The Most Beautiful Temple in the World, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the temple you think is the most beautiful!

Updated on Apr 26, 2024 06:20

In the pursuit of beauty and spirituality, temples around the globe present awe-inspiring architecture enriched with centuries of history. Each temple tells unique tales through its intricate designs and sacred ambiance, captivating those who visit. Understanding the splendor of these revered sites through a collective lens can deepen appreciation and foster a connection amongst cultures. By creating a live ranking of the world's most beautiful temples based on public opinion, individuals are given a voice in shaping a global perspective of architectural and spiritual wonders. This dynamic list not only reflects current popular sentiment but also encourages a broader engagement with the world's cultural heritage, prompting travelers and enthusiasts alike to contribute their views and experiences.

What Is the Most Beautiful Temple in the World?

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30
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Unidentified Photographer · CC0

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

King Suryavarman II

Angkor Wat, Cambodia - known for its intricate carvings and towering spires, this 12th-century temple complex is considered one of the most beautiful in the world.
Angkor Wat is a temple complex and the largest religious monument in the world. It was originally built in the early 12th century as a Hindu temple, but gradually transformed into a Buddhist temple by the end of the same century. It is located in Cambodia, and is now a World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia.

Built: Early 12th century

Creator: King Suryavarman II

Religion: Originally Hindu, later transformed into Buddhist

Size: 162.6 hectares

Height: 65 meters
Angkor Wat, Cambodia in other rankings
- Position 10 of 10 in Most beautiful architectural structure in the world
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31
votes
Taj Mahal, India

Taj Mahal, India is built in the 17th century as a mausoleum for the wife of Emperor Shah Jahan, this iconic white marble structure is considered a masterpiece of Mughal architecture.
The Taj Mahal is a white marble mausoleum located in Agra, India. It was commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan, to house the tomb of his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful buildings in the world.

Construction Period: 1632-1653

Architectural Style: Mughal

Materials Used: White Marble, Red Sandstone

Height: 73 meters (240 feet)

Length: 75 meters (246 feet)
Taj Mahal, India in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most beautiful architectural structure in the world
3

21
votes
Borobudur, Indonesia

Borobudur, Indonesia is a 9th-century Buddhist temple located on the island of Java, Borobudur is renowned for its towering stupas and intricate reliefs.
Borobudur is a magnificent Buddhist temple located in Central Java, Indonesia. It is considered one of the most beautiful temples in the world, known for its impressive architecture and intricate stone carvings. Built during the 8th and 9th centuries, the temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination in Indonesia.

Location: Central Java, Indonesia

Construction Period: 8th and 9th centuries

Architecture Style: Buddhist

Height: 9 meters (30 feet)

Number of Levels: 9
4

10
votes
Dsudhakar555 · Public domain

Golden Temple, India

Golden Temple, India - also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, this Sikh temple in Amritsar is famous for its stunning golden dome and reflective pool.
The Golden Temple, also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, is a world-renowned temple situated in Amritsar, Punjab, India. It is considered one of the most beautiful temples in the world due to its architectural brilliance and the stunning golden coating that covers its exterior. The temple holds immense religious significance for Sikhs, who consider it their holiest shrine.

Location: Amritsar, Punjab, India

Architectural Style: Mughal and Sikh

Building Material: Marble, copper, and gold

Foundation: Laid by Muslim saint Hazrat Mian Mir Ji

Main Entrance: Darshani Deori (Gate of Vision)
5

20
votes
Vyacheslav Argenberg · CC BY 4.0

Shwedagon Pagoda, Myanmar

Shwedagon Pagoda, Myanmar is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world, this golden temple complex in Yangon is said to contain relics of the Buddha himself.
The Shwedagon Pagoda, also known as the Golden Pagoda, is a magnificent Buddhist temple located in Yangon, Myanmar. It is one of the most iconic and beautiful temples in the world.

Height: The main pagoda stands at a height of approximately 99 meters (325 feet).

Materials: The pagoda is made of bricks and covered in gold plates, with the top stupa covered in thousands of diamonds, rubies, and other precious stones.

Architecture: The Shwedagon Pagoda is a fusion of different architectural styles, reflecting its long history. It features a bell-shaped stupa, adorned with intricate carvings, golden decorations, and statues of mythical creatures.

Religious significance: The pagoda is a major center of worship for Buddhists in Myanmar and is believed to house important relics, including strands of hair from Gautama Buddha himself.

Largest bell: The Shwedagon Pagoda has a massive bell called the Maha Gandha Bell, which weighs over 23 tons.
6

14
votes
Kumar Appaiah · CC BY-SA 2.5

Meenakshi Temple, India

Meenakshi Temple, India - located in Madurai, this Hindu temple complex is known for its towering gopurams, or entrance towers, adorned with thousands of colorful sculptures.
Meenakshi Temple, also known as Meenakshi Amman Temple, is a grand Hindu temple located in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India. It is dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi (a form of Parvati) and her consort, Sundareswarar (a form of Shiva). The temple is considered one of the most beautiful and prominent temples in India, attracting millions of devotees and tourists each year. The architecture and intricate carvings of the temple are awe-inspiring, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of South India.

