Oldest Indian Temples: Timeless Treasures of Spirituality

Oldest Temples Within India

The heartland of India and its neighboring regions are home to some of the oldest Indian temples, each highlighting unique characteristics and rich historical contexts. From rock-cut sculptures to towering stone edifices, these temples stand as testaments to the enduring legacy of Hindu spirituality and artistry.

Chandrapur Rock Carvings, Assam

Construction Period: Ancient

These temples, located in the Chandrapur area near Guwahati, feature rock-cut sculptures and carvings dating back to ancient times. The intricate carvings depict various Hindu deities and mythological scenes, showcasing the artistic skills and spiritual devotion of the region’s ancient inhabitants.

🚩Peacock Island, Assam

Construction Period: Ancient

Although primarily a temple, the site on Peacock Island also features rock-cut sculptures and carvings. The island itself has mythological significance and ancient roots, being associated with the Hindu god Shiva. The natural beauty of the island combined with its spiritual aura makes it a unique pilgrimage site.

Tharon Cave in Tamenglong, Manipur

Construction Period: Ancient

While primarily known as a natural cave, Tharon Cave in Tamenglong district also features ancient carvings and inscriptions that highlight the historical significance of the site. These carvings offer insights into the religious practices and daily life of the people who inhabited the region in ancient times.

Nartiang Monoliths in the Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya

Construction Period: Ancient

While not rock-cut sculptures or temples, the Nartiang Monoliths in the Jaintia Hills are a significant archaeological site. These standing stones are among the tallest and largest in the world and hold cultural and historical importance for the local Jaintia people. They are believed to be remnants of ancient religious or ceremonial sites.

Sanchi Stupa Complex Temples, Madhya Pradesh

Construction Period: 2nd Century BCE

Although primarily Buddhist, the Sanchi complex also includes Hindu temples, with the earliest structures dating back to the 2nd century BCE. Over time, additional temples were built, reflecting a confluence of religious practices. The site is renowned for its architectural and artistic splendor, illustrating the coexistence of Hindu and Buddhist traditions.

🚩Mundeshwari Temple, Bihar

Construction Period: 108 AD

Often regarded as the oldest functional India temple for Hindus, Mundeshwari dates back to around 108 AD. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Shakti and is known for its circular architecture. The temple’s continuous use for worship for over two millennia underscores its enduring spiritual significance.

Udayagiri Caves, Madhya Pradesh

Construction Period: 5th Century AD

While primarily known for their cave sanctuaries, the Udayagiri Caves feature one of the earliest Hindu temples dating back to the early 5th century. These caves contain some of the oldest Hindu images and inscriptions in India, depicting various deities and mythological scenes that provide a window into the religious life of the period.

🚩Parashurameshvara Temple, Odisha

Construction Period: 7th Century AD

Built in the 7th century, this is one of the oldest Indian temples surviving the thick and thin of the political upheavals in Bhubaneswar, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is known for its early examples of the Nagara style of temple architecture, characterized by its intricate carvings and distinctive tower (shikhara).

🚩Shore Temple, Tamil Nadu

Construction Period: 7th Century AD

Dating back to the 7th century, this temple is one of the oldest structural stone temples of South India. Located on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Vishnu and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram. The temple’s scenic coastal location and exquisite sculptures make it a popular tourist attraction.

Unakoti, Tripura

Construction Period: 7th to 9th Century AD

Featuring a series of rock carvings and sculptures that date back to the 7th to 9th centuries, Unakoti is a significant pilgrimage site with numerous bas-relief carvings depicting Hindu deities, primarily Shiva. The site is shrouded in legend and local lore, adding to its mystical allure.

Baihata Chariali Sculptures of Lord Keshava, Assam

Construction Period: 9th to 10th Century AD

Situated near Baihata Chariali, around 40 km from Guwahati, this archaeological site consists of ruins and sculptures from the 9th to 10th centuries, believed to be dedicated to the god Kamdev. The site’s artistic remnants offer a glimpse into the region’s rich religious heritage.

🚩Kailasa Temple, Maharashtra

Construction Period: 8th Century AD

Carved out of a single rock in the 8th century, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is part of the Ellora Caves. The Kailasa Temple is renowned for its architectural brilliance and elaborate carvings, making it one of the most remarkable rock-cut temples in the world.

Teli Ka Mandir, Madhya Pradesh

Construction Period: 8th Century AD

Dating back to the 8th century AD, this temple combines elements of both Dravidian and Indo-Aryan architectural styles. Although originally dedicated to Vishnu, it has been adapted for the worship of Shiva over the centuries. Its unique design and historical significance make it a prominent landmark within the Gwalior Fort complex.

