Top Hindu Temples Outside India to Visit This Diwali 2025

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October 10, 2025
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The Hindu diaspora has spread across the globe, carrying with them the timeless traditions and spiritual practices of Sanatan Dharma. From magnificent temple complexes in Southeast Asia to modern architectural marvels in North America, Hindu temples worldwide serve as spiritual anchors for millions of devotees. This Diwali 2025, discover some of the most spectacular Hindu temples outside India where you can celebrate the festival of lights and receive divine blessings.

SOUTHEAST ASIA

1. Angkor Wat – Siem Reap, Cambodia

The World’s Largest Religious Monument

Originally built as a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the 12th century, Angkor Wat remains the largest religious monument in the world. Though Cambodia is now predominantly Buddhist, Angkor Wat’s Hindu heritage is beautifully preserved in its architecture and bas-reliefs.

What Makes It Special:

Stunning depictions of the Churning of the Ocean (Samudra Manthan) and scenes from Ramayana and Mahabharata
Magnificent sunrise views that create a spiritual atmosphere
Over 3,000 celestial apsara carvings adorning the walls
The temple’s alignment with celestial bodies showcases ancient Hindu astronomical knowledge

Diwali Celebrations: While Diwali isn’t traditionally celebrated here as in India, the Hindu community in Cambodia organizes special prayers and cultural programs. The temple’s mystical ambiance during this time offers a unique spiritual experience.

Visitor Tips:

Best visited at sunrise for the iconic temple reflection
Hire a knowledgeable guide to understand the Hindu mythology depicted
Combine with visits to other temples in the Angkor complex like Bayon and Ta Prohm

2. Prambanan Temple – Yogyakarta, Indonesia

The Magnificent Trimurti Temple Complex

The Prambanan Temple Compounds in Java, Indonesia, is the largest Hindu temple site in Southeast Asia and one of the most beautiful in the world. Built in the 9th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is dedicated to the Trimurti – Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.

Temple Highlights:

47-meter tall central Shiva temple flanked by Brahma and Vishnu temples
Intricate stone carvings depicting the complete Ramayana epic
Temples dedicated to the vahanas (vehicles): Nandi, Garuda, and Hamsa
Regular Ramayana ballet performances with the temple as backdrop

Diwali Experience: Indonesia’s Hindu community, particularly in Java, celebrates Diwali with special pujas and cultural performances. The Prambanan complex hosts traditional dance performances and lighting ceremonies during the festival season.

Must Know:

The temple complex is illuminated beautifully at night
Visit during the dry season (April-October) for the best experience
Evening Ramayana performances are spectacular with the temple as the stage

3. Batu Caves – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Lord Murugan’s Majestic Abode

Located just outside Kuala Lumpur, Batu Caves is a limestone hill featuring a series of caves and cave temples. The site is dominated by a massive 42.7-meter tall golden statue of Lord Murugan, the largest in the world.

Temple Features:

272 colorful steps leading to the Temple Cave
Stunning natural cathedral cave with Hindu shrines
The magnificent golden Lord Murugan statue at the entrance
Cave Art Gallery showcasing Hindu deities and mythology

Diwali Celebrations: Malaysia’s significant Hindu Tamil community celebrates Diwali with great fervor. Batu Caves becomes a focal point with special prayers, oil lamp lighting, and cultural programs. The entire complex is decorated with thousands of lights, creating a magical atmosphere.

Special Events:

Grand Diwali celebrations with traditional music and dance
Special abhishekam and pujas for Lord Murugan
Kolam (rangoli) competitions and cultural exhibitions
Distribution of prasadam and community feasts

Visitor Information:

Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered)
Be prepared for a climb up the colorful steps
Watch out for the resident monkeys
Best visited early morning to avoid crowds and heat

4. Pashupatinath Temple – Kathmandu, Nepal

The Sacred Abode of Lord Shiva

Though Nepal borders India, the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu is one of the most sacred Hindu temples outside India’s geographical boundaries. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Pashupati, the Lord of Animals.

