South India is renowned for its vibrant culture, breathtaking architecture, and deeply rooted spiritual traditions. The region is home to some of the most famous and intricately designed temples in the world. These temples, many of which date back centuries, showcase the rich history, artistry, and devotion of the people of South India.
Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a traveler looking to explore the grandeur of Indian heritage, these popular temples in South India deserve a spot on your travel itinerary. Complete with key information about timings, how to reach, nearest railway stations, and much more.
Here’s a curated list of 28 most popular temples in South India:
1. Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai, Tamil Nadu
The Meenakshi Temple, located in the historic city of Madurai, is one of India’s most iconic temples and a testament to the Dravidian architectural style. Dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi (an avatar of Parvati) and her consort Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva), the temple is a sprawling complex with 14 towering gopurams adorned with intricate carvings.
Key Details
- Timings: 5:00 AM – 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM.
- Entry Fee: Free for general darshan; ₹50 for special darshan.
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Madurai Junction (1.5 km).
- Nearest Airport: Madurai International Airport (12 km).
- Local auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available to reach the temple.
- Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Evening Pooja Ceremony, where the idols of Meenakshi and Sundareswarar are carried to their resting chambers.
2. Tirupati Balaji Temple, Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh
Located in the Tirumala hills, Sri Venkateswara Temple (Tirupati Balaji) is one of the wealthiest and most visited temples in the world. Dedicated to Lord Venkateswara (a form of Vishnu), this ancient temple is a beacon of devotion and faith.
Key Details
- Timings: Open 24/7 for darshan, but specific timings apply for rituals.
- Entry Fee: Free for general darshan; ₹300 for special darshan (book online in advance).
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Tirupati Railway Station (22 km).
- Nearest Airport: Tirupati Airport (40 km).
- From Tirupati, buses and taxis are available to Tirumala. Pilgrims can also trek to the temple.
- Pro Tip: Book your darshan tickets online weeks in advance to avoid the rush.
3. Brihadeeswarar Temples, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
The Brihadeeswarar Temple, also known as the Big Temple, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a marvel of Chola architecture. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it boasts the world’s tallest temple tower and a massive Nandi statue carved from a single stone.
Key Details
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM.
- Entry Fee: Free.
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Thanjavur Railway Station (3 km).
- Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (60 km).
- Local autos, taxis, and buses connect the city to the temple.
- Pro Tip: Visit in the evening when the temple is beautifully lit up and less crowded.
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4. Ramanathaswamy Temples, Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu
One of the holiest shrines in India, the Ramanathaswamy Temple is part of the Char Dham Yatra and features one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. This temple is famous for its 1,200-meter-long corridor lined with intricately carved pillars and its 22 holy water tanks (teerthams).
Key Details
- Timings: 4:30 AM – 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM – 8:30 PM.
- Entry Fee: Free for general darshan; special darshan fees start at ₹50.
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Rameswaram Railway Station (1 km).
- Nearest Airport: Madurai International Airport (174 km).
- Autos and taxis are available near the station to the temple.
- Pro Tip: Take a holy dip at Agni Teertham Beach before visiting the temple.
5. Virupaksha Temple, Hampi, Karnataka
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Virupaksha Temple is one of the oldest functioning temples in India, dating back to the 7th century. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is the centerpiece of the ancient city of Hampi.
Key Details
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: ₹5 for Indians; ₹50 for foreigners.
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Hospet Junction (12 km).
- Nearest Airport: Hubli Airport (144 km).
- Taxis and local autos connect Hospet to Hampi.
- Pro Tip: Visit during the Hampi Festival in November to witness grand celebrations.
6. Sabarimala Temples, Kerala
Perched amidst the Western Ghats, Sabarimala Temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. Millions of devotees visit during the Mandala season, trekking through forested hills to reach the temple.
Key Details
- Timings: Open only during the Mandala season (November – January) and select festivals.
- Entry Fee: Free.
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Chengannur Railway Station (84 km).
