6 majestic temples across Asia for soul-stirring experiences

Asia has some of the majestic and beautiful temples, towering over treetops, stretching across kilometers, and so much more that words won’t be enough to describe them. These temples are sort of architectural flexes, spiritual sanctuaries, and the kind of destinations that make your travel stories more refreshing and spiritual. From Cambodia to South Korea, here are six of the largest, most majestic, and mind-boggling temples in Asia that you absolutely should visit at least once in your lifetime. (Canva)

Not only is it the world’s largest religious monument, it’s also the only one with its own moat and a massive global fanbase. Built in the 12th century by the Khmer king Suryavarman II, this massive structure covers over 162 hectares. It's got carvings that are detailed, sunrise views that are out of the world, and the vibes that’s just unforgettable. If possible, get there by 5 AM, unless you enjoy sunrise photobombing with thousands of other tourists. (Canva)

If Angkor Wat is vast, Borobudur is its serene, spiraling alternative that is all about minimalism. This 9th-century Mahayana Buddhist temple in Central Java is the world’s largest Buddhist temple, and is built in the form of a giant mandala and has over 500 Buddha statues and 2,600 relief panels. Must-do: Walk the temple clockwise, level by level, or at least to catch a great view. (Canva)

Located in Srirangam, Tamil Nadu, this temple can be termed as a small city in disguise. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Sri Ranganathaswamy sprawls over 156 acres, has 21 gopurams, and features complex corridors, inner sanctums, secret shrines, and more festivals than your calendar can handle. It’s one of the largest functioning Hindu temples in the world. (Canva)

Built in the 8th century, this wooden wonder is home to the Daibutsu—one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world. The Great Buddha Hall itself was once the world’s largest wooden building, and even now it’s absurdly impressive. Deer roam freely outside, waiting for snacks and selfies. A popular activity here is trying to squeeze through a tiny hole in a temple pillar said to be the size of the Buddha’s nostril. It’s fun... until you get stuck. (Canva)

Welcome to Wat Phra Dhammakaya, near Bangkok. A giant dome encrusted with over 300,000 Buddha statues. It's massive, modern, and kind of mind-bending. Catch a mass meditation event. Thousands of saffron-robed monks sitting in perfect silence? Well, this sight will be enough to give you goosebumps. (Wikipedia)

Seoul might be all neon and K-pop beats, but tucked right in the middle of it is Bongeunsa Temple, a sprawling Buddhist sanctuary with a 28-meter-high statue of Maitreya Buddha and enough zen to shut down all negative vibes. It dates back to the 8th century and blends tradition with cityscape in the coolest way possible. If you want, you can sign up for a temple stay. You’ll eat monk-style meals, meditate at dawn, and possibly discover the meaning of life. (Canva)