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Because of its unparalleled diversity of religions, cultures, and ways of life, India has always been a centre of religious devotion. Pilgrimage sites dot the country, drawing thousands—if not millions—of tourists and believers from all over the globe. Their presence is tangible evidence of the country's spiritual legacy. These religious places in India showcase their historical significance, architectural magnificence, and profound spirituality. Listed here are a handful of the best pilgrimage sites in India, each having its own unique history and religion.
Varanasi
An old city in India's Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi, sits on the banks of the Ganga River. It is a top tourist spot in Uttar Pradesh and one of India's holiest sites. The Varuna and Assi rivers are the inspiration for the city's other names, Kashi and Banaras. Varanasi, now known as the cultural capital of India, was formerly the country's most important educational centre. Lord Shiva is believed to have founded this sacred city. Not only is it a Shakti Peetha, but it is also one of India's twelve Jyotirlingas. For Hindus, the pilgrimage to Varanasi is a final stop before entering heaven. Varanasi often immerses the ashes of the departed in the Ganga River. People often come here to witness funeral pyre ceremonies and cremations, and it is a hotspot for religious travel
Vrindavan
A medieval town in the Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, Vrindavan is also known as Vrindaban or Brindaban. It is a sacred site in the Braj Bhoomi area, particularly for Hindus, because this is where the Indian god Krishna spent most of his childhood. Krishna and Radha, his divine consort, are the sole subjects of about 5,500 temples in Vrindavan. About 2 kilometres from Vrindavan Railway Station is the Radha Raman Temple, one of the most revered Hindu temples of modern times in Vrindavan.
It is said that the temple is home to the real Radharani, the identity deity from Shaligram Shila, who wears a dazzling smile, and the real Krishna, the Shaligram deity. Gopal Bhatta's samadhi is housed within the Radha Raman temple complex, adjacent to Radha Raman's appearance. According to legend, of the seven temples built by the Thakur of Vrindavan, the Radha Raman Temple ranks among the highest. Vrindavan is one of the best pilgrimage sites in India!
Ayodhya
Historical records mention Ayodhya as one of the oldest cities in India and the birthplace of Lord Rama. The philosophical and spiritual significance of this sacred city is great in Hinduism. Devotees of Lord Rama visit the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple annually, and the peaceful ghats along the Saryu River and the city's rich history make it a beloved pilgrimage site.
Rameshwaram
The Char Dham pilgrimage route includes Rameshwaram, a holy city on Pamban Island in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Devotees of Lord Shiva revere the incredibly beautiful Ramanathaswamy Temple, which features long halls flanked by ornately carved pillars. Lord Rama built a bridge to Lanka at Rameswaram, which is called the Rama Setu, according to the scriptures, so the place is very sacred from a religious perspective.
Kedarnath
Kedarnath, a temple in the Himalayas, is an essential stop on the Char Dham Yatra and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Also said to have been founded by the Pandavas is the Kedarnath Temple, which is devoted to Lord Shiva. Its secluded setting and the challenging hike over snow-capped mountains among stunning scenery provide a spiritually uplifting experience for pilgrims and are considered a route to heaven and a crowd favourite for religious travel!
Haridwar
Haridwar, which means "Gateway to God" in Hindi, is one of the seven holiest places for Hindus and is on the Ganges River. Here, the Ganga River empties into the plain. It is the starting point for many pilgrimages to Uttarakhand's four sacred sites—Gangotri, Badrinath, Kedarnath, and Yamunotri—known as the Char Dham. Near Chandigarh, Haridwar is also a popular tourist destination. One of the must-see attractions in Haridwar, Har-ki-Pauri allows pilgrims to bathe in the sacred Ganges River. In addition to the temples of Vaishno Devi and Maya Devi, a visit to Bhimgoda, Shanti Kunj, Sapt Sarovar, Triveni Ghat, Kanva Rishi Ashram, and Chila Wildlife Sanctuary is part of any Haridwar itinerary. Other temples to see are Chandi Devi and Mansa Devi near Bilwa Parvat.
Tirupati
Tirupati is a major pilgrimage site in India dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Vishnu, and the home of the powerful Tirumala Venkateswara. This temple is one of the richest and holiest in the world because its followers believe their prayers will be answered. Tirupati sees millions of pilgrims every year who come to make oaths and get blessings. It is a must-visit for believers and tourists alike because of its breathtaking architecture and spiritual atmosphere.