| Religion, beliefs and spirituality have been a part of | | | | back to the pre-Christian times. Moreover, |
| our society since times immemorial. When it | | | | Alampur Bhrama temples are the excellent |
| comes to the diversified land of India, a Hindu | | | | examples of the Chalukya art that were built in |
| temple can be spotted at almost every nook and | | | | the 6th century. |
| corner. But south India temple tour – | | | | - Temples in Karnataka seem to be inspired from |
| comprising states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, | | | | Hoysala architectural style. Elaborate sculptures, |
| Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Pondicherry – | | | | rock cut cave temples and many such attractions |
| showcases a unique aspect of religion and | | | | in Karnataka have become synonymous with |
| spirituality. Ancient Hindu temples in south India are | | | | peace and serenity. |
| favourite of all the religious minded people, art | | | | - Tamil Nadu – the land of temples – is |
| lovers and history buffs. | | | | popular for its religious traditions. All the native |
| Background | | | | people also follow these traditions strictly. Tamil |
| Most of these temples were built during the reign | | | | rulers like Pallavas, Cholas and Pandyas are |
| of Cholas, Chalukyas, Nayakas, Pallavas, Kakatiyas | | | | considered as the greatest of temple builders. |
| and Vijayanagar rulers. The true culture and rich | | | | - Kerala temples are totally distinct in terms of |
| heritage of south India is depicted beautifully in | | | | structure, rituals, tradition, offerings, festivals and |
| these ancient architectural wonders. There are | | | | customs. Most of the temples here are connected |
| countless temples dotted all over south India that | | | | with great epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata. |
| are a must visit after enjoying the natural | | | | The day starts with prayer and offering in the |
| diversity of peninsular India. | | | | temple. |
| Being designed by different dynasties, each | | | | - Pondicherry is popular for its temples as well as |
| temple showcases a distinct architectural style. | | | | churches. Almost all the ancient churches in |
| Dynasties like Pallavas and Cholas were known for | | | | Pondicherry are oriental examples of Gothic |
| their extraordinary sense for creative arts and | | | | splendor. |
| they designed these superb temples to promote | | | | This way, most of the south Indian temples are |
| Dravidian architecture. | | | | built in Dravidian architectural style. One can notice |
| - Andhra Pradesh has temples like Tirupati | | | | beautiful and elaborate carvings and paintings on |
| Venkateswara and Kalahasteeswara that date | | | | the walls and ceilings. |