10 Best Spiritual Places to Visit in India

India is a haven for spiritual seekers, offering a diverse array of sacred destinations. The latest trends in spiritual tourism in India have rapidly gained momentum, with not only Indian travelers but international tourists also showing a keen interest in exploring the country’s spiritual treasures. From the Chardham temples nestled in the Himalayas to the revered city of Varanasi in the north, the coastal serenity of Puri in the east, the spiritual allure of Rameshwaram in the south, and the tranquil charm of Somnath in the west, every corner of India is adorned with the presence of curious and devout tourists.

If you are also drawn to the transformative journey of spiritual tourism, then embark on an exploration of these 10 best spiritual places in India, each offering a unique and enriching spiritual experience.

Chardham, Uttarakhand
Vaishno Devi, Jammu and Kashmir
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu
Somnath, Gujarat
Puri, Odisha
Bodh Gaya, Bihar
Amritsar, Punjab
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Haridwar, Uttarakhand

Experience India’s pilgrimage tours with Bon Travel India and save up to 30% with our early bird discount. Connect with us at +91-9310109466 for the latest offers and deals.

Chardham, Uttarakhand

Chardham Yatra

The Char Dham Yatra involves visiting four sacred sites nestled in the Himalayas. The pilgrimage is believed to cleanse sins and bring spiritual liberation. The Char Dham circuit includes the following destinations:

Yamunotri: Situated at 3,293 meters, it is the source of the Yamuna River. The main attraction is the Yamunotri Temple dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. Pilgrims trek around 6 kilometers from Hanuman Chatti to reach the temple.
Gangotri: Located at 3,100 meters, it is the origin of the sacred Ganges River. The Gangotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ganga, is the focal point. Pilgrims trek approximately 18 kilometers from Gangotri town to reach the temple.
Kedarnath: Positioned at 3,583 meters, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This is considered as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. Pilgrims face a challenging trek of about 16 kilometers from Gaurikund to reach the temple.
Badrinath: Found at 3,133 meters, it is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is believed to be one of the Char Dham shrines established by Adi Shankaracharya. The temple is easily accessible by road and is the most visited site among the Char Dham destinations.

The Char Dham Yatra takes place between April and November when the weather is favorable and sites are accessible. Devotees undertake the journey to seek blessings, absolve sins, and attain spiritual upliftment. The pilgrimage is not only an act of devotion but also an opportunity to explore the Himalayas’ natural beauty and experience Uttarakhand’s rich cultural heritage.

Also Read: How to Plan Chadham Yatra in the Himalayas?

Vaishno Devi, Jammu and Kashmir

Vaishno Devi Temple Jammu

Vaishno Devi is located in the Trikuta Mountains of Jammu and Kashmir. The journey of Vaishno Devi attracts millions of devotees every year.

The yatra begins at Katra, a small town at the base of the mountains, and continues uphill for approximately 12 kilometers to reach the Vaishno Devi Temple.

The shrine consists of three holy rock formations, called pindis, representing the three goddesses—Maha Kali, Maha Lakshmi, and Maha Saraswati. Devotees offer their prayers and seek blessings from the goddess.

Apart from the spiritual significance, the Vaishno Devi Yatra also offers several attractions for visitors. The Banganga Temple, located just outside Katra, is a popular stop where devotees take a holy dip in the Banganga River before commencing their trek. The Ardh Kuwari Cave, situated halfway to the shrine, is another significant spot where it is believed that the goddess meditated for nine months. The Bhairavnath Temple, located at the top of the mountain, is also visited by devotees as part of the yatra.

The best time to visit Vaishno Devi is during the months of March to October when the weather is pleasant and the trekking conditions are favorable. The yatra experiences a peak influx of devotees during the Navratri festival, which falls in September/October, and during the summer vacation months.

Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Jammu and Kashmir

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Varanasi Ghat

Varanasi, also known as Kashi holds immense significance in the spiritual and religious landscape of the country. People from all over the world come to Varanasi because of its long history, rich culture, and strong traditions.

One of the major attractions in Varanasi is the River Ganges. Pilgrims flock to the ghats to take part in religious rituals, perform prayers, and bathe in the holy water. The Dashashwamedh Ghat is particularly famous for the Ganga Aarti held every evening where one can experience beautiful sights of lamps, incense, and devotional songs.

Varanasi has many important temples. The most famous one is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in the country. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is not just a place of worship but an architectural marvel as well.

It is very old and has been rebuilt many times because of invaders and natural disasters. The walls of the temple have carvings and sculptures that show scenes from Hindu stories. Many pilgrims come to the temple during festivals like Maha Shivaratri, Navratri, and Kartik Purnima.

Other important temples in Varanasi include the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, the Durga Temple, and the Tulsi Manas Temple. These temples are not just religious places but also have beautiful architecture and carvings.

