India is known for its ancient monuments which date back over thousands of year ago and gives a brief description about the daily life of ancient people and their devotion to god and goddess. India is a country where different religions live upon together in peace and harmony. The followers from every religion participate in pilgrimages and the followers participating in this journey are called as pilgrim.
Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple,Tamil nadu
Ramanathaswamy Temple is a renowned Hindu temple devoted to Lord Shiva and is situated on the island of Rameswaram in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The temple has the prestige of having the longest corridor amidst all the Hindu temples in India. The temple was extended over 12th century by Pandya Dynasty and its doctrine shrines were repaired by Jeyaveera Cinkaiariyan and his inheritor Gunaveera Cinkaiariyan of the Jaffna Empire. According to a myth, Ramayana, Rama, the seventh avatar of God Vishnu, is assumed to have begged to Shiva here to cleanse any sins that he might have committed throughout his war at the evil king Ravana in Sri Lanka. For that he ordered Hanuman (the monkey god), to bring a gigantic Lingam from the Himalayas when it took him much time to bring the Lingam Mata Sita (wife of Lord Rama) made a small Lingam which is considered to be the Lingam in the sanctum.
More About Temples in tamil nadu : http://globalvisiontours.com/tamilnadu/temples.aspx The chief divinity of the temple is Ramanathaswamy (Shiva) in a form of Lingam. There are two lingams inside the sanctum, one made by Sita is the Ramalingam and the other brought by Hanuman from Kailash Parbat is known as Vishwalingam. Vishwalingam is worshipped first as instructed by Rama in the past period. Like all the old aged era temples in Southern part of India, there is a acute composition wall (madil) on all the four sides of the temple supposition proceeding about 865 feet furlong from east to west and one furlongs of 657 feet from north to south with gigantic towers (Gopurams) at the east and west and accomplished gate towers on the north and south. The temple has extraordinary long corridors in its inner, sequencing in between giant colonnades on rostrums over five feet high. The second corridor is shaped by sandstone pillars, beams and ceiling caps. The articulation of the third corridor on the west and the surfaced way commanding from the western gopuram to Setumadhava shrine shapes a peerless architecture like chess board and it is commonly called as Chokkattan Madapam. The external set of corridors is purported to be the longest in the world with a height of about 6.9 m, and width of 400 feet each in east and west and about 640 feet in north and south and interior corridors are about 224 feet in east and west and about 352 feet each in north and south. Thus, the total length of those corridors is 3850 feet. There are 1212 pillars in the external corridor and their height is about 30 feet from the floor to the heart of the roof. The Rajagopuram or the major pillar is 53 m tall. Worship: Total of six worship services are accomplished out each day, the first begins at 5am. Special worship services are done every Friday. Festivals: Rama's homage is commemorated in the month of Aani (June 15-July 15); two yearly Bhrammotsavams are celebrated in Aadi (July-August) and in Maasi (February-March). Vasanthotsavam is celebrated during the season of spring where the Utsva deities are decked and kept Chokkattan Madapam. Thirukalyanam (July-August): The ‘holy marriage’ festival celebrating the marriage of the god Ramanathaswamy and the goddess Parvathavardhini is the longest festival of the temple which goes on for 17 days. The Vedas are enumerated every day and cavalcade and traditional & cultural programmes are held. Alchi Monastery in Ladkh
Alchi Monastery or Alchi Gompa is a Buddhist monastery is in the Leh district of Ladkh region of Jammu and Kashmir, situated on the banks of Indus River. This place is more of a monastic complex of temples. The compound includes four separate settlements with monuments dated to different periods. Out of these four hamlets, Alchi monastery is the oldest and most famed. It is looked after by the Likir Monastery.