Religious Significance:

One of the holiest Shiva temples for devotees worldwide
Similar in importance to the 12 Jyotirlingas in India
Located on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River
Ancient temple complex dating back to 400 CE

Diwali Celebrations: Nepal, being a Hindu-majority nation, celebrates Diwali (called Tihar) with unique traditions:

Day of Laxmi Puja coincides with traditional Diwali
The temple complex is illuminated with thousands of diyas
Special night aartis and celebrations
Cultural programs and traditional Newari performances

Unique Aspects:

Witness traditional cremation ceremonies on the ghats
Observe sadhus and yogis in meditation around the complex
Explore numerous smaller temples dedicated to various deities
Experience the deep spiritual atmosphere along the Bagmati River

5. Tanah Lot Temple – Bali, Indonesia

The Sea Temple of Bali

Tanah Lot is one of Bali’s most iconic and photographed temples. Perched on a large offshore rock, this ancient Hindu shrine to the sea gods has become a symbol of Balinese culture and spirituality.

Temple Significance:

Part of a chain of sea temples protecting Bali’s coast
Dedicated to the sea god Baruna
Sacred water springs at the base considered holy
Snake guardians believed to protect the temple

Diwali in Bali: Bali’s unique Hindu culture celebrates Diwali alongside their traditional festivals. The island’s Hindu community organizes special ceremonies and the temple is beautifully decorated with flowers and lights.

Best Experience:

Visit during sunset for breathtaking views
Attend traditional Balinese dance performances
Explore the clifftop complex with smaller shrines
Experience the unique blend of Hinduism and Balinese traditions

NORTH AMERICA

6. BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham – Robbinsville, New Jersey, USA

The Largest Hindu Temple in the Western Hemisphere

Opened in 2023, the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Jersey is a breathtaking architectural masterpiece. This traditional stone temple was hand-carved by thousands of artisans following ancient Vedic architectural principles.

Temple Specifications:

Built using 2 million cubic feet of stone
10,000 statues and sculptures depicting Hindu deities and traditions
Constructed without structural steel, using traditional mortise and tenon joints
49 ornate shikhars (spires) and 200+ intricate pillars

Diwali Celebrations: The BAPS organization is known for its grand Diwali celebrations:

Spectacular Diwali festival with traditional performances
Annakut (mountain of food) offering with thousands of vegetarian dishes
Cultural programs featuring classical Indian music and dance
Community gatherings and spiritual discourses
Beautiful illumination of the entire complex

What to Experience:

Traditional stone carving exhibition
Peaceful gardens reflecting Vedic landscaping principles
Educational exhibitions on Hinduism and Indian culture
Spiritual atmosphere combining tradition with modern amenities

Visitor Information:

Entry is free but registration recommended during festivals
Expect large crowds during Diwali weekend
Strict dress code: no shorts, skirts above knees, or sleeveless tops
Plan for at least 3-4 hours to explore fully

7. Sri Venkateswara Temple – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA

Balaji Temple of America

Built in 1976, the Sri Venkateswara (Balaji) Temple in Penn Hills, Pittsburgh, was the first traditional Hindu temple in North America. Modeled after the famous Tirupati temple, it serves as a spiritual home for thousands of Hindu Americans.

Temple Details:

Exact replica architecture of Tirumala Tirupati temple
Main deity: Lord Venkateswara (Balaji)
Additional shrines for Ganesha, Shiva, Rama, and other deities
Traditional South Indian temple rituals and ceremonies

Diwali Festivities: One of the most elaborate Diwali celebrations in North America:

Multi-day festival with special pujas and abhishekams
Lakshmi Puja on Diwali night
Cultural programs featuring classical dance and music
Fireworks display (weather and regulations permitting)
Community dinner and prasadam distribution
Rangoli competitions and children’s activities

Special Programs:

Early morning Suprabhata Seva
Special alankaram (decoration) of deities
Vedic chanting and bhajan sessions
Traditional South Indian cuisine in the temple cafeteria

8. Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago – Lemont, Illinois, USA

The Midwest’s Spiritual Center

The Rama Temple in Lemont is one of the largest and most diverse Hindu temples in North America, representing various Hindu traditions under one roof.

