India is one such place in the world that has an abundance of spirituality kept in it. The glorified and ancient spiritual culture has managed to draw pilgrims, spiritual seekers, etc. from all over the world. Philosophers have come here thousands of years ago and the legacy is continued even today.
Whichever religion you belong to, India is a hub of every religion and you can find peace and seek solitude here.
Top 10 places for spiritual enlightenment are listed as under:
1. Varanasi
Kasi, a city in Varanasi is called the Spiritual town of India. It is the city of Gods as Lord Shiva is himself said to have made this city. People from different parts come to the Holy Ganges to wash away their sins. This sprawling center is a homage to many saints and sanyasis who come here to meditate. Many local and international devotees come here every year.
Varanasi is the home to Kasi Vishwanath which is one of the largest temples in Hinduism. Dashashwamedh Ghat glows at night because of the evening aarti done here each day. In Varanasi, every can is considered as a festival and people here celebrate God in grandeur.
Things to Do:
- Ganga Aarti: Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
- Boat Ride on Ganges: Take a sunrise or sunset boat ride on the Ganges River.
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
- Sarnath: Explore the nearby Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon.
- Explore Ghats: Walk along the ghats and experience the spiritual atmosphere.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, about 26 km from the city center. Taxis and buses are available.
- By Train: Varanasi Junction and Mughal Sarai Junction are the nearest railway stations. From there, you can hire taxis or take local transport.
- By Road: Varanasi is well-connected by road. Buses and taxis are available from nearby cities.
2 Nights 3 Days Varanasi Temple Tour
5 Days Varanasi Prayagraj Ayodhya Trip
Also Read:
- How to Travel from Delhi to Varanasi
- Must Read – 10 Reasons to Visit Varanasi
- Do you Know How many Ghats in Varanasi?
- Best Places to Visit in Varanasi
2. Kumbh Mela
Kumbh Fair (Mela) is located at the center of the major religious pilgrimage centers including Haridwar, Prayagraj, Nasik, and Ujjain.
Kumbh fair is one of the largest religious fairs which is helping every January and thousands of people come here to get a glimpse of the explicit beauty that it provides.
Commoners, saints, devotees, philosophers from nook and corner of the country come here to be a part of the greatest human feats. The festival in Allahabad has a record of the largest human gathering with 30 million people on a single day.
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Things to Do:
- Holy Dip: Take a dip in the sacred rivers during the Kumbh Mela.
- Spiritual Discourses: Attend spiritual discourses and satsangs.
- Pilgrimage: Participate in various religious rituals and ceremonies.
- Yoga and Meditation: Join yoga and meditation sessions organized during the event.
- Cultural Programs: Enjoy cultural performances and exhibitions.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport varies depending on the location of the Kumbh Mela (Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, or Ujjain). Taxis and buses are available.
- By Train: The nearest railway stations also depend on the location of the Kumbh Mela. From there, you can hire taxis or take local transport.
- By Road: The locations are well-connected by road. Buses and taxis are available from nearby cities.
Read also: Kumbh Mela: Essential Guide for Beginners
3. Puri
Puri, in Orissa (Odisha), is best known for its Jagannath Temple which is an ode to Lord Krishna, Balram, and their sister. Jagannath Temple is a major worship site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Located on the southern side of the Bay of Bengal, Puri hosts the Rath Yatra which is a three-day festival in which huge chariots are pulled through the entire Puri town.
A festival similar to the one is also held in June but it is not that grand as compared to the Rath Yatra. Puri still remains to be an age-old spiritual center for those seeking blessings from God.
Things to Do:
- Jagannath Temple: Visit the famous Jagannath Temple.
- Rath Yatra: Witness the grand Rath Yatra festival.
- Puri Beach: Relax and meditate on Puri Beach.
- Gundicha Temple: Explore the Gundicha Temple.
- Konark Sun Temple: Take a short trip to the nearby Konark Sun Temple.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, about 60 km away. From there, taxis and buses are available.
- By Train: Puri has its own railway station, well-connected to major cities. From the station, you can hire a taxi or take a local auto-rickshaw.
- By Road: Puri is well-connected by road. Buses and taxis are available from Bhubaneswar and other nearby cities.
3 Days Trip to Puri & Bhubaneshwar
6 Days Bhubaneshwar Puri Konark Tour
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4. Bodhgaya
Bodhgaya is a pilgrimage center for the Buddhists. Bodh Gaya is the place where Lod Buddha was enlightened under a Banyan tree known as the Bodhi tree. The entire place is now made into the Mahabodhi complex in which the Mahabodhi temple is located.
You can also witness many monasteries in the town. If you are someone who loves yoga and meditation, then you are sure to find some amazing classes with great offers. One can find themselves at peace and serenity when they visit Mahabodhi complex.
Things to Do:
- Mahabodhi Temple: Visit the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Bodhi Tree: Meditate under the sacred Bodhi Tree.
- Great Buddha Statue: Explore the Great Buddha Statue.
- Monasteries: Visit various international monasteries and temples.
- Niranjana River: Take a peaceful walk along the Niranjana River.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Gaya Airport, about 12 km away. From there, taxis and auto-rickshaws are available.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Gaya Junction, about 16 km away. From Gaya, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus.
- By Road: Bodhgaya is well-connected by road. Buses and taxis are available from Gaya and other nearby cities.
3 Days Bodhgaya Rajgir and Nalanda Travel
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5. Tamil Nadu
Dating back to so many centuries back, the temples of Tamil Nadu are a living proof that spirituality keeps India alive. The temples of Tamil Nadu provide one with majestic architecture and the temples are designed explicitly. Meenakshi temple in Madurai, Srirangam Temple in Trichy or Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur are some examples of grandeur in Tamil Nadu. The traditions of these temples have not changed even today and devote come here to attain salvation. The spiritual experience remains yet the same as it was before.
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Things to Do:
- Temples: Visit famous temples like Meenakshi Temple (Madurai), Brihadeeswarar Temple (Thanjavur), and Ramanathaswamy Temple (Rameswaram).
- Pondicherry: Explore Auroville and the Sri Aurobindo Ashram.
- Tiruvannamalai: Visit the Arunachaleswarar Temple and Ramana Maharshi Ashram.
- Mahabalipuram: Explore the ancient rock-cut temples and shore temple.
- Chidambaram: Visit the Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Major cities like Chennai, Madurai, and Coimbatore have well-connected airports. Taxis and buses are available from these airports.
- By Train: Tamil Nadu has an extensive railway network. Major railway stations include Chennai Central, Madurai Junction, and Coimbatore Junction.
- By Road: Tamil Nadu is well-connected by road. Buses and taxis are available from nearby states and cities.
5 Nights 6 Days Tamil Nadu Itinerary
Explore More:
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- Architecture of Tamil Nadu
- Famous Temples of Tamil Nadu
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6. Amritsar
Golden Temple in Amritsar is the basis of spiritual teachings and is an important site for Sikhs. The Golden Temple was made in the year 1830 by Maharaja Ranjit Singh and it still stands as strong. The complex of the temple is made from marble and copper while the shrine is made of pure gold.
Langar is provided in the temple daily to about 1,00,000 people and the service is free. Golden Temple has a free servicing kitchen which is the largest in the world. There are also common spaces for people who want to spend a night at the Golden Temple. While having langar here, one can think of God and seek spiritual blessings.
Things to Do:
- Golden Temple: Visit the iconic Golden Temple.
- Jallianwala Bagh: Explore the historical Jallianwala Bagh.
- Wagah Border: Witness the Beating Retreat ceremony at the Wagah Border.
- Partition Museum: Learn about the history at the Partition Museum.
- Durgiana Temple: Visit the Durgiana Temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, about 11 km from the city center. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available.
- By Train: Amritsar Junction is well-connected to major cities. From the station, you can hire taxis or take local transport.
- By Road: Amritsar is well-connected by road. Buses and taxis are available from nearby cities.
Delhi Agra Jaipur with Golden Temple
Amritsar Golden Temple Tour from Delhi
Read More:
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- Facts About Golden Temple Amritsar
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7. Velankanni
The Velankanni Church or the Basilica Church of Lady of Our Good health has great significance and is considered as a church that can make miracles happen. Many pilgrims visit this center because of a belief that Mother Mary can cure all ailments if you visit this church with a pure heart.
The Velakanni Church offers an annual feast that is celebrated by people from different parts of India and also the world. The church can bring you surreal and positive thoughts whenever you are low or depressed with life.
Things to Do:
- Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health: Visit the famous Velankanni Church.
- Beach: Spend some peaceful time at Velankanni Beach.
- Morning Mass: Attend the morning mass and prayer services.
- Museum: Explore the museum that showcases church artifacts.
- Shopping: Shop for religious souvenirs and local handicrafts.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli International Airport (about 150 km away). From there, taxis and buses are available.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Nagapattinam (about 12 km away). From Nagapattinam, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus.
- By Road: Velankanni is well-connected by road. Buses and taxis are available from Chennai, Tiruchirappalli, and other nearby cities.
8. Arunachal Pradesh
The second-largest monastery, Tawang Monastery attracts so many Buddhist pilgrims to Arunachal Pradesh. The main temple is called Dukhang and it is an 18-foot-tall statue and it is majestic in its structure.
The Buddha statue is made of gold and it looks splendid from all sides. Tawang is also a learning center of Buddhism and many centers of training are found here. It draws a large number of spiritual seekers.
Things to Do:
- Tawang Monastery: Visit the largest monastery in India.
- Bomdila Monastery: Explore the beautiful Bomdila Monastery.
- Parashuram Kund: Take a holy dip in Parashuram Kund.
- Namdapha National Park: Discover the rich biodiversity of Namdapha National Park.
- Cultural Interaction: Experience the unique culture and traditions of the local tribes.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Tezpur Airport in Assam (about 340 km away). From there, taxis and buses are available.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Naharlagun Railway Station (about 15 km from Itanagar). From there, you can hire taxis or take local buses.
- By Road: Arunachal Pradesh is well-connected by road. Buses and taxis are available from Assam and other nearby states.
8 Days Arunachal & Assam Trip Package
16 Nights 17 Days North East Tribal Tour
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9. Mathura/Vrindavan
Mathura is the birthplace of Lord Krishna and the city is said to have been made around the ancient Kesava temple. The temple has been made into a complex called the Krishna Jamnbhoomi Complex. There are so many religious sites to visit in Mathura like Sri Bankey Bihari Mandir, Naam Yog Sadhna Mandir, etc.
Mathura also has Vishram Ghat which was the resting place of Sri Krishna once he killed Kansa. There is also a Krishna movement in Mathura called the Hare Krishna Movement and organized by the society of Krishna Conscious Center.
Things to Do:
- Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple: Visit the birthplace of Lord Krishna.
- Banke Bihari Temple: Experience the devotion at Banke Bihari Temple.
- ISKCON Temple: Explore the serene ISKCON Temple in Vrindavan.
- Yamuna River: Take a boat ride on the Yamuna River.
- Govardhan Hill: Visit the sacred Govardhan Hill and perform parikrama.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi (about 160 km away). From there, taxis and buses are available.
- By Train: Mathura Junction is well-connected to major cities. From the station, you can hire taxis or take local transport.
- By Road: Mathura and Vrindavan are well-connected by road. Buses and taxis are available from Delhi and Agra.
3 Days Mathura Vrindavan Gokul Trip
One Day Mathura Vrindavan Tour from Agra
Also, Read
10. Rishikesh
Known as the Yoga Capital of India, Rishikesh is located at the base of Garhwal Himalayas. Rishikesh has been the center for spirituality for a long time as many great saints came here to meditate and gain spiritual knowledge. In today’s time, many yogis from various parts of India come here to meditate and be a part of the authentic culture of India. Rishikesh is a strictly vegetarian state and alcohol is not allowed over here.
These are some of the best places to visit if you want to come close to God and enjoy your own time. Many people also find it convenient to visit a place with spiritual remembrance and also in the lap of nature. So, don’t delay and book your flights to any one of these places soon!
Things to Do:
- Yoga and Meditation: Join yoga and meditation sessions at renowned ashrams.
- Ganga Aarti: Witness the evening Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat.
- Lakshman Jhula: Walk across the iconic Lakshman Jhula suspension bridge.
- Adventure Sports: Enjoy river rafting and trekking in the surrounding hills.
- Beatles Ashram: Visit the ashram where the Beatles stayed and composed music.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (about 35 km away). From there, taxis and buses are available.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh Railway Station. From the station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus.
- By Road: Rishikesh is well-connected by road. Buses and taxis are available from Delhi and Dehradun
- 3 Nights 4 Days Nainital Corbett Tour Itinerary
- Delhi Rishikesh Haridwar Tour Package
- Jim Corbett National Park from Delhi
- Golden Triangle with Haridwar And Rishikesh Itinerary
- 7 Days Yoga Retreat Tour Rishikesh
- 12 Days Yoga and Spiritual India (Haridwar Rishikesh Varanasi)
- Yoga and Meditation Tour Haridwar
Rishikesh Articles:
- Best Rishikesh Cafes Shop
- Rishikesh near Hill Stations
- Top Rishikesh & Haridwar Places
- Top Haridwar Tourist Attraction
- Uttarakhand Historical Places
Also Read the Articles for Temples in India:
- Top 20 Most Famous Temple of South India
- Top 10 Most Famous Temples of Kerala
- Top 10 Most Famous Temples of Andhra Pradesh
- Top 10 Most Famous Temples of Telangana
- Top 10 Most Famous Temples of Kerala
- Top 20 Most Famous Temple in North India
- List of Famous Temples in Delhi
- List of Famous Temples in Uttarakhand
- List of Famous Temples in Haryana
- List of Famous Temples in Rajasthan
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the best spiritual places in India?
The best spiritual places in India include Varanasi, Rishikesh, Bodh Gaya, Haridwar, and Amritsar.
2. Where can I go for spiritual enlightenment in India?
For spiritual enlightenment, visit Bodh Gaya, Rishikesh, Auroville, and the Himalayas.
3. Which is the most powerful spiritual place in India?
Varanasi is often considered the most powerful spiritual place in India.
4. What are some peaceful spiritual places in India?
Peaceful spiritual places in India include Auroville, Dharamshala, Rishikesh, and Tawang.
5. Where is the spiritual center of the world according to many?
Varanasi, India is often regarded as the spiritual center of the world.
6. Which city in India is known as the spiritual city?
Varanasi is known as the spiritual city of India.
7. What are some places to visit for spiritual awakening in India?
Visit Rishikesh, Bodh Gaya, Dharamshala, and Auroville for spiritual awakening.
8. Are there any places like Auroville in India?
Yes, similar places include the Osho International Meditation Resort in Pune and the Art of Living International Center in Bangalore.
9. Which state in India is known for its spiritual significance?
Uttarakhand is known for its spiritual significance, often called “Devbhoomi” or “Land of the Gods”.
10. What are the top spiritual places in India?
Top spiritual places in India include Varanasi, Rishikesh, Bodh Gaya, Haridwar, and Amritsar.