Alchi is one of those few places in Ladakh where epic relic plays a key role in both shaping and reviving its spirituality. As what began a thousand years ago still shows evident signs through some of the oldest and the most respected monasteries in this region. Alchi has easily managed to hold a holy space in the sphere of religious travel in India, drawing the attention of historians, conservators and spiritually-inclined travelers. Alchi is the place where you have to visit, if you are looking for that isolated retreat in the lap of calm stillness in itself. More Details About Monasteries in Kashmir : http://www.kashmirtourismpackages.in/ladakh.html You can visit this hallowed place, on your way from Leh to Kargil, or vice a versa. An hour's visit would be sufficient to admire the magnificence of this place. As you enter the monastic compound of Alchi, you will pass through a fascinating market that will attract you with some stimulating articles including unusual masks, statues of Buddhist as well as Hindu deities and other metal and handmade items. If you are planning to take home some souvenirs from Ladakh, Alchi will surely be an interesting option. In a contrasting fashion to other monasteries, Alchi Monastery is a complex of stupas and small temples, known as Chhoskhor Temples, stretched around in propinquity. These temples have some prized murals and statues of historical significance. Some significant temples among these temples are Vairochana, Sumrtsek, Lotsa and Manjushri. Apart from these exceptional Buddhist murals, wooden statues of Maitreya, Avalokiteshvara and Manjushri are eye catching. You can click pictures inside the complex but photography is prohibited inside the temples. You have to buy an entry ticket, to enter the temples, though the charges are nominal. If you are planning a stay in this place, the village also offers staying amenities. The monastery complex has three chief shrines namely, the Dukhang (Assembly hall), the Sumtseg and the Temple of Manjushri. These three shrines are dating from between the early 12th to early 13th centuries. Chortens are also a significant element of the complex. The Alchi complex has two other key temples, the Translator's temple called the 'Lotsabha Lakhang' and there is also a lately constructed temple called the 'Lakhang Soma'. This place has a population of mere 400 to 500 people. Its nearest airport is situated in Leh and the nearest railway to this place is Pathankot. This place is connected to Leh through bus services and you can even hire taxis to reach Alchi. Alchi’s major tourist attraction is its historical monuments. You will even love the delicacies of this place as Likir monastery has a decent restaurant in front of the Chos-Khor. This restaurant along with few other restaurants located in the village provides some mouth-watering local and Chinese cuisine. Achankovil Sastha Temple
Achankovil Temple is lovingly known by the name of Achankovil Sastha Temple which is dedicated to god Ayyappa. It is very renowned temple which is located on the route to the other famous Ayyappa temple city of Sabarimala. This temple was constructed by the Lord Parasuram himself; devotees of the Achankovil believe this. During the holy season of Ayyappa Devotes towards Sabarimala, the Sastha Temple also gets numerous devotees towards it also.
History of Achankovil Temple Achankovil Sastha Temple is located in the dense forest of Kandamala which is the part of Kerala’s Kollam District. It is believed to be built by Lord Parasurama for the God Ayyappa, it is said that Lord Parasurama got the Darshan from the God Ayyappa which leaded to the creation of the temple. The Idol of Ayyappa at this Sastha Temple is accepted as "Rudraksha sila" which is believed to be fabricated with ruthraksha's and this Idol is believed to be having Miraculous Properties with its sandal paste. Especially snake poison is believed to be recuperative with that sandal adhesive from the hand of Lord Ayyappa. History of the Sastha Shrine of Achankovil Sastha Temple It is believed to be the only one shrine remaining out of five idol created by Lord Parasurama. The Shrine of this temple is here in the form of ‘Rudraksha Sila’ which appears in the position of Grahastha with his consorts Poorna and Puskala and believed to be in Raja Yogasana. Achenkovil Sastha Temple Festivals The Temple Bless two festivals in a Calendar year which is all calm advancing in a four months periods which ranges from December to February, Generally the December - January Periods of the calendar year bless the Mandala Pooja where as Ravathi will be captivated at the season starting from January-February. Achenkovil Sastha Temple allows the Females Aged aloft 18 to climb the 18 pious steps, where as it's not accustomed to them in the other acclaimed Ayyappa Temples at Sabarimala and Aariyangavu. The Nagadevatha near to this Ayyappa Deity is an acclaimed one wher as Amman Kaavu which acclaimed for its prayers appear the absolution of Children needs; these places receive a lot of visitors about the year. Famous Achankovil River is casual actual abreast to this Sastha Temple, as well as amount of teak and Rubber Plantations are as well Surrounds this Temple Area. How to Get at Achenkovil Sastha Temple At 55 km's From Trivandrum on the Famous MC road, this Achenkovil Sastha Temple can be Accessed through Kottarakkara also, which is about 17 Km's. And it as well can be accessed through Sencotta and Tenkasi from the State of Tamilnadu. Chettikulangara Bhagavati Temple
Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple is one of the reputed temples of Southern region in India. It is one of the most frequently visited temples and it is positioned in the Alappuzha district of Kerala. The most astonishing aspect of this temple is the appearing of goddess as Maha Saraswati in the mornings, Maha Lakshmi in the noon and as Sri Durga/Bhadrakali in the evenings. Recently UNESCO has collected the details about the temples for examining the eligibility of including it in world heritage list.
