South India is an abode of alluring temples. One can find awe-inspiring architectural marvels in abundance. Having intricate carvings, all these Hindu shrines are an example of breathtaking skills of the craftsmen of bygone times. Most of the temples depict the Dravidian style, Chalukyan style and Tamil style of architecture. The eminent temples of South India have labyrinthine carvings on the majestic gopurams and pillars that catch the sight. If you plan to pay a visit to these beguiling shrines then here we present a list of ancient South Indian temples.
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Representing the Chalukya style of architecture, the Virupaksha Temple is a magnificent grandeur in Karnataka. With impeccable carving on the exterior and interior walls, this alluring marvel is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the presiding deity in the sanctum of this temple. The Virupaksha Temple was constructed in the 7th century and stands amid the oldest temples in South India. This shrine is an active pilgrim site for the followers of Shaivism.
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Entrenched on the southern bank of River Vaigai, the Meenakshi Temple is a splendor and an ancient temple in Madurai district of Tamil Nadu. The unbeatable architecture of this temple was erected 2500 years ago. The name Meenakshi means eyes like a fish and is dedicated to Goddess Parvati. The temple expanse is surrounded by one intricate gopuram in each direction. Thousands of devotees flock to Meenakshi Temple annually.
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Erected in the Dravidian architecture, the Venkateswara Temple is another splendor in South India. This breathtaking marvel stands on the hills of Tirumala and is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, a manifestation of Lord Vishnu. The unmatchable interior wall carvings are astounding and there are 3 entrances that lead towards the tranquil sanctum of this holy shrine. This beautiful temple is visited by devotees from different corners of the country daily.
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Standing on the shoreline facing the Bay of Bengal, the Ramanathaswamy Temple is a notable Hindu shrine located in Rameshwaram. This Dravidian style architectural marvel is one among the 12 jyotirlingas & has Lord Shiva as the presiding deity in its sanctum. The Shivalinga worshiped today in the sanctum is said to be constructed by Goddess Sita on the orders of Lord Rama. The ethereal ambiance of Ramanathaswamy temple invokes the inner peace instantly.
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Aihole is a temple village in Karnataka that gloats the ruined temples carved out of stone. The whole temple complex of Aihole houses 125 temples that date back to 5th century and at present, it is an exalted tourist destination. Close to its vicinity lies Pattakadal. Pattakadal group of monuments is a world heritage site in India & has the structures erected in the Chalukyan style architecture. Aihole & Pattakadal are frequented by the tourists as well as historians.
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The Airavateshwara Temple is an eminent temple that was constructed under the reign of Rajraja Chola II in 12th century. This shrine got its name because of Airavat, the vehicle of Indra, worshiped Lord Shiva while it suffered discoloration due to a sages curse. Impressed with the penance, Lord Shiva made a water tank where Airavat bathed and gained back its original color. The premises of Airavateshwara Temple are loaded with exuberant stone sculptures that cannot be described by words.
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The granite grandeur depicting Tamil style of architecture, the Brihadeshwara Temple is a magnificent shrine in Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu. Brihadeshwar Temple was fortified by 60 meter high walls in the bygone times & carried the enchanting carvings on the exterior and interior walls. The exuberant sanctum of this shrine has an impeccable stone idol of Lord Shiva as the presiding deity. Every year, this temple is beautifully ornamented on the occasion of Maha-Shivaratri.
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The Vitthala Temple is an amazing and most iconic structure amid the group of monuments in Hampi. The whole complex is spread over vast expanse & is an example of splendid Dravidian architecture. The well-preserved stone chariot is the notable attraction & the main shrine is located right behind it. All the other small temples are located within its vicinity and are worth seeing.
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Suchindram Temple is located in the southern most district of Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu. The Suchindram Temple was built thousands of years ago but has been renovated quite a number of times. This shrine houses many idols of Hindu religious figurines but, the holy sanctum has 2 presiding deities, Lord Shiva & Lord Vishnu. Lord Shiva is represented through a Shivalinga whereas idol of Lord Vishnu lies adjacent to it. Hundreds of devotees offer their prayers in Suchindram Temple daily.
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Perched on the shoreline of River Kaveri, Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is a famous Hindu shrine in Tamil Nadu. Constructed impeccably and depicting Tamil style of architecture, Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is a beautifully carved shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The complex boasts different idols of Hindu Gods and has the sanctum in the shape of Om. The idol of Lord Vishnu in a lying position on serpent is worshiped in the sanctum.
All the magnificent temples in South India tell about the rich culture in the foregone times. The rulers of South India had a deep faith in the almighty and thats why they constructed towering Hindu shrines as a tribute to their deity. These marvels boast a beauty that cannot be described by just a combination of alphabets. You will have to visit these shrines to experience the serenity and admire their beauty.
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