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A country of many religions, India is a land rich in culture and history. Religious places in India are plenty as an extensive number of religions have originated in the homeland itself. These popular and sacred destinations of various faiths not only help maximize the spiritual experience in India but also foster state tourism.

Off late, spiritual places in India have become popular with the younger generation as well. The attractions are many. – from the beautiful locations, with perfect frames for photography and intriguing history, to those that sing tales of adventure, festivals, culture, traditions & rituals, and sometimes just the peace.

17 Most Religious Places In India In 2024

For those seeking transcendence, pilgrimage places in India are umpteen. Spread all across the country, these are some amazing places where spiritual tourism has reached new peaks. Given below are 12 famous religious places in India that must feature on your travel bucket list for the next few years.

  • Ladakh and Leh – An Oyster For Those Seeking Nirvana
  • Spiti – A Place Where God Lives
  • Dharamshala and Mcleodganj – A Home Away From Home
  • Haridwar and Rishikesh – The Mystic Twin Cities
  • Varanasi – The Sacred City Of Life
  • Mathura and Vrindavan – The Cities Of Mythological Legends
  • Uttarkashi – In The Heart Of The Char Dham Yatra
  • Ajmer – In The Heart Of The Aravallis
  • Pushkar – Spirited Hues For The Soul
  • Bodhgaya – In The Quest To Attain Enlightenment
  • Rameshwaram – Temple Hopping In The Land Of Rama
  • Amritsar – The Divine Land Soaked In Blood
  • Tirupati – A City Full Of Temples
  • Jammu – Where Valleys And Religious Sites Marry
  • Allahabad – The House Of Holy Sangam
  • Puri – Gateway To Sea And Chilika
  • Madurai – An Ancient City

1. Ladakh and Leh – An Oyster For Those Seeking Nirvana

The Stakna monastery in Leh, Ladakh with the Himalayas in the backdrop

Among the offbeat religious places in India, Leh – Ladakh is an uncharted territory. It is a haven for those on the lookout for peace. Beautiful landscapes, hilly terrain, soothing ambiance, and friendly people are sure to leave you bewitched.

Key religious attractions: Predominantly a Buddhist area, Ladakh is home to umpteen ancient monasteries. People travel all the way to learn about Buddhism in these religious and educational centres. The Phugtal Monastery, The Hemis Monastery, Lamayuru Gompa, Thiksey Gompa, Likir Gompa, and Alchi Gompa are some of the popular Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh.

How to reach

  • By Air: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) in Leh is the nearest airport.
  • By Rail: Udhampur (640 km) is the nearest railway station. However, it is more convenient to get down at Jammu Tawi railway station. Buses and private cabs can be hired from Jammu city.
  • By Road: Road trips from Srinagar (434 km) and Manali (473 km) are extremely popular.

Where to stay: Both mid-range and luxury hotels in Ladakh are easily available for tourists. However, we recommend that you make the most of your spiritual trip and seek shelter in a monastery. Thiksey Monastery, Lamayuru Gompa, Hemis Monastery, and Rangdum Gompa are a few monasteries offering accommodation.

What else to do: Adventure activities such as trekking, rafting, mountain biking, and mountaineering.

Must Read: 40 Best Things To Do In Ladakh That You Can’t Afford To Miss!


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2. Spiti – A Place Where God Lives

Buddhist prayer flags in Spiti Valley

Distant and remote, Spiti is the answer to your wish to stay aloof for introspection. It is an important Buddhist pilgrimage in India. Barren lands, surrounding mountains & glaciers, and prayer flags sputtering all across make the valley unique and alluring.

Key religious attractions: Literally meaning ‘The Middle Land’, Spiti is a Buddhist research and cultural centre. Key Monastery, Tabo Monastery, Tangyud Monastery, Dhankar Gompa, Gandhola Monastery, and Trilokinath Temple are shrines visited by people for contentment and tranquility.

Best time to visit: Thus, the best time to visit this remote place is May to October.

How to reach

  • By Air: Kullu Airport (250 km) is the nearest airport.
  • By Rail: Shimla (428 km) is the nearest railway station. Buses and cabs from Shimla are available.
  • By Road: Road trips can be taken from Shimla and Manali.