More about Chettikulangara Bhagavati Temple: The temple is 1200 years aged and has 13 Karas (territories); the temple is in the middle of the eldest four Karas namely: Erezha east, Erezha west, Kaitha north and Kaitha south. The rest of the Karas surround the temple namely; Kannamangalam south, Kannamangalam north, Pela, Kedavoor, Anjilipra, Mattam north, Mattam south, Meenampally, Nadakkavu. The Temple is second in order of earnings; it has earnings of many crores every year. OFFEREINGS MADE TO DEVI BHAGAVATI BY DEVOTEES Sarpam Pattu , Thottam Pattu, Kuruthi, Payasam, Kadumpayasam, Pushparchana, Thriimadura Nivedya, Nirmala & Vilakku, Udayada Charthika, Archana, kalabha Abhisekha, Kumkum Abhisekha, are the different types of homage and offerings that one can pay by contacting in the temple. Kuruthy Pooja: The goddess is brought out from the sreekovil for the well renowned Pooja in the temple which is performed in the night after the Athazha Poojaon the day of the star Bharani. On this day Kalamezhuthu and Pattu are also performed and the image of Bhadrakali is drawn on the Kalamezhuthu. It is believed that the devotees taking part in Kuruthy ritual will be blessed with fulfillment of wishes. Festivals held in Chettikulangara Bhagavati Temple There are different types of festivals or Poojas taking place in the temple like: Chandattam, Kuthiyottam, Karthika Vilakku, Kumbha Bharani, Karthika Ulasvam, Parayeduppu, Ethirelpu Ulsavam, Aswathy Ulasvam, Kettukazcha and Uthrattathi Mahaolsavam. The Parayeduppu time is the festive season and it starts when the deity is taken out for course in the Malayalam month of Makaram. Jeevatha is the vital part of this festival. The main sub-deities (Upadevathas) in the temple are: Yakshini, Ganapathi, Nagarajav, Balakan, Muhurty, Naga Yakshi, Thevara Moorthy, Kannamballi bhagavati, Rekshas (a fierce supernatural creature who feeds on humans), Vallyachan (Central Travancore for family chieftains; they are worshipped by their descendants after death). The nearest airport Thiruvananthapuram International Airport and Kochi International Airport both are 120 km away from the temple. The nearest railhead Mavelikkara Railway Station is just 5km away from the temple. The temple is also well connected through roadways and the nearest roadway route is NH 47 in the Kayankulam-Mavelikkara route. Ayodhya the Land of Rama – The Legendary King
Ayodhya is one of the legendary cities of the 6th Century BC. The holy city is located in the state of Uttar Pradesh along the banks of the river Saryu and is a must see places in India for pilgrimage and history.
The holy city is beloved to be the hometown of Lord Rama, which is also believed to be the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. In ancient times, this holy city was believed to be an architectural marvel of the God and was also considered to be the place “Heaven on Earth”. Today it is not just the important place of Hindu religion, but it is now a religious importance of people of all faiths Islam, Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism. Visit this link for Popular pilgrimage centres : http://globalvisiontours.com/india/pilgrimage.aspx Best Time to Visit As the saying goes “There is Never a Wrong Time to do the Right Things”, so goes with the best time to visit Ayodhya. It is a holy place where the legendry King Rama, ruled for many years taking care of the welfare of his subjects. During the month of Dusshera, millions of pilgrims during this month come to Ayodhya to celebrate the victory of good over evil. Here on your visit, you can offer prayers at some of the ancient temples and shrines, which are dedicated to Lord Rama and many other Hindu Gods and Goddesses. The best time to be here is in the month of November and December, where you can feel the effervescence of the festival celebrate by the dedicated devotees. Places of interest in Ayodhya Ayodhya has many interesting places to visit but most of them include temples. Some of these interesting places to visit here are Ramkot, Treta-ka-Thakur, Nageshwar Nath Temple, Kanak Bhawan, Maniparvat, Jain Shrines, Tulshichura, Rama Katha Museum, Tulsichura, Hanuman Ghari, Ramkoth and Tulsi Smarak Bhawan. Reaching There Reaching Ayodhya is very convenient and more of all, during the festival season, Government runs extra train from many of the important cities and states of India. Air is the easiest means to reach Ayodhya as the nearest domestic airport is at Amausi. Other nearest and alternative airport is at Varanasi and Kanpur. Ayodhya is also connected by the broad guage Northern Railway network and it connects trains with almost all over India. For those looking for route by Road, the excellent Highways have quite a good link with almost all the cities and states of India. Travel by air is bit costly but saves lots of time while travel by train gives and enchanting and lifetime experience. Accommodation For accommodation, there are lot many options. For those who are looking for affordable and reliable accommodation facilities, there are Ashrams. Lodge, hotels of various categories and 5 star hotels are all across the town, which provide excellent and affordable accommodation facilities. Ayodhya Cuisine Ayodhya is a holy place and so you will savor delectable and delicious not vegetarian Indian food, which you quench your appetite. Truly it is one holy place which once after visiting the place, you will love to come back again and again and it will holy place will offer you peaceful mind and retreat from a hectic schedule. The Legends on Sabari, Pampa Viakku and pious River Pampa
The pious river of Pampa is identified as the Dakshina Ganga (Ganges of the South) because of its affiliation with the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple on its coffer where millions of devotees and pilgrims yield ablution to absolve them before traveling to the Temple to action adoration to Lord Ayyappa. It is advised as a holy river as well due to the affiliation with Sri Rama, Mathanga Maharishi and other all-powerful personalities as per some legends.
