blessings.

The temple complex also includes several other smaller temples, including the Annapurna Temple, the Vishnu Temple, and the Kalabhairava Temple. The complex is also home to several sacred ponds, including the Manikarnika Ghat and the Harishchandra Ghat, which are considered to be important pilgrimage sites for Hindus.

Overall, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a significant symbol of Hindu spirituality and devotion, and it is an important pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Shiva.

6. Vaishno Devi Temple

Vaishno Devi Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Vaishno Devi, located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, India. The temple is situated in the Trikuta Mountains and is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in India.

The temple’s architecture is simple and traditional, and it features a small cave where the idol of the goddess Vaishno Devi is located. The cave is believed to be the abode of the goddess, and it is said that a visit to the temple can fulfill one’s wishes and bring good luck and prosperity.

The temple is located at an altitude of around 5,200 feet, and visitors must undertake a strenuous uphill trek of around 12 kilometers to reach the temple. Many pilgrims prefer to undertake the trek on foot, as it is considered to be a way of showing devotion and penance to the goddess.

The Vaishno Devi Temple is also surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including forests, hills, and waterfalls, which make the trek a memorable and rewarding experience.

The temple attracts millions of visitors every year, especially during the Navratri festival, when the temple is decorated with lights and flowers, and special prayers and rituals are performed. The temple is a significant symbol of Hindu spirituality and devotion, and it is an important pilgrimage site for devotees of the goddess Vaishno Devi.

7. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is a Sikh temple located in the heart of New Delhi, India. The temple was originally a bungalow owned by a wealthy Sikh merchant, Raja Jai Singh, and was later converted into a gurudwara (Sikh temple) in the 18th century.

The temple’s architecture is a blend of Mughal and Rajasthani styles, and it features a stunning golden dome that is visible from afar. The temple complex also includes a holy pond, where devotees come to take a dip and seek blessings.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is an important pilgrimage site for Sikhs, and it is known for its charitable work and community service. The temple’s langar (community kitchen) serves free meals to thousands of people every day, regardless of their religion or social status.

The temple also houses a museum that showcases the history and culture of the Sikh community, as well as a library that houses rare and valuable manuscripts and books.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is also known for its serene and peaceful atmosphere, which attracts visitors from all over India and the world. The temple is especially popular during the Guru Nanak Jayanti festival, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor.

Overall, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is a significant symbol of Sikh culture and spirituality, and it is an important pilgrimage site for Sikhs as well as a popular tourist attraction in New Delhi.

8. Haji Ali Dargah

Haji Ali Dargah is a mosque and dargah (tomb) located on an islet off the coast of Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. The Dargah is dedicated to the Muslim saint, Sayed Peer Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, and is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in India.

The dargah’s architecture is a blend of Indo-Islamic and Arabic styles, and it features a white marble courtyard and a beautiful dome that is covered in gold. The Dargah is situated on a rocky islet in the Arabian Sea, and visitors must walk across a narrow causeway to reach the dargah.

Haji Ali Dargah is known for its spiritual significance and is believed to grant the wishes of those who visit and offer their prayers. The Dargah is especially popular among Muslim devotees, who come here to seek blessings and pay their respects to the saint.

The Dargah is also a popular tourist attraction and is visited by people of all religions and backgrounds. The beautiful architecture, serene atmosphere, and stunning views of the sea make it a must-visit destination in Mumbai.

Overall, Haji Ali Dargah is a significant symbol of Muslim culture and spirituality, and it is an important pilgrimage site for Muslims as well as a popular tourist attraction in Mumbai.

9. Basilica of Bom Jesus

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a Catholic church located in the state of Goa, India. The church is dedicated to the infant Jesus and is one of the oldest and most revered churches in India.

The church’s architecture is a blend of Baroque, Doric, and Corinthian styles, and it features a stunning facade that is made of black granite and features intricate carvings and sculptures. The church also houses the tomb of Saint Francis Xavier, a revered Catholic saint who is believed to have performed miracles during his lifetime.

