24 Best religious places in North India for devotees
North India is a place full of holy places, particularly in the Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh states of India. Some of them are as under:
The best religious places in North India for devotees with family
1. Varanasi – Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi, also known by the name of Banaras is a very old and holy city situated at the bank of the river Ganga in Uttar Pradesh State in the northern part of India. According to historians, the Aryans were first settled in the middle of the river Ganga Valley and therefore the Aryan philosophy was spread all over this region.
This is the most famous place for great spiritual learning and consists of globally famous Universities and other educational institutes like Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth, Sampurnanand Sanskrit University, and Banaras Hindu University.
This city was the capital of Kasi at the time of Buddha and was a commercial and industrial hub and was known for its silk fabric, ivory articles, perfumes and muslin. This city is famous for its spiritual culture and has a large number of temples and ghats.
In the early times, this city was famous for its Chagas (the cheaters) where the pandits looted the people in the name of religious ceremonies.
This city is also famous as the religious city of India. Every Hindu has the desire to at least once visit this city for religious purposes apart from their tourist visit. This city is very ordinary and not aware of the modern culture of nightclubs, bars and dances.
The speciality of this city
- Langda or Malda Mangoes
- Silk Cloths
- Wooden Handicrafts
- Carpets and Brass Ware
- Gold Jewellery
- Thater Bazar
- Temple Bazar
- Gyan Vapi
- Vishwanath Gali
The main points of attraction are:
- Banaras Ghats
- River Ganges
- Chunar Fort
- Ramnagar Fort
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Sarnath
- Chaumsathi Ghat
- Manikarnika Ghat
- Man Mandir Ghat
- Archaeological Museum
Nearest International Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, Babatpur Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
Nearest Railway Station: Varanasi Junction (BSB), Kashi (KEI), Manduadih (MUV).
Famous Markets & Malls: Thatheri Bazar, Godowlia Market, Vishwanath Lane, Rajan Silk Market, Golghar, Gyanvapi, Dal Mandi Market, Lahurabir, Chowk and Urban Hatt, IP Sigra Mall, IP Vijaya Mall, JHV Mall, Vinayak Plaza, PDR Mall.
Famous Street Food: Chena Dahi Vada, Kachori Sabji, Chooda Matar, Baati Chokha, Tamatar Chaat, Dahi Chutney Golgappe, Banarasi Thandai and Lassi, Banarsi Paan.
The ideal time to visit: is April to June and October to March.
2. Allahabad – Uttar Pradesh
Allahabad originally known as the name Prayagraj is the most famous and busy city in Uttar Pradesh. Its original name Prayagraj was changed in the Mughal period but now it was again named Prayagraj. It is one of the religious places of India and consists of the most religious and famous River Sangam which is one of the top pilgrims of Hindus.
This place is also famous for its heritage and rich culture. The High Court of Uttar Pradesh is also situated in Allahabad which is evidence of its religious and other literal hight in the state.
Generally, the people here speak the national language Hindi and are very simple but now with the efforts and schemes of the state government, this city is continuously going on the path of progress. This place is also famous among Hindus for cremations as in Varanasi and Gaya.
This city is also famous for Indian politics and gave to the country several Prime Ministers like Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, Lal Bahadur Shastri, Vishwanath Pratap Singh and Chandrashekhar.
The main points of attraction are:
- Anand Bhawan
- Triveni Sangam
- Jawahar Planetarium
- Khusro Bagh
- Patalpuri Temple Akshaya Vat
- Allahabad Museum
- Allahabad Fort
Nearest International Airport: Bamrauli or Prayagraj Airport (IDX).
Nearest Railway Station: Prayagrahj Junction (Allahabad), Subedarganh Railway Station, Prayagraj Sangam.
Famous Markets & Malls: Mg Marg, Tulsiyani Plaza, Vivekananda Marg, Chowk, Phaphamau Bazaar, Nehru Complex, Vinayak City Centre, P Square Mall, Atlantis Mall.
Famous Street Food: Lassi at Raja Ram Lassi Wala, Kachori and Sabzi at Netram Mulchand & Sons, Chaat at Nirala, The Biryani at on, Gulab Jamuns aà Hira Halwai, Massala Churmura.
The ideal time to visit: is July to September and October to March.
3. Vrindavan – Uttar Pradesh
Vrindavan is situated in the northern part of India in Braj Bhoomi near Mathura where Lord Krishna spent his childhood. This place is also called Vrindabann or Brindaban.
There is a large number of temples dedicated to Krishna and Radha for worship. It is famous for the worship of Krishna and includes holy areas like Govardhan and Gokul exclusively connected with Krishna.
A large number of devotees of Krishna and Radha visit this pilgrimage every year from all corners of the world. There are about 15 thousand to 20 thousand windows in the city which mainly came from other states like West Bengal, Odisha, and Assam.
The main points of attraction are:
- Ranjit Temple
- Yamuna River
- Shahji Temple
- Govind Dev Temple
- Bankey Bihari Temple
- Kesi Ghat
- Iskcon Temple
- Radha Rani Temple
- Prem Mandir
- Gokul
- Nandgaon
4. Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is one of the holiest places of Sikhs located at about 26 miles distance from Leh towards the Kargil road and is about 12,050 feet high the sea level.
This Gurudwara was dedicated to Guru Nanak Sahaib for his visit to this region and was constructed in the year 1917 when Guru Nanak Dev Ji was the founder of Guru in the Sikhs religion.
Tibet was one of the places of the journey of Guru Nanak Dev where he was considered a saint and got due regard by the Tibetan Buddhists. The Buddhist spiritual leader Dalai Lama was given the status of a Buddhist saint and named Guru Gompka Maharaj.
