UNESCO Hindu Temples Worldwide
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recognizes the world's most outstanding cultural and natural heritage. Among these, numerous sites bear witness to the profound influence of Hindu civilization across Asia and beyond. From the temple-mountains of Southeast Asia to the sacred ghats of Nepal and the architectural masterpieces of India, these UNESCO World Heritage Sites showcase the artistic, spiritual, and engineering genius of Hindu temple builders over two millennia.
International UNESCO Hindu Temple Sites
Angkor Wat
Cambodia · UNESCO since 1992
The largest religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat was built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu. Its five iconic lotus-bud towers, extensive bas-reliefs depicting the Ramayana and Mahabharata, and sophisticated water management system make it one of humanity's greatest architectural achievements.
Largest religious monument in the worldPrambanan Temple Compound
Indonesia · UNESCO since 1991
Indonesia's largest Hindu temple complex, Prambanan features three main shrines dedicated to the Trimurti — Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma. The central Shiva temple rises 47 meters with intricate Ramayana reliefs carved along its galleries. Built in the 9th century, it represents the zenith of Hindu-Javanese civilization.
Tallest Hindu temple in Southeast AsiaPashupatinath Temple (Kathmandu Valley)
Nepal · UNESCO since 1979
Part of the UNESCO-listed Kathmandu Valley, Pashupatinath is one of the holiest Shiva temples in the world. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, its pagoda-style architecture, gold-plated roof, and silver doors have drawn pilgrims for over a millennium. The temple complex contains hundreds of lingams, shrines, and ghats.
Most sacred Shiva temple in NepalUNESCO Temple Sites in India
India is home to an extraordinary concentration of UNESCO World Heritage temple sites. For a complete guide, visit our dedicated UNESCO Temples in India page.
Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram
Tamil Nadu · UNESCO since 1984
Brihadeeswarar Temple (Great Living Chola Temples)
Tamil Nadu · UNESCO since 1987
Khajuraho Group of Monuments
Madhya Pradesh · UNESCO since 1986
Konark Sun Temple
Odisha · UNESCO since 1984
Group of Monuments at Hampi
Karnataka · UNESCO since 1986
Ellora Caves (Kailasa Temple)
Maharashtra · UNESCO since 1983
Elephanta Caves
Maharashtra · UNESCO since 1987
Pattadakal Monuments
Karnataka · UNESCO since 1987
Ramappa Temple (Kakatiya Rudreshwara)
Telangana · UNESCO since 2021
Sanchi Stupa
Madhya Pradesh · UNESCO since 1989
Mahabodhi Temple Complex
Bihar · UNESCO since 2002
Why UNESCO Recognition Matters
UNESCO World Heritage status is the highest international recognition for cultural heritage sites. For Hindu temples, this designation ensures preservation, research funding, and global awareness. It also helps protect these sacred sites from urban encroachment, environmental degradation, and unregulated tourism.
The criteria for UNESCO listing include representing a masterpiece of human creative genius, exhibiting an important interchange of human values, or being an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement or land-use. Many Hindu temples meet these criteria through their architectural innovation, spiritual significance, and historical importance spanning centuries of continuous worship.