Religious Places in India For Divine Blessings

Known For : Vaishno Devi Mandir Ardhkuwari

Vaishno Devi is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to the Goddess Shakti, located in the Trikuta Mountains of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It's one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in India, with devotees trekking up steep paths to seek the blessings of the Goddess housed in a cave shrine. The journey to the shrine is as spiritually significant as the destination itself.

Religious sites: Vaishno Devi Temple.

Best Time: Throughout the year

8 Vaishno Devi Attractions

Known For : Ayyappa Temple Makaravilakku Malikkappuram Devi Temple

Sabarimala is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site located in the Periyar Tiger Reserve in the Western Ghat mountain ranges of Kerala, India. Dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, the temple attracts millions of devotees annually, particularly during the Mandala Pooja and Makaravilakku festivals. Pilgrims, after observing a 41-day austerity period, undertake a rigorous trek through forests and hills to reach the temple, often chanting "Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa".

Religious sites: Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple, Malikappuram Devi Temple, Vavar Shrine.

Best Time: September to Apr

6 Sabarimala Attractions

Known For : Sri Venkateswara Temple Akasaganga Teertham Silathoranam

Tirupati is home to the famous Venkateswara Swamy Temple, situated atop the Tirumala hills in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. Considered one of the richest pilgrimage sites globally, devotees offer vast amounts of money and gold to the deity, seeking blessings. The practice of tonsuring or shaving one's head and offering the hair to the deity is a unique ritual observed by many pilgrims visiting this sacred temple.

Religious sites: Sri Venkateswara Temple, Kapila Theertham, Padmavathi Temple.

Best Time: September to March

40 Tirupati Attractions

Known For : Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti, Varanasi

Varanasi, also known as Benares or Kashi, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and holds immense religious significance for Hindus. Located on the banks of the Ganges River in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India, it is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva and is famed for its ghats, where devout Hindus perform rituals and cremations. Many believers journey to Varanasi to bathe in the Ganges, seeking liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth.

Religious sites: Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat.

Best Time: October to March

42 Varanasi Attractions

Ajmer Sharif, formally known as the Ajmer Sharif Dargah or the Shrine of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, is one of the most important Islamic pilgrimage sites in India. Located in the heart of Ajmer, Rajasthan, it is the resting place of the revered Sufi saint, Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, who is believed to fulfill the wishes of those who seek his blessings. Every year, thousands of pilgrims, irrespective of their religion, visit the dargah to offer their prayers and seek the saint's blessings, especially during the annual Urs festival.

Religious sites: Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra, Taragarh Fort Mosque.

Known For : Amarnath Cave Amarnath Yatra Baltal

Amarnath is a sacred Hindu shrine situated in the northern Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is renowned for the natural ice Shivlinga that forms inside the Amarnath Cave, a phenomenon which attracts thousands of pilgrims annually during the Amarnath Yatra. The challenging trek to the cave, which lies at an altitude of about 3,888 meters (12,756 feet) above sea level, is a significant aspect of the pilgrimage, symbolizing the believer's journey towards spiritual enlightenment.

Religious sites: Amarnath Cave Temple.

Best Time: May to September

4 Amarnath Attractions

Known For : Ranakpur Jain Temple Sadri Surya Narayan Temple

Ranakpur, located in the Pali district of Rajasthan, India, is renowned for its stunning Jain Temple dedicated to Tirthankara Adinatha. Built during the 15th century, the temple is an architectural marvel with over 1,444 intricately carved marble pillars, none of which are alike. This serene pilgrimage site is a testament to the grandeur of India's religious art and architecture.

Religious sites: Ranakpur Jain Temple, Surya Narayan Temple, Muchhal Mahavir Temple.

Best Time: October to March

7 Ranakpur Attractions

Known For : Ganga Aarti in Haridwar Har Ki Pauri Chandi Devi Temple

Haridwar, situated on the banks of the River Ganges in Uttarakhand, India, is one of the seven holiest places for Hindus. It is a major pilgrimage city where devotees gather, especially during the Kumbh Mela, to bathe in the holy waters and cleanse their sins. The Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri is a captivating spiritual ritual that attracts thousands of visitors.

Religious sites: Har Ki Pauri, Chandi Devi Temple, Mansa Devi Temple.

