Angkor Wat, Cambodia: Built in the 12th century, Angkor Wat is a magnificent temple complex and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, it later became a Buddhist temple. It is one of the largest religious monuments in the world. Angkor Wat is situated in the province of Siem Reap, Cambodia. It is located about 5.5 kilometers (3.4 miles) north of the town of Siem Reap. Built in the 12th century by the Khmer King Suryavarman II, Angkor Wat was originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. It was constructed as the state temple and capital city of the Khmer Empire. Angkor Wat showcases the classic Khmer architectural style, characterized by intricate carvings, towering spires, and vast galleries. The temple complex spans over 162.6 hectares (402 acres) and is surrounded by a moat.
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Prambanan, Indonesia: Located in Central Java, Prambanan is a complex of Hindu temples dedicated to the Trimurti of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. It was built in the 9th century and is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Prambanan is situated approximately 17 kilometers (10.5 miles) northeast of Yogyakarta, the cultural capital of Java Island, Indonesia. Prambanan was built in the 9th century during the rule of the Mataram Kingdom.
It was dedicated to the Trimurti, the Hindu trinity of Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the preserver), and Shiva (the destroyer). Prambanan's architecture showcases the influence of Indian Hindu temple designs, particularly the Nagara architectural style. It reflects the rich cultural exchange between the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia during ancient times. Prambanan is not only a religious site but also an important cultural symbol for Indonesians. It represents the historical and artistic legacy of the region and is a source of national pride.
Batu Caves, Malaysia: Situated near Kuala Lumpur, the Batu Caves is a limestone hill housing a series of caves and temples. The main temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan, a Hindu deity. It is a popular pilgrimage site during the Thaipusam festival. The caves have a long history dating back more than 100 years. They were discovered by an Indian trader named K. Thamboosamy Pillai in the late 1800s. The main temple was later established in 1890 and has since become an important Hindu shrine. Batu Caves is composed of several limestone caves and caverns.
The most prominent cave is the Cathedral Cave, which houses several Hindu shrines and temples. To reach the main temple, visitors need to climb a series of 272 colorful steps, flanked by statues of deities. The iconic 140-feet (42.7 meters) tall golden statue of Lord Murugan stands at the entrance of Batu Caves. It is the tallest statue of Lord Murugan in the world and is a major landmark and symbol of the temple complex.
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BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, United Kingdom: Also known as the Neasden Temple, this intricate temple in London is one of the largest Hindu temples outside of India. It was inaugurated in 1995 and serves as a center for Hindu worship and cultural activities. The temple is situated in Neasden, a suburban area in northwest London. It is easily accessible by public transportation and attracts visitors from various parts of the city and beyond. The construction of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir was initiated in 1992 and was completed in 1995.
It was officially inaugurated by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, an international Hindu organization. The Mandir showcases exquisite traditional Indian architectural styles, particularly the intricately carved stone work of Gujarat. It is built primarily using Indian and Italian marble, and Bulgarian limestone. The craftsmanship and attention to detail are remarkable. The main shrine of the temple is dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, a revered Hindu saint and the founder of the Swaminarayan Sampraday.
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Sri Venkateswara Temple, United States: Situated in Tirumala, California, this temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is one of the largest Hindu temples in the U.S. and attracts a significant number of devotees. The temple was built to replicate the famous Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh, India. Its construction began in 1977 and was completed in 1985. It was consecrated by prominent spiritual leader Sri Venkatachalapathi Swamiji. The Sri Venkateswara Temple follows the traditional Dravidian architectural style of South India. The main temple tower, or gopuram, is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various mythological stories and deities.
The temple conducts regular religious ceremonies and rituals, including the daily worship of Lord Venkateswara. The Sri Venkateswara Temple in the United States provides a spiritual sanctuary and a sense of connection to the Hindu traditions for devotees. It showcases the rich cultural heritage of India and serves as a place of devotion, celebration, and community building for the Hindu community in the country.
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