Temple Complex:

Multiple shrines representing North and South Indian traditions
Beautiful sanctums for Rama, Shiva, Ganesha, and Devi
Traditional gopuram (tower) architecture
Extensive cultural and educational facilities

Diwali Celebrations: The temple hosts one of Chicago’s grandest Diwali celebrations:

Week-long festivities with daily special pujas
Grand Annakut with elaborate food offerings
Cultural performances by renowned artists
Traditional Indian bazaar with vendors
Fireworks and community feast
Diwali mela (fair) with activities for all ages

Community Activities:

Sanskrit and Indian language classes
Classical music and dance programs
Yoga and meditation sessions
Educational lectures on Hindu philosophy

9. Malibu Hindu Temple – Calabasas, California, USA

Southern California’s Spiritual Gem

Perched in the scenic Santa Monica Mountains, the Malibu Hindu Temple (Sri Venkateswara Temple) offers breathtaking views along with spiritual solace. This South Indian style temple is a popular destination for Hindu families across Southern California.

Temple Highlights:

Stunning location with panoramic mountain views
Traditional Dravidian architecture
Main deity: Lord Venkateswara
Shrines for Shiva, Ganesha, and Devi

Diwali Celebrations: The temple’s Diwali festivities attract thousands:

Special Lakshmi Puja on Diwali night
Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi dance performances
Carnatic music concerts
Children’s cultural programs
Traditional South Indian feast
Beautiful hillside illumination with diyas

Unique Features:

Stunning sunset views during evening prayers
Peacocks roaming the temple grounds
Serene mountain environment for meditation
Popular wedding destination for Hindu couples

10. Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple (ISKCON) – Spanish Fork, Utah, USA

Festival of Colors Temple

The Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple in Spanish Fork gained international fame for hosting America’s largest Festival of Colors (Holi). This ISKCON temple is equally spectacular during Diwali celebrations.

Temple Features:

Beautiful Krishna-Radha deities
Traditional Vaishnava architecture
Large festival grounds for community events
Educational center for Vedic studies

Diwali at Spanish Fork:

Grand Diwali celebration with kirtan and bhajan
Traditional Govardhan Puja following Vaishnava traditions
Annakut offering with elaborate vegetarian feast
Fireworks display in the Utah mountains
Cultural performances and children’s activities
Community feast with Krishna prasadam

Year-Round Activities:

Daily aartis and bhajan sessions
Sunday feast program
Bhagavad Gita classes
Youth programs and cultural education

UNITED KINGDOM & EUROPE

11. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir – London (Neasden Temple), UK

Europe’s First Traditional Stone Hindu Temple

The Neasden Temple in London is an architectural masterpiece and was the first traditional Hindu stone temple built in Europe. Completed in 1995, it represents the pinnacle of ancient Vedic architecture in the Western world.

Architectural Marvel:

Hand-carved from 5,000 tons of Bulgarian limestone and Italian marble
2,820 tons of stone shipped from India
Built entirely using traditional methods without structural steel
Features intricate carvings of deities, flora, and fauna

Diwali Celebrations: London’s Hindu community converges here for spectacular Diwali festivities:

Grand Diwali celebrations lasting several days
Traditional Annakut with hundreds of vegetarian dishes
Cultural programs featuring classical Indian arts
Fireworks display following local regulations
Community service activities and charity programs
Beautiful illumination of the temple complex

Cultural Center:

Permanent exhibition “Understanding Hinduism”
Traditional Indian music and dance performances
Community service initiatives
Educational programs for youth

Visitor Experience:

Free entry with guided tours available
Vegetarian restaurant serving authentic Indian cuisine
Gift shop with religious items and books
Peaceful haveli (courtyard) for meditation

12. Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple – Nadi, Fiji

The Colorful Temple of the Pacific

The Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple in Nadi, Fiji, is the largest Hindu temple in the Southern Hemisphere. This vibrant Dravidian-style temple is famous for its brilliant colors and serves Fiji’s significant Hindu population.