Best Time: Throughout the year

36 Haridwar Attractions

Known For : Prayag Kumbh Mela Triveni Sangam Khusro Bagh

Allahabad, renamed Prayagraj, is a significant religious and historical city located at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers in Uttar Pradesh. This confluence, known as Triveni Sangam, is a major pilgrimage spot, especially during the Kumbh Mela, when millions gather to take a sacred dip, believed to wash away sins and grant liberation.

Religious sites: Triveni Sangam, Allahabad Fort Akshaya Vat, Hanuman Mandir.

Best Time: October to March

23 Prayagraj Attractions

Known For : Kedarnath Temple Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi Shri Bhairavnath Temple

Kedarnath, nestled in the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, houses one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Part of the Char Dham Yatra of Uttarakhand, this temple is open only for a short period every year due to extreme weather conditions. Its remote location requires pilgrims to undertake a challenging trek, symbolizing a journey of devotion and endurance.

Religious sites: Kedarnath Temple, Bhairavnath Temple.

Best Time: May to June, September to October

14 Kedarnath Attractions

Known For : Badrinath Temple Charanpaduka Tapt Kund

Badrinath, set in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, is one of the four sites of the Char Dham Yatra. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and holds immense significance for Hindus. With the majestic Neelkanth peak as its backdrop, the shrine not only offers spiritual solace but also showcases the grandeur of the Himalayan landscape.

Religious sites: Badrinath Temple, Tapt Kund, Neelkanth Peak.

Best Time: May to June, September to October

19 Badrinath Attractions

Known For : Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Temple Shani Shingnapur Samadhi Mandir

Shirdi, located in Maharashtra, is the divine abode of Sai Baba, a revered spiritual leader known for his teachings of tolerance and compassion. Devotees from various faiths throng this holy town, seeking blessings and spiritual solace. The main temple, Samadhi Mandir, houses the tomb of Sai Baba and is the focal point of deep spiritual reverence.

Religious sites: Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir, Dwarkamai, Shri Saibaba Sansthan Temple.

Best Time: July to March

24 Shirdi Attractions

Known For : Golden Temple Wagah Border Jallianwala Bagh

The Golden Temple, or Sri Harmandir Sahib, in Amritsar, Punjab, stands as a glorious testament to Sikh faith and tradition. Surrounded by the sacred Amrit Sarovar, it serves as a beacon of hope and solace, welcoming pilgrims from all walks of life. Every day, the temple feeds thousands of visitors in its community kitchen, exemplifying the Sikh tenets of selfless service and unity.

Religious sites: Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple), Akal Takht, Tarn Taran Sahib.

Best Time: October to March

34 Amritsar Attractions

Known For : Mahabodhi Temple Great Buddha Statue Tibetan Refugee Market

Bodh Gaya in Bihar holds unparalleled significance in Buddhism as the place where Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment and became the Buddha. The Mahabodhi Temple complex houses the Bodhi Tree, under which this divine transformation took place. Buddhists from around the globe visit this sacred site, immersing themselves in meditation and prayer.

Religious sites: Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhi Tree, Great Buddha Statue.

Best Time: October to March

26 Bodh Gaya Attractions

Known For : Raghurajpur Artist Village Sri Jagannath Puri Temple Puri Beach Markandeswara Temple

Puri, a coastal town in Orissa, is home to the revered Jagannath Temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu. It's famous for the annual Rath Yatra, where colossal chariots carrying deities traverse through the city in a grand procession. This spiritual haven attracts countless devotees, seeking the Lord's blessings and the essence of divine love.

Religious sites: Jagannath Temple, Gundicha Temple, Lokanatha Temple.

Best Time: July to March

29 Puri Attractions

Known For : Rafting in Rishikesh Lakshman Jhula Triveni Ghat

Rishikesh, nestled along the Ganges in Uttarakhand, is often termed the 'Yoga Capital of the World.' It offers a spiritual sanctuary with numerous ashrams that facilitate deep meditation, yoga, and Hindu teachings. The evening Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat is a spiritual symphony, drawing devotees to immerse in its divine ambiance.

Religious sites: Ram Jhula, Laxman Jhula, Triveni Ghat.

Best Time: Throughout the year

53 Rishikesh Attractions

Known For : Om Beach Mahabaleshwara Temple Paradise Beach, Gokarna

Gokarna, situated on the coast of Karnataka, is a sacred pilgrimage site known for the ancient Mahabaleshwar Temple which houses the Atmalinga of Lord Shiva. While it is a revered destination for Hindu pilgrims, its serene beaches also invite spiritual seekers for moments of introspection. The town radiates an ambiance of peace and spirituality, connecting the soul to divine energies.

