5 mysterious temples in India you must explore
India is full of mysteries and allure, housing approximately two million temples and more than 330 million deities. Some of these temples are well-known for their interesting history, traditions, rituals, and deities that will surely amaze you and give you goosebumps. Here are five mysterious temples in India that hold tremendous significance and are shrouded by the mystery of urban legends.
Mehandipur Balaji Temple
This temple in Dausa, Rajasthan is one of the most mysterious temples in India. The priests here perform a live exorcism of people who are believed to be possessed. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Here you can witness people pouring boiling water over themselves, some chained to the walls and banging their heads, and some hanging from the ceiling.
Kamakhya Devi Temple
The Kamakhya Devi Temple is located atop Guwahati's Nilachal Hill and is one of the oldest among the 51 shakti peethas in India. It's believed that the goddess here menstruates every monsoon season. The temple doesn't have any deity but the stone-shaped vagina of Devi Sati is worshipped here. The temple is closed for three days during the Ambabuchi festival when the goddess menstruates.
Venkateshwara Temple
Located in Andhra Pradesh, Venkateshwara Temple is visited by approximately 50,000 people daily. It's one of the richest temples. The deity wears original hair and over 12,000 pilgrims shave off their heads daily as a symbol of sacrifice. If people are to be believed, he even sweats. Some of them have also heard sea waves crashing while placing their ears on the deity's backside.
Veerabhadra Temple
Located in Andhra Pradesh's Lepakshi district, Veerabhadra Temple is well-known for its one particular hanging pillar among 70. The pillars here are built according to the Vijayanagar style. Unlike other pillars, one of the pillars does not touch the ground and stays intact without support. You can test the gap between the pillar and the ground by placing a cloth under the recognizable space.
Shree Stambheshwar Mahadev Temple
Located in Gujarat, this mysterious temple vanishes and reappears two times a day. Also known as the Temple of the Lost, the shrine shares the shores with the Arabian Sea and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to ancient tales, the temple was built by Devas after destroying the demon named Tarakasur. The temple submerges during high tides and reappears after the water descends.