5 unique temples in India you won't find in any travel brochure

Time of India

28-04-2025

India is a land known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and, of course, its temples. While places like Varanasi and Rishikesh get their fair share of attention in every travel brochure, there are lesser-known, but equally stunning, colorful temples scattered across the country. These temples might not make it to your typical tourist itinerary, but trust us, they deserve a spot in your travel diary. Let's take a quirky journey to five of the most dazzling, out-of-the-way temples in India that you won't find in a brochure!
Kailasa Temple, Ellora, Maharashtra
Tucked away in Ellora, the Kailasa Temple is like the cool, artsy cousin of all temples. Carved from a single piece of granite, this massive marvel doesn't just sit there quietly—it screams history and creativity. From the outside, it might look like just another gray rock, but inside? It's a kaleidoscope of colors! Imagine Hindu gods and legendary stories splashed in fiery reds, sunny yellows, and lush greens. You'll need to climb a few caves to get there, but trust us—the view of this rock-cut wonder is totally worth the mini workout. It's like the temple version of an art gallery that rocks (literally)!
Brahma Temple, Pushkar, Rajasthan
Although Pushkar is a well-liked pilgrimage site, the more well-known sights frequently eclipse its Brahma Temple. It may surprise you to learn that this temple features some quite striking hues! The temple's architecture combines vivid pink and blue tones with white marble. The location has a surreal charm because of the painted walls and elaborate decorations in electric tones that contrast with the desert scenery. The majority of visitors come for its religious significance (it is one of the few temples devoted to Lord Brahma), but for those seeking a unique experience, the sheer beauty of the place makes it a hidden gem.
Mehandipur Balaji Temple, Rajasthan
Now, this one isn't for the faint-hearted. Located in the town of Dausa, this temple is famous for its vibrant rituals and bizarre spiritual practices. The temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, is painted in bold, clashing colors that you'd expect from an experimental art piece. It's a temple with a twist – people visit to get rid of evil spirits, and the whole place is a hub of intense, eccentric rituals. You'll see people chanting mantras, performing fire rituals, and the entire temple is decorated with garish shades of red, orange, and yellow. It's like stepping into a psychedelic wonderland, so if you're looking for something unconventional, this temple should be on your list.
by Taboola
by Taboola
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Pattadakal Temples, Karnataka
Although Pushkar is a well-liked pilgrimage site, the more well-known sights frequently eclipse its Brahma Temple. It may surprise you to learn that this temple features some quite striking hues! The temple's architecture combines vivid pink and blue tones with white marble. The location has a surreal charm because of the painted walls and elaborate decorations in electric tones that contrast with the desert scenery. The majority of visitors come for its religious significance (it is one of the few temples devoted to Lord Brahma), but for those seeking a unique experience, the sheer beauty of the place makes it a hidden gem.
Sri Ayyappa Temple, Sabarimala, Kerala
Think the Sri Ayyappa Temple in Kerala is all about pilgrimage? Well, it's got more to offer than just that! This temple isn't just a spiritual hotspot, it's a visual feast. Imagine murals bursting in reds, yellows, and greens, all around a golden temple that practically glows in the sunlight. But wait, here's the kicker: it's set in the middle of a lush forest, making it feel like you've wandered onto a mystical planet where nature and color have teamed up for a jaw-dropping spectacle. It's not just a temple; it's an otherworldly experience waiting to happen!