Religious sites: Mahabaleshwar Temple, Koti Tirtha, Gokarna Beach Temple.

Best Time: Throughout the year

20 Gokarna Attractions

Known For : Pushkar Lake Brahma Temple Savitri Temple

Pushkar, in Rajasthan, is often referred to as the 'rose garden of Rajasthan' and is predominantly known for its sacred Pushkar Lake and the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma in India. Every year, the town comes alive during the Pushkar Camel Fair, a vibrant spectacle, yet its essence remains deeply spiritual. Pilgrims and seekers immerse themselves in the lake's waters, believed to cleanse sins and bestow blessings.

Religious sites: Pushkar Lake, Brahma Temple, Savitri Mata Temple.

Best Time: October to March

27 Pushkar Attractions

Known For : Gangotri Temple Gangotri Glacier Surya Kund

Gangotri, nestled in the Uttarakhand Himalayas, marks the origin of the holy River Ganga from the Gangotri glacier. It's one of the Char Dhams of Uttarakhand and is revered for its ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga. Devotees undertake this pilgrimage to pay homage to the river goddess, seeking purification and spiritual ascent.

Religious sites: Gangotri Temple, Gauri Kund, Submerged Shivalinga.

Best Time: April to June, September to November

20 Gangotri Attractions

Known For : Gomateshwara Statue Chandragiri Hill Temple Bhandari Basadi Temple

Located in Karnataka, Sravanabelagola is a renowned Jain pilgrimage site. It is most famous for the colossal statue of Gommateshvara Bahubali, which stands atop the Vindhyagiri Hill and is considered one of the largest monolithic statues in the world. Every twelve years, the Mahamastakabhisheka festival sees the statue anointed with milk, saffron, and gold coins, drawing Jain devotees globally.

Religious sites: Bahubali Statue (Gommateshwara), Chandragiri Hill Temples, Kattale Basadi.

Best Time: October to Apr

8 Shravanbelagola Attractions

Known For : Bhavani Island Kanaka Durga Temple Undavalli Caves

Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh is a significant religious hub, primarily known for the Kanaka Durga Temple, perched on the Indrakeeladri Hill. The deity, Goddess Durga, is revered as the presiding deity of the city, and her blessings are sought for protection and prosperity. The temple, overlooking the Krishna River, provides a serene environment for spiritual reflection and devotion.

Religious sites: Kanaka Durga Temple, Undavalli Caves, Amaravati Stupa.

Best Time: September to March

25 Vijayawada Attractions

Known For : Dhamek Stupa Sarnath Archaeological Site The Mahabodhi Society Temple

Sarnath, near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, holds a paramount place in Buddhism as the site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The Dhamek Stupa and the Ashoka Pillar stand as testaments to this historical and spiritual event. Buddhist monks and followers from around the world visit Sarnath to meditate and pay their respects, making it a focal point of global Buddhist spirituality.

Religious sites: Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar.

Best Time: October to March

9 Sarnath Attractions

Known For : Banke Bihari Mandir Prem Mandir Radha Raman Temple

One of the oldest cities on the banks of Yamuna, Vrindavan is considered to be one of the most important places of pilgrimage for the devotees of Krishna. It is said that Lord Krishna had spent his childhood in Vrindavan. The name of the city has been derived from Vrinda (meaning basil) and van (meaning grove) which perhaps refer to the two small groves at Nidhivan and Seva Kunj. Since Vrindavan is considered to be a sacred place, a large number of people come here to abandon their worldly life.

Religious sites: Banke Bihari Temple, Prem Mandir, Rangji Temple.

Best Time: October to March

18 Vrindavan Attractions

Known For : Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal Vaigai Dam

Madurai, often referred to as the "Athens of the East," is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, deeply rooted in Hindu spirituality. The heart of this Tamil Nadu city is the Meenakshi Amman Temple, an architectural marvel dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva. Pilgrims and tourists alike are drawn to Madurai's spiritual energy, further magnified during religious festivals.

Religious sites: Meenakshi Amman Temple, Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple, Koodal Azhagar Temple.

Best Time: October to March

20 Madurai Attractions

Known For : Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Kal Bhairava Temple Ram Mandir Ghat

Ujjain, located on the banks of the Shipra River in Madhya Pradesh, holds immense religious significance as one of the sites for the Kumbh Mela. It is home to the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, one of the twelve significant Jyotirlingas in India. As an ancient spiritual center, Ujjain has been a vital hub for Vedic rituals, attracting pilgrims and seekers for centuries.