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (155 km).
- From Pamba, the temple is a 5 km trek.
- Pro Tip: Adhere to the 41-day fasting ritual before visiting for a complete spiritual experience.
7. Guruvayur Temples, Kerala
The Guruvayur Temple is one of the most famous Krishna temples in India, often referred to as the Dwarka of the South. It is a hub for devotional activities, including weddings and annaprasanam (baby’s first feeding ceremony).
Key Details
- Timings: 3:00 AM – 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM – 9:15 PM.
- Entry Fee: Free.
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Guruvayur Railway Station (1 km).
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (80 km).
- Autos and buses are available to reach the temple.
- Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning for the Nirmalyam ritual and avoid weekends for a peaceful darshan.
8. Kapaleeshwarar Temples, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Located in the bustling city of Chennai, the Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a vibrant Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to be over 1,300 years old and offers a serene escape amidst the city’s chaos.
Key Details
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM.
- Entry Fee: Free.
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Chennai Egmore Railway Station (7 km).
- Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (15 km).
- Local autos and buses are available.
- Pro Tip: Don’t miss the annual Arupathimoovar Festival held in March-April.
9. Anantha Padmanabhaswamy, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Known as the wealthiest temple in the world, the Padmanabhaswamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is renowned for its treasure vaults and Kerala-style architecture.
Key Details
- Timings: 3:30 AM – 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM.
- Entry Fee: Free.
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station (2 km).
- Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (6 km).
- Local taxis and autos are available.
- Pro Tip: Follow the strict dress code (men in dhoti and women in saree or long skirts).
10. Shore, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
The Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as an architectural masterpiece of the Pallava dynasty. Built in the 8th century, this temple is one of the oldest stone temples in South India and is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Situated by the Bay of Bengal, the temple offers breathtaking views of the sea, making it a serene and spiritual destination.
Key Details
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹40 for Indians, ₹600 for foreigners
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Chengalpattu Junction (30 km).
- Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (58 km).
- Regular buses and private taxis connect Chennai to Mahabalipuram.
- Pro Tip: Visit during sunrise or sunset to witness the temple’s beauty against the backdrop of the sea.
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11. Ranganathaswamy, Srirangam, Tamil Nadu
The Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam is the largest functioning temple complex in the world and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his reclining form. Spread over 156 acres, this temple is a blend of architectural brilliance and spirituality. It is one of the most important Vaishnavite shrines in India.
Key Details
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹50 for special darshan
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Tiruchirappalli Junction (12 km).
- Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (15 km).
- Taxis and local buses frequently operate between Trichy and Srirangam.
- Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Vaikunta Ekadasi festival in December–January, when the temple is beautifully decorated, and grand processions are held.
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12. Murudeshwar Temple, Karnataka
Famous for its 123-foot-tall Shiva statue, the Murudeshwar Temple is located on the Arabian Sea coast, offering stunning views of the beach and sea. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is an excellent example of South Indian temple architecture combined with natural beauty.
Key Details
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:30 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Murudeshwar Railway Station (2 km).
- Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (137 km).
- Taxis and local buses connect the railway station and nearby towns to the temple.
- Pro Tip: Visit the nearby Murudeshwar Beach for a relaxing stroll after darshan.
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13. Chamundeshwari, Mysore, Karnataka
Located on Chamundi Hill, the Chamundeshwari Temple is dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, the fierce form of Durga. This iconic temple is not only a spiritual center but also offers panoramic views of Mysore city.
Key Details
- Timings: 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free for general darshan; ₹30 for special darshan
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction (13 km).
- Nearest Airport: Mysore Airport (20 km).
- Regular buses and taxis operate from Mysore city to Chamundi Hill.
- Pro Tip: Visit during the Mysore Dasara Festival for grand celebrations and colorful processions.
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14. Badami Cave Temples, Karnataka
The Badami Cave Temples are a collection of four rock-cut temples built into sandstone cliffs. These temples are dedicated to Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist deities, showcasing the artistry of the Chalukyan dynasty.