Temple Characteristics:

Stunning multi-colored Dravidian gopuram
Three main temples under one roof: Murugan, Ganesha, and Shiva
Painted in brilliant shades following ancient Indian traditions
Built with timber and modern materials adapted to Fiji’s climate

Diwali in Fiji: Fiji, with its large Indo-Fijian Hindu population, celebrates Diwali as a national holiday:

Official public holiday for all Fijians
Temple decorated with thousands of lights and flowers
Special pujas and abhishekams throughout the day
Traditional fire-walking ceremonies
Community feasts with Indian-Fijian fusion cuisine
Cultural performances blending Indian and Fijian traditions

Unique Aspects:

Fusion of Indian Hindu traditions with Pacific Island culture
Beautiful temple gardens with tropical plants
Regular cultural festivals throughout the year
Welcoming atmosphere for tourists and devotees alike

AFRICA & MIDDLE EAST

13. Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple – Johannesburg, South Africa

The Spiritual Heart of South African Hindus

South Africa has a significant Hindu population descended from Indian indentured laborers. The Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple in Johannesburg is one of the largest and most important Hindu temples on the African continent.

Temple Features:

Traditional South Indian temple architecture
Multiple shrines for various deities
Active cultural and educational programs
Community center serving the Hindu diaspora

Diwali Celebrations: South Africa’s Hindus celebrate Diwali with enthusiasm:

Multi-day festival with special ceremonies
Traditional prayers and pujas
Cultural performances celebrating Indian heritage
Community dinners and charitable activities
Children’s programs teaching Hindu traditions
Interfaith celebrations with other South African communities

14. Shiva Temple – Dubai, UAE

Hindu Spirituality in the Middle East

The Shiva Temple in Bur Dubai serves the large Indian expatriate community in the United Arab Emirates. As one of the few Hindu temples in the Gulf region, it holds special significance for devotees living far from home.

Temple Characteristics:

Traditional temple architecture adapted to local regulations
Multiple deity shrines serving diverse Hindu traditions
Active community center for Indian expats
Cultural programs maintaining Hindu traditions abroad

Diwali in Dubai: Dubai’s massive Indian population makes Diwali a significant celebration:

Special prayers and ceremonies at the temple
Diwali celebrations across the city with the temple as a focal point
Cultural programs featuring Indian classical arts
Community gatherings and networking events
Traditional sweets and festive foods
Shopping festivals coinciding with Diwali

Practical Information:

Modest dress required
Photography restrictions in sanctum areas
Best visited during morning or evening aartis
Combine with visits to other cultural sites in Dubai

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

15. Sri Murugan Temple – Sydney, Australia

Australia’s Premier Hindu Temple

Located in Mays Hill, Sydney, the Sri Murugan Temple is one of Australia’s largest and most beautiful Hindu temples. Built in traditional South Indian architectural style, it serves as the spiritual center for Sydney’s vibrant Hindu community.

Temple Details:

Traditional Dravidian gopuram architecture
Main deity: Lord Murugan with consorts Valli and Devasena
Shrines for Ganesha, Shiva, Vishnu, and Devi
Regular traditional ceremonies and festivals

Diwali Down Under: Diwali in Australia falls during spring, creating a unique atmosphere:

Grand celebrations with special pujas throughout the day
Cultural performances by local and visiting artists
Traditional Indian festival foods and prasadam
Fireworks display following Australian regulations
Community fair with stalls and activities
Children’s cultural competitions and programs

Year-Round Activities:

Daily puja ceremonies
Weekend religious education classes
Classical music and dance performances
Community service initiatives

16. Sanatan Dharam Mandir – Wellington, New Zealand

Hindu Temple of New Zealand

New Zealand’s Hindu community, though smaller, is vibrant and growing. The Sanatan Dharam Mandir in Wellington serves as a cultural and spiritual hub for Hindus across New Zealand.