Under the belief of local people, a bad soul was living in this area and fearing the people of the place where Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is now located and when the people of the area became unset they prayed to God for help and then Guru Nanak Sahib came forward and lived in the area of the wicked demon were living and gave his blessing with sermons to those locals to come out of the fear and therefore became popular in that area.
Thereafter Guru Nanak Sahib left that place and the wicked demons removed the holy pathar along with the imprint of the body of Guru Nanak Ji and the footprints of those wicked demons are preserved in this Gurudwara to date for the people who visit here.
Places of Attraction near Gurudwara Pathar Sahib:
- Magnetic Hill
- Phyang Monastery
- Basgo Gompa
- Suru Valley
- Stok Place
- Zanskar Valley
- Tso Moriri
- Tso Kar Lake
- Lamayuru Monastery
- Evergreen Art Emporium
Airport near Gurudwara Pathar Sahib: Leh airport is the nearest airport to this Gurudwara and is about 26 miles away. This airport is also connected with Delhi, Srinagar and Jammu airports.
Railway Station near Gurudwara Pathar Sahib: Udhampur Railway Station is the closest railway station to this Gurudwara.
The Ideal Time to Visit Gurudwara Pathar Sahib: Mar to October is the best time to visit this place and for the rest of the year the temperature of this place becomes very cool.
5. Dharamshala – Himachal Pradesh
Dharamshala is situated on the edge of the Himalayas in the state of Himachal Pradesh and is surrounded by cedar forests. This city is mainly dominated by the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government. The spiritual centre is the Thekchen Choling Temple Complex for Tibetan Buddhism.
The Dharamshala began to be the colony of Tibet in the year 1959 when the then Prime Minister of India allowed the Dalai Lama and his followers to settle in the upper part of Dharamshala which was earlier the British summer picnic spot.
The total population of Dharamshala is about 54,000 and is at the second rank in HP. This city was given due weightage by the government of India for development as it is selected for development as a smart city out of the hundred chosen cities.
This city is the third state of India to have two capitals like Maharashtra. The main places are McLeod Ganj, Forsyth Ganj, Naddi, Bhagsunag, Dharamkot, Kaccheri Adds, Sidhpur, and Sidhbari.
This city is a municipal corporation of the Kangra Valley in the large coniferous forests mainly Deodar cedar trees. The Central Tibetan Administration was established here in the year 1960 which converted this city to the Tibetan exile world in India.
This city is also full of tea gardens prominently around Sheela Chowk up northwards of Khaniyara. Most of them are situated in the Kangra District around Palampur.
Lower Dharamshala and Upper Dharamshala are the main divisions of this city which consist of the Kotwali Bazaar and the surrounding markets.
Now, this city is on the path of development as the Maximus Mall and Gol Multiplex Cinemas are established on the National Highway Road. Other big complex is the Hillside Mall, HPCA International Cricket Stadium, Government Degree College, Cafe Coffee Day, Moti Mahal Food Chain, Pizza Hut, and Gold Cinemas.
Places to visit in Dharamshala:
1. Namgyal Monastery
2. Tsuglagkhang Complex
3. McLeod Ganj
4. Masrur
5. Gyuto Monastery
6. Kareri Lake
7. Kangra Fort
8. Kangra Museum
9. Naddi Village
Airport near Dharamshala: Kangra Airport is about 15 km. away from Dharamshala.
Railway Station near Dharamshala: Pathankot Railway Station is the nearest railway station well connected with roads.
The ideal time to visit Dharamshala: is March to June.
6. Devbhoomi – Uttarakashi – Uttarakhand 
Devbhoomi means the place of gods. In Uttarakhand spirituality is spread all over because it is believed to be the land of Gods. Several Hindu temples are situated even in remote areas.
The main religious mela is known as Kumbh which comes once in twelve years and is held in Haridwar. It also contains char Dham yatra which is the ultimate dream of any Hindu. Har ki Pauri is also one of the major attractions for tourists.
Places to visit in Devbhoomi:
- Badrinath
- Mussoorie
- Nainital
- Rishikesh
- Haridwar
- Jim Corbett National Park
- Auli
Airport near Uttarakashi: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun is the nearest airport to reach this place.
Railway Station near Uttarakashi: Virbhadra about 2 km., Rishikesh railway station about 3 km. Haridwar Junction is about 19 km. from Uttarkashi.
The ideal time to visit Uttarkashi: March to May (summer) and October to February (winter).
7. Sarnath – Uttarakhand
Sarnath is situated about 10 km. from Varanasi’s northeast side close to the Varuna River in Uttar Pradesh, India. In the Deer Park of Sarnath Gautama Buddha, for the first time taught the Dharma and got enlightenment of Kondanna.
About one km. away from Singhpur, is the birthplace of Shreyansanath, the eleventh Tirthankara of Jainism and where a huge temple was built in his memory and now it is a very famous pilgrimage site.
The other famous names of Sarnath are Migadaya, Mrigadava, Rishipattana and Isipatana. Gautama Buddha gave up his family and friends after seven weeks of his enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya. Sarnath is one of the most important pilgrimage places of Buddha and everyone from the Budha community has the desire to visit at least once at this place.
Some of the suttas preached by Buddha are the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, The Saccavibhanga Sutta, The Rathakara of Pacatana Sutta, The two Pasa Sutta, The Panca Sutta also known as Anattalakkhana Sutta, The Katuviya Sutta, The Samaya Suta and many more.
The main points of attraction are:
- Tibetan Temple
- Chaukkandi Stupa
- Dhamma Stupa
- Mulagandha Kuti Vihar
- Sarnath Museum
- Deer Park
- Thai Temple
The ideal time to visit Sarnath: is October to April.