Where to stay: Hotel Dewachen Retreat, Hotel Gyespa, and the Nomads Cottage. Homestays are recommended if you want to explore the culture in one of the most famed spiritual places in India.

What else to do: Stargazing, hiking, trekking, mountain biking, jeep safaris, and yak safaris.

Suggested Read: Test Your Grit, Take The Spiti Valley Trek

3. Dharamshala and Mcleodganj – A Home Away From Home

Milky white water cutting through the rocks at Bhagsunag Waterfall - one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dharamshala

A popular tourist destination nestled in Himachal Pradesh, Mcleodganj is the seat of the Dalai Lama. The duo of Dharamshala and Mcleodganj is a home away from home for the vast Tibetan population and a rage among the Indian tourists who also consider it to be among the popular Hindu religious places in India. The appetizing Tibetan cuisine coupled with the solitude of the hills makes this small city a favorite spiritual getaway.

Key religious attractions: Primarily Buddhist in their essence, Dharamshala and Mcleodganj is among important pilgrimage places in India and people normally flock here for cultural enlightening. Tsuglagkhang Complex, Namgyal Monastery, Gyuto Monastery, and Tse-Chok Ling Gompa are a few places to visit. Bhagsunath Temple and Kalachakra Temple are also famed and revered by the Hindus and Gorkhas alike.

How to reach

  • By Air: Dharamshala-Kangra Airport in Gaggal is the nearest airport.
  • By Rail: Pathankot (88 km) is the nearest railway station. Taxis and buses are available from Pathankot.
  • By Road: Dharamshala is well connected and the drive via Chandigarh should take around 6 hours.

Where to stay: Considered to be among prime religious places in India, Dharamshala offers plenty of stay options. From standard hotels to high-end resorts, Dharamshala boasts of comfortable accommodation. The Tse Chok Ling Monastery and Namgyal Monastery are recommended.

What else to do: Trekking to Triund hill, camping, and city shopping are some of the other things to do in Mcleodganj.

Suggested Read: 30 Amazing Places To Visit In Dharamshala!

4. Haridwar and Rishikesh – The Mystic Twin Cities

Holy Ganges river that flows through Rishikesh

Haridwar and Rishikesh, two of the holiest religious places in India, have an old world charm that illuminates the soul. Crowds surge into these neighboring towns to take a dip in the Ganges and purify themselves. In addition to the religious significance, the cities have a rich history and mythology associated with them.

Key religious attractions: Millions flock every year to these pilgrimage places in India to take a dip in the sacred river Ganges. Har ki Pauri Ghat, Mansa Devi Temple, Maya Devi Temple, and Chandi Devi Temple are the popular ones among other Hindu religious places in India. Besides, both Haridwar and Rishikesh are centers for learning ancient Hindu arts and culture.

How to reach 

  • By Air: Jolly Grant Airport (in Dehradun) is the nearest airport to Haridwar (38 km away) and Rishikesh (21 km away).
  • By Rail: Haridwar Junction railway station is the nearest railway station. You can then take a bus or private taxi to Rishikesh.
  • By Road: Luxury and normal buses are easily available to Haridwar and Rishikesh from Delhi, Chandigarh, Shimla and Lucknow.

Where to stay: Haridwar and Rishikesh – two of the most prominent pilgrimage places in India – have over 300 dharamsalas and ashrams that offer accommodation to the pilgrims.

What else to do: River rafting and camping in Rishikesh. You can also visit the Rajaji National Park (18 km from Rishikesh).

Suggested Read: 38 Ultra Exciting Things To Do In Rishikesh With Your Travel Pals

5. Varanasi – The Sacred City Of Life

Morning at holy ghats of Varanasi in India

Considered to be one of the most spiritual places in India, Varanasi is a sight to behold. It is an exhilarating and an exhausting experience. Yet, one that forces you into the folds of its chaos and in turn liberates you. A magical place, Varanasi is bound to give you a spiritual high.

