Embark on a cinematic journey through time with these ten adventure films that delve into the mysteries of ancient temples. From hidden treasures to ancient curses, these films offer a blend of action, history, and intrigue, making them perfect for those who love to explore the past through the lens of adventure cinema.

The City of the Dead (1960)
Description: This British horror film involves witchcraft and an ancient temple in Massachusetts, where a student uncovers dark secrets.
Fact: The film was originally titled "Horror Hotel" in the UK.


Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984)
Description: This iconic film follows Indiana Jones as he navigates through the treacherous Pankot Palace in India, uncovering a sinister cult and their temple of doom. Its inclusion in this list is due to its focus on an ancient temple filled with traps and treasures.
Fact: The film was originally conceived as a prequel to "Raiders of the Lost Ark." The infamous scene with the chilled monkey brains was inspired by a real Indian dish.


The Lost City of Gold (1986)
Description: This sequel to "Romancing the Stone" sees Joan Wilder and Jack Colton searching for El Dorado, an ancient city of gold, which includes navigating through temples and ancient ruins.
Fact: The film was shot in Mexico, with many scenes filmed in real archaeological sites.


The Ghost and the Darkness (1996)
Description: While primarily about man-eating lions, the film's setting in Kenya includes ancient ruins and temples, adding an adventurous backdrop to the story.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of the Tsavo maneaters, which terrorized workers in Kenya in the late 19th century.


The Mummy (1999)
Description: Set in Egypt, this film revolves around the discovery of an ancient tomb, leading to the resurrection of the cursed high priest Imhotep. The adventure unfolds around the temple of Hamunaptra, making it a quintessential entry in this list.
Fact: The film was inspired by the 1932 film of the same name, but it takes a more action-packed and comedic approach.


The Scorpion King (2002)
Description: While not directly about a temple, the film's plot involves ancient prophecies and a quest to overthrow a tyrant, set in a time where temples and ancient ruins are central to the story.
Fact: Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson made his film debut in this movie, transitioning from wrestling to acting.


National Treasure (2004)
Description: Although not exclusively about a temple, the film features a treasure hunt that leads to ancient clues hidden in various historical sites, including a temple-like structure in Trinity Church.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life mystery of the Knights Templar and their supposed treasure.


The Jungle Book (2016)
Description: While not a traditional adventure film, Mowgli's journey includes exploring ancient ruins and temples, adding an element of mystery and adventure.
Fact: The film used a combination of live-action and CGI to bring the jungle to life.


The Relic (1997)
Description: Although more of a horror-thriller, the film's plot revolves around an ancient relic from a temple that brings a creature to life, blending elements of adventure and mystery.
Fact: The film was based on the novel by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child.


Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001)
Description: Lara Croft explores the ancient Cambodian temple of Angkor Wat to find the Illuminati's Triangle of Light, blending archaeology with high-stakes adventure.
Fact: Angelina Jolie performed many of her own stunts, including the bungee jump scene.
