Oct 28, 2023, 03:12 PM IST

8 of the World's Oldest Hindu Temples

Vikrant Singh

1. Mundeshwari Temple, India

This temple in Bihar, India, is often considered one of the oldest functional Hindu temples, with origins dating back to the Gupta period (around 4th-6th century CE).

2. Kailasa Temple, India

Located in Ellora, Maharashtra, this rock-cut temple is renowned for its intricate architecture and is believed to have been constructed in the 8th century CE.

3. Brihadeeswarar Temple (Thanjavur Temple), India

This UNESCO World Heritage site, built by Chola king Rajaraja I in the 11th century CE, is known for its massive Shiva Lingam and impressive architecture.

4. Bateshwar Temple, India

Situated in Madhya Pradesh, these temples date back to the 8th-10th centuries CE and are known for their unique architecture and alignment.

5. Kandariya Mahadev Temple, India

Part of the Khajuraho Group of Monuments in Madhya Pradesh, this temple was built around 1025-1050 CE and is famous for its intricate erotic sculptures.

6. Virupaksha Temple, India

Located in Hampi, Karnataka, it is believed to have been functioning since the 7th century CE, making it one of the oldest temples in South India.

7. Prambanan Temple, Indonesia

This temple complex in Java, Indonesia, consists of numerous Hindu temples and is thought to have been built in the 9th century CE.

8. Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal

Situated in Kathmandu, Nepal, the origins of this temple are debated, but it is considered one of the most important Shiva temples in the world, with historical roots tracing back to ancient times.