From ancient wonders to modern marvels, these temples showcase breathtaking craftsmanship and deep spiritual significance.
Explore the biggest temples on Earth, detailing their history, architecture, and unique features. These colossal temples are must-visit destinations for the traveler, a history buff, or a spiritual seeker.
Here are the top 10 largest temples in the world, highlighting their historical significance, architectural grandeur, and spiritual importance.
1. Angkor Wat – Cambodia (Largest Temples in the World)
Angkor Wat is not only the largest temple in the world but also one of the most iconic religious monuments. Located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, this UNESCO World Heritage Site spans an astonishing 402 acres. Originally built in the 12th century as a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it later transformed into a Buddhist site.
The temple’s design represents Mount Meru, the sacred mountain in Hindu mythology. Its five towering spires symbolize the peaks of Meru, while the massive moat mirrors the cosmic ocean. The intricate bas-reliefs depicting Hindu epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana are a testament to Khmer artistry.
Visiting Angkor Wat at sunrise is a surreal experience, with the temple’s silhouette reflecting on the surrounding waters. As the biggest religious structure globally, it remains a top destination for history lovers and spiritual seekers alike.
2. Karnak Temple – Egypt
The Karnak Temple Complex in Luxor, Egypt, is one of the largest temple complexes in the world, covering 247 acres. Built over 2,000 years, this vast site was dedicated to the Theban triad of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu.
The Great Hypostyle Hall, with its 134 massive columns, is the most awe-inspiring section. Each column is intricately carved with hieroglyphics, showcasing ancient Egyptian craftsmanship. The temple also features obelisks, sanctuaries, and sacred lakes used in religious ceremonies.
Unlike other biggest temples, Karnak wasn’t built in a single era—pharaohs like Ramses II and Hatshepsut continuously expanded it. Today, the Sound and Light Show at Karnak brings its history to life, making it a must-visit for archaeology enthusiasts.
3. Borobudur – Indonesia
Borobudur, located in Central Java, Indonesia, is the world’s largest Buddhist temple. This 9th-century marvel covers 15,129 square meters and features 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues.
Built in the shape of a mandala, Borobudur represents Buddhist cosmology. Pilgrims follow a path ascending through three levels—Kamadhatu (desire), Rupadhatu (form), and Arupadhatu (formlessness)—symbolizing enlightenment. The top level is adorned with 72 stupas, each housing a Buddha statue.
A sunrise trek to Borobudur offers breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanoes. As a UNESCO site, it remains a spiritual hub and one of the largest temple in the world ever constructed.
4. Akshardham Temple – India
Akshardham Temple in Delhi, India, is one of the biggest Hindu temples in the world and largest temple in the world, sprawling over 100 acres. Inaugurated in 2005, this modern architectural wonder is dedicated to Swaminarayan Hinduism.
The temple’s main monument, carved from pink sandstone and white marble, features 234 ornate pillars, 9 domes, and 20,000 statues. The Yagnapurush Kund, the world’s largest stepwell, hosts mesmerizing musical fountain shows.
Akshardham also houses an IMAX theater, boat rides depicting India’s heritage, and lush gardens. Unlike ancient largest temples, Akshardham blends tradition with modern technology, making it a unique spiritual experience.
5. Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple – India
The Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Tamil Nadu, India, is the largest functioning Hindu temple in the world, covering 156 acres. Dedicated to Lord Ranganatha (a form of Vishnu), this temple features 21 gopurams (towering gateways), with the tallest reaching 236 feet.
The temple’s history dates back to the 10th century, with contributions from various dynasties. Its 1,000-pillared hall and sacred ponds are major highlights. The annual Vaikunta Ekadasi festival attracts over a million devotees.
As one of the most expansive religious sites, it remains a vital pilgrimage destination in South India.
6. Temple of Heaven – China
The Temple of Heaven in Beijing, China, is one of the largest temple complexes in the world, spanning 2.73 square kilometers. Built in the 15th century, it was where Ming and Qing emperors performed rituals for good harvests.
The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, with its triple-tiered roof, is an architectural masterpiece. The Echo Wall and Circular Mound Altar showcase ancient acoustic engineering.
Unlike other biggest temples, the Temple of Heaven is more of a ceremonial site than a place of worship. Its vast park is now a popular spot for tai chi and cultural activities.
7. Prambanan – Indonesia
Prambanan, near Yogyakarta, Indonesia, is the largest Hindu temple in Southeast Asia, covering 39.8 hectares. Built in the 9th century, this UNESCO site features 240 temples, with the central compound dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma.
The main Shiva temple stands 47 meters tall, adorned with intricate reliefs depicting the Ramayana. The temple complex was abandoned after a volcanic eruption but restored in the 20th century.
Prambanan’s Ramayana Ballet, performed against the temple backdrop, is a cultural spectacle.
8. Belur Math – India
Belur Math, located in West Bengal, India, is not only the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission but also stands as one of the largest temples in the world, spanning an impressive 40 acres.
This architectural masterpiece harmoniously blends Hindu, Islamic, and Christian styles, symbolizing unity in diversity. The main temple, dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna, showcases a unique design with elements representing different religions, reflecting its inclusive philosophy.
Founded by Swami Vivekananda in 1898, Belur Math is more than just a temple—it’s a hub of spirituality, education, and service.
The serene campus includes a museum, library, and meditation halls, attracting seekers from around the globe. Unlike many of the largest temples in the world, which focus on grandeur, Belur Math emphasizes universal spirituality and peaceful coexistence.
With its tranquil ambiance and profound teachings, Belur Math remains a must-visit among the largest temples in the world, offering a unique blend of architectural beauty and spiritual wisdom.
9. Jetavanaramaya – Sri Lanka
Jetavanaramaya, in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, was once the tallest stupa in the ancient world (122 meters). Built in the 3rd century, this Buddhist monument covers 5.6 acres, making it one of the Largest Temples in the World.
The stupa housed relics of Mahinda, the monk who introduced Buddhism to Sri Lanka, and its enormous brick construction rivals the Egyptian pyramids in scale.
Jetavanaramaya was a marvel of ancient engineering, requiring advanced techniques to support its towering height. Today, though partially ruined, it remains a key pilgrimage site, drawing devotees and historians alike.
As one of the Largest Temples in the World, Jetavanaramaya symbolizes Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage. Its historical significance and architectural grandeur continue to inspire awe, showcasing the ingenuity of ancient builders.
Visitors can explore its vast complex, marveling at the remnants of a structure that once dominated the skyline of Anuradhapura, the heart of Sri Lanka’s ancient civilization.
10. Meenakshi Amman Temple – India
The Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai, India, stands among the Largest Temples in the World, spanning an impressive 45 acres and adorned with 14 towering gopurams (gateway towers).
Dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi (an incarnation of Parvati) and Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva), this architectural marvel is a crown jewel of Dravidian design. Its intricate carvings, vibrant frescoes, and sacred tanks reflect centuries of devotion and artistry.
A highlight is the Hall of Thousand Pillars, each sculpted with divine figures, alongside musical pillars that produce enchanting notes when struck. The golden vimana (shrine roof) glows brilliantly under the sun, adding to the temple’s grandeur.
Every April, the Meenakshi Tirukalyanam festival transforms the complex into a spectacle of processions, music, and dance, attracting over a million devotees.
As one of the biggest temples in India, the Meenakshi Amman Temple is not just a spiritual hub but also a living testament to South India’s cultural heritage.
Its scale, history, and enduring significance secure its place among the Largest Temples in the World, drawing pilgrims and travelers alike.
