8 Most Popular Holy Destinations in India 

Holy destinations are the places where the physical world unites with the spiritual world. They fill the hearts of devotees with passion and devotion. These sacred sites house some of the most exquisite and interesting monuments depicting brilliant architecture and pure art, providing a spiritual environment. With its diverse culture and ancient history, India offers numerous places for pilgrimage where people get connected to the divine power. India is a beautiful country best explored through its roads. It is advisable to hire a reputed taxi service in India and have a carefree and enjoyable travel. We have compiled a list of some of the most popular holy spots of our country:

1- Haridwar

It is located in the state of Uttarakhand at the foothills of Himalayas. It is considered to be among the seven holiest places for Hindus and thousands of pilgrims visit it every year. This sacred city is believed to be blessed by three Gods, namely Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. It is said that taking a dip in the holy Ganga river in Haridwar absolve the devotees of all past sins. Some of the famous attractions of the city are Mansa Devi, Har Ki Pauri, Daksha Mahadev Temple, Maya Devi and Sapt Rishi. Kumbh Mela, a spiritual fair of Haridwar is conducted once in every 12 years and attracts millions of devotees.

Things to Do in Haridwar

1. Take a dip in the Ganges River: Haridwar is one of the seven holiest places in Hinduism, and taking a dip in the sacred Ganges River is considered to be a purifying experience. You can visit one of the many ghats, such as Har Ki Pauri, to take a dip in the river and perform puja rituals.
2. Visit the ancient temples: Haridwar is home to many ancient temples, including the Mansa Devi Temple, the Maya Devi Temple, and the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple. These temples are rich in history and architecture and offer a glimpse into Hindu culture and spirituality.
3. Attend the evening Aarti ceremony: Haridwar is famous for its evening Aarti ceremony, where thousands of devotees gather along the banks of the Ganges River to offer prayers and light candles. The ceremony is a breathtaking sight to see, with the river lit up by the flickering lights and the sound of devotional music and chanting.
4. Explore the local markets: Haridwar is known for its vibrant bazaars and bustling street markets. You can explore the local markets to purchase traditional Indian handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs.
5. Visit the Rajaji National Park: Haridwar is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, and the Rajaji National Park is a great place to explore. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and monkeys. You can take a wildlife safari to see these animals in their natural habitat.
6. Visit the Sapt Rishi Ashram: The Sapt Rishi Ashram is a Hindu pilgrimage site located near Haridwar. The ashram is said to be the birthplace of the seven rishis (sages) of Hinduism and is a place of peace and tranquillity.
7. Take a yoga and meditation class: Haridwar is a place of spiritual renewal, and many yoga and meditation classes are available to help you connect with your inner self. You can join a class or book a private session to improve your physical and mental wellbeing.

2- Kedarnath

Kedar is another name for Lord Shiva and Kedarnath embodies unparallel religious credentials in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Being one of the most popular and pious religious center on the Indian soil, many devotees rush to this place each year to offer their prayers. The mythological significance of the place is equally fascinating with its reference found in the ancient tales of Mahabharat. It is not only that the religious people are attracted to the beautiful location of Kedarnath.

People who are in love with nature and its gorgeous and gallant beauty, people who love to refresh and rejuvenate their mind with nature fresh air, people who love to listen the music of silence, tranquility and peacefulness for some days can visit Kedarnath and it guarantees all this satisfaction. It is a picturesque location with the everlasting scenic excellence that is bound to attract every tourist to visit again and again.

Things to Do in Kedarnath

1. Visit the Kedarnath Temple: The Kedarnath Temple is the main attraction in Kedarnath and is considered one of the holiest Hindu shrines in India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks. The temple is open for worship throughout the year, and the best time to visit is from May to June and from September to November.
2. Take a trek to Vasuki Tal: Vasuki Tal is a high-altitude lake located near Kedarnath, and is a popular trekking destination. The trek is considered to be moderate to difficult, and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.
3. Visit the Gandhi Sarovar: Gandhi Sarovar is a glacial lake located near Kedarnath, and is considered to be sacred by Hindus. It is named after Mahatma Gandhi and is a peaceful place to relax and meditate.
4. Take a helicopter tour: Kedarnath is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, and a helicopter tour is a great way to see the area’s breathtaking scenery. You can fly over the majestic peaks and glaciers, and take in the views of the valley below.
5. Visit the Triyuginarayan Temple: The Triyuginarayan Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located near Kedarnath, and is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva and Parvati were married. The temple is a beautiful example of Hindu architecture and is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.
6. Visit the Gaurikund Hot Springs: The Gaurikund Hot Springs are located near Kedarnath and are believed to have therapeutic properties. The springs are a popular destination for visitors, and you can take a dip in the hot waters to relax and rejuvenate.
7. Take a guided hike: Kedarnath is surrounded by beautiful mountains, and a guided hike is a great way to explore the area’s natural beauty. You can take a leisurely walk or a strenuous trek, depending on your fitness level and interests.

3- Tirupati

It is world renowned for the sacred Temple of Sri Venkateswara Tirupati Balaji which is one of the most visited temples in India. More than 50000 people visit the temple every day. Located on Tirupati hill along the banks of Sri Swami Pushkarni River, it is also the wealthiest temple in India and gets huge donations from devotees. The temple was believed to be built around 300 AD and displays brilliant Dravidian architecture.

Things to Do in Tirupati

1. Visit Sri Venkateswara Temple: The Sri Venkateswara Temple is the most famous and revered temple in Tirupati and is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is considered one of the richest temples in the world and is a must-visit for devotees and tourists alike.
2. Take a trip to the Tirumala Hills: The Tirumala Hills are located near Tirupati and are considered a sacred pilgrimage site. The hills are home to several temples and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
3. Visit the Sri Kapileswara Swamy Temple: The Sri Kapileswara Swamy Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located in the heart of Tirupati and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is a beautiful example of South Indian architecture and is considered one of the most important Shiva temples in Andhra Pradesh.
4. Visit the Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple: The Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple is a popular Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Padmavathi, the consort of Lord Venkateswara. The temple is located in Tiruchanur, a suburb of Tirupati, and is considered one of the most important temples for women in India.
5. Take a trip to the Sri Govindaraja Swamy Temple: The Sri Govindaraja Swamy Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located in Tirupati and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is considered one of the most important Vishnu temples in Andhra Pradesh and is a must-visit for devotees and history enthusiasts.
6. Visit the Sri Varahaswami Temple: The Sri Varahaswami Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located near Tirupati and is dedicated to Lord Varaha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple is considered one of the most important Varaha temples in Andhra Pradesh and is a must-visit for devotees and history enthusiasts.
7. Visit the Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy Temple: The Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located in Srinivasa Mangapuram, a suburb of Tirupati, and is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. The temple is considered one of the most important Venkateswara temples in Andhra Pradesh and is a must-visit for devotees and history enthusiasts.

4- Old Goa

The Basilica of Bom Jesus Church: This historical church was built by the Portuguese more than 400 years ago. It is located in Old Goa and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The church accommodates the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, the patron saint of Goa who died in the year 1552. The remains are preserved in an adorned casket and its exhibition is held once in every ten years. The Church has beautiful Portuguese architecture and is a must visit for art lovers and history enthusiasts.

Things to Do in Goa

1. Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus: The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the finest examples of baroque architecture in India. It contains the remains of St. Francis Xavier, one of the most revered saints in the Catholic Church.
2. Explore the Se Cathedral: The Se Cathedral is the largest church in Old Goa and is dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria. It is a magnificent example of Portuguese-style architecture and is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
3. Take a tour of the Church of St. Francis of Assisi: The Church of St. Francis of Assisi is a beautiful church located in Old Goa that is dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi. The church is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
4. Visit the Convent and Church of St. Monica: The Convent and Church of St. Monica is a beautiful convent and church located in Old Goa that is dedicated to St. Monica, the mother of St. Augustine. The convent is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
5. Explore the Arch of Vice Roy’s Palace: The Arch of Vice Roy’s Palace is a grand archway located in Old Goa that was once the entrance to the Vice Roy’s Palace. The arch is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
6. Take a tour of the Museum of Christian Art: The Museum of Christian Art is a fascinating museum located in Old Goa that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Portuguese colonial India. The museum is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.
7. Visit the Dona Paula View Point: The Dona Paula View Point is a beautiful viewpoint located in Old Goa that offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding countryside. The viewpoint is a must-visit for nature and scenic beauty enthusiasts.

5- Ajmer

Most renowned for the holy Dargah of Moinuddin Chishti, the great Sufi Saint, Ajmer is visited by Muslims as well as Hindu pilgrims in large numbers. Built by the Mughal Emperor Humayun, visitors to the shrine are filled with serenity and mysticism through the effects of spiritual chants, burning incense, flowers and sweets. The Qawwali programs are held regularly at the premises where prominent singers sing in praise of the Spiritual saint.

Things to Do in Ajmer

1. Visit the Ajmer Sharif Dargah: The Ajmer Sharif Dargah is the most famous and revered shrine in Ajmer and is considered one of the holiest Muslim pilgrimage sites in India. It is a must-visit for devotees and tourists alike.
2. Take a tour of the Ana Sagar Lake: The Ana Sagar Lake is a picturesque artificial lake located in the center of Ajmer. The lake is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is a popular spot for picnics and boating.
3. Visit the Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra: The Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra is an ancient mosque located in Ajmer that is considered one of the oldest and most beautiful in India. The mosque is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
4. Visit the Ajmer Jain Temple: The Ajmer Jain Temple is a beautiful temple located in the heart of Ajmer that is dedicated to the Jain saint Lord Mahavir. The temple is a must-visit for Jain devotees and tourists.
5. Take a tour of the Ajmer Government Museum: The Ajmer Government Museum is a fascinating museum located in Ajmer that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan. The museum is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.
6. Visit the Taragarh Fort: The Taragarh Fort is an ancient fort located on a hill overlooking Ajmer. The fort offers stunning views of the city and is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
7. Take a trip to the Nasiyan Jain Temple: The Nasiyan Jain Temple is a beautiful temple located in Ajmer that is dedicated to the Jain saint Lord Rishabhdev. The temple is a must-visit for Jain devotees and tourists.

6- Amritsar

The holiest temple for Sikhs, the Golden temple, is located in Amritsar. The temple is commonly known as Harmandir Sahib and it attracts thousands of Sikhs from all across the country. This wonderful and unique place becomes even more heavenly and captivating during the night when it is lit up and the beautiful gold dome gets illuminated. The foundation of the temple was laid by Guru Ramdas in the year 1577 and later built over the years. It has a unique mix of Muslim, Hindu, and European architecture.

Things to Do in Amritsar

1. Visit the Golden Temple: The Golden Temple is the most important Sikh pilgrimage site and is considered one of the most beautiful religious structures in India. The temple is located in the center of a large lake and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and fountains.
2. Explore the Jallianwala Bagh: The Jallianwala Bagh is a public garden located in Amritsar that is famous for the massacre that took place there on April 13, 1919, during the British colonial era. Today, the Jallianwala Bagh is a memorial park that honors the memory of those who lost their lives in the massacre.
3. Take a tour of the Durgiana Temple: The Durgiana Temple is a Hindu temple located in Amritsar that is dedicated to the goddess Durga. The temple is famous for its beautiful architecture and is a must-visit for culture and religion enthusiasts.
4. Visit the Wagah Border: The Wagah Border is the main land border crossing between India and Pakistan and is famous for the daily flag-lowering ceremony that takes place there. The ceremony is a fascinating display of patriotism and is a must-see for anyone visiting Amritsar.
5. Explore the Ram Bagh Garden: The Ram Bagh Garden is a beautiful public garden located in Amritsar that is famous for its lush green lawns, flowerbeds, and fountains.
6. Take a tour of the Gobindgarh Fort: The Gobindgarh Fort is a historic fort located in Amritsar that was once the stronghold of the Sikh Empire. Today, the fort is a museum that showcases the rich cultural heritage and military history of the Sikh Empire.
7. Visit the Akal Takht: The Akal Takht is the main religious seat of the Sikh community and is considered one of the five most important Sikh religious sites. The Akal Takht is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and spirituality of the Sikh religion.

7- Varanasi

One of the most ancient cities of the world, it is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. It lies on the banks of holy river Ganges and also commonly known as Banaras and Kashi. Hindus believe that people who die in Varanasi will be freed from the cycle of life, death and rebirth. Major temple attractions of Varanasi are Vishwanath Temple, Bharat Mata Temple, and Tulsi Manas Temple.

Plan your itinerary, book one of the cabs in India and start exploring these wonderful cities of heritage, culture, and spirituality.

Things to Do in Varanasi

1. Take a boat ride on the Ganges River: A boat ride on the Ganges River is a must-do in Varanasi. The river is considered sacred by Hindus and is said to have purifying powers. A boat ride will give you a unique perspective of the city and its many ghats, or steps leading down to the river.
2. Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple: The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most important Hindu temples in India and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Hindu religion and culture.
3. Explore the Manikarnika Ghat: The Manikarnika Ghat is one of the most famous ghats in Varanasi and is considered one of the holiest places in India. The ghat is famous for its many Hindu rituals, including cremations and purification ceremonies.
4. Visit the Sarnath Buddhist Temple: Sarnath is a city located near Varanasi and is considered one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in India. The city is famous for its beautiful Buddhist temples and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Buddhism and its teachings.
5. Explore the narrow alleyways of the old city: The narrow alleyways of the old city are a fascinating network of streets, alleys, and buildings that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. Walking through the alleyways is a great way to experience the local culture and get a glimpse of daily life in Varanasi.
6. Visit the Banaras Hindu University: The Banaras Hindu University is a large university located in Varanasi that is famous for its beautiful architecture and lush gardens. The university is a great place to learn about Indian culture, history, and education.
7. Take part in a Hindu puja ceremony: Hindu puja ceremonies are religious rituals performed to honor Hindu gods and goddesses. Participating in a puja ceremony is a unique opportunity to experience Hindu religion and spirituality.

8- Badrinath Dham

Badrinath is a beautiful town located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand and is considered one of the holiest destinations in India. It is home to the Badrinath Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Every years thousands of pilgrimage visit this temple  and take blessings of Lord Vishnu.

Things to do in Badrinath

1. Visit the Badrinath Temple: The Badrinath Temple is the main attraction in Badrinath and is considered one of the holiest Hindu temples in India. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Hindu religion and culture.
2. Explore the nearby glaciers: Badrinath is located in the foothills of the Himalayas and is surrounded by several glaciers, including the Alkapuri Glacier, Satopanth glacier and the Vasundhara Falls. Exploring these glaciers is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the region.
3. Go trekking: Badrinath is a popular destination for trekkers, with many trails leading through the nearby mountains and valleys. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, there are many trails to choose from in the Badrinath area.
4. Visit the Tapt Kund hot springs: The Tapt Kund hot springs are located near the Badrinath Temple and are considered sacred by Hindus. The hot springs are believed to have healing powers and are a great place to relax and rejuvenate.
5. Visit the Alka Puri Temple: The Alka Puri Temple is a small temple located in the Badrinath area and is dedicated to the goddess Alka. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and is a great place to experience Hindu religion and culture.
6. Visit the Mana Village: The Mana Village is a small village located near Badrinath and is considered one of the last villages in India. The village is a great place to learn about local culture and traditions.
7. Enjoy the scenic beauty: Badrinath is surrounded by some of the most stunning natural scenery in India, including the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, lush green valleys, and crystal clear rivers. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll or going on an adventurous hike, the scenery in Badrinath is sure to take your breath away.

These are some of the most popular holy destinations in India that attract millions of visitors every year. Whether you are a spiritual seeker or simply interested in experiencing India’s rich history and culture, these destinations are sure to offer a truly memorable experience.