Key religious attractions: Every nook and corner of the city has a spiritual essence. Assi Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manmandir Ghat, and Manikarnika Ghat are popular river banks where tourists throng from all over the world. Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Durga Temple are among the most spiritual places to visit in India.

How to reach

  • By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi is well connected to other Indian cities.
  • By Rail: The Varanasi Junction railway station is connected to all major cities in India.
  • By Road: Buses are available from Delhi and adjoining cities in Uttar Pradesh.

Where to stay: Like Haridwar and Rishikesh, plenty of ashrams offering accommodation to the tourists are available. You can also choose to stay in budget and luxury hotels.

What else to do: A day trip to Sarnath and a boat ride in the Ganges river.


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6. Mathura and Vrindavan – The Cities Of Mythological Legends

The ancient holy place of Kusum Sarovara

Mathura and Vrindavan are bound to be in any list of popular Hindu religious places in India. Famous for being the birthplace of the Hindu God Krishna, Mathura is held in sanctity by the Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains alike. The colossal temples and ghats that fill up the towns of Mathura and Vrindavan foster a complacent feeling of devotion.

Key religious attractions: Banke Bihari Temple, Hare Rama Hare Krishna Temple, ISKCON Vrindavan, Prem Mandir, and Shyama Shyam Dham are some of the revered temples in the Brijbhoomi.

How to reach

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Kheria Airport in Agra (60 km). You can also fly till the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi (170 km) and then take a bus/private taxi.
  • By Rail: Mathura railway station is connected to all the major cities in India.
  • By Road: The Yamuna Expressway ensures swift connectivity. Buses and private taxis can be taken from Delhi NCR.

Where to stay: Budget and luxury hotels and guest houses are available. Homestays are also an option.

What else to do: Visit Mathura and Vrindavan during the month of March and get a chance to experience the graphic Hindu festival of Holi. You can also plan a trip during the Janmashtami festival.

Suggested Read: Celebrations Of Holi In Mathura And Vrindavan

7. Uttarkashi – In The Heart Of The Char Dham Yatra

A view of the Himalayas at Yamunotri

Image Source

A six-hour drive from Rishikesh, Uttarkashi is among the important pilgrimage places in India. It is also a test of your devotion and patience. Extreme climate, poor road conditions, and unexpected landslides make the journey to this holy region both challenging and thrilling at the same time. Also known as the gateway to Gangotri, Uttarkashi is a devout getaway for those looking for a saintly abode.

Key religious attractions: Gangotri and Yamunotri are located in the Uttarkashi region. Kashi Vishwanath Temple on the banks of river Bhagirathi, Yamunotri Temple, Saptrishi Kund, Surya Kund, Divya Shila, Gangotri Temple, Bhagirath Shila, submerged shiva lingam, and Pandava Gufa are some of the religious attractions. Extend your trip to Rudraprayag and Chamoli to complete the Char Dham Yatra, the most revered pilgrimage destinations in India.

How to reach

  • By Air: Jolly Grant Airport (160 km away) is the nearest airport to Uttarkashi.
  • By Rail: The nearest railway station is in Rishikesh (143 km away). Buses and private taxis ply from Rishikesh to Uttarkashi.
  • By Road: Uttarkashi is well connected with major destinations in Uttarakhand state. Buses and taxis are available from Rishikesh, Dehradun, Tehri, and Chamba.

Where to stay: Every second building in Uttarkashi is either a shrine or an ashram as it is amidst formidable pilgrimage places in India. You can also book resorts and hotels based on your preference.

What else to do: Trekking in the Himalayas and walking through charming old villages

Suggested Read: Explore These Temples In Kolkata For A Spiritual Enrichment

8. Ajmer – In The Heart Of The Aravallis

The holy Ajmer Sharif Dargah in Ajmer region of Rajasthan

Image Source

A fine example of secularism, Ajmer is a famous religious place in India visited by Muslims and Hindus alike. It serves as the resting place of Sufi Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, who was held in great esteem by the Muslim community.

Ajmer is also the base for visiting Pushkar, the abode of Lord Brahma which is 14 km away. This place is a must visit for those having a penchant for old ramparts and gateways.

