Exploring Top spiritual destinations in India and historical Ayodhya Dham

Most Popular Spiritual Tourist Destinations of India

1. Ujjain: City of Spirituality

Ujjain, located in the Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh, is an ancient and religious city of India. It is called the "city of spirituality". Mahakaleshwar Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, is situated here. This temple is one of the most ancient and sacred temples of India. The Shivalinga installed in the sanctum sanctorum of Mahakaleshwar temple is south facing, which is the only south facing Jyotirlinga in the world.

Major temples of Ujjain

Apart from the Mahakaleshwar Temple, Ujjain also has many other religious places, making it an important spiritual centre. Prominent among them are Harsiddhi Shaktipeeth, Gadhkalika Temple, Kaal Bhairav Temple, Chardham Temple, Gopal Temple, Ram-Janardan Temple etc.

Mahakaleshwar Temple

Mahakaleshwar Temple is the most important religious place of Ujjain. This temple is situated on the banks of Shipra river. The Shivalinga installed in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple is the only south facing Jyotirlinga in the world. Bhasma Aarti of Mahakaleshwar temple is world famous. This aarti happens every day at 4 am.

Harsiddhi Shaktipeeth

Harsiddhi Shaktipeeth is another major religious place of Ujjain. This Shaktipeeth is one of the 51 Shaktipeeths of India. The idol of Goddess Durga is enshrined in Harsiddhi Shaktipeeth.

Garhkalika Temple

Gadhkalika Temple is an ancient and sacred temple of Ujjain. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Gadhakalika, the presiding deity of Tantrikas.

Kaal Bhairav Temple 

Kaal Bhairav Temple is another important religious place of Ujjain. This temple is dedicated to the Bhairava incarnation of Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva is depicted drinking alcohol in the Kaal Bhairav temple.

Ujjain is a historically and culturally rich city. There are many other historical and religious places here, which make it an attractive tourist destination.

2. Mathura: Center of Spirituality

Mathura city of Uttar Pradesh has the honor of being the birthplace of Lord Krishna. The city is a major center of spirituality. There are many temples of Lord Krishna here, which attract lakhs of devotees from across the country and abroad.

Most famous temples in Mathura

One of the most famous temples in Mathura is the Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple. This temple is situated at the birthplace of Lord Krishna. There is a pond in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple, which is called Janam Kund. It is said that Lord Krishna was born in this pond.

Other famous temples in Mathura include Gokul, Barsana, Govardhan, and ISKCON temples. Lord Krishna spent his childhood in Gokul. Radharani was born in Barsana. In Govardhan, Lord Krishna raised Govardhan Mountain on his finger by challenging Indra. ISKCON Temple is a Vaishnav temple dedicated to Lord Krishna.

Mathura has a unique atmosphere of spirituality. In the temples here, devotees can be seen immersed in devotion to Lord Krishna. Many people come here and give up worldly attachments and dedicate themselves to Lord Krishna.

The holy city of Mathura in Uttar Pradesh has the privilege of being the birthplace of Lord Krishna. This city is a major center of spiritual peace and devotion. Here every street, every temple and every nook tells the stories of the exploits of Lord Krishna.

Mathura has a unique atmosphere of spirituality. Here you will not only see devotees from different parts of India, but also foreign tourists engrossed in the devotion of Shri Krishna. Sweet waves of bhajans echo in the temples every day and the feeling of devotion towards God is visible on the faces of the devotees.

There are many ancient and sacred temples associated with Lord Krishna in Mathura, which are visited by lakhs of devotees from all over the country and abroad every year.

Sri Krishna Janmasthan Temple

This temple is the most famous temple of Mathura. Lord Krishna was born in the birth pond located in the sanctum sanctorum of this temple. The ancient architecture and spiritual atmosphere of the temple attracts devotees.

Dwarkadhish Temple

This temple is dedicated to the Dwarkadham form of Lord Krishna. The beautiful architecture of the temple and the grand idol of the Lord mesmerize the devotees.

Govardhan Mountain:

Govardhan Mountain, located 23 kilometers from Mathura, is associated with the activities of Lord Krishna. Here the mind-blowing temple and view of the hills provide spiritual peace.

Iskcon temple

The grand temple of ISKCON in Mathura is also dedicated to Lord Krishna. The golden dome and peaceful atmosphere of the temple is attractive.

Experience beyond spirituality

The journey to Mathura is not limited to just religious darshan. Here you can enjoy boating in the Yamuna River, wander through ancient markets and experience local art and culture.