Key Details
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹25 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Badami Railway Station (5 km).
- Nearest Airport: Hubli Airport (105 km).
- Autos and taxis are easily available from the railway station to the temples.
- Pro Tip: Visit during the winter months (October to February) for comfortable weather while exploring the caves.
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15. Thiruvannamalai Temple, Tamil Nadu
The Arunachaleswarar Temple in Thiruvannamalai is one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, representing the element of fire. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is a significant pilgrimage site, especially during Karthigai Deepam, a festival of lights.
Key Details
- Timings: 5:30 AM – 12:30 PM and 3:30 PM – 9:30 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvannamalai Railway Station (1.5 km).
- Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (185 km).
- Autos and local buses are available to the temple from within the town.
- Pro Tip: Participate in the Girivalam (circumambulation) around Arunachala Hill during a full moon night for a unique spiritual experience.
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16. Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu
The Nataraja Temple, located in Chidambaram, is dedicated to Lord Shiva as Nataraja (the cosmic dancer). This temple is one of the Pancha Sabhai temples, where Shiva is said to have performed his divine dance.
Key Details
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Chidambaram Railway Station (2 km).
- Nearest Airport: Puducherry Airport (70 km).
- Regular buses and taxis connect nearby towns to Chidambaram.
- Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Natyanjali Dance Festival held annually during Mahashivaratri, where classical dancers from across India perform.
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17. Ekambareswarar Temple, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu
The Ekambareswarar Temple, located in Kanchipuram, is one of the five Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, representing the Earth element. This Shiva temple is known for its massive gopuram (tower) and ancient mango tree that is said to be over 3,500 years old.
Key Details
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Kanchipuram Railway Station (3 km).
- Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (75 km).
- Local taxis and autos are available from Chennai and nearby towns.
- Pro Tip: Explore other nearby Kanchipuram temples, as the town is known as the City of Thousand Temples.
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18. Aihole Durga Temple, Karnataka
The Durga Temple in Aihole is part of the Aihole temple complex, often referred to as the cradle of Indian temple architecture. Built during the 7th-8th century, this temple is a stunning example of early Chalukyan architecture.
Key Details
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹25 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Bagalkot Railway Station (35 km).
- Nearest Airport: Hubli Airport (130 km).
- Taxis and buses are available to Aihole from Bagalkot and Badami.
- Pro Tip: Combine your visit with nearby Pattadakal and Badami cave temples.
19. Sri Krishna Temples, Udupi, Karnataka
The Sri Krishna Temple in Udupi is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Karnataka. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is famous for its Kanakana Kindi, a small window through which devotees can catch a glimpse of the deity.
Key Details
- Timings: 5:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Udupi Railway Station (4 km).
- Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (60 km).
- Local buses, autos, and taxis are available.
- Pro Tip: Try the prasadam served at the temple and visit during Janmashtami for vibrant celebrations.
20. Koodal Azhagar Temple, Madurai, Tamil Nadu
Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Koodal Azhagar Temple is an ancient and beautifully designed temple located in the heart of Madurai. It is renowned for its unique depiction of Lord Vishnu in three postures—sitting, standing, and reclining.
Key Details
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Madurai Junction (1.5 km).
- Nearest Airport: Madurai International Airport (12 km).
- Auto-rickshaws and taxis are the easiest ways to reach.
- Pro Tip: Visit during Vaikunta Ekadasi to witness grand processions and celebrations.
21. Suchindram Thanumalayan Temple, Tamil Nadu
Located near Kanyakumari, the Thanumalayan Temple is unique because it is dedicated to the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The temple is renowned for its 18-foot-tall Hanuman statue and exquisitely carved musical pillars.
Key Details
- Timings: 4:30 AM – 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Nagercoil Junction (6 km).
- Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport (83 km).
- Buses and taxis are available from Kanyakumari or Nagercoil.
- Pro Tip: Don’t miss the musical pillars, which produce distinct sounds when tapped.
