India is a land of religions, yet it also boasts some of the most mysterious temples in the world. These out-of-the-way structures are constructed based on beliefs and mythologies that have no connection to modern culture – leaving travelers in awe!
Sudarshan Chakra in Puri, Odisha
This Hindu shrine is one of India’s most revered temples and draws thousands of visitors daily. It stands out for its unique architectural design as well as mysterious astronomical phenomena which still baffle scientists!
At the top of the temple, a flag flying in the opposite direction to the wind is observed. This ritual is performed daily by a priest who climbs up to 20 feet high and changes it without fail – an action so important that if not performed, all activity in the temple will cease for 18 years!
Another remarkable fact about this temple is that there is no artificial lighting inside. Instead, the sun directly shines on the idol of the goddess inside the shrine.
Prasad is prepared in seven earthen pots that are stacked atop each other using firewood, and served to those who visit the temple.
This strange and captivating ritual has long been observed by tourists as well as locals alike. The prasad is served to devotees in front of the deity, making it all the more captivating.
KodungallurBhagavathy Temple – Thrissur, Kerala
This revered pilgrimage site in Kerala features many strange rituals. During the annual Bhoot Mela festival, people come here to cast away ghosts and evil spirits by running around or getting hit with a broom!
In addition to these rituals, the goddess is also associated with strange stories of abuse and lewd songs. Anyone interested in exploring its mysteries must pay this place a visit!
When visiting Nidhivan Temple in Kerala, don’t forget to admire its sacred trees that are intertwined. Even during Kerala’s dry climate, these majestic trees have never been killed or cut down.
It is an ancient custom in this part of India to offer trees as prasad at certain points in the year, believed to bring prosperity.
The Gurudwara has become a magnet for visa-seekers due to the belief that offering aeroplanes to the shrine will expedite processing. Whoever originated this unique belief remains unknown, but the gurudwara has become an increasingly popular destination among those searching for visas.
Mehandipur Balaji Temple in Dausa, Rajasthan
The revered Mehandipur Balaji temple in Rajasthan is a must-visit for those seeking to cleanse themselves of negative energy and ghosts. Here, priests perform exorcisms with the aim of freeing people from these demons’ grasp.
Priests perform a series of bizarre and terrifying rituals to cure their patients, such as chaining them up, beating them on the head, keeping them in cages or pouring boiling water onto their bodies. Yet these cures are effective.