Center for Exploration of Spirituality:

Mathura is a city which touches everyone's heart. Whether you are a devotee of Lord Krishna or looking for spiritual peace, this city will definitely satisfy you. The spiritual environment here gives you an opportunity to look within yourself and change your life positively.

So what are you waiting for, set out on the holy journey to Mathura today itself and receive the blessings of Lord Shri Krishna!

Following are some of the major aspects of spirituality of Mathura:

• Devotion to Lord Krishna: A unique form of devotion to Lord Krishna can be seen in Mathura. In the temples here, devotees can be seen engrossed in the devotion of Lord Krishna.
• Sense of Dedication: Many people in Mathura live a life dedicated to Lord Krishna. They give up worldly attachments and remain absorbed in the devotion of Lord Krishna.
• Experience of peace and samadhi: Devotees experience peace and samadhi by coming to the temples of Mathura. The spiritual environment here provides them an opportunity to look within themselves and connect with their soul.

Mathura is a city which is like a heaven for seekers of spirituality. This city can help you awaken the spirituality within you and become a better person.

3. Rishikesh: Heaven of Yoga, Adventure and Spirituality

Rishikesh, located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, is known as the "Yoga Capital of India". This city is situated on the banks of river Ganga and is famous for its natural beauty, adventure and spirituality.

Yoga center

Rishikesh is a major center for yoga. There are many yoga ashrams and yoga centers here, where people come to learn yoga. Many yoga camps and programs are organized every year in Rishikesh.

Hub of Adventure

Rishikesh is also a popular destination for adventure. A variety of adventure activities are available here, such as rafting, camping, trekking, and bungee jumping.

Bastion of spirituality

Rishikesh is also an important center of spirituality. Many saints and mahatmas come here for meditation and sadhana. Rishikesh has many ashrams and temples, where people attain spiritual knowledge.

Sightseeing in Rishikesh

Triveni Ghat of Rishikesh

Triveni Ghat is the most famous ghat of Rishikesh. Here the rivers Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati meet. This ghat is situated on the banks of river Ganga and thousands of devotees come here every day. There are also many temples and ashrams on the ghat.

Lakshman Jhula of Rishikesh

Lakshman Jhula is a historical swing of Rishikesh. This swing is built over the river Ganga and a picturesque view of the river Ganga is visible from here. The swing was constructed in 1929 and is 21 meters long and 2 meters wide.

Yoga Gurukul of Rishikesh

Yoga Gurukul is a yoga ashram established by Swami Shivananda Saraswati. This ashram is famous all over the world and thousands of people come here every year to learn yoga. Various types of yoga are taught in the ashram.

Nandanvan Ashram of Rishikesh

Nandanvan Ashram is a spiritual center established by Swami Vivekananda. This ashram is also famous all over the world and thousands of people come here every year to gain spiritual knowledge. Meditation, yoga and other spiritual activities are organized in the ashram.

Best time to visit Rishikesh

The best time to visit Rishikesh is between October to March. During this period the weather here remains pleasant.

How to reach Rishikesh

Rishikesh is well connected by road, rail and air.

By Road: Rishikesh is located on National Highway 58. It is well connected to Delhi, Lucknow, and Dehradun.

By Rail: The nearest railway station to Rishikesh is Haridwar. Buses and taxis are available from Haridwar to Rishikesh.

By Air: The nearest airport to Rishikesh is at Dehradun. Buses and taxis are available from Dehradun to Rishikesh.

Places to eat in Rishikesh

A variety of cuisines are available in Rishikesh. Here you will find North Indian, Nepalese, and Tibetan cuisine.

Some interesting facts about Rishikesh

• Rishikesh is called "Paradise situated on the banks of Ganga".
• Rishikesh is also known as the “Capital of Yoga”.
• Rishikesh is also called the “Hub of Adventure”.

Rishikesh is a place that offers something for everyone. Whether you want to learn yoga, enjoy adventure, or seek spirituality, Rishikesh is the perfect place for you.

4. Haridwar: Confluence of religion and spirituality

Haridwar, located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus. The city is situated on the banks of river Ganga and is famous for its natural beauty, religious significance and spirituality.

Center of religion

Haridwar is a holy place for Hindus. It is said that Lord Shiva had descended the river Ganga on earth here. Haridwar has many temples and ghats, which are centers of faith for Hindus.

Major tourist places of Haridwar

Haridwar is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus. The city is situated on the banks of river Ganga and is famous for its natural beauty, religious significance and spirituality. Following are the major tourist places of Haridwar:

Har Ki Pauri of Haridwar

The most famous ghat of Haridwar is Har Ki Pauri. This ghat is situated on the banks of river Ganga and thousands of devotees come here every day. Har Ki Pauri is named after Lord Shiva, who used to meditate at this ghat. There is also a temple on the ghat, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Maya Devi Temple of Haridwar

The second most famous temple of Haridwar is Maya Devi Temple. This temple is situated on the banks of river Ganga and Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati are worshiped here. The temple was built in the 10th century and is an important spiritual centre.

Lakshman Jhula of Haridwar

Laxman Jhula is a historical swing of Haridwar. This swing is built over the river Ganga and a picturesque view of the river Ganga is visible from here. The swing was constructed in 1929 and is 21 meters long and 2 meters wide.

kankhal

Kankhal is a historical area of Haridwar. The area is situated on the banks of river Ganga and has many ancient temples and ghats. Kankhal is considered a holy place for Hindus.

Apart from these, there are many other places of interest in Haridwar, such as:

• Kumbh Mela Ghat
• Hariram Temple
• Ram Mandir
• Gaughat
• Kali Mandir
• Vishnu Temple
• Bade Hanuman Temple

Haridwar is a place that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for religion and spirituality, or want to enjoy natural beauty, Haridwar is the perfect place for you.

Best time to visit Haridwar

The best time to visit Haridwar is between October to March. During this period the weather here remains pleasant.

How to reach Haridwar?

Haridwar is well connected by road, rail and air.

By Road: Haridwar is situated on National Highway 58. It is well connected to Delhi, Lucknow, and Dehradun.

By Rail: The nearest railway station to Haridwar is Haridwar.

By Air: The nearest airport to Haridwar is at Dehradun.

Some interesting facts about Haridwar

Haridwar is called "Paradise situated on the banks of Ganga".

Haridwar is also known as the "Yoga Capital of India".

Haridwar is also known as the "City of Kumbh Mela".

Haridwar is a place that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for religion and spirituality, or want to enjoy natural beauty, Haridwar is the perfect place for you.

Maya Devi Temple of Haridwar

To know more about Haridwar you can visit these websites:

Haridwar Municipal Corporation website: https://haridwar.nic.in/

Haridwar Tourism Department website: https://haridwar.gov.in/

5. Varanasi: City of Spirituality

Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is an ancient city located in the north-eastern part of Uttar Pradesh. It is situated on the banks of river Ganges and is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus. Varanasi is also called the "Spiritual Capital of India".

Center of Religion and Spirituality

Varanasi is a holy place for Hindus. It is said that Lord Shiva had descended the river Ganga on earth here. Varanasi has many temples and ghats, which are centers of faith for Hindus.

Importance of river Ganga

Varanasi is situated on the banks of river Ganga. River Ganga is a sacred river for Hindus. It is said that bathing in river Ganga destroys sins. There are many Ganga Ghats in Varanasi, where devotees take bath in the river Ganges.

Major tourist places of Varanasi

Following are the major tourist places of Varanasi:

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Hindus. This temple is the most famous temple of Varanasi. There is a huge statue of Lord Shiva in the temple.

Ghats of Varanasi

There are many Ganga ghats in Varanasi. Some of these famous ghats include Harishchandra Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, and Manikarnika Ghat. Devotees bathe and worship in the Ganga River at the Ganga Ghats

Ganga Ghats.

Harishchandra Ghat of Varanasi

Dashashwamedh Ghat of Varanasi

Manikarnika Ghat of Varanasi

Sarnath

Sarnath is a historical site located near Varanasi. This place is famous for the first sermon of Lord Buddha. Sarnath has many Buddhist temples and sculptures.

Best time to visit Varanasi

The best time to visit Varanasi is between October to March. During this period the weather here remains pleasant.

How to reach Varanasi

Varanasi is well connected by road, rail and air.

By Road: Varanasi is located on National Highway 2. It is well connected to Delhi, Lucknow, and Allahabad.

By Rail: The nearest railway station to Varanasi is Varanasi.

By Air: The nearest airport to Varanasi is Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar International Airport, about 25 kilometers from Varanasi.

Some interesting facts about Varanasi Some interesting facts about Varanasi

• Varanasi is also called the "city of knowledge".
• Varanasi is also called the "Time Machine of India".
• Varanasi is also called the "centre of art and culture of India".

Varanasi is a place that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for religion and spirituality, or want to enjoy natural beauty, Varanasi is the perfect place for you.

6. Kedarnath: The abode of spirituality situated in the lap of Himalayas.

Kedarnath, located in the lap of the Himalayan mountains of Uttarakhand, is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus. This is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Kedarnath is considered one of the "Panch Kedars".

Religious importance of Kedarnath

Kedarnath is a holy place for Hindus. It is said that Lord Shiva meditated here. Along with Lord Shiva, Mother Parvati and Lord Ganesha are also worshiped in Kedarnath.

Natural beauty

Kedarnath is also famous for its natural beauty. This temple is situated amidst the snow covered peaks of the Himalayas. There are also many beautiful waterfalls and rivers around Kedarnath.

Spiritual importance of Kedarnath

Kedarnath is also an important place for spirituality. There are many ashrams and yoga centers where people participate in meditation, yoga and other spiritual activities. Kedarnath is also called the "centre of spirituality".

Major tourist places of Kedarnath

Following are the major tourist places of Kedarnath:

Kedarnath Temple

Kedarnath Temple is an important temple for Hindus. this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. There is a huge statue of Lord Shiva in the temple.

Himalayan peaks

Kedarnath is situated amidst the snow clad peaks of the Himalayas. These peaks add to the beauty of Kedarnath.

Waterfalls and rivers around Kedarnath

There are many beautiful waterfalls and rivers around Kedarnath. The view of these waterfalls and rivers is very picturesque.

Best time to visit Kedarnath

The best time to visit Kedarnath is between April to June and September to November. During this period the weather here remains pleasant.

How to reach Kedarnath?

Kedarnath is well connected by road, rail and air.

By Road: Kedarnath is situated on National Highway 58. It is well connected to Delhi, Dehradun, and Haridwar.

By Rail: The nearest railway station to Kedarnath is Haridwar.

By Air: The nearest airport to Kedarnath is Jolly Grant Airport, which is about 30 kilometers from Dehradun.

Places to stay in Kedarnath

Kedarnath has hotels, guesthouses and ashrams available for every budget.

Some interesting facts about Kedarnath

Kedarnath is also called "the abode of spirituality situated in the lap of Himalayas".

Kedarnath is considered one of the "Panch Kedars".

Kedarnath is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.

Kedarnath is a place which attracts everyone. Whether you are looking for religion and spirituality, or want to enjoy natural beauty, Kedarnath is the perfect place for you.

7. Bodhgaya

Bodhgaya is an ancient city of Bihar. It is situated on the banks of the river Ganges and is a major pilgrimage site for Buddhism. Bodh Gaya is also known as the "Birthplace of Buddhism".

Importance of bodhgaya

The importance of Bodhgaya comes from the fact that it was here that Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Lord Buddha performed rigorous penance here for six years. Ultimately, under the Bodhi tree he attained enlightenment and became the Buddha.

Major tourist places of Bodhgaya

Following are the major tourist places of Bodh Gaya:

Mahabodhi Temple

Mahabodhi Temple is the most famous temple of Bodhgaya. This temple is dedicated to Lord Buddha. There is a huge statue of Lord Buddha in the temple.

bodhi tree

Bodhi tree is the tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. This tree still exists today.

Animesh Lochan

Animesh Lochan is the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.

Chankamana

Chankamana is the place where Lord Buddha spent his third week after attaining enlightenment.

Best time to visit Bodhgaya

The best time to visit Bodhgaya is between October to March. During this period the weather here remains pleasant.

How to reach Bodh Gaya?

Bodhgaya is well connected by road, rail and air.

By Road: Bodhgaya is located on National Highway 83. It is well connected to Delhi, Lucknow, and Allahabad.

By Rail: The nearest railway station to Bodhgaya is Gaya.

By Air: The nearest airport to Bodh Gaya is Patna Airport, which is about 100 kilometers from Gaya.

Places to stay in Bodhgaya

Bodh Gaya has hotels, guesthouses and ashrams available for every budget.

Some interesting facts about Bodhgaya

Bodhgaya is also called the "land of spirituality".

Bodh Gaya is also known as the "Birthplace of Buddhism".

Bodh Gaya has been declared a "World Heritage Site".

Bodh Gaya is a place which attracts everyone. Whether you are looking for religion and spirituality, or want to enjoy natural beauty, Bodhgaya is the perfect place for you.

8. Rameshwaram: City of Shiva

Rameshwaram is an ancient city located in Tamil Nadu. It is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus. This place is associated with Lord Shiva. It is said that Lord Rama worshiped Lord Shiva here after conquering Lanka.

Importance of Rameshwaram

The importance of Rameshwaram is evident from the fact that it was here that Lord Rama worshiped Lord Shiva. Lord Rama had established a Shivalinga here, which is called Rameshwaram Shivalinga. This Shivalinga is a sacred place for Hindus.

Major tourist places of Rameshwaram

Following are the major tourist places of Rameshwaram:

Rameshwaram Shiva Temple

Rameshwaram Shiva Temple is the most famous temple of Rameshwaram. this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. There is a huge statue of Lord Shiva in the temple.

Ram Sethu

Ram Sethu is an ancient bridge, which connects India and Sri Lanka. It is said that Lord Rama built this bridge to conquer Lanka.

Dashmukh Giri

Dashmukh Giri is a mountain on which there is a statue of ten faced Lord Shiva.

Lakshmi Narayana Temple of Rameshwaram

Lakshmi Narayan Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Mother Lakshmi.

Best time to visit Rameshwaram

The best time to visit Rameshwaram is between October to March. During this period the weather here remains pleasant.

How to reach Rameshwaram?

Rameshwaram is well connected by road, rail and air.

By Road: Rameshwaram is located on National Highway 49. It is well connected to Chennai, Madurai, and Coimbatore.

By Rail: The nearest railway station to Rameshwaram is Rameshwaram.

By Air: The nearest airport to Rameshwaram is Tiruchirappalli Airport, which is about 140 kilometers from Rameshwaram.

Some interesting facts about Rameshwaram

Rameshwaram is also called "City of Shiva".

Rameshwaram is considered one of the "Char Dham of Hindus".

Rameshwaram has been declared a "World Heritage Site".

Rameshwaram is a place which attracts everyone. Whether you are looking for religion and spirituality, or want to enjoy natural beauty, Rameshwaram is the perfect place for you.

9. Shri Ayodhya Dham

Ayodhya, a city steeped in ancient mythology and spirituality, is not only an iconic pilgrimage site but also a treasure trove of historical and cultural attractions. With a rich tapestry of heritage, temples and monuments, Ayodhya invites travelers to immerse themselves in its unique blend of past and present.

Major tourist places of Ayodhya Dham

Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, Ayodhya

The Ram Janmabhoomi temple complex marking the birthplace of Lord Rama is the focal point for millions of pilgrims. Although the area has been the center of controversy since the demolition of the Babri Masjid, the Ram Janmabhoomi temple is one of the main attractions of Ayodhya. This place is considered to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, the 7th incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

It is said that the original temple was demolished by the Mughal emperor Babur in 1515 AD and a mosque was built there. However, the mosque was demolished in 1992, and since then, the area has been a source of controversy between Hindus and Muslims in India.

Hanuman Garhi Temple, Ayodhya

Hanuman Garhi, one of the most important temples of Ayodhya, is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The temple is situated on a hilltop and offers a panoramic view of Ayodhya and its surrounding landscape. One has to climb about 76 steps to reach there to seek blessings of the one-inch high idol of Hanuman. It is a widely believed that devotees must visit Hanuman Garhi before visiting the temple of Lord Rama.

Sita ki Rasoi

Sita ki Rasoi is a historical site, is believed to be the kitchen where Goddess Sita cooked food during her time in Ayodhya. The term has acquired cultural significance beyond its mythological context. It is used to celebrate the traditional values of homemaking and the importance of family in Indian culture. It also serves as a symbol of reverence and respect given to women who play their role in the family and society. Overall, “Sita ki Rasoi” is an allegorical representation of the qualities of a devoted wife and housewife, taking inspiration from the character of Sita in the Ramayana.

Guptar Ghat, Ayodhya

Guptar Ghat, an iconic site on the banks of river Saryu, is associated with the departure of Lord Rama from Ayodhya. It is believed that Lord Rama made his last earthly journey from this ghat in the Saryu River, thus completing his incarnation and returning to his divine abode. This event is known as “Jal Samadhi” of Lord Rama, which means entering water for his spiritual departure. If you are in Ayodhya then you must visit Guptar Ghat.

Tips to visit Ayodhya

The best time to visit Ayodhya is between October to March, when the weather is pleasant.

Ayodhya is well connected by road, rail and air.

Many types of hotels, guesthouses and ashrams are available in Ayodhya.

Various types of cuisine are available in Ayodhya