The origin abode of the river is Pulachimalai Hills in the Peerumedu plateau of the Western Ghats area at a height of about 5000 feet. It is the third longest river of Kerala. The river flows westward admitting the Taluks of Ranni, Ayroor, Pathanamthitta, Kozhanchery, Chengannur, Kuttanad (rice basin of Kerala) and Ambalapuzha of the Pathanamthitta and Alapuzha districts of Kerala State afore abutting the Vembanadu Kayal (Vembanadu aback baptize lake). Taking bath in this river is counsel to acquit one of his or her sins. In the earlier days the holy and spiritual personalities and the Devas acclimated to yield ablution in this river authoritative it a holy river. The river banks on either ancillary are declared to accept the attendance of the Devas in the form of the trees and the devis in the form of the creepers. It is in the bosom of the evergreen rain forests with the admirable greenery and flora and fauna. The Sabari Peettha area the Sabarimala temple is anchored and the Bhasma kulam (ash pond) are at the bottom of the Risyamookadri. The river is blessed by the Lord Ayyappa, Sri Rama, hundreds of Maharishis including the Mathanga Maharishi by their accepting bathed in the same. The being who takes ablution in such an abundant river will get rid of his diseases and his sins. The admirers who go to Sabarimala yield ablution actuality and ascend to the Sabari temple through the 18 steps. The aboriginal affair the addict sees is the board 'Thathwamasi' meaning that is you. The addict who goes there already will accept the appetite to go afresh and afresh to accept darsan of the Lord Ayyappa. Some followers visit the holy river 4 to 5 times a year. Pampa Vilakku Festival Pampa Vilakku is a festival which is observed in the river on the previous day of the Makaravilakku Festival at the Sabrimala Temple. Lighted torches on wooden frames in the river truly look exceptionally breathtaking. Owing to this occasion a special type of square frames fixed one above the other up to 7 tires in the pyramidal shape. On these frames which are cut into round shaped sticks are stuck, as the other end of the stick will have the cotton thickly wrapped in order to make huge wicks. It is on these wicks oil will be poured and then the wicks are lighted and then this wooden stems with the lighted wicks will be kept in the river water. Wow!!! What a sight to behold it will be as it moves with its reflection of water. Owing to the Idukki dam now the flow of the water is very less and controlled and thus the festival is symbolically, the devotees see this and go to the Sabarimala Temple for the darshan of lord at the Makara Samkrama. The legend about the association of the Pampa River and the Sabari Sabari was a queen in her earlier birth. She was a loving hearted lady with allowance mentality. She acclimated to offer all comforts to the saadhus and sanyasees using her riches. She acquainted that after the captivation of the concrete action the account by her abundance is not worthwhile. She went to Prayag area she met several holy bodies and offered them whatever advice she could give. She fabricated absolution to be built-in as an accustomed animal getting in her next bearing so as to serve the abundant saints not with money but her accomplishing the concrete work. During the absolution she died. She was as a tribal girl in the forest. When she grew up her father arranged marriage for her and brought animals to be killed for the feast. Sabari did not like the killing of the animals for her worth and she ran abroad from her abode and came to the banks of the Pampa River near the Ashram of the Mathanga Muni. Here she wanted to escort and serve the great saint without anybody noticing her; she used to clean the paths that were used by Maharishis and arrange what may be needed by the Maharishis and Munnes without being aware as who is doing this immortal services. One day Mathanga Muni saw her as she was doing service and asked here who she was and she replied I’m from hunter community and a daughter of a hunter. The Maharishi told her that though she belongs to a low caste but has a very virtue standard and thus asked her to stay in the Ashram. As she stayed in the Ashram the other Muni abused her as she was from a low caste and they also stopped them from doing any services in the Ashram. When Mathanga Muni was breathing is last breath he said that is time is over and she need not worry for this and also taught her the Rama Mantra and asked her to do this chanting for her rest of life. He also added that one day Lord Rama would visit her when she will achieve salvation and after the death of Maharishi she did the same. Early morning Sabari used to gather fruit and for the entire day she