– Estimated Number: India is home to over 2 million temples, varying widely in size, significance, and architecture.
– State with Most Temples: Tamil Nadu is known to have the highest number of temples, with estimates ranging from 33,000 to 38,000.
– Ancient Temples: Some temples in India, like the ones in Varanasi and Tamil Nadu, date back over 2,000 years.
– Cultural Diversity: Temples in India reflect the country's rich cultural diversity, with different architectural styles like Dravidian, Nagara, and Vesara.
– Pilgrimage Centers: Major pilgrimage sites like Varanasi, Tirupati, and Rameswaram are home to some of the most famous and visited temples in India.
– UNESCO Heritage Sites: Several temples in India, including the Sun Temple at Konark and the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
– Regional Distribution: Each Indian state has a unique temple culture, with some like Gujarat, Karnataka, and Odisha having thousands of temples each.
Festivals and Rituals: Temples in India are not just places of worship but also centers for festivals, rituals, and cultural events, attracting millions of devotees annually.