8. Ayodhya – Uttar Pradesh
Ayodhya is an ancient city also known as Awadh or Oudh is situated on the bank of River Saryu in the east part of Faizabad in Uttar Pardesh, North India This town was a very famous place because of associated with the Indian epic Ramayana and the birthplace of Hindu God Ram.
During that period this town was very rich, and prosperous with a large population. Ayodhya was involved in large communal disputes in two communities, The Hindus and The Muslims on the issue of the birthplace of Lord Rama or Babari Masjid.
At last, this issue is resolved in favour of the Hindus after the final verdict of the Supreme Court of India. Ayodhya also known as the city of temples consists of about 7000 temples about 100 temples are very famous and have a tourist attraction.
After giving passion to God Rama birthplace of Hindus, this city is on the path of rapid development and construction of Hugh Ram Mandir under the supervision and control of the Ram Mandir Construction Committee and the Bhartiya Janta Party which will change the whole complexion of the people of this city because it is going to be one of the main tourist attraction not only for Indians but also for people globally.
The main points of attraction are:
- Hanuman Garhi Fort
- Nageshwarnath Temple
- Ramkot
- Ram Ki Paidi
- Bramha Kund
- Vijayraghav Mandir
- Kanak Bhavan
Nearest International Airport: Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport (130 km), Gorakhpur Airport.
Nearest Railway Station: Ayodhya (AY) 1.5 km, Faizabad Junction (FD) 7 km, A N Devnagar (ACND) 5km.
Famous Markets & Malls: Terhi Bazaar, Hanumant Market, Ayodhya Bazaar, Sabji Mandi, Anya Super Market, Jigar Market, Prakesh Market, Ramnath Sonker Market, Maurya Complex and Mall of Avadh.
Famous Street Food: Chaat, Rabri, Laddoo, Veg Biryani, Kachori, North Indian Thalis, Chole Bhature, Rumali Roti, Litti Chokha, Veg Tikka, Papar Ki Sabji, Dal Baati and Churma, Kadhi, Kabab Paratha, Gujiya and Kulfi.
The Ideal Time to Visit Ayodhya: October to March.
9. Mathura – Uttar Pradesh
Mathura is the main city and administrative headquarter of Mathura District and is located near Agra and Delhi. This city has the pride to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna, the God of Hindus. This is among the most important heritage hub for the Heritage Department of the Government of India.
The famous place of Mathura is the Rangabhoomi where Lord Krishna killed the devil’s soul kans. The biggest festival in Mathura is Krishna Janmashtami which is one of the main religious festivals of Hinduism. Now, this festival is extended all over India and other countries. Banker Behari Temple is the best attraction point for millions of people all over the world.
The main points of attraction are:
- Banker Behari Temple
- Dwarkadheesh Temple
- Prem Mandir Vrindavan
- Radha Rani Temple
- Government Museum
- Kan’s Quila
- Vishram Ghat
- Goverdhan Hill
- Lathmar Holi
- Radha Kund
Famous Markets & Malls: Chatta Bazaar, Tilak Dwar Market, Highway Plaza, Lal Bazaar, Krishna Nagar Market, Bangali Ghat, Radha Madhav Shrinagar Kendra, Pacific Mall, Sn Tower Shopping Mall, City Centre Mall.
Famous Street Food: Malpua, Lassi, Samosa, Rabri, Makhan Mishri, Kachori, Peda, Bhalla Papdi, Aloo Puri, Jalebi, Gujiya, Kulfi, Tehri, Bedhai. Chai.
The ideal time to visit: is April to June and October to March.
10. Lotus Temple – Delhi
Lotus Temple is a Baha’i House that is a place of worship. Because of its notable lotus flower shape, this temple is a unique example of architectural design. This temple is one of the examples of unity because it is open to all whether of any caste or religion.
This temple made its place in many articles and newspapers and has also won several architectural awards. The template was opened to the public on 1st, January 1987 and about 10,000 people visited on the first day to admire its architectural beauty and religious emotions.
It was designed by Fariborz Sahba, the prominent Iranian architect who before the completion of the project won a claim and later on received so many awards and honours. The marble petals are grouped into clusters and form nine sides which open nine entrances into a central space.
The first ring of Petals faces outward, and the second ring covers the outer hall. The Petals in the innermost ring curve inward to partially enclose the central prayer hall with a capacity of about 2,500 people. The top part is built with glass and steel and gives an elusion to be an open space.
International Airport Near Lotus Temple: Indira Gandhi International Airport.
Railway Station Near Lotus Temple: Okhla Railway Station (OKA), Nizamuddin Railway Station (NZM).
The Ideal Time to Visit Lotus Temple: October to Mid-April.
11. Baba Baidyanath Dham – Jharkhand
Baba Baidyanath Dham also known as Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga temple is located in the Deoghar district in Jharkhand state in the northern part of India. This is the most famous and holy abode of Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Hindus.
In this temple complex, 21 temples are installed along with Jyotirlinga. It is believed that the wicked demon king Ravan want to get the boons for using wreak havoc in the entire world and for that he worshipped god Shiva at the site of this Mandir.
He was so keen to get boons that he sacrifices his ten heads to make happy to Lord Shiva. With this act of Ravan, the god Shiva became happy and arranged for a doctor to cure the injured Ravana who is referred to as Vaidhya and since then this temple is famous in name of Baba Baidyanath Temple.
This place is also famous due to the Kanwar Yatra which is the pilgrimage of the devotees of Shiva who gather holy water of river Ganga every year by covering a long distance from all corners of the country to dispense it in this temple.