The best time to visit Varanasi is during the winter months from October to March. The weather is nice, and you can enjoy the city. During this time, there are also many festivals and religious events like Diwali, Holi, and Maha Shivaratri, which make the city even livelier.

Also Read: Best Tourist Places in India

Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu

Rameshwaram Temple

Rameshwaram is located on Pamban Island in the Gulf of Mannar. It is famous for its temples, stories of gods, and beautiful beaches. People who are interested in spirituality or nature should definitely visit this place.

The most important attraction is the Ramanathaswamy Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the twelve special temples in India and has amazing architecture, with big towers and beautifully carved pillars. Inside the temple, there is a place called Agni Theertham, which is believed to have purifying properties.

Another important spiritual place in Rameshwaram is the Gandhamadana Parvatham, a hill with footprints of Lord Rama. People who go on a pilgrimage climb up the hill to get blessings and see the island from above.

The Five-faced Hanuman Temple is also a popular place for pilgrims. It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, who is a devotee of Lord Rama. It is said that Lord Hanuman showed his five faces here to express his devotion.

The island also has beautiful beaches like Dhanushkodi and Ariyaman Beach, which show the natural beauty of the place. These peaceful sandy areas are perfect for relaxation and thinking.

The best time to visit Rameshwaram is during the winter season, from October to February. The weather is nice and it’s a good time for exploring. It’s not recommended to go during the rainy season, from June to September, because there is heavy rainfall that can disrupt travel plans.

Also Read: Best Places to Visit in South India

Somnath, Gujarat

The city of Somnath is well-known for its very old Somnath Temple, which is dedicated to a god named Lord Shiva. Somnath means “Lord of the Moon” and is believed to be the first of twelve special temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.

The Somnath Temple is located by the Arabian Sea and has impressive architecture and detailed carvings. It has a long history because it was destroyed and rebuilt many times. It is a special place for people who are devoted to Lord Shiva and come to seek blessings, comfort, and spiritual understanding.

Besides the amazing temple, Somnath has other places that are important for spiritual and religious reasons. The Triveni Sangam is a special spot where three rivers, Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati, meet. People go there to perform rituals and take holy baths. Nearby, there is Bhalka Tirtha, which is believed to be the place where Lord Krishna was accidentally hit by an arrow and left his human form.

The best time to visit Somnath is during the winter to early summer season, from October to March, when the weather is nice. During this time, many devotees go to the temple to celebrate festivals like Maha Shivaratri, Navratri, and Diwali. The festivals are lively and filled with devotion, with people singing songs and performing special rituals that create a powerful spiritual atmosphere.

Also Read: Top Tourist Destinations in Gujarat

Puri, Odisha

Jagannath Temple Puri Odisha

Puri, located in the eastern state of Odisha and is a city renowned for its rich religious and spiritual heritage. Steeped in ancient mythology and adorned with magnificent temples, Puri attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists every year.

The most iconic attraction in Puri is the Jagannath Temple, dedicated to Lord Jagannath (an avatar of Lord Krishna). This grand temple is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites and the annual Rath Yatra, or Chariot Festival, held in Puri is a major religious event where the deities are taken out in chariots amidst a sea of devotees.

Another prominent religious site is the Gundicha Temple, where Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings, spends a week during the Rath Yatra. For spiritual seekers, Puri offers the serene setting of Swargadwar Beach, considered a sacred spot for performing last rites and rituals.

Apart from the religious landmarks, Puri boasts the Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its architectural marvel and intricate carvings, the temple is dedicated to the Sun God and is a visual delight.

The best time to visit Puri is during the winter months, from October to February when the weather is pleasant and suitable for exploration. However, the city witnesses a massive influx of devotees during festivals like Rath Yatra, so it is advisable to plan accordingly.

Also Read: Top Places to Visit in East India

Bodh Gaya, Bihar

Mahabodhi Temple Bodh Gaya

Bodh Gaya is a small town located in Bihar. Quite renowned as one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Buddhists around the world. It holds immense significance as it is the place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree.

The main highlight of Bodh Gaya is the Mahabodhi Temple Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple, constructed adjacent to the Bodhi tree, houses a massive gilded statue of the Buddha.

The Bodhi tree itself is a must-visit site, considered to be a direct descendant of the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. It stands as a symbol of spiritual awakening and tranquility. Nearby, one can find the Animesh Lochana Chaitya, a small shrine where Buddha is said to have spent the first week after his enlightenment, gazing at the tree without blinking.

Another significant spot in Bodh Gaya is the Great Buddha Statue, a 25-meter tall statue made of red granite. This majestic sculpture showcases the Buddha radiating a sense of peace and serenity. It is a popular spot for meditation and reflection.

Bodh Gaya also houses numerous monasteries representing different Buddhist traditions from various countries, such as Thailand, Japan, Tibet, and Myanmar. These monasteries provide a glimpse into the diverse cultural and architectural styles associated with Buddhism.

