India is a country where you can locate a temple at every nook and corner. Temples are the most sacred place for Hindus, and one cannot think of contaminating the place by thoughts, words or any detrimental actions. Most of the temples here are managed by trusts which are formed for that very purpose. A donation box is strategically placed in front of God’s idol to collect donations from the worshippers. But have you ever wondered how much wealth those temples you visit contain? It may be very tough/hard to believe, but there some temples which make more money than the richest people of India. Shocked? Well, we bring you a list of the 5 richest temples in India. So start scrolling down to know how the Gods & Goddesses are leading a lavish life. Enjoy!
Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Kerala
One of the richest temples in India, Padmanabhaswamy Temple, has a wealth close to INR 1.2 lakh crores. The temple is located in Kerala and is famous for its grandeur. Also, not to forget the gold necklace adorned by the deity is around 18 ft long and weighs about 2.5 kg.
Bonus Fact: Only Hindus are allowed to enter the Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Saibaba Temple, Shirdi
A popular temple among the devotees of Sai Baba, the Saibaba Temple in Shirdi has received a donation of around INR 1,441 crore in the last 5-6 years. The idol sits on a 94-kg gold throne which costs a whopping INR 100 million donated by 2 devotees of Sai Baba.
Bonus Fact: People regardless of any religion visit this temple every day.
Siddhivinayak, Mumbai
One of the top 5 richest and popular temples in India, Siddhivinayak Temple is a favorite among celebrities. With such popularity, it is bound to receive a lot of donation in terms of money and gold. The dome over the main shrine of Lord Ganesha is coated with 3.7 kg gold. And if you are lucky enough, you can also bump into a celebrity while seeking blessings from the elephant God. Now with Luxury Mumbai hotels you can plan a holiday easily, so what are you even waiting for?
Bonus Fact: The idol of the Siddhivinayak Temple is carved out of a single black stone, interesting right?
Golden Temple, Punjab
The canopy of this mesmerising temple is made of pure gold. Golden Temple’s altar is studded with beautiful diamonds and other gorgeous gemstones. Try to visit this temple at night or early sunrise.
Bonus Fact: Irrespective of any religion, food is served to all the devotees.
Vaishno Devi, Jammu and Kashmir
Vaishno Devi is one of the most busiest temples of India with an income of over INR 500 crore. The shrine is so popular among the devotees that almost 10 million pilgrims visit it every year.
Bonus Fact: The original cave of Vaishno Devi remains closed for most of the year.
Are you wondering how you never noticed the wealth these 5 temples possess? Well visit these places and let us know which one was your favorite. Till we meet again, happy travels!