India is a diverse country with extensive religions and devotional places. Each state has at least one famous temple or religious place depicting a rich culture and immeasurable devotion. Some religious places in India are extensively popular worldwide and receive pilgrimages yearly. They are known for their rich culture, beliefs, devotees’ faith, tranquility, and intricate architecture. People across the world visit ancient temples in India to admire their beauty and seek blessings. The seasonal festivals and beautiful locations make them a preferable destination for all generations to visit. So, if you have been hearing about popular temples and religious places in India, it is time to experience them from close. We have listed the top 11 famous holy places in India for pilgrims.
Religious Places In India: Journey To Holy Heavens
Religious tourism in India has surged post-COVID. It has become stronger than ever and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 16% by 2023. Let’s see what spiritual places and famous temples in India contribute to tourism growth.
Ayodhya
Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Ram and is known as one of the most religious places in India. Each nook and cranny depicts the Ramayana, making it truly the holiest place. Besides Ram Mandir, which was recently inaugurated, there are several religious places to visit in Ayodhya. This sacred place depicts Indian history, culture, and devotion to God.
- Hanuman Garhi
- Sita Ki Rasoi
- Kanak Bhawan
- Ram Ki Paidi
Haridwar
Haridwar is one of the most religious places in India, home to several famous temples and the holy river Ganga. People across the world visit Haridwar to take a dip in the holy river Ganga, aiming to wash off all their sins. In addition to religious significance, the city has history and mythology associated with it. Haridwar is one of the most dharmik places in India, offering inner peace and happiness.
- Mansa Devi
- Chanda Devi
- Daksh Mandir
- Shree Neelkanth Mahadev
Rishikesh
If you really want to connect with God, visit Rishikesh, the land of Lord Shiva. Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Rishikesh is the home of spirituality. It is known for its tranquil environment, fresh air and several ancient temples that are believed to be connected with Gods. Besides being known as one of the religious places in India, Rishikesh is also referred to as the best meditation destination.
Religious Places in Rishikesh
- Gita Bhawan
- Parmarth Niketan
- Lakshman Temple
- Shatrughna Temple
Varanasi
Considered the most spiritual place in India, Varanasi is a religious destination everyone should visit once in their lives. Besides being home to Lord Shiva, Kashi is significant among devotees for its tranquillity. It is believed that Shiva appeared to other deities and created a major water-producing gosh on earth. Varanasi is a magical place that gives you a spiritual feeling amid chaos.
Religious Places in Varanasi
- Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple
- Gyanvapi
- Durga Temple
- Vishwa Shanti Stupa
Rameshwaram
Rameshwaram is one of the most religious places in India. This charming city is rich in history and culture. Rameshwaram is linked with Ramayana, and it is believed to be the foundation of the ‘Ram Setu’, the bridge to reach Ravan, who kidnapped Sita Mata. Additionally, Rameshwaram is known for Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple, one of the Jyotirlingas and famous temples in Tamil Nadu.
Religious Places in Rameshwaram
- Rameshwaram Temple
- Dhanushkodi Temple
- Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple
- Lakshmana Theertham
Madurai
Madurai is another popular tourist destination in India. It is popular for its amalgamation of spirituality and modernity. Due to its powerful holy vibes, it is included on the list of religious places in India. Home to several famous temples, Madurai is also popular for the Chithirai festival, which is celebrated in April.
Religious Places in Madurai
- Meenakshi Amman Temple
- Sri Arulmigu Subramaniya Swamy Temple
- Arulmigu Prasanna Venkatachalapathy Temple
- Arulmigu Solaimalai Murugan Temple
Tirupati
Located in the Chittoor district of South India, Tirupati is the city of temples. Popularly renowned for Ventashwar temple, formerly known as Tirupati Balaji, Tirupati ranks among the religious places in India. The temples here are backed with history and culture, making Tirupati one of the most religious sites in India.
Religious Places in Tirupati
- Venkateshwara Temple
- Padmavathi Temple
- Kodandarama Temple
- Govindaraja Temple
Jammu
The next spiritual destination on the list of religious places in India is Jammu. This popular hill station is also home to several deities, such as Lord Shiva and Maa Durga. It attracts several devotees from India who want to trek Amarnath or MaaVaishno Devi.
Religious Places in Jammu
- Mata Vaishno Devi Temple
- Shiv Khori
- Shri Amarnath Cave Temple
- Sri Shankaracharya Temple
Ujjain
Ujjain is one of the holy places in India, adorned with ancient temples. According to mythology, it is the Ujjain from where the planet Mars was formed. Additionally, the city has one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. Not only this, Ujjain hosts Kumbh Mela every twelve years, attracting devotees from far and wide who take a dip in the Shipra River.
Religious Places in Ujjain
- Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga
- Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga
- Ram Ghat
- Gomti Kund
Puri
One of the char dhams and religious places in India, Puri is a holy city. It is popularly known for Jagannath Mandir, one of the Krishna Temples in India, and Jagannath Yatra, which is held in July. Moreover, the city is renowned for several famous temples in India.
Religious Places in Puri
- Shree Jagannatha Temple
- Shree Gundicha Temple
- Maa Bata Mangala Temple
- Lingaraj Temple
Mathura-Vrindavan
The land of Lord Krishna, Mathura-Vrindavan, is the perfect place for Krishna devotees. This destination is listed among the religious places in India because of the beliefs about Lord Krishna. Mathura is the birthplace of Lord Krishna, and Vrindavan is where he spent his childhood. There are more than 5000 Lord Krishna temples, making them sacred places in India.
Religious Places in Mathura-Vrindavan
- Banke-Bihari Temple
- Govardhan Hill
- Prem Mandir
- Vishram Ghat
These religious places in India are the pride of the country. They depict the country’s culture, history and the zest Indians have for their religion. So, wait no longer to explore these sacred places in India.
Frequently Asked Questions
What places are included in Char Dham yatra?
The Char Dham yatra includes Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath.
How to start for Char Dham Yatra?
Haridwar is the beginning point of the Char Dham yatra. Start for the Yamunotri, then Gangotri, followed by Kedarnath and ends at Badrinath.
How many Jyotirlingas are there?
There are 12 Jyotirlingas in India-
- Somnath
- Nageshwar
- Bhimashkeshawar
- Trimbakeshwar
- Grishneshwar
- Vaidyanath
- Mahakaleshwar
- Omkareshwar
- Kashi Vishwanath
- Kedarnath
- Rameshwaram
- Mallikarjuna
What is the importance of Amarnath Shivling?
Amarnath Shivling is made of snow and is believed to contract and expand according to the moon’s phases.
What is Dwarka famous for?
Dwarka is believed to have been the capital of Lord Krishna’s Kingdom. The entire city was submerged in the sea just after Lord Krishna’s death.