The big idols of Lord Ganesh and Goddess Parvati are also installed in this temple complex. The face of the temple is in the east and is built of a plain stone structure with a pyramidal tower. The Chandrakanta Mani the eight-petaled lotus flower is one of the main attractions in this complex.
Places of Attraction in Baba Baidyanath Dham:
- Baba Baidyanath Temple
- Deoghar
- Naulakha Mandir
- Nandan Pahar
- Ramakrishna Mission Vidyapith
- Vioray
- Rikhia Yogashram
- Passenger Ropeway at Trikut
- Maa Shitala Devi Temple
- Baiju Temple
- Mayurakshi River
- Trikuta Parvata
- Naulakha Mandir
Airport near Baba Baidyanath Temple: Ranchi Airport about 190 km. Gaya Airport about 178 km. are the nearest airport to this place.
Railway Station near Baba Baidyanath Temple: Baidyanath Railway Station (Deoghar), Kharagpur Junction 248 km. Howrah Junction is about 270 Km.
The Ideal Time to Visit Baba Baidyanath Temple: March to June (summer) and October to February (winter) is the best time to visit this place.
12. Chitrakoot – Madhya Pradesh
Chitrakoot is located in the state of Madhya Pradesh in the northern part of India near Satna district and is a known pilgrimage centre of Hindus. This is located in the Bundelkhand region and is famous for its archaeological, historical, cultural and religious importance.
This is a very small town with a total population of about 22,300 people who are generally Hindi-speaking. This place attracts a large number of pilgrims all around the year, particularly on Somwati Amavasya, Amavasya, Deepawali, Makar Sankranti, Sarad Poornima and Rama Navami and also the famous Yoga and Ayurvedic centres.
It is believed that God Rama visited this place to perform the Shraddha ceremony of his respected father for partaking in the shudder.
The Valmiki knows Chitrakoot as the holiest destination inhabited by the sages due to its abounding monkey and other fauna and flora. This is one of the oldest religious places in India and is situated on the banks of the Paishwani River also known as the Mandakini River.
As per old myths is supposed that the incarnations of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh were born here. The God Rama along with Sita and Lakshman camped in this place for about 11 years out of their 14 years of exile.
Places to Visit in Chitrakoot:
- Gupt Godavari Caves
- Kamadgiri
- Ramghat
- Sati Anusuya Temple
- Hanuman Dhara
- Bharat Milap Mandir
- Sphatik Shila
- Janki Kund
- Marpha
- Rajapur
- Kalinjar Fort
- Ganesh Bagh
- Bharat Kup
- Valmiki Ashram
Airport near Chitrakoot: Khajuraho Airport is nearest to this town and is about 168 km. away and another is Varanasi Airport about 275 km. away from Chitrakoot.
Railway Station near Chitrakoot: The nearest railway station is Chitrakoot Dham Karwi Railway Station located about 10 km. from Chitrakoot.
The Ideal Time to Visit Chitrakoot: This place can be visited throughout the year but March to May (summer) and October to February (winter) is the best time to visit this place.
13. Manikaran Sahib – Himachal Pradesh
Manikaran is located in the Kullu district in the northeast of Bhuntar in Parvati Valley on the Parvati River in the state of Himachal Pradesh in the northern part of India. This place is about 46 km. from Kullu with an altitude of about 1765 meters. This town supports a large number of tourists in Kullu and Manali due to its hot springs and famous pilgrim centres.
Manikaran is a famous pilgrimage centre for Hindus because of their belief that the Manu recreated the life of human beings in this town when heavy damage took place due to flood and made this area very sacred.
The existence of the temples of gods Krishna, Rama and Vishnu and also the hot springs made this area the most attractive point for both the Hindu pilgrimage and the tourists. This place has a large number of temples and gurudwara and therefore, is the most desirable pilgrimage centre for Hindus and Sikhs.
As per the Sikh’s belief, it is supposed that the Sikh guru and founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak Sahib visited this place in 1574 along with his disciple Bhai Mardana during the third Udasi.
Mardana had no food to fix his hunger and then Guru Nanak sent him to arrange food from the community kitchen (langar) he managed to collect the raw food like atta and other things but still, there was a problem to cook food because there was no fire.
Then on the suggestion of Guru Nanak, the Mardana arrange to lite the fire. Guru Nanak then asked the Mardana to pray the God and promise in case the chapatis float back then he will donate one of them in the name of God.
Then all his Chamatis started baking and then Guru Nanak Ji give him a lesson that the drowned items can float back to the person who donates in the name of God.
Places to Visit in Manikaran Sahib:
- Manikaran Hot Springs
- Parvati Valley
- Malana
- Kulant Pith
- Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara
- Kheer Ganga
- Harinder Mountain
- God Shiva Temple
- Chalal Trek
- Lord Ramchandra Temple
- Kasol and Manali
Airport Near Manikaran Sahib: Flight to Mullu Manali at Bhuntar Airport at about 35 km. from Manikaran.
Railway Station near Manikaran Sahib: Pathankot Railway Station at a distance of about 300 km. from this town.
The Ideal Time to Visit Manikaran Sahib: The summer season is the best time from March to June to visit this place.
14. Rishikesh- Uttarakhand
Rishikesh the word represents the locks or heir of a sage and is famous for its spiritual values. This town is a part of Dehradun in Uttarakhand. Rishikesh is about 25 km. from Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun and about 90 km. from Mussoorie.
This place is the hub of Yoga, Pilgrimage, Adventure, and Sports. It is located near the River Ganga in the ground hills of the Shivalik range in Northern India.