The best time to visit Bodh Gaya is during the winter season, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploration. It is advisable to avoid the summer months (April to June) due to scorching heat. The town is often crowded during Buddhist festivals like Buddha Purnima (celebrated in May) and the Tibetan New Year (usually in February or March). These festive periods offer a unique opportunity to witness colorful rituals and ceremonies.

Also Read: Popular Temples to Visit in India

Amritsar, Punjab

Golden Temple Amritsar

Amritsar is a city with a lot of important culture and religion. Many people visit it each year because it is a significant place for Sikhs. The most famous attraction there is the Golden Temple, also known as Harmandir Sahib. It is a very special place for Sikhs and represents equality and spiritual comfort. The temple is surrounded by a peaceful lake called Amrit Sarovar, which gives the city its name. Visitors can take part in daily rituals, listen to religious songs called kirtans, and join in serving and eating together in langars.

Another important place in Amritsar is Jallianwala Bagh, which is a memorial site that reminds people of the city’s fight for independence.

You can also visit the Durgiana Temple in Amritsar. It is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga and looks similar to the Golden Temple. Many people come here on a pilgrimage.

The best time to visit Amritsar is from October to March when the weather is nice and good for exploring the city’s attractions. The months of December and January can be quite cold, so it’s a good idea to bring warm clothes.

Also Read: Pilgrimage Tourism in India

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Rishikesh Uttarakhand

Rishikesh is a famous place for spirituality and yoga. People from all over the world come here to find peace and learn yoga. One of the main attractions is the Ganges River, which is considered sacred. Triveni Ghat is a popular spot where people come to bathe and take part in evening prayers. It creates a special spiritual atmosphere.

Rishikesh also has old temples and ashrams. The Parmarth Niketan Ashram is located by the Ganges and offers yoga and meditation classes. There are two famous bridges called Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula that go over the Ganges. They are not only impressive structures but also important places for religious pilgrims.

The best time to visit Rishikesh and enjoy its religious and spiritual places is from February to April and from September to November. The weather during these months is pleasant, with temperatures between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius. It’s also a great time for outdoor activities like river rafting and trekking.

Besides spirituality, Rishikesh is known for adventure sports. People who love excitement come here for activities like rafting, camping, rock climbing, and bungee jumping. Adventure enthusiasts from all over the world are attracted to these thrilling experiences.

Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Rishikesh

Haridwar, Uttarakhand

Haridwar is a very special place for Hindus, and it’s considered one of the most holy places in their religion. The name of the city, Haridwar, means “Gateway to God,” because it’s like a doorway to the divine.

One of the most important things to see in Haridwar is Har Ki Pauri. It’s a special spot by the river Ganges where people come to bathe in the sacred water. In the evening, there is a beautiful ceremony called Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri. It’s a magical experience that both worshippers and tourists enjoy. There are lovely smells from the incense, peaceful songs being sung, and small lights floating on the river, which make the whole place feel like it’s from another world.

There are two other places that are also significant in Haridwar. One is the Chandi Devi Temple, which sits high up on a hill called Neel Parvat. From there, you can see the whole city and the Ganges. The other temple is called Mansa Devi Temple, and it’s on another hill called Bilwa Parvat. People often climb up these hills to ask for blessings and make their wishes come true.

Haridwar is famous for something called the Kumbh Mela. It’s the biggest religious gathering in the world, and millions of people from all over the world come to Haridwar to be a part of it. During this special event, the city becomes very lively with lots of spiritual activities going on.

If you want to visit Haridwar, the best time to go is between February and April, or between August and October. The weather is nice during those months, and there are also festivals like Mahashivratri and Navratri that are celebrated with a lot of excitement.

Popular Spiritual Tour Packages

Gujarat Spiritual Tour Package	7 Nights 8 Days
Vaishno Devi Tour with Kashmir Sightseeing	6 Nights 7 Days
Chardham Yatra Tour Package	9 Nights 10 Days
Kedarnath Yatra Tour Package	3 Nights 4 Days
Varanasi Tour Package	3 Nights 4 Days
Best of Uttarakhand Tour	8 Nights 9 Days
Rishikesh Tour Package	4 Nights 5 Days

Like & follow us on our following official social media channels

Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin | Instagram | Youtube

Also Check Out: Popular India Tours | Tour Packages | India Tour Packages | International Tour Packages

Other Interesting Kerala Travel Guide Blogs to Read

Other Interesting India Travel Guide Blogs to Read

Other Interesting Destinations Travel Guide Blogs to Read

Other Interesting Rajasthan Travel Guide Blogs to Read

Other Interesting Uttarakhand Travel Guide Blogs to Read

Other Interesting Wildlife Travel Guide Blogs to Read

Other Interesting South Travel Guide Blogs to Read

Other Interesting International Travel Guide Blogs to Read

Other Interesting Adventure & Trekking Travel Guide Blogs to Read

Share on Facebook