22. Annapoorneshwari Temple, Horanadu, Karnataka
The Annapoorneshwari Temple, located in the lush green hills of Karnataka, is dedicated to Goddess Annapoorneshwari, the goddess of food. It is believed that visiting this temple blesses devotees with nourishment and prosperity.
Key Details
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Chikmagalur Railway Station (100 km).
- Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (125 km).
- Buses and private taxis are available.
- Pro Tip: Enjoy the free meals (prasadam) provided at the temple, known for their simplicity and taste.
23. Srikalahasteeswara Temple, Srikalahasti, Andhra Pradesh
The Srikalahasteeswara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, represents the element of air (Vayu) as part of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams. It is famous for its Rahu-Ketu pooja, performed to mitigate doshas in one’s horoscope.
Key Details
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free; pooja services start at ₹300.
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Srikalahasti Railway Station (2 km).
- Nearest Airport: Tirupati Airport (25 km).
- Buses and autos are available.
- Pro Tip: Visit during the Maha Shivaratri festival to witness grand rituals and celebrations.
24. Kanaka Durga Temple, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh
Perched on Indrakeeladri Hill overlooking the Krishna River, the Kanaka Durga Temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga. The temple is especially popular during Dasara, when it attracts thousands of devotees.
Key Details
- Timings: 4:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free; special darshan fees start at ₹100.
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Vijayawada Junction (3 km).
- Nearest Airport: Vijayawada Airport (20 km).
- Local buses, autos, and taxis are easily available.
- Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning to enjoy a serene darshan and the scenic views of the Krishna River.
25. Mantralayam Temple, Andhra Pradesh
The Mantralayam Temple is the resting place of Saint Raghavendra Swami, a 17th-century saint and philosopher. This temple is a hub of spiritual energy and devotion for Madhva Brahmins and Hindus in general.
Key Details
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Mantralayam Road Railway Station (15 km).
- Nearest Airport: Hyderabad Airport (240 km).
- Taxis and buses are available from the railway station.
- Pro Tip: Spend some time meditating at the Brindavanam for peace and tranquility.
26. Rockfort Temples, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu
The Rockfort Temple, perched on a massive rock, is one of the most iconic landmarks of Tamil Nadu. It houses the Thayumanaswami Temple (dedicated to Shiva) and the Ucchi Pillayar Temple (dedicated to Lord Ganesha).
Key Details
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Tiruchirappalli Junction (4 km).
- Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (8 km).
- Autos and taxis are easily available.
- Pro Tip: Climb the 400+ steps to the temple to enjoy panoramic views of the city.
27. Jambukeswarar Temple, Thiruvanaikaval, Tamil Nadu
The Jambukeswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, represents the element of water among the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams. It is located near Srirangam and is known for its serene and spiritual ambiance.
Key Details
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Tiruchirappalli Junction (8 km).
- Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (12 km).
- Autos and taxis are available.
- Pro Tip: Visit during the Panguni Uthiram festival to experience grand celebrations.
28. Arulmigu Bala Murugan Temples, Tamil Nadu
Located atop Ratnagiri Hill, this temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan, the Tamil god of war and victory. The temple offers a tranquil environment and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Key Details
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Railway Station: Vellore Railway Station (14 km).
- Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (120 km).
- Local buses and taxis are available from Vellore.
- Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning for a peaceful darshan and a beautiful sunrise view.
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Conclusion
South India’s temples are a blend of spirituality, architectural grandeur, and cultural richness. Each temple on this list stands as a testament to the devotion and creativity of the people who built and continue to maintain them. Whether you’re seeking divine blessings, exploring the rich history, or marveling at the craftsmanship of these monumental structures, South India offers an unmatched experience.
From the towering Brihadeeswarar Temple to the serene Padmanabhaswamy Temple, every temple has its own unique charm and story to tell. Plan your journey through these spiritual and cultural marvels, and immerse yourself in the divine heritage of South India.