used to wait for Lord Sri Rama to come. And, finally one day Lord Rama and his brother Sri Laxmana visited to her place and she was very excited and offered seats to both of them and then she offered fruits which she gathered in the morning. The way she served fruits was amazing and one might think other way as she first bit the fruits and then gave Lord to eat. As everyone might think that this is the most unhygienic and polluted offering to anyone but Lord Rama and his brother didn’t mind and they ate as she offered. She offered the fruits in such a way as wanted to make sure that the ripen fruits and sweet one are given to them. After eating all the fruits offered to him, as Lord Rama ate them with relish said to Sabari that he was very happy by your services and also asked to her what she wants. She replied that she wanted to make River Pampa pure as the River had become impure when a Rishi kicked him with his leg, Sri Rama blessed her and the River and thus the River became pure again. Then Sri Rama also asked her to go and bath in the River and after the bath he escorted her to the Shore where she died staring at Sri Rama and thus she got salvation from life, where she gushed into the realm of eternal bliss –merging the ‘Atman and the Parmatman’. This is the legend and Myth of the pious Pampa River. |
Pay Homage to the Immortal Lord – Amarnath Yatra
Jammu and Kashmir relic’s flooded by the pilgrims who visit here to pay admiration to the acclaimed cavern temple of Amarnath. There are assorted legends and mythological beliefs associated with these cavern temples and thousands of tourists from all over the world appear actuality to bow their head in foreground of the lord who in acknowledgment fulfills their wishes. The capital allure in the cavern is the ice lingam. For more details : http://www.kashmirtourismpackages.in/
Plan a pilgrimage trip to Amarnath and pay admiration to one of the most admired site in the world. More than thousands of religious people appear here every year to seek the absolution of Lord Shiva. The booking for the Yatra is done about a month afore the travel so it is capital that you register first and be in connected blow with them. Pilgrims can acquaintance the day-tripper offices in Srinagar (0194-2452690) and in Jammu (0191-2548172). Amarnath Cave - The Legend The inheritance of Amarnath revolves about Lord Shiva and assorted incidents associated with him. It is said that Lord Shiva chose this cavern to mean the secrets of conception of the world and immortality of his wife, Goddess Parvati. Two alliance pigeons over heard the secrets appear by the Lord and became immortal. It is believed that these two pigeons are born again and again and abounding tourists even confirmation to have seen them on their adventure to the shrine. The cavern acquired proximity alone afterwards getting seen by a shepherd called Buta Malik. The adventure goes like this that already this attends accustomed a bag abounding with coal from a sage. Afterwards abiding home, if he opened the sack it was abounding with gold coins. The afflicted attend went back to thank the sage but instead begin the cavern with an ice lingam at the spot. Since then the cavern has been admired as one of the holiest shrines in India. The pious cave of Amarnath is amid at an ambit of 46 km from Pahalgam and 117 km from Srinagar. The height at which the cavern is amid is 3888 meters aloft sea level. To reach the cavern it takes about 2-3 days through trekking as no other agency of carriage is available. The cave is accessible only during the months Mid of June till mid of August when the darshans can be done. How to Reach the Holy Cave Trekking is by far the most accepted way of extensive the shrine. Three are two means that tourists can take. 1st Route: The first avenue begins from Pahalgam and covers an ambit of 47 km. The avenue to chase is Pahalgam - Nunwan- Chandanwari (16 km) - Pissu Top (3 km) - Sheshnag (9 km) - Panchtarni (13 km) - Amarnath Cavern (6 km). There are alone a few cities where one can break while on the avenue are Pahalgam, Seshnag, Panchtarni and abreast the holy cavern as well. 2nd Route: The expedition on this avenue begins from Baltal and the absolute ambit to the Amarnath Cave is about 15 km. There is no adaptation accessible and this expedition needs to be undertaken in an individual day. Also amuse agenda that in animosity of getting beneath this avenue is actual abrupt and generally decumbent to landslides. Besides, biking pilgrims as well enjoy the advantage of hiring palanquins and porters. Pilgrims can yield the Palanquin (Rs 7,000), pony (Rs 2,300) and porters (Rs 1,100) to and fro avenue amid Chandanwari and the holy cave. Recntly, helicopter rides too are available. The aces up point are Baltal and it takes to and fro the pooja and darshan at Amarnath which takes about an hour and brings aback the crude to Baltal. Helicopters can be takes from Pahalgam as well. The amount of the chopper is Rs 2,425/- from Baltal and Rs. 3,800 from Pahalgam. Children under 12 years are charged with the price half of that of adult. Some of the Prime Measures to Take While on Yatra
