OT Staff
Dedicated to Hindu deity Shiva, this 8th-century monolithic temple was carved from a single rock. Legend claims it mirrors Mount Kailash and was built by celestial beings in record time.
Built in the 13th century, this chariot-shaped temple honours Surya, the Sun God. Its 24 intricately carved wheels are believed to represent time, as referenced in Vedic cosmology.
Myth states Goddess Parvati was born as Meenakshi and ruled Madurai. Her celestial marriage to Hindu deity Shiva is still celebrated as one of Tamil Nadu’s grandest temple festivals.
A revered jyotirlinga, Somnath is believed to have been built by the Moon God. It’s mentioned in the Rigveda and was repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt over millennia.
Linked to the Ramayana, it’s said Jatayu fell here while trying to save Sita. The temple’s hanging pillar and detailed frescoes depict various mythological stories in stunning detail.
According to the Ramayana, Rama installed a Shiva lingam here to atone for killing Ravana. Its corridors are among the longest in any Hindu temple, symbolising spiritual passage.
Built by Raja Raja Chola in the 11th century, it honours Hindu deity Shiva. Legends claim the temple’s capstone was placed without machinery using a six-km ramp—an engineering marvel.
One of the 12 jyotirlingas, the temple is said to be the source of the Godavari, born from Hindu deity Shiva’s jata (locks). It’s also linked to the legend of the Kumbh Mela.
A sacred jyotirlinga, this temple is said to be protected by Mahakal himself—a fierce form of Shiva. It’s mythologised as a place where time is conquered.
Dedicated to a form of Hindu deity Krishna, the temple's mysterious rituals and origin stories tie into ancient Puranic texts. Its annual Rath Yatra draws millions of devotees and global attention.