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Nine Indian temples wrapped in mystery and myth | See pictures

India's ancient temples are not just places of worship, they are shrouded in mystery, legends and awe-inspiring architecture. From floating pillars to disappearing lingams, here are nine enigmatic temples that continue to puzzle devotees and historians alike. Wikimedia Commons

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Known for its reclining Vishnu idol, Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple has tales of sages and divine interventions and is said to radiate an unexplained energy during rituals.
1/9 Image Source : Karnataka tourism
Known for its reclining Vishnu idol, Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple has tales of sages and divine interventions and is said to radiate an unexplained energy during rituals.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Airavatesvara Temple is Chola-era temple, which is famed for musical stone steps that produce different notes when tapped — a feat of ancient acoustic engineering.
2/9 Image Source : Wikimedia Commons
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Airavatesvara Temple is Chola-era temple, which is famed for musical stone steps that produce different notes when tapped — a feat of ancient acoustic engineering.
Built by the Hoysalas, Chennakesava Temple is renowned for its intricate carvings that seem almost too perfect for human hands. Legends say the temple took over a century to complete.
3/9 Image Source : Wikimedia Commons
Built by the Hoysalas, Chennakesava Temple is renowned for its intricate carvings that seem almost too perfect for human hands. Legends say the temple took over a century to complete.
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One of the 51 Shakti Peethas, Kamakhya Temple marks the spot where Goddess Sati’s womb is believed to have fallen. The temple is known for its annual Ambubachi Mela, celebrating the menstruation of the goddess.
4/9 Image Source : Wikimedia Commons
One of the 51 Shakti Peethas, Kamakhya Temple marks the spot where Goddess Sati’s womb is believed to have fallen. The temple is known for its annual Ambubachi Mela, celebrating the menstruation of the goddess.
Regarded as the richest temple in the world, Padmanabhaswamy Temple houses secret vaults, one of which (Vault B) remains unopened due to myths of curses and divine wrath.
5/9 Image Source : Wikimedia Commons
Regarded as the richest temple in the world, Padmanabhaswamy Temple houses secret vaults, one of which (Vault B) remains unopened due to myths of curses and divine wrath.
Stambheshwar Mahadev Temple is a Shiva temple that vanishes and reappears with the tides of the Arabian Sea. Devotees can visit only during low tide, adding to the temple’s mystical aura.
6/9 Image Source : Wikimedia Commons
Stambheshwar Mahadev Temple is a Shiva temple that vanishes and reappears with the tides of the Arabian Sea. Devotees can visit only during low tide, adding to the temple’s mystical aura.
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Thanumalayan Temple is a rare temple where the trinity — Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva — are worshipped together. Its 22-foot-high Hanuman statue and mysterious musical pillars attract pilgrims and researchers alike.
7/9 Image Source : Wikimedia Commons
Thanumalayan Temple is a rare temple where the trinity — Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva — are worshipped together. Its 22-foot-high Hanuman statue and mysterious musical pillars attract pilgrims and researchers alike.
Home to one of the 12 Jyotirlingas,Trimbakeshwar Temple uniquely houses three lingams representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. It is also believed to be the origin of the sacred Godavari River.
8/9 Image Source : Wikimedia Commons
Home to one of the 12 Jyotirlingas,Trimbakeshwar Temple uniquely houses three lingams representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. It is also believed to be the origin of the sacred Godavari River.
Famed for its hanging pillar that defies gravity, this 16th-century temple is steeped in myth. Locals believe Lord Rama’s footprints are etched here and that Veerabhadra Temple was created by Shiva to avenge Sati’s death.
9/9 Image Source : Wikimedia Commons
Famed for its hanging pillar that defies gravity, this 16th-century temple is steeped in myth. Locals believe Lord Rama’s footprints are etched here and that Veerabhadra Temple was created by Shiva to avenge Sati’s death.
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