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is an important pilgrimage site for Catholics, who come here to pay their respects to Saint Francis Xavier and seek blessings. The church is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and is visited by thousands of tourists every year.

The church’s serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture make it a must-visit destination in Goa. The church also houses a museum that showcases the history and culture of the Catholic community in Goa, as well as rare artifacts and relics.

Overall, the Basilica of Bom Jesus is a significant symbol of Catholic culture and spirituality, and it is an important pilgrimage site for Catholics as well as a popular tourist attraction in Goa.

10. St. Mary’s Church

St. Mary’s Church is a historic Catholic church located in the city of Chennai (formerly known as Madras), Tamil Nadu, India. The church was built in 1678 by the Portuguese and is one of the oldest churches in India.

The church’s architecture is a blend of Gothic and Portuguese styles, and it features a tall spire, beautiful stained glass windows, and a bell tower that houses several large bells. The church’s interior is decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures, and it has several altars dedicated to various saints.

St. Mary’s Church is an important pilgrimage site for Catholics in Chennai, and it is also a popular tourist attraction. The church has a rich history and has witnessed many important events, including the canonization of Saint Gonzalo Garcia in 1862, who is the only Catholic saint from India.

The church’s serene atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and historical significance make it a must-visit destination in Chennai. The church is located in the heart of the city and is easily accessible by public transportation.

Overall, St. Mary’s Church is a significant symbol of Catholic culture and spirituality, and it is an important pilgrimage site for Catholics as well as a popular tourist attraction in Chennai.

11. Mahabodhi Temple

The Mahabodhi Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, India. The temple is built at the site where the Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree.

The temple’s architecture is a blend of Indian and Buddhist styles, and it features a 50-meter high pyramidal spire that is topped by a golden pinnacle. The temple also houses a large statue of the Buddha in a meditative pose, along with other smaller statues and images of Buddhist deities.

The Mahabodhi Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists, and it is visited by thousands of devotees from all over the world. The temple is especially popular during the annual Buddha Purnima festival, which celebrates the Buddha’s birthday and attracts a large number of visitors.

The temple’s serene atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and historical significance make it a must-visit destination in Bodh Gaya. The temple complex also includes several other important Buddhist sites, including the Bodhi tree, the Vajrasana (diamond throne) where the Buddha is believed to have meditated, and several other monasteries and temples.

Overall, the Mahabodhi Temple is a significant symbol of Buddhist culture and spirituality, and it is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists as well as a popular tourist attraction in Bihar.

12. Lotus Temple

The Lotus Temple, also known as the Bahai House of Worship, is a unique and stunning religious building located in New Delhi, India. The temple was completed in 1986 and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Delhi.

The temple’s architecture is inspired by the lotus flower, and it features 27 white marble “petals” arranged in a circular pattern around a central hall that can accommodate up to 2,500 people. The temple’s design is meant to symbolize the unity of all religions and the beauty of diversity.

The Lotus Temple is open to people of all faiths and is a popular destination for meditation and spiritual reflection. The temple’s serene atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and peaceful surroundings make it a must-visit destination in Delhi.

In addition to its spiritual significance, the Lotus Temple is also an important architectural landmark in India. The temple has won numerous awards for its unique design and has been featured in many international publications and media.

Overall, the Lotus Temple is a significant symbol of unity and spirituality, and it is an important destination for people of all faiths and backgrounds who seek peace and reflection in the midst of a bustling city.

13. Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid is one of the largest and most famous mosques in India, located in the heart of Old Delhi. It was commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and was completed in 1656.

The mosque’s architecture is a blend of Mughal and Islamic styles, and it features a vast courtyard that can accommodate up to 25,000 worshipers at a time. The mosque’s main prayer hall is adorned with intricate carvings, calligraphy, and beautiful domes.

Jama Masjid is an important pilgrimage site for Muslims, and it is also a popular tourist attraction in Delhi. Visitors can climb to the top of the mosque’s minarets for a panoramic view of Old Delhi, and they can also explore the nearby bazaars and street food stalls.

