Temples are an integral part of Indian culture. They represent our country’s traditional history, religious depth, architectural excellence and cultural roots. Nevertheless, Lord Vishnu’s temples always shine brighter. The religious ecstasy that many of us receive when we visit temples that honour Bhagvan Vishnu is beyond words. We will be able to feel the religious and spiritual energy moving throughout our entire being. In this article we will explore some of the ancient Vishnu temples in South India that every devotee must visit at least once in their lifetime.

1. Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple, Tamil Nadu
Home to Lord Ranganatha, a reclining form of Lord Vishnu on the sacred serpent known as Adisesha, Srirangam Temple is considered as one of the largest functioning Hindu temples in the world. The entire temple area is a great example of exceptional Dravidian architecture.

Spread across a region of 156 acres, the temple region contains about 21 gateway towers or gopurams with the iconic Rajagopuram being the largest temple tower in the entire Asian continent. It has a majestic height of 239.5 feet. In fact, the temple's history spans across thousands of years with contributions made throughout centuries by Cholas, Hoysalas, Pandyas and Vijayanagara kings. Worshipped in a cosmic sleep posture or yoga nidra, the sacred idol of Lord Vishnu in this temple represents universal preservation and harmony.

2. Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, Andhra Pradesh
Tirumala Venkatesware Temple is counted amongst the richest and holiest Hindu temples in the world. It should be noted that the temple is sustained entirely through the donations of devotees. In fact, it is one of the rare temples about which, mentions can be found in ancient texts including Bhavishyottara Purana and Varaha Purana.

It is believed that the blessings of Lord Venakateswara or Balaji can gift us good fortune and divine protection. We can see the idol of the deity in a standing posture with four arms and other symbolic markings. A world famous and unique ritual at the temple is the offering of hair or tonsure as a sacred vow. This act represents deep surrender of pride, shedding of sins and worldly identity. If you are keen about achieving progress in your spiritual path, visiting Lord Govinda at Tirumala is an experience that you can never miss.

3. Kanchipuram Varadharaja Perumal Temple, Tamil Nadu


4. Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Similar to Lord Ranganatha at Ranganathaswamy Temple, we can see Lord Vishnu at Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Anantha Shayana posture or reclining on the serpent Adisesha. Recognised as the richest temple in the whole world, this adobe of Lord Vishnu contains sacred treasures that has been stored for centuries. You can experience the unique Kerala-Dravidian architecture here with detailed wooden carvings and stoneworks. Another rare experience here is the fortune of praying to Lord Padmanabha through three doors that symbolises universal creation, preservation and destruction.

Explore the latest trends and tips in Health & Fitness, Spiritual, Travel, Life Hacks, Trending, Fashion & Beauty, and Relationships at Times Life!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the 4 holy places of Hinduism?
The four key pilgrimage places or char dham in Hinduism are Badrinath, Puri, Dwarka and Rameswaram.

What is the most spiritual place in India?
Varanasi is widely considered as one of the most spiritual places in India.

Which month is better for Char Dham Yatra?
The months that are most suitable for spiritual purification and safe travel include April, May, June and October, according to experts.