This place is the top destination for rafting and kayaking. This is a very small town in comparison to its popularity due to meditation and yoga. It also keeps the attraction of rock climbing, camping, backpacking, hiking, kayaking, and bungee jumping.
This area includes three districts namely Swargashram, Rishikesh, and Mungiki-Reti. It also has a unique view of the jungle -view -hills.
Rishikesh can be said to be the gateway of Char Dham which consists of four famous temples on the hill i. e Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri which are in the heart of every Hindu. The main attraction in Rishikesh is Triveni Ghat, the biggest Bath Ghat in Rishikesh.
LakshmanJhula, made from a big iron suspension bridge about 4.5 km. from Rishikesh. Ram Jhula is the Suspension bridge-like Lakshman Jhula between Sivananda Ashram and Swarg Ashram.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is about 30 km. from Rishikesh. Parmarth Nike Tan is situated in the Swargashram area and is famous for International Yoga Festival. Sivananda Ashram is also known as Devine Life Society is situated near Ram Jhula.
This ashram is created by Swami Sivananda who gave most of his life here about 30 years. Bharat Mandir is one of the oldest temples in Rishikesh and is located in the centre of Rishikesh.
Gita Bhawan is mainly dedicated to Lord Krishna and is full of Bhawan Krishna pictures telling about his life, work, and valuable guan given to Arjun during the battle of Mahabharata.
Places to visit in Rishikesh are:
- Beatles Ashram
- Tara Manzil Temple
- Swarg Ashram
- Rishikesh Main Market
- Bhootnath Temple
- Iscon Temple
- Rishikund
- Marine Drive
- Astha Path
- Chandreshwar Mahadev Temple
Airport near Rishikesh: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun is the nearest airport to reach Rishikesh;
Railway Station near Rishikesh: Virbhadra is about 2 km., and Rishikesh railway station is about 3 km. Haridwar Junction is about 19 km. from Rishikesh.
The ideal time to visit Rishikesh: is March to May (summer) and October to February (winter).
15. Haridwar – Uttarakhand
Haridwar is situated in the northwestern part of Uttarakhand state in north India, is also called Hardwar, the gateway to the god. It falls on the north side of the Himalayan foothills and lies along the Ganga River.
Haridwar is a place of deep spirituality and worship with several Ghats and Mandir (Temples). This is one of the seven sacred cities of the Hindus in India. Its name originated from Kapila the saga who once lived there and also the name Hari is also the name of Vishnu one of the main deities of Hinduism.
Har-ki-Pauri is the main symbol of pilgrimage in Haridwar which is the most famous ghat for taking bath before worship and is also called the holy bath. The lakhs of people visit Har-ki-Pauri for taking a holy bath.
The largest Mela in the world called Kumbh Mela is held once every 12 years and lakhs of the naga saga and a large number of people visiting Haridwar at this event is also the pride of Haridwar. The Ardh Kumbh is organized hereafter every six years. The Kanwar mela is also organized here every year.
The five Pilgrimages (Panch Tirth) situated in Haridwar are Gangadwars (Har Ki Pauri), Kankhal, Kushwart (Ghat), Bilwa Tirtha (Mansa Devi Temple), and Neel Parvat (Chandi Devi), This city is as old as the ancient Vedic times and consists several institutes giving traditional knowledge of religion and wellness. We can also learn meditation, Ayurveda, and yoga here in different ashrams and training centres.
Haridwar is the oldest city and the Municipality of Uttarakhand is also situated in the Haridwar district. Because of the religious destination, it has several sightseeing locations like temples and ashrams which are the main attraction of Haridwar and are available in and around the Haridwar.
The main destinations for devotees are Mansa Devi Temple and Chandi Devi Temple. Kankhal is also one of the towns near Haridwar that are known for its religious significance.
The main attraction in Haridwar are:
- Har Ki Pauri
- Shantikunj
- Mansa Devi Temple
- Chandni Devi Temple
- Ma Ananamayi Ashram
- Chilla Range
- Bharat Mata Mandir
- Maya Devi Temple
- Bikeshwar Mahadev Temple
- Sri Santosh Puri Ashram
- Bholagiri Ashram
- Gau Ghat
- Pawan Dham
- Bhimgoda Tank
- Sati Kund
- Vishnu Ghat
Airport near Haridwar: Jolly Grant Airport at about 35 km. from Haridwar and well connected to Delhi airports with daily flights.
Railway Station near Haridwar: Haridwar Junction is the main railway station in Haridwar connected with Dehradun and Rishikesh.
The ideal time to visit: is March to June and for enjoying snowfall between December to February.
16. Vaishno Devi Temple – Jammu and Kashmir
As per the Hindu’s secret books and tales in the local area, this temple is very ancient and had incarnated in the Treta Yuga with the power of goddess Saraswati, Parvati and Lakshmi for the welfare of entire mankind in every era.
It is believed that the bad souls were endangering the earth in Treta Yuga and to save herself the earth went to Trimurti in search of help the power of all the three goddesses could not work individually then they combined their entire force in one and created the goddess known as Mata Rani Mata Vaishno Devi.
After the creation of Mata Vaishno Devi, there also exists one more evil force in the form of a Tantric named Bhairon Nath
who falls in love with the goddess due to her beauty and continued to follow her to save herself, Mata Vaishno Devi fled into Trikuta hills and created the form of Mahakali to cut the head of Bhairon Nath with the sword in a cave where she lived for about nine months. The entire maintenance and control of this temple are in the hands of the nine members committee nominated by the Jammu and Kashmir governments.