The mosque’s historical and cultural significance, as well as its beautiful architecture, make it a must-visit destination in Delhi. However, visitors should dress modestly and respect the mosque’s customs and traditions.

Overall, Jama Masjid is a significant symbol of Islamic culture and spirituality, and it is an important destination for Muslims as well as a popular tourist attraction in Delhi.

14. Char Dham Yatra

Char Dham Yatra is a pilgrimage to four sacred shrines located in the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand in India. The four shrines are Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, and they are believed to be the abodes of Hindu gods and goddesses.

The pilgrimage is considered to be one of the most important spiritual journeys for Hindus, and it is believed to cleanse the soul of all sins and grant the pilgrim salvation. The journey usually starts from Haridwar, and the pilgrims travel by road to the four shrines, which are located in remote areas in the Himalayas.

Each of the four shrines has its own unique history and significance. Yamunotri is the source of the Yamuna river and is dedicated to the goddess Yamuna. Gangotri is the source of the Ganges river and is dedicated to the goddess Ganga. Kedarnath is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva took refuge to avoid the Pandavas during the Mahabharata war. Badrinath is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is believed to be the place where he meditated before he took the form of the Badri tree.

The Char Dham Yatra is usually undertaken during the months of April to November when the weather is favorable, and the roads are open. The journey is physically demanding, and pilgrims need to be prepared for long hours of travel, trekking, and high altitudes.

Overall, the Char Dham Yatra is an important pilgrimage for Hindus, and it is a significant symbol of Hindu culture and spirituality. The journey offers a unique opportunity for the pilgrims to connect with their faith, experience the beauty of the Himalayas, and discover the rich history and culture of India.

15. Harmandir Sahib

Harmandir Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple, is a world-renowned Sikh shrine located in Amritsar, Punjab, India. The temple was built in the 16th century by Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Sikh guru, and it is considered the holiest shrine in Sikhism.

The temple’s architecture is a unique blend of Hindu and Islamic styles, and it features a stunning gold-plated dome and marble walls inlaid with precious stones. The temple is located in the middle of a sacred pool, which is said to have healing powers.

Harmandir Sahib is an important pilgrimage site for Sikhs, and it is also a popular tourist destination in India. The temple is open to people of all faiths and is renowned for its warm hospitality and community kitchen, where free meals are served to all visitors regardless of their caste, creed, or religion.

The temple’s historical and cultural significance, as well as its beautiful architecture, make it a must-visit destination in India. Visitors should dress modestly and cover their heads before entering the temple complex.

Overall, Harmandir Sahib is a significant symbol of Sikh culture and spirituality, and it is an important destination for Sikhs as well as a popular tourist attraction in India.

16. Kedarnath Temple

Kedarnath Temple is a Hindu temple located in the Himalayas, in the state of Uttarakhand, India. The temple is one of the four sacred shrines in the Char Dham Yatra, and it is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

The temple is believed to have been built in the 8th century AD by Adi Shankaracharya, a famous Hindu philosopher, and it has undergone several renovations and restorations over the centuries. The temple’s architecture is a mix of traditional Indian and Himalayan styles, and it is situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) in the midst of the majestic Himalayan mountain range.

Kedarnath Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus, and it is believed to be one of the holiest places in India. It is said that the temple’s location was chosen by Lord Shiva himself, and it is believed that a visit to the temple can cleanse the soul of all sins and grant the pilgrim salvation.

The temple is open to visitors from May to October, and pilgrims need to undertake a challenging trek of about 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) to reach the temple. The trek involves crossing steep hills, rocky terrain, and icy rivers, and it can take several hours to complete.

Overall, Kedarnath Temple is a significant symbol of Hindu culture and spirituality, and it is an important destination for Hindus as well as a popular tourist attraction in India. Visitors should be prepared for the challenging trek and dress appropriately for the mountain climate.

17. Ramanathaswamy Temple

Ramanathaswamy Temple is a famous Hindu temple located on the island of Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples, which are considered to be the most sacred Shiva temples in India.

The temple has a long and fascinating history, and it is believed to have been built in the 12th century AD by the rulers of the Pandya dynasty. The temple has undergone several renovations and restorations over the centuries, and it now features a mix of Dravidian and Islamic styles of architecture.