🚩Martand Sun Temple, Jammu And Kashmir

Construction Period: 8th Century AD

Constructed approximately during the 8th century AD under the patronage of the Kashmiri king Lalitaditya Muktapida, this temple is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya. It is an example of early Kashmiri architecture and now stands mostly in ruins, offering a glimpse into the region’s ancient architectural prowess.

This site is mostly in ruins and does not host regular puja; any religious activity is sporadic and not part of daily rituals.

Pilak Hindu and Buddhist Idols, Tripura

Construction Period: 8th to 12th Century AD

Located in South Tripura, Pilak is an archaeological site with numerous rock-cut sculptures and terracotta plaques dating back to the 8th to 12th centuries. The site includes both Hindu and Buddhist influences, reflecting the region’s diverse religious heritage.

🚩 Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Tamil Nadu

Construction Period: 9th Century AD

This temple, dating back to the 9th century, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is famous for its architectural grandeur. It is one of the largest functioning Hindu temples in the world, known for its sprawling complex and elaborate gopurams (towers).

🚩Tiruvannamalai Temple, Tamil Nadu

Construction Period: 9th Century AD

This temple dates back to the 9th century and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is notable for its massive gopurams (towers) and its significance as a major pilgrimage site, particularly during the annual Karthigai Deepam festival.

Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh

Construction Period: 930-950 AD

Built around 930-950 AD, this temple is part of the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is dedicated to Vishnu and is known for its magnificent sculptures and intricate carvings, representing some of the finest examples of medieval Indian art.

Mukteshvara Temple, Odisha

Construction Period: 10th Century AD

Constructed in the 10th century, this temple is a gem of Odisha architecture with its ornately carved arched gateway and the sculptures that adorn its façade. It represents a transitional phase between the early and later styles of Kalinga architecture.

Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh

Construction Period: 1025-1050 AD

Dating back to 1025-1050 AD, this temple is the largest and most ornate Hindu temple in the medieval temple group found at Khajuraho. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is famed for its towering shikhara (spire) and intricate stone carvings.

🚩Sun Temple, Modhera, Gujarat

Construction Period: 1026-27 AD

Located in the vibrant state of Gujarat, the Sun Temple at Modhera is one of the architectural jewels of ancient India. Constructed in 1026-27 AD during the reign of Bhima I of the Solanki dynasty, this temple is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya. Noted for its exquisite design and intricate stone carvings, the temple stands as a testament to the advanced engineering and artistic skills of its time.

🚩Lingaraja Temple, Odisha

Construction Period: 11th Century AD

Dating back to the late 11th century, this temple in Bhubaneswar is one of the oldest and largest temples in the state, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its architectural complexity and historical importance make it a significant site in Odisha.

Brihadeeswarar Temple, Tamil Nadu

Construction Period: 11th Century AD

Constructed in the early 11th century by Raja Raja Chola I, this temple is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Great Living Chola Temples.

Osian Temples, Rajasthan

Construction Period: 8th to 11th Century AD

A group of Brahmanical and Jain temples dating from the 8th to the 11th century, with the Sachiya Mata Temple being the most famous. The Osian temples are known for their intricate carvings and unique architectural styles, reflecting the rich cultural and religious history of Rajasthan.

🚩Doddagaddavalli Lakshmi Devi Temple, Karnataka

Construction Period: 1113 AD

Built in 1113 AD, this temple is one of the earliest examples of Hoysala architecture and is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi. The temple is renowned for its star-shaped layout and exquisite stone carvings.

🚩Jagannath Temple, Odisha

Construction Period: 12th Century AD

Located in Puri, this temple was completed in the early 12th century. It is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Vishnu, and is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus. The temple is known for its annual Rath Yatra (chariot festival) which attracts millions of devotees.

🚩Chennakesava Temple, Karnataka

Construction Period: 12th Century AD

Built in the 12th century, this temple is celebrated for its intricate carvings and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture, featuring detailed sculptures and elaborate decorations.

🚩Baijnath Temple, Himachal Pradesh

Construction Period: 1204 AD

This temple was built in 1204 AD by two merchant brothers. Dedicated to Lord Shiva as Vaidyanath (the Lord of physicians), it displays early medieval North Indian architecture known as Nagara style.

Konark Sun Temple, Odisha

Construction Period: 13th Century AD

Built in the 13th century by King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty, this temple is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya. It is famous for its stunning architecture and the iconic chariot-shaped structure that represents the chariot of the Sun God.

