The Ayodhya Ram Temple is set to become one of the world's largest temples, marking a monumental event in India's history since its demand began years ago. With its consecration scheduled for January 22, 2024, the temple's doors will open to the public on January 23.
This temple, a spectacle unseen in India before, boasts remarkable architecture that sets it apart from others. Anticipated to rank as the world's third-largest Hindu shrine, it begs the question: What holds the title for the largest temple globally? Surprisingly, it lies far from India's borders.
The World's Largest Temple: Tucked away in Cambodia's northern Siem Reap province, Angkor Wat claims the title of the world's largest religious structure. Spanning approximately 400 square kilometers, it stands as a crucial archaeological site in Southeast Asia.
Beyond Temples: Canals and Reservoirs: Angkor Wat encompasses a complex housing various temples, along with hydraulic marvels like reservoirs and canals. The site showcases stunning monuments and extensive water reservoirs, remnants of an extraordinary civilization.
Builders of Angkor Wat: Commissioned by Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura, the capital of the Khmer Empire, Angkor Wat served as the empire's heart for centuries. The temple's design drew inspiration from Mount Meru, a sacred site in Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism.
A Shrine for Lord Vishnu: Originally crafted as a Hindu sanctuary devoted to Lord Vishnu, Angkor Wat evolved into a significant Buddhist site by the late 12th century. This transition categorizes it as a 'Hindu-Buddhist' temple.
Architectural Marvels: Temples like Angkor Wat, Bayon, Preah Khan, and Ta Prohm within the complex exhibit the Khmer kingdom's intricate architectural prowess, carrying immense historical and symbolic importance. The temple's design reflects a sophisticated social hierarchy within the Khmer Empire, representing cultural, religious, and symbolic values of profound significance.
Tourist Magnet: Angkor Wat transformed into a prime tourist attraction since the 1990s, drawing countless visitors annually. Although impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic with reduced footfall in 2021 and 2022, its allure has been steadily recovering since 2023.
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