8 Gold Adorned Temples of India
India’s gold-adorned temples hold deep spiritual and cultural significance, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage.
India is home to several temples that are adorned with gold or associated with immense treasures. While the Golden Temple in Amritsar is the most iconic, other temples across the country have their own unique golden charm.
1. Golden Temple, Amritsar (Sri Harmandir Sahib)
Located in Punjab, this Sikh pilgrimage site is world-famous for its gold-plated canopy and upper floors, built with around 400 kg of gold.
2. Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this sacred temple in Varanasi is also referred to as the Golden Temple due to its gold-plated spires.
3. Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram
Situated in Kerala, this temple isn’t adorned with gold on its exterior but is renowned for its immense treasures, including gold coins, jewelry, and artifacts found in its underground vaults.
4. Jagannath Temple, Puri
Famous for the Suna Besha ritual, during which the deities are decorated with 208 kg of gold jewelry, this temple is a prominent pilgrimage site in Odisha.
Known for its historical significance, this temple in Gujarat features a golden flag mast and intricate carvings that symbolize its grandeur.
6. Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple, Vellore
This temple in Tamil Nadu is renowned for its extravagant gold 0covered structure. The shrine, dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi Narayani, is made of pure gold and is often called the “Golden Temple of Vellore.”
7. Kamakhya Temple, Assam
Located in Guwahati, the temple is famous for its gold-plated dome, covered with 19 kg of gold. This iconic structure is a revered pilgrimage site.
8. Venkateswara Temple, Tirumala
The temple in Andhra Pradesh houses an 8-foot-tall idol of Lord Venkateswara, adorned with gold ornaments. It is one of the wealthiest temples in India, with devotees donating gold frequently.
India’s golden temples, such as the Golden Temple of Amritsar, Sri Lakshmi Narayani Temple, and Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, reflect the country’s devotion, artistry, and history. These iconic landmarks are not just places of worship but also symbols of India’s spiritual and cultural legacy.