Religious sites: Mahakaleshwar Temple, Kal Bhairav Temple, Harsiddhi Temple.

Best Time: October to March

26 Ujjain Attractions

Hemkund Sahib, nestled amidst the Himalayan ranges, is a prominent Sikh pilgrimage site. It stands as the sacred locale where Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, meditated in his previous birth. The pristine glacial lake nearby and the towering snow-clad peaks offer a spiritual sanctuary that resonates deeply with Sikh devotees.

Religious sites: Gurudwara Sri Hemkund Sahib.

Known For : Dwarkadhish Temple Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Bet Dwarka

Dwarka, situated on the western coast of Gujarat, is considered one of the ancient char dham pilgrimage sites. It's believed to be the ancient kingdom of Lord Krishna and has deep-rooted mythological significance. The Dwarkadhish Temple, an architectural masterpiece, stands as the heart of this spiritual city.

Religious sites: Dwarkadhish Temple, Rukmini Devi Temple, Gomti Ghat.

Best Time: July to March

15 Dwarka Attractions

Known For : Panchvati Sula Vineyard Dudhsagar falls, Nasik

Nasik, located in Maharashtra, is intrinsically tied to the Hindu epic, Ramayana, being the place where Lord Rama spent his exile. As one of the four Kumbh Mela cities, its spiritual significance is amplified during this grand congregation of pilgrims. The holy Godavari River flowing through Nasik further sanctifies the city.

Religious sites: Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple, Kalaram Temple, Sita Gufaa.

Best Time: July to March

39 Nasik Attractions

Known For : Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple Dwarkadheesh Temple, Mathura Birla Mandir Mathura

Mathura, in Uttar Pradesh, is the birthplace of Lord Krishna, making it a pivotal spiritual center for Hindus globally. It resonates with tales of divine love, mysticism, and the playful antics of the god. Festivals like Janmashtami, celebrating Krishna's birth, transform the city into a vibrant spiritual epicenter.

Religious sites: Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, Dwarkadheesh Temple, Vishram Ghat.

Best Time: October to March

28 Mathura Attractions

Known For : Triund Bhagsu Falls Bhagsunag Temple

Mcleodganj, located in Himachal Pradesh, is the residence of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and has become a significant center for Tibetan Buddhism. Its monasteries, meditation centers, and teachings offer a profound spiritual experience for seekers and practitioners. The serene mountain setting amplifies the town's tranquil and contemplative atmosphere.

Religious sites: Tsuglagkhang Complex (Dalai Lama Temple), Namgyal Monastery, Bhagsunag Temple.

Best Time: October to June

42 Mcleodganj Attractions

Known For : Kumararama Bheemeshwara Swamy Temple Thalupulamma Thalli Kakinada

Samalkot, situated in Andhra Pradesh, is renowned for its historic and religious significance. It's predominantly known for the Kumararama Bhimeswara Swamy temple, which is one of the five Pancharama Kshetras. The architectural beauty and spiritual aura of the temple make it a major attraction for pilgrims and tourists alike.

Religious sites: Kumararama Bhimeswara Swamy Temple.

Best Time: October to March

7 Samalkot Attractions

Manikaran Sahib, located in Himachal Pradesh's Kullu district, is a revered site for both Sikhs and Hindus. Known for its hot springs and religious tales associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Sikh Guru, it provides spiritual solace amidst the serene Himalayan backdrop. It's believed that food cooked in its hot springs is blessed.

Religious sites: Sri Guru Nanak Devji Gurudwara, Rama Temple, Temple of Lord Shiva.

Best Time: October to June

3 Manikaran Sahib Attractions

Known For : Charbhuja Shrinathji Temple Shopping in Nathdwara

Nathdwara, in Rajasthan, is synonymous with the renowned Shrinathji Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The town is a hub for the Pushtimarg sect, and the daily rituals at the temple are a major attraction. Art and culture, especially the Pichwai paintings, are closely interwoven with the town's religious life.

Religious sites: Shrinathji Temple.

Best Time: September to February

6 Nathdwara Attractions

Known For : Punnathurkotta Elephant Palace Mammiyoor Shiva Temple Guruvayur Temple

Guruvayur, in Kerala, is home to the famed Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple, a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus. The temple's rituals and festivals, especially the Guruvayur Elephant Race, draw countless devotees. The town is also renowned for its commitment to preserving classical art forms like Krishnanattam.

