Complete 108 Divya Desam List with Locations and Legends

99Pandit Ji

Last Updated:October 14, 2025

Have you heard of the complete list of temples of India called the “108 Divya Desam List of 108 unique temples in India”?

All temples have also been glorified through Lord Vishnu, and there are heritage stories and traditions unique to every temple.

Usually, you can find the 108 temples in South India, but there are some in North India also.

The Alvars, who were saints, wrote hymns and poems about these temples. Each temple has its own history and importance.

It is thought that if you visit these spaces, you can find the peace of mind you have been looking for, and it is a valuable way to express your devotion.

This article will provide you with the full list of the 108 Divya Desam List and their locations.

Additionally, we will explain how the temples were created, their fascinating stories, and the reasons people visit them. This is just what you need whenever you want to feel connected to Lord Vishnu.

Complete 108 Divya Desam List with Locations

Origin of 108 Divya Desam Temples

The concept of the 108 Divya Desam List originates from Nalayira Divya Prabandham, a collection of Tamil Hymns by the Alvars, who were 12 devoted Saints of Lord Vishnu.

Between the 6th and 9th Century CE, these saints visited various Vishnu Dhams and composed devotional poems in his praise, and the 108 temples described in their works became known as Divya Desams or “divine places”.

1. The Alvar tradition began with the devotion of the Alvar saints – 12 Alvar saints worshipped Lord Vishnu and composed religious songs dedicated to him.
2. Nalayira Divya Prabhandam – The Alvars composed approximately 4,000 hymns, praising the glory of 108 temples.
3. Meaning of Divya + Desam – “Divya” means holy, and “Desam” means place. These are sacred places dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
4. Each temple has a story associated with it – somewhere Lord Vishnu killed a demon, somewhere he protected a devotee.
5. The temples gained special recognition – Because of these stories and the poems of the Alvars, these temples were called “Divya Desam.”
6. Spread across India – Most temples are located in South India, but some extend to North India and Nepal.

Legends/Stories related to the 108 Divya Desam Lists

The 108 Divya Desam temples are not just a single list of temples; they are a combination of devotion and legends of Lord Vishnu.

Each temple has its own unique story. The Alvar saints have narrated and sung these tales in their hymns and poems. Let us simplify these pivotal stories:

1. Tirupati Balaji Temple – Andhra Pradesh

A sage cursed Lord Vishnu to become Venkateshwara, and he remained in the Tirumala hills. The name of this temple is now Tirupati Balaji, one of the most visited temples.

2. Mathura and Ayodhya (Temples of North India)

It is accepted that Mathura is the birthplace of Lord Krishna, while Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Rama.

Since both these temples are Incarnations of Lord Vishnu, they also come under the Divya Desam temples.

3. Melkote Temple – Karnataka

Legend has it that the devotee Ramanujacharya recovered the idol of the Lord from thieves. The Lord revealed to him in a dream where the idol was hidden.

The idol was later installed in the temple. All the temples in the list of 108 Divya Desam temples have their own independent story.

In some places, Lord Vishnu has protected devotees, in other places, He assisted upon request from saints or devotees without any hesitation, and in other places, Lord Vishnu has appeared at the request of a devotee into the idol.

It’s clear from all of these tales that God will definitely protect anyone who is truly religious and has faith in God.

Why Should We Visit 108 Divya Desam Temples?

• The association of each temple with some form of Vishnu makes us feel a direct engagement with the Lord. This increases our devotion.
• All of the 108 Divya Desam temples have been sung about in hymns by Alvar saint poets.
• Visiting these temples provides deep peace to our minds. The devotees say that when we visit these temples, the surroundings remove our stress and fill our minds with great energy.
• Pilgrimages to these temples are sacred experiences.
• The best thing about the temples at the 108 Divya Desams is that each temple has its own distinct tale and wonder.
• A belief held by devotees is that anyone who is fortunate enough to be able to visit the 108 Divya Desam temples will find relief from the troubles of life.
• Travelling to the 108 Divya Desam Temples is probably the finest way to appreciate the diversity of cultures and traditions of India.
• According to faith, a devotee who makes a pilgrimage to all 108 temples will receive a special/rewarding virtue and Lord Vishnu’s blessings.
• Going to these temples is not just a personal visitation; it also helps to disseminate visiting and devotion and religious values to the family and society.

Conclusion

The 108 divya desams list The 108 Divya Desams List is very special. It’s not just a list of temples, but a treasure collection of Lord Vishnu’s love and stories.

Every temple tells a story showcasing how the Lord protected his devotees. It is at the 108 Divya Desam temples, we will see Lord Vishnu represented in various forms.

Sometimes he is Narayana, sometimes he is Vamana, and sometimes he is Varaha. These experiences embody the belief that the Lord is always present with his devotees.

Devotees believe that those who visit all the temples on the 108 Divya Desams List find peace and happiness. The Lord removes their sorrows and fulfils their wishes.

In today’s busy life, coming to the temples becomes an experience of spirituality. It is a great way to connect with our culture and customs.

Therefore, we encourage every devotee of Vishnu to visit 108 Divya Desam temples at least once in their lifetime. This journey takes the devotee to the divine grace of the Lord.

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