Temple Characteristics:

Multi-deity temple serving various Hindu traditions
Community center with educational facilities
Regular cultural programs and celebrations
Welcoming atmosphere for all visitors

Diwali in New Zealand: Diwali has become increasingly recognized in New Zealand:

Special Diwali celebrations at the temple
Collaboration with local councils for public Diwali events
Cultural performances introducing Hindu traditions to wider community
Traditional prayers and festive gatherings
Educational programs about Diwali’s significance

CARIBBEAN

17. Temple in the Sea – Trinidad & Tobago

A Monument of Faith and Dedication

The Temple in the Sea (Waterloo Shiva Mandir) in Trinidad is one of the most unique Hindu temples in the world. Built single-handedly by indentured laborer Sewdass Sadhu, it stands in the ocean connected by a causeway, symbolizing unwavering devotion.

Extraordinary History:

Built by one man over 25 years using recycled materials
Constructed in the sea after being forbidden to build on land
Rebuilt multiple times after being destroyed by storms
Now a national landmark and symbol of religious freedom

Diwali in Trinidad: Trinidad & Tobago’s Diwali celebration is unique in the Caribbean:

Diwali is a national public holiday
The temple hosts special night prayers during Diwali
Community celebrations with traditional Indian-Caribbean fusion
Phagwa (Holi) and Diwali are major national festivals
Beautiful lighting of the temple and surrounding areas

Planning Your International Diwali Temple Visit

Travel Considerations:

Documentation:

Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months
Check visa requirements for your destination country
Carry copies of important documents

Cultural Sensitivity:

Research local customs and temple etiquette
Dress modestly at all temples
Be respectful of photography restrictions
Remove shoes before entering temple premises

Best Times to Visit:

Arrive early during Diwali to avoid crowds
Check temple calendars for specific celebration timings
Some temples require registration for major festivals

What to Pack:

Traditional Indian attire for temple visits
Comfortable walking shoes (that are easy to remove)
Scarves or shawls for covering shoulders
Small bag for carrying offerings and prasadam

Making the Most of Your Visit:

Participate in Rituals: Join in aartis and ceremonies when invited
Volunteer: Many temples welcome help during festivals
Cultural Programs: Attend performances and exhibitions
Community Meals: Experience prasadam and traditional foods
Educational Opportunities: Learn about local Hindu traditions and variations

Connecting with Local Communities:

Check temple websites for event schedules
Join temple email lists for updates
Participate in community service activities
Connect with local Hindu organizations

The Global Hindu Community

The Hindu temples outside India represent more than just places of worship; they are bridges connecting cultures, preserving ancient traditions, and fostering community bonds. From the ancient stone temples of Southeast Asia to modern architectural marvels in the West, each temple tells a story of faith, dedication, and cultural pride.

This Diwali 2025, whether you’re an NRI longing for a taste of home, a traveler exploring Hindu heritage worldwide, or a devotee seeking divine blessings, these magnificent temples offer spiritual solace and cultural enrichment.

Conclusion

The spread of Hinduism across the globe has created a network of spiritual centers that keep the eternal flame of Sanatan Dharma alive in every corner of the world. These temples serve not only as places of worship but as cultural ambassadors, introducing Hindu philosophy, art, and traditions to diverse global audiences.

This Diwali, as you light your diyas and offer prayers, remember that millions worldwide are doing the same—from the golden statue of Lord Murugan at Batu Caves to the hand-carved stone marvels in New Jersey, from the sea temple in Trinidad to the colorful gopuram in Fiji. The festival of lights truly illuminates the world, transcending geographical boundaries and uniting hearts in devotion.

May Lord Ganesha remove all obstacles from your path, and may Goddess Lakshmi bless you with prosperity and peace. Happy Diwali 2025 from every corner of the globe!

Have you celebrated Diwali at any of these international temples? Share your experiences in the comments below! For more content on global Hinduism and temple guides, stay connected with HinduTone.com.

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