Key religious attractions: Ajmer Sharif Dargah (the biggest and oldest dargah in South Asia), Nasiyan Ji Mandir, and Adhai-din-ka-Jhonpra are among the famous religious places in India.

How to reach

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport, which is roughly 135 km from Ajmer. You can take a bus or private taxi from the airport.
  • By Rail: Ajmer Junction railway station is the nearest railway station.
  • By Road: Regular buses ply to Ajmer from Delhi and most cities in Rajasthan.

Where to stay: Budget and luxury hotels are easily available.

What else to do: Visit the Taragarh Fort and Magazine Museum. Anasagar Lake and Daulat Bagh are also thronged by tourists visiting this city. You can also shop for antiques and silver jewelry.

Suggested Read: 15 Royal Resorts In Pushkar, Perfect For A Memorable Stay

9. Pushkar – Spirited Hues For The Soul

Hindu devotees pilgrims bathing in sacred Puskhar lake on ghats of Pushkar

With 52 bathing ghats and over 300 temples, Pushkar is among significant pilgrimage places in India. A small town in the palatial state of Rajasthan, a trip to Pushkar is ideal for a weekend getaway from nearby towns and cities. The narrow alleys, blazing with color and intertwining histories, not only make a trip to this holy town apprising but also ensure an overall highly rated travel experience.

Key religious attractions: Brahma Temple, Savitri Temple, Old Rangji Temple, Paap Mochini Temple, Raghunath Temple, Atmeshwar Temple, and Mahadeva Temple are thronged by both Indians and foreigners.

How to reach

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport, which is roughly 150 km from Pushkar. You can take a bus or private taxi from the airport.
  • By Rail: Ajmer Junction railway station (11 km from Pushkar) is the nearest railway station.
  • By Road: Regular buses ply to Pushkar from Delhi and all cities in Rajasthan.

Where to stay:

  • For luxury stays: Aaram Bagh and Pushkar Resort
  • For budget stays: Hotel Lake View and Hotel Lake Palace

What else to do: Attend the Pushkar camel fair in October – November.

Suggested Read: 20 Scintillating Places To Visit In Pushkar On Your Rajasthan Trip

10. Bodhgaya – In The Quest To Attain Enlightenment

The Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment

Situated in the Gaya district of Bihar, Bodhgaya has been developed as an international place of pilgrimage. Attracting spiritualists from all over the world, Bodhgaya is among the most religious places in India. Today, it has monasteries and temples established by Tibetans, Sri Lankans, Bhutanese, Japanese, and Thai.

Key religious attractions: One of the four most sacred Buddhist centers in the world, Bodhgaya is where Gautama Buddha became the Enlightened One. Lakhs of pilgrims visit Bodhgaya every year in the quest to meditate and study. The Bodhi tree, Mahabodhi temple, Great Buddha Statue, Vishnupada Mandir, and Animesh Lochan Chaitya are popular spiritual places. You can also visit the Chinese temple and monastery, the Buddhist monastery of Bhutan, and the Thai & Tibetan monastery.

How to reach

  • By Air: Gaya Airport, which is 5 km away from the temple city, is the nearest airport. Patna Airport (115 km away) is well connected to major Indian cities.
  • By Rail: Gaya Junction is the nearest railway station.
  • By Road: Bodhgaya is well connected by road to other cities in Bihar such as Patna, Gaya, and Nalanda.

Where to stay: Bodhgaya is among the famous religious places in India. Thus, the Bihar State Tourism runs hotels in the city offering cheap accommodation. Budget and luxury hotels can also be booked easily.

What else to do: Cultural enthusiasts can also visit the archaeological museum.

Suggested Read: Visit These Temples In Ujjain & Soak Yourself In Spirituality

11. Rameshwaram – Temple Hopping In The Land Of Rama

Hindu pilgrims at the Corridors of Ramanathaswamy temple in Rameswaram

Among the famous pilgrimage places in South India, this enigmatic island city is laden with history and culture. Ancient shrines, temples, quaint villages, and scintillating view of the Bay of Bengal make a trip to Rameshwaram a must for those seeking paradise on earth.