Places of Attraction near Vaishno Devi Temple:
- Raghunath Temple
- Charan Paduka Temple
- Jahan Kosha
- Ardhkuwari Cave and Temple
- Shrine of Dera Baba Banda
- Charan Ganga
- Deva Mai Temple
- Holy Cave of Shivkhori
- Bhairavnath Temple
- Banganga Temple
- Holy Cave of Mata Vaishno Devi
- Ban Ganga
- Himkoti
Airport near Vaishno Devi Temple: Jammu airport is the nearest airport to Mata Vaishno Devi temple and is well connected with the major cities of India like Delhi, Srinagar, Mumbai, Leh and more.
Railway Station near Vaishno Devi Temple: Katra Railway Station and Jammy Tawi Railway Stations are the nearest Railway station to this temple.
17. Bodh Gaya – Bihar 
Bodh Gaya is located in the Gaya district of Bihar state in the northern part of India and is known for its religious belief and pilgrimage place of the Mahabodhi Temple Complex where Gautama Budha was supposed to get enlightenment under the Bodhi
Tree and became the place of pilgrimage and veneration for the Hindus and the Buddhists. It is one of the four prime pilgrimage places like Kushinagar, Sarnath and Lumbini for Buddhists due to the life story of Gautama Buddha.
These pilgrimage sites of Buddhists situated in Bodh Gaya have got the name in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This is supposed to be the holiest place for Buddhism and is famous as Uruwela in the name of Buddha’s period and located at the bank of River Lilajan where the first temple was constructed under the supervision and control of King Ashoka the Great.
The Great Buddha’s original name was Siddhartha and had renounced the world at the age of about 29 in search of truth for which he travelled and did meditation for a long part of his life.
The life history of Bodh Gaya is written in the numbers of Pilgrimage and inscriptions accounts mainly in the Chinese pilgrims Faxian and Xuanzang in the 5th and 7th centuries respectively.
This place was very famous and near the heart of Buddhist civilisation for a long period till defeated by Turkic armies in about the 13th century. The most famous and known monastery of this place is the Bodhimanda which is now called the name of Mahabodhi Temple.
Places of Attraction in Bodh Gaya:
- The Great Buddha Statue
- Mahabodhi Temple
- Bodhi Tree
- Tibetan Refugee Market
- Muchalinda Lake
- Thai Monastery
- Brahmayoni Temple
- Royal Bhutan Monastery
- Chinese Temple
- Cankamana
- Vishnupad Temple
- Kundan Bazaar
- Metta Buddharam Temple
- Dungeswari Hills
- Sujatha Temple
- Root Institute
- Jama Masjid
- Burmese Vihara Monastery
Airport near Bodh Gaya: Gaya International Airport located about 6 km from Gaya City is the second busiest airport in this state.
Railway Station near Bodh Gaya: Gaya Junction Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Bodh Gaya.
The Ideal Time to Visit Bodh Gaya: March to May in the Summer season, June to August during the Monsoon and December to February in Winter.
18. Ajmer Sharif Dargah – Rajasthan
Ajmer Sharif Dargah is located in Ajmer in the state of Rajasthan of the northern part of India and is a Sufi shrine dedicated to saint Moinuddin Chishti with the Chisti’s grave also famous as Maqbara. This dargah is a Mosque, a Sufi mausoleum which is designed by the famous Architect Sunni-Al-Jamaat.
This Dargah is very famous all over the world because of its religious value and with the passing of time, it enhanced its fame and size.
Not only the local people but the various rulers and known personalities of their time like Nasirddin Mahmud, Muhammad bin Tughluq, Razia Sultana, Sher Shah Suri, Akbar Jhangir up to Jahanara Begum had visited this Dargah for prayer.
Nowadays this is one of the most desired Dargah for Sunni Muslims of the entire world. This Dargah is also visited by a large number of Hindus who venerated the Islamic saint for the long period. A large number of devotees visit this place including women and devotees from different religions.
The daily five times namaz is the mandatory ritual in the Dargah with a ceremony of the Dua-e-Roshni carried out at the time of sunset in which the Khadims carry a large number of yellow candles in the Dargah.
The urs are the death anniversary of Moinuddin Chisti who this day reunited Allah. The end of urs begins with Qul when the final prayer of done and on these days the devotees try to visit and go into the Dargah the maximum times as they can enter.
It is believed that the Islamic culture started in India from the influence of this Dargah which was added by the Tansen’s music, Salim Chishti, Abul Faizi and Abul Fazi.
Places of Attraction near Ajmer Sharif Dargah:
- Ajmer Sharif Dargah
- Adhai Din Ka Jhopra
- Ana Sagar Lake
- Nareli Jain Temple
- Akbar’s Palace
- Durga Bagh Gardens
- Kishangarh City
- Abdulla Khan’s Tomb
- Urs Festival
- Roopangarh Fort
- Akbari Masjid
- Prithviraj Smarak
- Fort Masuda
- Victoria Jubilee Clock Tower
- Sai Baba Temple
- Mayo College
- Taragarh Fort
- Buland Darwaza
- Baradari
- Rangji Temple
Airport near Ajmer Dargah: Jaipur International Airport is the nearest airport and is about 130 km. form this Dargah.
Railway Station near Ajmer Dargah: Ajmer Junction Railway Station, Adarshnagar Railway Station, and Daurai Railway Station are the nearest railway stations near Ajmer Dargah.
The Ideal Time to Visit Ajmer Dargah: October to March particularly in the month of November is the best time to travel to this place.
19. Yamunotri – Uttarakhand 
Yamunotri is located in the Himalayas of Garhwal in the North Uttarkashi of Uttarkashi district in the state of Uttarakhand in the northern part of India with an altitude of about 3,295 meters. It is the seat of the holy Yamuna and is the main source of the Goddess river the Yamuna.
