Religiously Significant Countries in the World
Religion has always been an integral part of human life. Across the world, different religions have evolved, influencing not just individual beliefs but also entire cultures and civilisations. Here’s a detailed look at 10 countries that hold major religious importance globally.
India
Major Religions: Hinduism (~79.8%), Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism
Religious Highlights:
Known as the “cradle of religions”
Birthplace of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism
Famous religious sites: Varanasi, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Golden Temple (Amritsar), Bodh Gaya
Saudi Arabia
Major Religion: Islam (~100%)
Religious Highlights:
Birthplace of Islam
Home to the two holiest cities in Islam – Mecca and Medina
Millions of Muslims visit every year for Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages
Israel
Major Religion: Judaism (~74%), Islam, Christianity
Religious Highlights:
Historic and spiritual centre of Judaism
Jerusalem is a sacred city for Jews, Christians, and Muslims
Western Wall (Wailing Wall) is one of Judaism’s most important pilgrimage sites
Vatican City
Major Religion: Roman Catholic Christianity (~100%)
Religious Highlights:
Spiritual headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church
Residence of the Pope
Saint Peter’s Basilica and Vatican Museums attract millions of pilgrims and tourists
Nepal
Major Religion: Hinduism (~81%), Buddhism
Religious Highlights:
Once the world’s only Hindu kingdom
Birthplace of Lord Buddha – Lumbini
Famous religious landmarks: Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa
Thailand
Major Religion: Buddhism (Theravāda) (~94.5%)
Religious Highlights:
A stronghold of Theravāda Buddhism
Known for massive Buddha statues and monasteries
Religious festivals deeply woven into Thai lifestyle
Myanmar (Burma)
Major Religion: Buddhism (~88%)
Religious Highlights:
Land of ancient pagodas and stupas
The Bagan region is home to thousands of historic temples
Follows Theravāda Buddhist tradition
Indonesia
Major Religion: Islam (~87%), Hinduism (especially in Bali)
Religious Highlights:
Country with the largest Muslim population in the world
Unique blend of Hindu culture on Bali island
Religious pluralism coexists with strong Islamic influence
Japan
Major Religions: Shinto and Buddhism
Religious Highlights:
Shinto is Japan’s indigenous faith, centred on nature and ancestor worship
Harmonious coexistence with Buddhism
Thousands of temples and shrines dot the country
Each country has its own religious legacy, which shapes its cultural practices, traditions, and social values. Religion is not just about faith—it’s about identity, community, and purpose.
- Religion World Bureau