Key religious attractions: Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple, Kothandaramaswamy Temple, Hanuman Temple, Theerthams, Ram Setu, and Gandhamadana Parvatham are the religious places here. Rameshwaram, along with Badrinath, Puri, and Dwarka, makes up the Char Dhams.

How to reach

  • By Air: The nearest airport is the Madurai International Airport (175 km away). Buses and private taxis can be hired from Madurai.
  • By Rail: The Rameshwaram railway station is connected to Madurai, Chennai, Trichy, Coimbatore, and Thanjavur.
  • By Road: The city is well connected by road to other cities in Tamil Nadu.

Where to stay: Budget and luxury hotels are available easily in Rameshwaram. You can also stay in yatri niwas palaces.

What else to do: A long drive on the Pamban bridge or a visit to Kushi and Dhanuskodi beach. You can also visit other nearby religious places in south India.

Suggested Read: The 24 Most Elegant Places To Visit In Rameshwaram On Your Vacay

12. Amritsar – The Divine Land Soaked In Blood

A beautiful shot displaying the grandeur of the Golden Temple in Amritsar

Home to the most famous Gurdwara in the world, Amritsar is a city engulfed in history, religion, and culture. This spiritual getaway not only promises a sacred calm but also takes you deep into the Indian partition history. A trip to this vibrant and colorful land is a must for those looking for gratification along with spiritual bliss.

Key religious attractions: Sri Darbar Sahib or the Golden Temple, the central religious place of the Sikh community, attracts lakhs of tourists throughout the year. The Mata Lal Devi Temple built on the lines of the Vaishnodevi shrine and the ISKCON Amritsar are also among important religious places in India.

Don’t forget to eat the Guru ka Langar while in the Golden Temple Complex.

How to reach

  • By Air: Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport (ATQ) is situated 11 km from the city-centre. There are daily flights from Indian as well as some international cities such as Toronto, Dubai, London, Singapore, and Tashkent.
  • By Rail: Amritsar Railway Station is well connected to other Indian cities.
  • By Road: Buses are available from other cities in Punjab as well as from Delhi, Shimla, and Jammu.

Where to stay: Accommodation in the Golden Temple Complex is available based on first-come-first-serve basis. Budget rest houses and luxury hotels can also be booked.

What else to do: Attend the Wagah Border ceremony at the India-Pakistan international border, and visit the Jallianwala Bagh. You can also splurge on local street food and traditional Indian wear.

Suggested Read: Visit These 8 Temples In Rameshwaram For A Spiritual Getaway!

13. Tirupati – A City Full Of Temples

Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati

Image Credits: Nikhil B for Wikimedia Commons

A city located in Chittoor district in the south Indian state of Andhra Pradesh houses some of the most amazing religious places in India. As much as the city resembles temples, it also boasts of lakes, hills, gardens and historic sites. Therefore, a trip to Tirupati is marked with attractions that excite you on multiple levels.

Key religious attractions: There are a lot of temples in Tirupati that make it one of the biggest Hindu pilgrimage centers in India. Some of the most popular and auspicious ones are Sri Venkateswara Swamy Vaari Temple, Kapila Theertham, Padmavathi Temple, Varahaswamy Temple, Prasanna Venkateswara Temple, Sri Kapileswara Swamy Temple and so much more.

How to reach:

  • By Air: The Tirupati airport is located at Tirumala, just 14 km away from the city centre.
  • By Rail: The Tirupati railway station is linked to major railheads of India.
  • By Road: You can hire cabs from the nearby cities and states of Telangana, Odisha and Tamil Nadu.

Where to stay: There are some amazing hotels in Tirupati like the Minerva Grand, Hotel Pai Viceroy and Madhavam TTD Guest House, in case you’re looking for cheaper options.

What else to do: You should definitely try and admire the natural beauty as much as the spiritual one with visits to the lakes, waterfalls and the popular Sri Venkateswara National Park.

Suggested Read: 12 Interesting Places To Visit In Katra For A Mesmerising Religious Trip

14. Jammu – Where Valleys And Religious Sites Marry

Valley Area Jammu

Image Credits: mohdrashidsmc for Pixabay

Jammu is one of the key worship places in India where you get to experience the lovely hills, valleys and mountains. With a variety of scenic places to choose from, you can visit the religious sites, lakes, and many such attractions. The valley area has plenty of abodes that await you!

