India enjoys worldwide fame not only for its fascinating landscape and rich cultural heritage, but it is equally well-known for its temples that are located all over the country. The ancient dynasties were known for their refined pursuits and building exquisite temples was one such among them. Apart from the remarkable and well known temples that are located in Konark, Kanchipuram, Rameshwaram and Tirupati, there are many other temples of India that also deserve a visit by the tourists.

Temples of Goa:

For a long period of time, Goa was dominated by the Portuguese and several temples of this tropical paradise have survived the ravages of colonial powers. Shree Mangeshi Temple dedicated to Lord Mangesh (an incarnation of Lord Shiva) is one of the oldest and the most significant temples of Goa. The temple was renovated many a times and at the entry of the temple, there is an imposing lamp tower.

The Mahalaxmi Temple in Panaji is also worthy of a visit and was the first Hindu temple allowed by the Portuguese to be constructed in Goa. The temple is highly revered by the locals and frequented by devotees from various places of India.

Some of the famous temples in Goa are Brahma Temple, Shri Bhagavati Temple, Shri Datta Mandir, Shri Damodar Temple, Shri Chandreshwar Temple and Devaki-Krishna Temple.

Temples of Jageshwar:

Jageshwar is an ancient place and highly consecrated by the Hindus. Located in the beautiful Kumaon hills, here you will come across 124 temples of which, some are so old that they have become dilapidated. The temples housed at complex are dedicated to Lord Shiva and feature the Nagara style of architecture with impressive stone images around the altar. Many devotes drop in here to worship and seek blessings of the presiding deity. The temples date back to the post-Gupta and pre-medieval era. These temples were restored during the rule of Katyuri King Shalivahandev.

Temples of Dilwara:

The Dilwara temples feature the finest temple architecture among the other temples of India and according to some, are even superior to the Taj Mahal in style and grace. The carvings of these temples are simply outstanding. The corners, pillars, ceilings, walls and floors of these Jain temples are adorned with the images of Jain mythology, saints, gods and goddesses, monks, and other religious themes in spectacular workmanship. The Vimala Vasahi and Luna Vasahi are the most famous among all the temples that are located here.

Temples of Mahabalipuram:

Mahabalipuram is an ancient town in the Kanchipuram district of Tamil Nadu and was the hub of culture and learning during the rule of the Cholas and the Pallavas. The temples built here during the 7th and 9th centuries are acknowledged as the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Thirukadalmallai Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu featuring the Pallava style of architecture, is much revered by the Hindu pilgrims. Several other well-acclaimed ones include Arjuna's Penance, Varaha Cave Temple, The Shore Temple and Pancha Rathas (five monolithic pyramidal structures).

Your temple tour of India will be even more exciting, when you decide to pay a visit to these religious sites that have been recognized for their architectural marvels.

Learn more about the other temples of India located in the other states in touristplacesinindia.com, which offers online information about the major tourist destinations of India.