In all ages religion has a remained the matrix of Indian civilization. In its many thousands years of history several religions have evolved, reigned supreme and died down.

The Indian kings were also religious minded and patrons of the religions they followed. They constructed places of worship of their respective religions all over their empire. The artisans of the time also found a way to put their skills and creativity to best use in building them.

Indian architecture and sculpture in all ages explored new heights of glory. Several influences and styles came in and blended to generate a whole new form of perfection. More amazing was the fact how the craftsmen yore built such magnificent works of art and engineering marvels with the primitive technology.

Religious monuments in India include a world of temples, mosques, churches, Gurudwaras and monasteries.

Many religious monuments were carved out of a single piece of rock or by piling pieces of rocks one upon another to remarkable heights. Temples in southern part of India are glaring examples to this. But that is not all. Fantastic works of art are also seen in the monuments of other religions too.

Myths and legends go into the making of many religious monuments. The artists' imagination and still continue to fascinate the people around the world.

Here are only a few renowned sites of religious monuments in India:

Temples Ranakpur Temple Mahabalipuram Kanchipuram Varanasi

Mosques and Dargahs Jama Masjid

Gurudwaras Golden Temple, Amritsar

Churches Basilica of Bom Jesus St. Paul's Cathedral

Stupas and Monasteries Nalanda Vaishali Sanchi Sarnath