Malinithan Ruins, Arunachal Pradesh

Construction Period: 14th to 15th Century AD

An archaeological site located in the West Siang district, Malinithan features ruins of ancient temples, sculptures, and intricate stone carvings. It is associated with Hindu mythology and is believed to date back to the 14th-15th centuries.

Chhabimura Carvings, Tripura

Construction Period: 15th to 16th Century AD

Also known as Chhabimura, this site features rock carvings of Hindu deities along the steep hills on the banks of the Gomati River. The carvings are believed to date back to the 15th and 16th centuries.

🚩Kamakhya Temple, Assam

Construction Period: 16th Century AD

Although the current structure dates back to the 16th century, the origins of the temple are much older, associated with ancient sacrificial rituals. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas and dedicated to the mother goddess Kamakhya.

🚩Umananda Temple, Assam

Construction Period: 17th Century AD

Situated on Peacock Island in the middle of the Brahmaputra river, this Shiva temple was built in the 17th century but is based on much older worship practices linked to the island.

Oldest Temples Outside India

The ancient Hindu temples outside India reflect the spread and influence of Hindu culture and architecture across various regions. These temples, often standing as remarkable examples of ancient craftsmanship, continue to be centers of spirituality and heritage.

Göbekli Tepe, Turkey

Construction Period: Circa 9600-8200 BC

Göbekli Tepe is a fascinating archaeological site located in southeastern Turkey, often considered one of the world’s first temple complexes. Dating back to around 9600 BC, this prehistoric site predates pottery, written language, and the invention of metallurgy, representing a monumental achievement in human cultural history.

White Horse Temple, China

Construction Period: Established in 68 AD

The White Horse Temple, located in Luoyang, is revered as the first Buddhist temple in China, making it a cornerstone in the history of Chinese Buddhism. Established in 68 AD, this temple is where Buddhism began to spread across China, influencing countless generations. The temple complex is characterized by its traditional Chinese architectural style, serene gardens, and ancient Buddhist statues, making it a spiritual haven and a historical landmark.

Asuka-dera, Japan

Construction Period: Founded in 588 AD

Asuka-dera, also recognized as Asukadera, stands as the oldest temple in Japan. This temple, located in Asuka, Nara, was the first full-scale Buddhist temple built in the country, marking a pivotal moment in the introduction and establishment of Buddhism in Japan. The temple’s historical significance is matched by its architectural heritage, featuring ancient structures and artifacts that reflect the early Buddhist art and architecture of Japan.

Mireuksa Temple, Korea

Construction Period: Circa 7th Century AD

Mireuksa Temple in Iksan, Korea, is one of the oldest temples on the Korean peninsula, dating back to the Baekje Kingdom in the 7th century AD. Despite being partially in ruins, Mireuksa Temple is immensely significant for its historical and architectural value. The temple site includes remnants of massive stone pagodas and foundations that speak to the grandeur of Baekje temple architecture and the kingdom’s pivotal role in the spread of Buddhism in East Asia.

🚩Prambanan Temple, Indonesia

Construction Period: 9th Century AD

This temple complex near Yogyakarta, dating back to the 9th century, is one of the largest Hindu temple sites in Southeast Asia. It is dedicated to the Trimurti: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The temple is renowned for its towering spires and detailed bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu epics.

🚩Munneswaram Temple, Sri Lanka

Construction Period: 10th Century AD

Believed to be in existence since at least 1000 CE, this complex is an important regional Hindu temple complex in Sri Lanka, showing layers of reconstruction and renovation over the centuries. It is dedicated to Shiva and is part of a body of temples associated with Ramayana legends.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Construction Period: 12th Century AD

Originally constructed in the early 12th century as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, Angkor Wat later transitioned into a Buddhist temple. It is the largest religious monument in the world and a stunning example of Khmer architecture, renowned for its massive scale and intricate stone carvings.

My Son Sanctuary, Vietnam

Construction Period: 4th to 14th Century AD

Dating from the 4th to the 14th century, My Son was a religious center during the Champa Kingdom, featuring Hindu-themed temples dedicated primarily to Shiva. The site comprises a series of impressive brick structures set within a lush valley, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Champa people.

🚩Batu Caves, Malaysia

Construction Period: 19th Century AD

While the caves themselves are natural and ancient, the Hindu temples placed within them were established in the late 19th century. The site is dedicated to Lord Murugan and is the focus of the annual Thaipusam festival in Malaysia, where devotees engage in elaborate rituals and celebrations.

Reflections on the Oldest Indian Temples

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