Key religious attractions: The Vaishno Devi temple is one of the most important temples in Jammu that resemble it as a major pilgrimage center. Some other temples in the region include Raghunath Temple, Ranbireshwar Temple, Maha Maya Temple, Dudhadhari Mandir and so much. The Zangla Monastery, Khanqah-e-Moula, Jamia Masjid and Hazratbal Shrine are other religious attractions in Jammu.

How to reach:

  • By Air: The Satwari Airport in Jammu serves as the major airport with flights operating from rest of India.
  • By Rail: The Jammu Tawi railway station is well connected with major Indian cities.
  • By Road: You can reach Jammu with buses from nearby state of Himachal Pradesh.

Where to stay: There are some awesome hotels, resorts and cottages to stay in Jammu. The Hari Niwas Palace is a good and premium option. Lords Inn Jammu, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Jammu are other top hotels.

What else to do: You cannot ignore the natural beauty of the region. The Pangong Tso lake, Doodhpathri, Bahu Fort and Satsar Lake are other locations besides temples to pay a visit and get immersed in the trip!

Suggested Read: 10 Temples In Mathura For A Religious Tour In This Holy City

15. Allahabad – The House Of Holy Sangam

Allahabad Fort and Ganga River

Image Credits: Vyomtripathi for Wikimedia

Allahabad, also known as Prayagraj these days is another holy site that attracts pilgrims from all across the country. The holy sangam of the river Ganga and Yamuna is of the top holy attraction that makes the city one of the best religious places in India.

Key religious attractions: There are some amazing attractions that Allahabad is famous for including the Triveni Sangam, Akshayavat, Alopi Devi Mandir, Sri Mankameshwar Mandir, Patalpuri Temple, Nagvasuki Mandir and so on.

How to reach:

  • By Air: Although the city has an airport, flights are only operational from Delhi. So, it is way better to take flights to Varanasi or Lucknow and then take a bus or cab to Allahabad.
  • By Rail: Allahabad falls under the major zones of the northern railway which is why the city is served with railways from major parts of the country.
  • By Road: If you prefer driving then a road trip from Lucknow or Varanasi makes much more sense.

Where to stay: Allahabad has a range of hotels, lodges and guest houses which are low-budget and deliver a satisfactory stay. Some of them are Prayag hotel, Kunjpur guest house, Hotel Kashi and so much more. 

What else to do: Despite being a major religious attraction, the city of Allahabad has plenty of tourist attractions including Allahabad Fort, Khusro Bagh, Chandrashekhar Azad Park, Allahabad Museum and so much.

Suggested Read: Visit These Temples In Gokarna For A Religious Tour In This Paradise

16. Puri – Gateway To Sea And Chilika

Rath Yatra in Puri

Image Credits: G.-U. Tolkiehn for Wikimedia

Puri is one of the char dhams and probably one of the top worship places in India due to its extremely holy nature. It is a coastal city with one of the best beaches in India when looking at the intensity of the waves. In fact, the city is also a gateway to the Chilika Lake, which is India’s largest brackish water lagoon.

Key religious attractions: The most famous religious attraction in Puri is the Jagannath temple which serves as a mean point for Char Dham yatra. Other than that, you will also find the Kalinga-style Gundicha temple, the Ramachandi Temple and Bedi Hanuman Temple.

How to reach:

  • By Air: Puri does not have its own airport. The closest airport is in Bhubaneswar, which is 70 km away.
  • By Rail: Puri is a terminal station on one of the routes of East Coast Railway. And there are major trains connected from Delhi, Kolkata, North-East and rest of India.
  • By Road: A drive from the city of Bhubaneswar is equally pleasant as the rail journey. Also, there are plenty of state and local buses that ply from Bhubaneswar and Cuttack on a daily basis.

Where to stay:  Being a beach town, there are no dearth of hotels in Puri. In fact, resorts, lodges and guest houses have also made their way into the Puri hospitality business. Some of the accommodations are Puri Hotel, Reba Beach Resort, Krishna Resorts and more.

