India is a land of deep spiritual roots and timeless devotion. From Himalayan shrines to coastal sanctuaries, every temple tells a story of faith, architecture, and tradition. Summer is the perfect time to combine spirituality with travel, and what better way than to explore some of the most divine and scenic temples across the country? Here’s a list of the top 10 temples to visit this summer in India that offer peace, history, and a glimpse into India’s rich cultural heritage.
1. Kedarnath Temple, Uttarakhand
Best for: Pilgrimage and Himalayan views
One of the most sacred temples in Hinduism, Kedarnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in the Garhwal Himalayas. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks and the Mandakini River, it opens only during the summer months (April to November). The journey involves a scenic trek or helicopter ride, making it a spiritual adventure worth taking.
2. Badrinath Temple, Uttarakhand
Best for: Devotion and scenic beauty
Located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, Badrinath Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is part of the famous Char Dham Yatra. Nestled between the Nar and Narayana mountain ranges, this temple comes alive in the summer when pilgrims arrive to seek blessings in the cool and divine surroundings.
3. Vaishno Devi Temple, Jammu & Kashmir
Best for: Devotion and spiritual trekking
Perched on the Trikuta Hills, Vaishno Devi Temple is one of the most visited temples in India. Devotees undertake a trek of about 13 km to reach the holy cave shrine. Summer is the best time to visit due to pleasant weather and clear skies. The journey, filled with chanting and devotion, is an experience in itself.
4. Meenakshi Temple, Madurai, Tamil Nadu
Best for: Architecture and divine experience
The Meenakshi Amman Temple is an architectural marvel located in the city of Madurai. Dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi (a form of Parvati) and Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva), the temple is known for its towering gopurams, vibrant sculptures, and spiritual energy. Though it can get warm, the stone corridors provide cool shelter for devotees.
5. Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha
Best for: Rath Yatra and sea breeze
Located near the Bay of Bengal, Jagannath Temple in Puri is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. Dedicated to Lord Jagannath, it’s most famous for the Rath Yatra in summer, which draws millions of devotees. The cool sea breeze and festive atmosphere make it a memorable visit.
6. Somnath Temple, Gujarat
Best for: History and seaside spirituality
One of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, Somnath Temple stands majestically by the Arabian Sea in Gujarat. The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, symbolizing the eternal strength of faith. The sound of waves, historical richness, and spiritual calm make it a great summer stop.
7. Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu
Best for: Spiritual bathing and island peace
Located on the serene island of Rameswaram, this temple is another of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Ramanathaswamy Temple is famous for its long corridors, sculpted pillars, and holy water tanks. A dip in the sea followed by prayers inside the temple brings peace and spiritual cleansing.
8. Amarnath Cave Temple, Jammu & Kashmir
Best for: Unique natural ice Shivling and Himalayan trekking
The Amarnath Temple is one of the most sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located in a high-altitude cave, the temple houses a naturally formed ice Shivling, visible only during the summer months (July-August). The challenging trek through snow-capped paths makes it both a spiritual and physical journey.
9. Kamakhya Temple, Assam
Best for: Shakti worship and unique rituals
Located on Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, Kamakhya Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. Dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya, this temple attracts devotees during the Ambubachi Mela, which occurs in summer. The temple has mystical vibes and offers a deep spiritual experience in a cool and green setting.
10. Tirupati Balaji Temple, Andhra Pradesh
Best for: Spiritual grandeur and large-scale devotion
Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala is one of the richest and most visited temples in the world. Despite the summer heat, pilgrims gather in large numbers to seek the blessings of Lord Balaji. The temple’s efficient management and divine aura make it a must-visit for any devotee.
A Spiritual Summer Journey
Temples in India are not just places of worship—they are cultural treasures, architectural wonders, and serene spaces for self-reflection. Visiting these temples in summer not only offers spiritual solace but also lets you experience India’s beauty in different forms—from mountains and rivers to coasts and forests. Whether you seek blessings, and inner peace, or simply want to explore the divine heritage of India, these top 10 temples provide the perfect escape this summer.