Top Hindu pilgrimage locations in India
The top Hindu pilgrimages are Badrinath, Kedarnath, Rameswaram, Kumbh mela etc and few information are discussed below about the mentioned sites
Badrinath: It is one among the popular pilgrimage places in India which is located in Uttarakhand. The temple is highly known among the Hindu followers from every nook of the country. It is one of the top attractions of Uttarakhand city displaying various other attractions nearby. It is known to the holiest Hindu temple in India and the temple is dedicated to the Lord Vishnu. A pilgrimage to this temple creates a remarkable moment which you will nourish in your entire life. Kedarnath: The temple is located at the top of Garhwal Himalayan range near the Mandakini River in Uttarakhand. It remains open only in the end of April to Purnima. The temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and known as the “Kedar Khand”. If you are planning to make your visit to this temple than, you have to trek about 14 kms from Gaurikund as it is not accessible by road. Rameswaram: It is located in Tamil Nadu and situated in the Gulf of Munnar. The word Rameswaram in Sanskrit means “Lord of Rama”. It is also a popular and a sacred place for Hindu devoters and a lifeline of the southern state. It is also one of the holiest places for Hindus and a part of Char Dham pilgrimage. Explore the various attractions near by the temple. Kumbh Mela: It is a certain event where billion of Hindu followers join the occasion and pray to their god. The Mela is known to be the world’s top religious place. The Mela is known to be the largest gathering of the people in purpose of religion. The event is celebrated four times in twelve years by Hindu. The Konark Sun temple- built during the age old years of 1250 AD this artistically carved colossal monument was built to enshrine the image of the Sun. Built during the Kalinga era this monument marks the peak of architectural excellence of the lineage. The sun being the patron deity of the kingdom was worshiped with great reverence. The temple is designed in the shape of a chariot that is being drawn by 7 spirited horses on twelve pairs of intricately carved wheels. Monuments that are so intricately designed and carved like this one is hard to find, this marvel of architecture truly shows the grandness of the Kalinga empire. Thanjavur temple- this temple was also known as the granary of South India and the architectural marvels that one can see here is known all over the world. The temple’s architecture is a great example of the brilliant craftsmanship of the people here and has lived up to the name of its renowned handicrafts, musical instruments of southern India and bronze work. Sanchi Stupas- this temple is dedicated to Buddhism and is one of the most famed ancient temples of the world. They are built in the classical style of architecture and are spellbinding works of art. The most striking feature of this particular temple is its carved pillars, stupas and gateway carvings. The carvings that are present here depict the life and struggles of Lord Buddha. They also depict scenes from the lives of Ashoka the King who renounced violence after the Kalinga war. Somnath temple- this particular temple is located in the state of Gujarat and is one of the most revered temples of Lord Shiva. Legend has it that this particular temple is the one in which the first of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva were formed. This particular temple is one which is frequented a lot by the followers of Lord Shiva. Other than these above mentioned temples there are numerous temples blessing the country and each one has its own history and myth behind it. So when you travel to country of the Gods, India one should definitely visit the temples to redeem some sins that may have been created. |
Badrinath Temple Kedarnath Temple Rameswaram Temple Kumbh Mela Thanjavur Temple Somnath Temple |
Top Sikh Pilgrimage Locations in India
About 2% of the Indian citizenry is Sikh and the land of origin, causeless to say, is dotted with Gurudwaras (place of worship) and monuments of accent to the Sikh faith. Guru Nanak is the architect of the Sikh adoration and afterwards him an assumption of Sikh gurus added accustomed the attendance of Sikhism in Punjab and elsewhere.
