6 Of The Most Exquisite Temples From Around The World

Most people probably think of the India, China or elsewhere in the Far East when they hear the word ‘temple’, but as this list proves, there are exquisite temples in every country around the world. It was Rumi who once said that ‘There are hundreds of ways to kneel and kiss the ground’, and this list of breathtaking temples from around the world proves that statement to be true. From India and China to Egypt and the United States, visiting some of these temples is sure to land on your bucket list. But for now you don’t need a plane ticket, just enjoy!


6. Lotus Temple (India)

This exquisite temple in New Delhi, India, was completed in 1986 and is one of the most important Bahai temples in the world. Built in the shape of the lotus flower, it is made of pure white marble and surrounded by nine pools that light up in natural light.


5. Wat Benchamabophit (Thailand)

This ornate Buddhist temple, known as the “Marble Temple,” is made entirely of Italian marble, but retains all of the classically Thai architectural traits. Construction began 1899 and today it is one of the most visited temples in Thailand.


4. Prambana (Indonesia)

This Hindu temple in Central Java, Indonesia, was built around 850 CE. The 1200 year old temple has 8 main shrines and 250 smaller ones. Nearly all of the walls are covered in exquisite low relief carvings, narratives of Vishnu’s incarnations, and other stories and legends.


3. Temple of Heaven (China)

This Taoist temple in Bejing, China was built in the 14th century by Emperor Yongle of the Ming Dynasty, the same emperor who built the Forbidden City. Everything with a circular shape represents heaven and everything that is square shaped represents earth. At 273 acres, it is one of the largest architectural compounds in the world.


2. Kek Lok Si Temple (Penang)

This vibrant Buddhist temple began in 1890 and is still expanding today with its menagerie of color and architectural styles. It is said to be the largest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia and boasts 10,000 alabaster and bronze statues of Buddha.


1. Jokhang Temple (Lhasa)

The Jokhang Temple was built in 642 CE and serves as the spiritual center of Lhasa. It is considered the most important and sacred temple in all of Tibet. The most important object in Tibetan Buddhism is housed here, a statue of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism.