With such a hugely diverse history, India is known for it’s spiritual enlightenment, particularly for Hindus, Sikhs and Buddhists.
For thousands of years people have taken pilgrimages to see some of these classic holy sites, searching for enlightenment.
There are hundreds of temples and sacred, historic sites to be seen when travelling around India, but here is our list of the best spiritual destinations to visit in India…
1. Varanasi
Located on the Ganges River in the state of Uttar Pradesh, Varanassi, more commonly known as Benares, is the most sacred of cities for both Hindus and Jains and the perfect place for a spiritual journey, home to various temples and rituals.
As such it is a very popular location for many Bollywood films, most recently Raanjhanaa starring Sonam Kapoor and Danush. Varanassi is believed to be the city of Lord Shiva and is known for its ghats where bodies are cremated in the Ganges. The belief is that if you die in Benares you will be freed from reincarnation.
2. Mahabodhi Tree – Bodh Gaya
The Mahabodhi tree is incredibly important to many people. This is because of its story; around 500BC Prince Siddhartha came upon this Bodhi tree, meditating under it for 3 days.
When he arose he was enlightened and had answers to many questions he was seeking. Today, a temple surrounds the original tree and is a UNESCO World Heritage site too.
3. Haridwar
Situated at the base of the Himalayas, Haridwar is a timeless mystical destination, which is known as one of the seven holiest places in India. It is said to have been blessed by three Hindu Gods; Lord Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. Millions of pilgrims come to bathe in the Ganges to cleanse their sins.
4. Vaishno Devi Temple
The Vaishno Devi Temple is one of the oldest temples throughout the whole of India, located on the holy hills of the Shivalik Hill range. Millions of people travel to Vaishno to be blessed by Vaishno Devi. The shrine of Vaishno Devi consists of three divinities; Mahalakshmi, Mahakali and Mahasaraswati.
5. Golden Temple
The Golden Temple, formally known as Harmandir Sahib, is the holiest Sikh gurdwara located in Amritsar.
It has become one of the most popular places to travel in Asia – a huge tourist destination due to its striking gold dome, which is particularly beautiful at night when it is all lit up. It attracts visitors in thousands every day and whilst a sacred place for Sikhs, the Golden Temple is visited by people of all faiths.
Inline with all gurdwara’s worldwide, the Golden Temple is open to all visitors, all that is asked is that you follow a few customs when in the gurdwara – such as removing shoes,
India is one of the most spiritually powerful places on earth meaning you’ll get to experience a whole different meaning to peace and relaxation here. Search India tours and book a trip today.