Golden Temple (AmritTop Sikh Pilgrimage Locations in Indiasar, Punjab): The Aureate Temple, accepted as Sri Harmandir Sahib or Sri Darbar Sahib, is the angelic epicenter of Sikhism. Bathed in a quintessential aureate hue that dazzles in the serene amnion of the Amrit Sarovar that cord around it, the swarn mandir (Golden temple) is one that internalizes in the apperception aspect of its visitors, no amount what adoration or creed. On a jewel-studded belvedere is the Adi Grantha or the angelic scripture of Sikhs wherein are anointed angelic inscriptions by the ten Sikh gurus and assorted Hindu and Moslem saints. Takht Shri Patna Sahib (Patna City, Bihar): This pious land was area Guru Gobind Singh Ji was built-in and was cradled till youth. The Harmandir Takht, an already haveli of a disciple, is advised the additional Takht of Sikhism. Some angelic charcoal of the Guru that anticipate you there are a 'pangura' (cradle) with four stands covered with aureate plates, four adamant arrows, holy brand of the Master and a brace of his sandals. Takht Shri Damdama Sahib (Talwandi Sabo, near Bathinda, Punjab): Also accepted as Guru Ki Kashi, for apartment the fifth Takht of the Sikhs. This is area Guru Gobind Singh aggregate the final copy of Guru Granth Sahib. Sacred online writing of the tenth Guru, namely Sri Sahib (Sword), a mirror, a bout lock, a account of the tenth Guru, a pothi (book) transcribed by Baba Deep Singh, Brand of Baba Deep Singh and a Persian brand are displayed in the Gurudwara Damdama Sahib. Do not overlook to appointment Bhai Dall Singh’s abode area Guru Gobind Singh’s charcoal accept been preserved. visit:: darjeelingtourismpackages.com Manikaran (Parvati Valley, near Kullu-Manali, Himachal Pradesh), Hemkund Sahib (Uttaranchal), Takht Shri Hazoor Sahib (Nanded, Maharashtra), Takht Shri Anandpur Sahib (80 km from Chandigarh, Punjab) are some major Sikh pilgrimage locations where bags and bags of visitors from all over the globe reaches every day to pay homage. |
Golden Temple (Amritsar, Punjab) Takht Shri Patna Sahib(Patna City, Bihar) Takht Shri Damdama Sahib (Talwandi Sabo,near Bathinda, Punjab) Manikaran |
Top Muslim Pilgrimage locations in India
It wasn't until aboriginal 8th century that Indian shores were acquainted with this analogously adolescent adoration called Islam. The Arab traders were the via media and after the Muslim invaders and the Mughal rulers, were active in its propagation. Though in the aboriginal phase, Islam seemed aggressive, after the Sufi saints complete it to overextension the bulletin of accord and accepted brotherhood. Preachers like Kabir and Nanak (Sikhism), contributed abundantly appear alleviation the acerbity of the degree arrangement in India.
Today, Islam is India’s second-largest religion in India (after Hinduism), with about 174 million Muslim citizenry second largest again, afterwards Indonesia in agreement of Muslim majority. And had there been no partition, India would accept been the better Muslim country in the world. As Muslim religion is very popular in India thus it is also home to numerous prominent pilgrimage Muslim centers which truly are visited by numerous vacationers from all over the globe. Top Muslim Pilgrimage locations in India which truly are worth to visit and explore are listed below: Ajmer Sharif (Rajasthan): The profounder of the Chishti Sufi adjustment one of the lot of basic systems in India and Pakistan, lived, preached the credo of accord and died actuality in Ajmer. The Dargah, advised a centermost of ambition fulfillment, has shrines congenital by assorted Mughal Emperors. Shah Jehan’s daughter, congenital an adoration allowance and the tomb of Bhishti, tomb of Saint's daughter-Bibi Hafiz Jama, tomb of Shah Jahan's babe Chimni Begum, accomplish the Dargah an all-are-welcome airy abode. Jama Masjid (Delhi): An administrator of the greatest sculptor of those times, Ustad Khalil and Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan, the red-sandstone Jama Masjid is the biggest Mosque in India congenital amid 1644 AD and 1658 AD by 5 thousand artisans. Standing behemoth in the bosom of Delhi’s busiest place Chandni Chowk, the abbey was built-in Masjid-i-Jahanuma or the Mosque that commands the appearance of the world and accurate to its name, the anatomy is an acceptable badge of the Islamic access in India. Haji Ali (Mumbai): Built in the anamnesis of a rich Muslim merchant, Sayyed Peer Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, Haji Ali Mosque is an abundant archetype of Indo-Islamic architecture. The dargah is amid in the Worli region of Mumbai and about 40,000 pilgrims visit the abode every day. Beside these there are numerous other pilgrimage centers in India such as Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya Dargah (Delhi), Dargah-Qutb-Sahib (Delhi), Fatehpur Sikri (Uttar Pradesh), Mecca Masjid (Andhra Pradesh), etc. |
Ajmer Sharif (Rajasthan) Jama Masjid (Delhi) Haji Ali (Mumbai) |
Buddhist pilgrimage sites India