Religious sites: Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple, Mammiyur Mahadeva Temple, Parthasarathy Temple.

Best Time: October to February

12 Guruvayur Attractions

Known For : Kamakshi Amman Temple Varadharaja Perumal Temple Devarajaswami Temple

Kanchipuram, in Tamil Nadu, is often referred to as the 'City of Thousand Temples.' A historic city, it holds immense significance in Hinduism and is also a major center for silk saree production. The temples here are not only places of worship but also marvels of Dravidian architecture.

Religious sites: Ekambareswarar Temple, Kailasanathar Temple, Kamakshi Amman Temple.

Best Time: October to May

16 Kanchipuram Attractions

Known For : Kamadgiri Gupt Godavari Ramghat

Chitrakoot, straddling the borders of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, holds a revered spot in Hindu mythology, primarily associated with Lord Rama's exile period. It's believed that the gods and goddesses came to Chitrakoot to witness the divine play and leelas of Lord Rama. The town, with its ghats, forests, and temples, exudes a spiritual aura.

Religious sites: Ram Ghat, Kamadgiri, Sphatik Shila.

Best Time: July to March

13 Chitrakoot Attractions

Known For : Chaitanya Jyoti Museum Sathya Sai Ashram Wish Fullfilling Tree

Puttaparthi in Andhra Pradesh is globally recognized as the birthplace of the spiritual guru, Sri Sathya Sai Baba. The town has transformed from a simple village to a significant spiritual center, attracting devotees from all over the world. The teachings and humanitarian projects initiated by Sai Baba continue to be the backbone of this serene place.

Religious sites: Prasanthi Nilayam, Samadhi of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, Sai Kulwant Hall.

Best Time: September to February

13 Puttaparthi Attractions

Known For : Rameshwaram Temple Dhanushkodi Temple and Beach Jatayu Tirtham

Rameswaram, situated on an island in Tamil Nadu, holds immense significance in Hindu mythology as the place where Lord Rama built a bridge to rescue his wife, Sita, from Lanka. It is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites and is renowned for its elaborate rituals and long corridors with intricately carved pillars. The town is surrounded by serene beaches and a peaceful ambiance, further elevating its spiritual importance.

Religious sites: Ramanathaswamy Temple, Agnitheertham, Gandhamadhana Parvatham.

Best Time: Throughout the year

22 Rameswaram Attractions

Known For : Dharmasthala Temple Bahubali Statue Netravathi River Barrage

Located in Karnataka, Dharmasthala is a unique blend of Jain heritage and Hindu worship. The town is known for its Dharmasthala Temple, where Lord Manjunatha is worshipped, and its commitment to charitable causes. The annual Lakshadeepa festival is a major event, drawing devotees in large numbers.

Religious sites: Manjunatha Temple, Bahubali Statue, Ram Mandir.

Best Time: October to March

8 Dharmasthala Attractions

Known For : Sringeri Mutt Kigga Sharadamba Temple

Best Time: Throughout the year

9 Sringeri Attractions

Known For : Ram Janmabhoomi Hanuman Garhi, Ayodhya Kanak Bhawan

Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh is historically significant as the birthplace of Lord Rama. Immersed in tales from the Ramayana, this ancient city has been at the heart of India's spiritual and political landscape. The numerous ghats, temples, and the fervor during festivals make it a must-visit pilgrimage site.

Religious sites: Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan.

Best Time: October to March

16 Ayodhya Attractions

Known For : Sela Pass Tawang Monastery Madhuri Lake

Tawang, located in Arunachal Pradesh, is a significant center for Tibetan Buddhism. The town, with its monastic heritage, snow-clad peaks, and spiritual resonance, draws seekers and tourists alike. The Tawang Monastery, the largest in India, stands as the heart of this spiritual haven.

Religious sites: Tawang Monastery, Urgelling Monastery, Taktsang Gompa.

Best Time: March - June; September - October

12 Tawang Attractions

Known For : Vishwanath Temple, Guptakashi Manikarnik Kund Ardhanarishwar Temple

Guptakashi, nestled in Uttarakhand, is revered for its ancient temples and its proximity to the Char Dham Yatra route. It is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva hid from the Pandavas, hence the name 'Gupta' (hidden) Kashi. The picturesque landscapes combined with spiritual significance make it a serene spot for pilgrimage.

Religious sites: Vishwanath Temple, Ardhanarishwar Temple, Manikarnik Kund.

Best Time: March to June, September to November

7 Guptakashi Attractions