What else to do: There are plenty of things to do in Puri including visiting the awesome beach which is a huge stretch with waters that are ravishing and intense. A visit to the Chilika Lake is also preferred. 

Suggested Read: 11 Ancient Yet Famous Religious Places In Rajasthan One Must Definitely Visit While In The Land Of Deserts!

17. Madurai – An Ancient City

Gopurams in Madurai

Image Credits: Bernard Gagnon for Wikimedia

Madurai is another awesome destination and must be included in the list of worship places in India. It is an ancient city on the Vaigai River in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The city is dominated with Dravidian-style architecture in its temples and religious sites. The Chithirai festival celebrated in April is a major ceremony to celebrate Meenakshi and Lord Vishnu.

Key religious attractions: The Meenakshi temple is one of the most influential and important pilgrimage sites where people flock every year. Other than that the Koodal Azhagar Temple, Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, Thirupparamkunram Murugan TempleInmaiyil Nanmai Tharuvar Temple, St. Mary’s Cathedral, Shri Madurai Veeran Swamy Temple and so much more.

How to reach:

  • By Air: An international airport serves Madurai which is connected with major Indian cities as well.
  • By Rail: The Madurai railway station is an important junction that is frequented by trains from the rest of India.
  • By Road: The city is located close to Coimbatore, Thanjavur and Salem from where local buses ply regularly.

Where to stay: With premium and low-cost options, there are plenty of places to stay in Madurai. The Heritage Madurai, M3 Boutique Hotel, JC Residency and Kolam Madurai are some premium options. You can also opt for the lodges and guest houses.

What else to do: Madurai is a top tourism hotspot especially with attractions like Gandhi Memorial Museum, Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, Athisayam, Samanar Hills, Yanaimalai, Keezhadi Excavation Site, Vandiyur Lake and so much more.

Further Read: 6 Spine Chilling Bungee Jumping In India To Get A Taste Of Adventure

Now that you are familiar with the popular religious places in India, go pack your bags and embark on the spiritual quest. Do plan a customized trip today to cover any of these places. Rest assured, the destinations are pretty dynamic and offer much more than just a religious respite. Also, don’t forget to share your sacred experiences with us!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Religious Places In India

Q. Which is the holiest place in India?

A. Himalayan Char Dham – Kedarnath, Gangotri, Badrinath and Yamunotri; Haridwar-Rishikesh, Mathura-Vrindavan are the famous holiest place in India.

Q. What is the religious attractions at Haridwar and Rishikesh?

A. People visit Haridwar and Rishikesh in large numbers to take a dip in the sacred river Ganges. The key religious attractions here include Mansa Devi Temple, Har ki Pauri Ghat, Chandi Devi Temple and Maya Devi Temple.

Q. What are the best things to do in Uttarkashi?

A. Apart from religious attractions, you can go for thrilling trekking or try mountaineering or go on a day excursion to Maneri Dam. These are some of the fun things to do in Uttarkashi. Other best things to do include climbing Mount Thelu. This amazing excursion is on bucket list of almost every trekker and climber.

Q. Which Hindu temple is the oldest in India?

A. The Mundeshwari Devi Temple, located at Kaura in Kaimur district in the state of Bihar is considered to be one of the oldest Hindu temples in India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Q. How can I reach Pushkar?

A. The nearest airport from Pushkar is Jaipur International Airport located at a distance of 150 km from Pushkar. A bus or private taxi is easily available from the airport. Alternatively, you can also opt for buses which ply regularly from Delhi and many cities of Rajasthan.

Q. What are the important places of pilgrimage for Hindus?

A. Varanasi, Tirupati, Vaishno Devi, Kedarnath, Amarnath are some of the important pilgrimage centres for Hindus in India.

Q. What is the key religious attractions in Rameshwaram?

A. Rameshwaram, a famous pilgrimage place in South India is famous for its ancient temples and quaint villages. Hanuman Temple, Theerthams, Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple, Kothandaramaswamy Temple, Ram Setu and Gandhamadana Parvatham are the religious places here.

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