Talk
about religion and the images of holy India starts capturing your minds. The
steps of the ghats of Varanasi, the aroma of the incense sticks and the
temple bells are some of the major symbols associated with the pilgrimage
destinations in India. India is one of the most favoured destinations of
God. Here you can find the oldest continually operating pilgrimage tradition
in the entire world. There are umpteen pilgrimage sites in India like
Mathura, Vrindavan, Rishikesh , Vaishno Devi, Ajmer Shariff, Golden Temple
and Badrinath, Kedarnath.
Pilgrimage Sites
Chardham Yatra - The four pilgrimage sites of
Yamnotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath are together termed as Chardham
Yatra. This yatra holds immense significance for the Hindus. Holy
confluences and magnificent surroundings make the yatra to Chardham, a
journey of a lifetime.
Yamnotri is located in the Uttarkashi district of northern state of
Uttar Pradesh. The pilgrimage spot of Gangotri is also located in the state
of Uttar Pradesh and is revered by the devotees. Kedarnath is a majestic
place to visit to. The Kedarnath temple here is dedicated to Lord Shiva and
boasts of exquisite architecture. Badrinath is the holiest of the four
shrines of Chardham. It offers the magnificent view of the Neelkanth
mountains as the backdrop.
Mathura, Vrindavan - The religious cities of Mathura
and Vrindavan are located in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Both cities have a
strong connection with the life of Lord Krishna. Mathura is also the land of
some sacred water sources, called kund. Mathura also has some of the most
ancient Shiva temples. These two are in fact considered to be the holiest
pilgrimage sites of India. Around 15 km from Mathura lies the city of
Vrindavan. Vrindavan is mostly known for its numerous temples.
Rishikesh
- The revered pilgrimage spot of Rishikesh lies in the state of Uttar
pradesh and is surrounded by the hills from the three sides. The land of
Rishikesh has attractions in abundance. Lakshaman Jhula, Bharat Mandir,
Vasistha Goofa, Kunjapuri Temple, the Neelkanth Mahadeo temple etc. In
addition to the temples there are a number of ashrams also. Not only the
Indian tourists but also a number of foreign tourists visit Rishikesh with
full devotion. The place is also very much famous for its yoga centres.
Varanasi -
Varanasi is said to be the holiest city of India located on the holy Ganges.
A dip in the Ganges is said to be a cure from the all the sins of this birth
and the previous birth. Varanasi also boasts of umpteen ancient temples and
a number of educational institutes. For over 2000 years, the city has
remained a centre of learning and civilization.
Haridwar - Haridwar is the gateway to the four
pilgrimages in Uttaranchal region. It is said that taking bath here purifies
the soul and opens the route to 'nirvana'. The place has earned the fame of
being the place blessed by the trinity of Lord Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma.
Haji Ali - Haji Ali is located in the city of
Mumbai. It is a mausoleum built in the memory of a Muslim saint, Haji Ali.
The monument is located 500 yards in to the sea and can be reached only
during the low tide. It is one of the most revered pilgrimage spots of the
Muslims.
Golden
Temple - Golden Temple is also famous by the name Hari Mandir. It
is located in the city of Amritsar. It was built in the year 1601 by Guru
Arjun Dev. The structure of the temple is a brilliant piece of architecture.
Ajmer Sharif - The city of Ajmer is famous all over
because of its tomb of eminent Sufi saint Hazrat Khawaza Moinuddin Chisti.
It is located in the state of Rajasthan. The unbiased Dargah of Chisti is
open for people of all caste, colour, creed and religion.