This is one of the holy Chhota Char Dham pilgrimages for the Hindus. A frozen lake and Champasar Glacier are its main sources located on Kalin Mountain at a height of about 4,420 meters from sea level.
This temple known as the Yamuna temple came into existence with the supervision and control of Maharaja Pratap Shah who ruled the Tehri Garhwal for a long time. The hot water springs near Yamunotri temple are gushing from the cavities of the mountain. The holy Divya Shila located closer to Surya Kund is the place where the pilgrims worship before offering their devotion to the deity.
The most famous Yamunotri Temple built by the Jaipur Maharani Guleria is located in the Western part of the Himalayas range of Garhwal and consists of an altitude of about 3,230 meters from the river source.
It is believed that the Hindu god Lord Hanuman doused the fire of his tail in the Yamuna river at Banderpooch after setting fire in the golden Lanka of Ravan and for this reason, this peak is known as Bander Pooch (the tail of the monkey).
Places of Attraction near Yamunotri:
- Yamunotri Temple
- Kharsali
- Janki Chatti
- Hanuman Chatti
- Shani Dev Temple
- Divya Shila
- Surya Kund
- Barkot
- Trekking in Yamunotri
- Saptarishi Kund
Airport near Yamunotri: Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport to this place at about 215 km. and is connected with daily flights of Delhi airport.
Railway Station near Yamunotri: Rishikesh Railway Station about 205 km. away from Yamunotri and Dehradun Railway Station at about 170 km. from this place.
The Ideal Times to Visit Yamunotri: May to June (summer), September to November (pleasant weather) and October to March (winter).
20. Gangatori – Uttarakhand
Gangatori is the holy town of Hindu pilgrims situated on the bank of the Bhagirathi river near Shivaling Peak of the Himalayas in the Uttarakhand state of India which originates from the holy river Ganga. This is a famous pilgrim because the Hindu God Lord Shiva locked the River Ganga in his hair to save the earth and mankind from the heavy fall of the Ganga which was not possible for the earth to tolerate.
This is a very cold place with heavy snowfall in the winter season and has an elevation of about 3420 meters in the Greater Himalayan peaks.
Gangotri is one of the holy Char Dham of Hindus. It is supposed that Bhagirath Shila is one of the holy rocks of the worship of King Bhagirath to the God Lord Shiva. The Gangatori temple is closed to the public w.e.f Diwali each year and opened again on Akshaya Tritiya and in this time the idol of the goddess is placed in Mukhba village.
The main three basins of pilgrims bathe is located near the river the water of which is supposed to be very sacred and taken by the pilgrims for their own use in spiritual rituals and distribute to their loved ones.
Gangotri overflows with Hindu devotees during the yatra who visits to worship in the temple and visit other holy places in Gangotri and near it.
Places of Attraction near Gangotri:
- Bhojbara
- Bhaironghati
- Gangotri Temple
- Gangnani
- Jalmagna Shivlinga
- Bhaironghati
- Dharali
- Harsil
- Surya Kund
- Gangotri Glacier
- Kedar Tal
- Gaumukh Tapovan Trek
- Gangotri National Park
- Vishwanath Temple
Airport near Gangotri: Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport to this village and is located about 250 km. from this place.
Railway Station near Gangotri: Rishikesh Railway Station has located about 240 km. away from this village.
The Ideal Time to Visit Gangotri: May to October during the Char Dham yatra when a large number of devotees visit Gangotri.
21. Amarnath – Jammu and Kashmir
Amarnathji is a very famous and holy pilgrimage of Hindus all over the world because of the home of the Hindu god lord Shiva who is visible on this planet in the form of ice Lingam. Shri Rahul Sharma the renowned Santoor artist given a named track of Amarnath Cave as Shiva Lings.
This place is situated in the south Kashmir part of northern India where a large number of devotees visit in the summer season and pass the daunting mountains to pay their obeisance.
The Amarnathji Shrine Board is established by the government of Jammu and Kashmir to organise, manage and control the Amarnathji Shrine Board.
The devotees are allowed to worship in the temple only for a very few days in summer because this place is covered with ice all around the year including the cave itself.
This cave indicated the fallen part of the body of the Hindu deity Sati and has the status of one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in the entire south of AsiaPla. The famous holy event held here is the Shravani Mela which is organised during the month of July to August and millions of pilgrims visit this mela every year.
Places of Attraction in Amarnathji:
- Amarnath Cave
- Baltal
- Amarnath Yatra
- Pahalgam
- Sheshnag Lake
- Zoji La Pass
- Amarnath Temple
- Martand Sun Temple
- Mattan Temple
- Aishmuqam Shrine
- Surya Temple at Martand
- Kherbawani Asthapan
- Masjid Baba Dawood Khaki
- Nadeem’s House
Airport near Amarnath Temple: Srinagar Airport, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, the temple is about 95 km. from the temple.
The Ideal Time to Visit Amarnath Temple: In summer when the government of J & K organise Amarnath Yatra and other days March to June is summer.
22. Pushkar – Rajasthan
Pushkar is located in Ajmer district in the state of Rajasthan in the northern part of India and is a religious town full of desert areas. This is near Pushkar Lake and consists of about 52 ghats where the Hindus take their holy bath.
The Pushkar Lake is believed to be the creation of the Lotus flower which was dropped by the God Brahma on this ground and since then this place is known as Pushkar.
The famous annual fair organised here is the Pushkar Camel Fair in which a large number of cattle are displayed particularly the camels and horses which attracts a large number of visitors both domestic and international.