The temple is famous for its long corridor, which is the longest in India and stretches for over 1,200 meters (3,900 feet). The corridor features intricately carved pillars and is lined with small shrines dedicated to various deities.

Ramanathaswamy Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus, and it is believed that a visit to the temple can cleanse the soul of all sins and grant the pilgrim salvation. The temple is also famous for its sacred bath tanks, which are believed to have healing powers.

Overall, Ramanathaswamy Temple is a significant symbol of Hindu culture and spirituality, and it is an important destination for Hindus as well as a popular tourist attraction in India. Visitors should dress modestly and follow the temple’s rules and customs while inside the temple complex.

18. Meenakshi Amman Temple

Meenakshi Amman Temple is a historic Hindu temple located in the city of Madurai in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi, an avatar of the Hindu goddess Parvati, and her consort Lord Sundareswarar, an avatar of Lord Shiva.

The temple is believed to have been built in the 12th century AD by the Pandyan dynasty, and it has undergone several renovations and restorations over the centuries. The temple’s architecture is a mix of Dravidian and Islamic styles, and it is famous for its towering gopurams (temple towers) that are covered in colorful sculptures and carvings.

The temple is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus, and it attracts millions of visitors every year. The temple complex is spread over 14 acres and features several halls, shrines, and water tanks. The temple’s most famous feature is its “Golden Lotus Tank,” which is a large rectangular tank surrounded by colonnades and filled with lotus flowers made of gold.

Meenakshi Amman Temple is also famous for its elaborate festivals and ceremonies, which are celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor. The temple’s annual “Meenakshi Thirukalyanam” festival, which celebrates the divine marriage of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar, is a major event that attracts thousands of devotees from all over India.

Overall, Meenakshi Amman Temple is a significant symbol of Hindu culture and spirituality, and it is an important destination for Hindus as well as a popular tourist attraction in India. Visitors should dress modestly and follow the temple’s rules and customs while inside the temple complex.

19. Sabarimala Temple

Sabarimala Temple is a prominent Hindu temple located in the Periyar Tiger Reserve in the Western Ghat mountain ranges of Pathanamthitta district in Kerala, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, a deity who is considered to be the son of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu in the form of Mohini.

The temple is situated on a hilltop and is surrounded by dense forests and hills, which add to its natural beauty and charm. The temple is open only for a few months every year, and millions of devotees from all over India and abroad visit the temple during this time.

The temple is famous for its 41-day-long annual pilgrimage season called “Mandalam-Makaravilakku,” which begins in November and ends in January. During this time, the temple receives a large number of devotees, who undertake a rigorous 41-day fast and other austerities before visiting the temple.

The temple is also famous for its unique customs and practices, which include the wearing of black clothes, the carrying of “Irumudi” (a two-compartment bag containing offerings for Lord Ayyappa), and the climbing of 18 sacred steps to reach the main sanctum.

The temple is also known for its strict entry rules, which only allow men and women of certain ages to enter the temple. This has been a subject of controversy and debate in recent years, with several legal and social challenges to the temple’s entry rules.

20. ISKCON Temple

ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) Temple is a popular Hindu temple located in various parts of India, and also in other countries around the world. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is considered to be one of the major deities in Hinduism.

The ISKCON Temple was established in 1966 by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, with the aim of spreading the message of Lord Krishna and promoting spiritual and cultural values among people.

The temple is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, with colorful decorations, devotional music, and traditional dances. The temple offers a range of services, including daily worship and ceremonies, spiritual counseling, and vegetarian food.

ISKCON temples also have a wide range of outreach programs and charitable activities, such as providing free meals to the needy, offering education and healthcare services, and promoting environmental awareness.

The ISKCON Temple is a significant symbol of Hindu culture and spirituality, and it is an important destination for devotees of Lord Krishna as well as a popular tourist attraction in India. Visitors are welcome to participate in the temple’s worship and ceremonies and should dress modestly and follow the temple’s rules and customs while inside the temple complex.