Buddhism is also a major religion of India. As we all know that India is a land of multi cultures and religions and Buddhism is a part of them. The religion was born in India but its affection and wings are worldwide. There are large numbers of Buddhist pilgrimages sites among which some of the major pilgrimages are addressed in the south India –Nepal border and Ganges valley of India. It is one of the major attractions that captivate thousands of visitors from every nook of the world. The most significant and notable Buddhist pilgrimage is Lumbini, which is located in the Nepal and India border. It is the birth place of Lord Gautama Buddha. He was born in a royal family in 556 B.C. It is the place where Gautama Buddha lived till the age of 29. There are many temples around Lumbini. It is nestled about the distance of 122 km away from Gorakhpur city in Uttar Pradesh and near to the neighboring country Nepal. The holy pond is also located in here where the lord Buddha had a first bath after his birth. It is listed as the world heritage site. There are many other popular places in Lumbini named as Maya Devi temple, Ashoka Pillar, sacred garden and Kapilavastu Palace. Bodhgaya is situated in Bihar and the site is about 17 km away from Gaya and 105 km from the capital city of the state. Patna. It is the place where Lord Buddha first came to know the answer about sickness, death and ageing. Lord Buddha was first called by the name Siddhartha. The place is well known among the followers of Buddhism and it is one of the top Buddhist pilgrimage site in India. Bodhi tree is the major attraction of the place where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment after meditating under the same tree. Mahabodi temple and Dungeshwari caves are the major attractions of the place. Sarnath is located in about 13 km away from the north east of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. It was also known as the Mrigadava in the early days. It is another major site of Buddhism a place where Lord Buddha first taught the Dharma. Sarnath is a quit and deer park which is nearby the Varanasi city and it is a great place to visit by the devoted followers of Buddhism. Lord taught about the keys aspects of Buddhism like the four novel truths, way of philosophy and the eight fold paths. The site dates back to the early 3rd century and still remains to perfect. It is a prime attraction to the followers. Kushinagar is the place where Lord Buddha took his last breadth at the age of 80 years. It is one of the top Buddhist pilgrimages in India. Located in the Kushinagar district of Uttar Pradesh the place still remains to be the popular destination. It is addressed at a distance of 53 km from west Gorakhpur of Uttar Pradesh. It is situated in the northern part of India. The prominent attraction of the place is Parinirvana Temple which holds a beautiful structure of Lord Gautama Buddha. Ajanta Caves is located near Aurangabad is a world heritage site regarded by UNESCO. The cave presents some beautiful sculptures of Buddha carved out by hammers and chisels which are truly amazing. There are about twenty nine caves around which include gorgeous paintings of early age. It is a great place of tourist and culture lovers. |
Lumbini Bodhgaya Sarnath Kushinagar Ajanta Caves |
Christian pilgrimage locations in India
Christianity is a major religion in India and we all know that India is a land of various religions. The religion Christianity was first entered during the rule of Britishers and Portuguese rule. The Christian followers or the entire religious people worship the Lord Jesus which is also believed as their Messiah. In today’s world it shows the first position among others and of course world’s largest religion. The symbol Cross is represented as their mark of religion and their holy book is the Bible. It is known to be the most rapidly increasing religion among others and in India Kerala is remarked as the Cradle of Christianity. In India it was first introduced by Saint Thomas the Apostle, a foreign trader who arrived on the Malabar Coast of India in 52 A.D and preached for Christianity.
However India also features some of the most popular Christian pilgrimages among which are St.John’s Church of north India, St. Monica church of Goa and St Francis church in Kerala. St John’s church known as Anglican Church is one of the oldest church of north India. It is heartily dedicated to John the Baptist build around the year 1852 beautifully built in Neo gothic architecture. It is highly known for its Belgian stained glass windows. St. Monica church of Goa was once called as the Royal Monastery for its state patronage. It is beautifully located in Goa and the external of the church displays an amalgamation of Tuscan, Corinthian styles of architecture. St. Francis church of Kerala is located nearby the Fort Kochi. It is the oldest European church in India and the famous European trader Vasco Da Gama was buried in here. |
St.John’s Church St. Monica church of Goa St Francis church in Kerala. |