This place is one of the most important pilgrim sites for Hindus and therefore also known as tirtha-raj. Pushkar has the status as one of the five pilgrim sites of Hindus and is also his fame is due to the rose garden of Rajasthan.
The main things which attract tourists are its spirituality and tranquillity. The religious songs and prayers can be listened to all over the Pushkar because of the devotion to Hindu religious pilgrimage. This town still maintained its mystique though there is continued commercialism.
Places of attraction in Pushkar:
- Pushkar Lake
- Ananta Spa and Resorts
- The Westin Pushkar Resort
- Brahma’s Temple
- Aaram Bagh
- Pushkar Camel Fair
- Varaha Temple
- Jagat Palace
- Savitri Temple
- Rangji Temple
- Clarks Resorts
- Gurudwara Singh Sabha
- Gayatri Mata Temple
- Gau Ghat
- Varaha Ghat
- Man Mahal
- Naga Pahar
- Rose Garden
Airport near Pushkar: Jaipur Airport is the nearest airport which is about 145 km. from this town.
Railway Station near Pushkar: Ajmer Railway Station is the nearest railway station to this town and can be reached in this town in about half an hour by road.
The Ideal Time to Visit Pushkar: November to March is the best time to visit this town because in summer this town is very hot due to the desert.
23. Golden Temple – Punjab
Golden Temple was established by the Guru Ramdassji in the year 1574 A.D. This is full of natural beauty, lakhs, and a small forest. The architectural beauty of this mandir is unique and very beautiful. In the old-time, the most important Sikh movements like Singh Sabha Movement and Punjabi Suba Movement were organized from this mandir.
There is no restriction on any people of any religion, caste, or community to enter the mandir for worship and take Prashad or eat food that is free of cost for all.
This food is made in the kitchen run by the Sikhs and Gurudwara committee. The food cooked here is purely vegetarian and available for all visitors free of cost.
The most prestigious and religious symbol of Sikhism is the Akal Takht. Other tourist attractions are a clock tower and a museum. This place is very famous and about 10 to 11 thousand people visit this mandir for worship. This temple is so prestigious that it is on the pending list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites for nomination.
The eye-catching and one of the main points of attraction of the temple is its sanctum which has double stories and some made from gold foil.
This complex consists of a holy pool and it is the strong belief that whoever takes a dip in the pool gets restorative powers and purification in his karma. The main office of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee is located in the Teja Singh Samundri Hall.
At last, it may be said that this temple is the combination of Sikh religion and the memory of old Sikh worriers and has international fame not only in the Sikh community but in all the people around the world.
Places to visit in Golden Temple:
1. Tourist Information Center
2. Ramgarhia Bunga
3. Central Sikh Museum
4. Dukh Bhanjani Beri
5. Historical Seat from Red Fort, Delhi
6. Community Kitchen(Guru Ka Langar)
7. Ath Sath Tirath
8. Shaheed Bunga Baba Deep Singh Ji
9. Diwan Hall Manji Sahib
10. Lachi Ber
11. Marsh Prasad
12. Har ki Pauri
13. Darshani Deori
14. Akal Takht
15. 1984 Memorial
16. Her Baba Budha Ji
17. Guru Granth Sahib Research Centre
18. Daily Hukamnama
Nearest International Airport: Raja Sansi International Airport (15 km) from the city centre.
Nearest Railway Station: Amritsar Junction (ASR), Verka Junction, Kathu Nangal.
Famous Markets and Malls near Golden Temple: Lahori Gate Market, Old City Bazar, Kapda Bazar, Katra Jaimal Singh Bazar, Guru Bazar, Hall Bazar Shastri Market, Lawrence Road, Mall of Amritsar, Trilium Mall, Alpha One, Omaxe Novelty Mall, Celebration Mall.
Street Food near Golden Temple: Amritsari Kulcha, Chole Puri and Pinni, Langar and Karah Prashad, Lassi, Makki Di Roti, and Sarson Da Saag, Mah Ki Dal, Ghee Roast Chicken, Amrit Fish Tikka, Mutton Chaap, Jalebi, Kalfas.
The ideal time to visit the Golden Temple: is from October to March.
24. Badrinath Dham – Uttarakhand
Badrinath is the most famous holy place of Hindus situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand state in the northern part of India. It is famous for its temple known as Badrinath temple which is one of the Char Dham pilgrimages of Hindus.
This place is very famous among travellers and Hindus because of the hill station, climate, and holy Badrinath temple. Its elevation is about 3301 meters from sea level and located on the bank of If the holy river Alaknanda. Its total population is about 2,500 people and the official language is Hindi.
This town has pride due to its location between Nar and Narayan mountain range in Neelkantha Peak. This is a very cold place in winter and its hills are covered with snow due to heavy snowfall but in summer the weather is not as hot as in most parts of northern India.
A large number of tourists and Hindus visit here from all corners of the world throughout the year, particularly during the snowfalls season and for worship in the Badrinath temple when the karat of the temple is opened.
Places to visit in Badrinath:
1. Badrinath Temple
2. Pandukeshwar
3. Tara Kund
4. Chairman Paduka
5. Mana Village
6. Yog Dhyan Badri Temple
7. Mata Murti Temple
8. Neekkhantha Peak
9. Bheem Pul
10. Ganesha Cave
11. Vasudhara Falls
12. Ask a Puri
13. Saraswati River
Airport near Badrinath: Jolly Grant Airport is situated in Dehradun about 318 kilometres from Badrinath.
Railway Station near Badrinath: Rishikesh Railway Station is about 295 kilometres from Badrinath.
Best time to visit Badrinath: April to June (summer) and October to March (winter)