Location: Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India

Date of creation: 6th century CE

Architectural Style: Dravidian

Main Deities: Goddess Meenakshi (Parvati) and Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva)

Number of Towers: 14 gopurams (tower gateways)
7

12
votes
Temple of Heaven, China

Temple of Heaven, China is a complex of Taoist temples in Beijing, the Temple of Heaven is renowned for its stunning circular Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests.
The Temple of Heaven is an imperial complex of religious buildings located in Beijing, China. It is considered one of the most beautiful temples in the world and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple was designed to be a place of worship and solemn rites for the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Architecture: The temple complex covers an area of 2.73 square kilometers and is characterized by magnificent architectural elements, including the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the Imperial Vault of Heaven, and the Circular Mound Altar.

Symbolism: The layout of the temple represents the belief of ancient Chinese emperors that they had a direct connection with heaven, and the complex was constructed to facilitate communication between the mortal and divine realms.

Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests: The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests is an iconic triple-gabled circular building with a blue roof, representing heaven. It is constructed without the use of any nails.

Imperial Vault of Heaven: The Imperial Vault of Heaven is an echo wall-enclosed circular building situated north of the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. Its purpose was holding the divine tablets of the gods and the tablets of prayers for good harvests.

Circular Mound Altar: The Circular Mound Altar is a round marble terrace with three levels symbolizing Earth, Mortal Realm, and Heaven. It was the site where the emperors conducted sacrificial ceremonies to pray for abundant harvests.
8

13
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An-d · CC BY-SA 3.0

Wat Rong Khun, Thailand

Chalermchai Kositpipat

Wat Rong Khun, Thailand - also known as the White Temple, this contemporary Buddhist temple in Chiang Rai is famous for its intricate white exterior and surreal interior artwork.
Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple, is a stunningly beautiful Buddhist temple located in Chiang Rai, Thailand. It is renowned for its unique and intricate design that combines traditional Thai architectural elements with contemporary artistry. The temple is constructed entirely in white and adorned with mirror fragments that make it shimmer in sunlight. The exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail make Wat Rong Khun a true masterpiece and one of the most captivating temples in the world.

Location: Chiang Rai, Thailand

Architectural Style: Contemporary Buddhist

Construction Years: 1997 - Present

Material: White plaster and mirror fragments

Size: Approximately 1.7 hectares
9

4
votes
Ondraness · CC BY-SA 4.0

Kinkaku-ji, Japan

Kinkaku-ji, Japan is a Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Kinkaku-ji is famous for its stunning golden pavilion, reflected in a tranquil pond.
Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a stunning Zen Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, Japan. Its name translates to 'Temple of the Golden Pavilion' due to its iconic gold leaf-covered exterior. The temple is situated in a beautiful garden surrounded by a peaceful pond, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere.

Location: Kyoto, Japan

Architecture: Zen Buddhist temple

Exterior: Covered in gold leaf

Surroundings: Beautiful garden with a pond

Atmosphere: Peaceful and serene
10

6
votes
Basile Morin · CC BY-SA 4.0

Wat Phra Kaew, Thailand

King Rama I

Wat Phra Kaew, Thailand is located in Bangkok's Grand Palace complex, Wat Phra Kaew is home to the revered Emerald Buddha, as well as stunning Thai temple architecture and intricate murals.
Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is one of the most beautiful and important Buddhist temples in the world. Located within the grounds of the Grand Palace complex in Bangkok, Thailand, it is regarded as the holiest temple in Thailand.

Location: Bangkok, Thailand

Year Built: 1782

Architectural Style: Thai

Primary Deity: Emerald Buddha

Size: 94.5 meters long, 46.5 meters wide

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Ranking factors for beautiful temple

Architectural Design

The overall design and style of the temple should be aesthetically pleasing, unique, and a representation of the culture and history from which it originates.
Artwork and Decoration

The beauty and intricacy of the sculptures, paintings, frescoes, and carvings within and around the temple can significantly contribute to its overall beauty.
Historical Significance

The age, historical events, and cultural influences associated with the temple would factor into its overall beauty and importance.
Materials and Craftsmanship

The quality and rarity of the materials used in the temple's construction, as well as the skill and expertise of the craftsmen who built it can play a role in its overall appeal.
Cultural Significance

The temple's importance to the local or regional beliefs, customs, and traditions would contribute to its perceived beauty.
Location and Surroundings

A stunning location or natural setting can enhance the temple's overall beauty, making it even more captivating and awe-inspiring.
Scale and Proportions

The size and proportions of the temple can create a sense of grandeur or intimacy that contributes to its overall beauty and impact.
Preservation and Maintenance

A well-preserved and maintained temple reflects the dedication and respect given to the structure and is likely to be more beautiful.
Symbolism and Sacredness

The meanings and symbolism attributed to the temple's design and iconography can contribute to its beauty in the eyes of believers and admirers.
Uniqueness and Innovation

Temples that challenge traditional architectural norms or introduce innovative design elements can be considered more beautiful and noteworthy.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most beautiful temple in the world. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Temple is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

1625 views
162 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Temple once every 24 hours. The rank of each Temple is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most beautiful temple in the world

Temples have always been a symbol of spirituality, culture, and history. They are not only places of worship but also architectural marvels that showcase the skill and craftsmanship of the builders. The beauty of temples is not limited to their religious significance but also their intricate designs and decorations. From ancient ruins to modern-day structures, temples can be found all over the world, each with its unique charm and allure. In this poll, we aim to find out which temple is the most beautiful in the world, based on popular opinion. So, let's explore the world of temples and discover the most stunning one of all.