20 Religious Places in India: Top Famous Holy Destinations

India is a land of stories and mythological mysteries. Right from the epic Ramayana to references to places in holy books, the country has it all! Whether it is in the south or the north, religious places in India are all about the faith of the people. Moreover, it is interesting to know that many places have different stories to narrate.

You can especially learn about them when you visit these pilgrimage destinations. Witness the surreal architecture, intricate carvings, decorated deities and some temples with ancient secrets too. So, take advantage of this truly informative blog to find out the ultimate religious places in India. 

List of 20 Popular Religious Places in India 

• Kedarnath, Uttarakhand
• Golden Temple, Amritsar
• Tirupati Balaji, Andhra Pradesh
• Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
• Vaishno Devi, Jammu
• Amarnath, Jammu and Kashmir
• Sabarimala, Kerala
• Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
• Jagannath Temple, Odisha
• Shirdi, Maharashtra
• Badrinath, Uttarakhand
• Bodh Gaya, Bihar
• Ranakpur, Rajasthan
• Rishikesh
• Haridwar
• Mathura, Uttar Pradesh
• Somnath Temple, Gujarat
• Karni Mata Temple, Rajasthan
• Manikaran, Kullu
• Jama Masjid, New Delhi

1. Kedarnath, Uttarakhand 

Kedarnath is one of the best religious places in India. The list of pilgrimage destinations remains incomplete without mentioning the truly enchanting Kedarnath. It is especially known to be the abode of Lord Shiva. Moreover, the spiritual journey takes you through India’s cultural heritage. You can witness devotees rhyming the lord’s name throughout the journey. Additionally, divinity is something that you do not get to experience anywhere!

2. Golden Temple, Amritsar 

As you think of Amritsar, you must visit the world-famous Golden Temple. It is the main temple for Sikhs however, it welcomes people from all walks of life. The atmosphere here is truly calming. Surrounded by water on all sides, the Golden Temple is an especially beautiful place. Being one of the top-rated religious places in India, you must sit for langar (food offered by the temple). It is best to maintain silence and meditate in tranquillity.

3. Tirupati Balaji, Andhra Pradesh 

You must have surely heard of Tirupati Balaji! Also known as Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple, it is located in the heart of Andhra Pradesh. What’s more? It is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Moreover, the temple has a unique practice. Devotees often donate their hair as a form of devotion. Undoubtedly, it is often crowded, however, it is one of the ideal pilgrimage destinations in the country.

4. Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh

How can you ever forget one of the best religious places in India? Known to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, Ayodhya is indeed a divine place. With the new temple dedicated to Lord Rama, thousands of devotees flock here. It has indeed become one of the famous pilgrimage destinations. Additionally, you can also offer prayers at other temples nearby.

5. Vaishno Devi, Jammu

A divine place awaits your presence. Vaishno Devi Temple is one of the revered religious places in India. It is truly known for its mysterious paths and the faith of the devotees. Millions of people visit the temple to offer their prayers. What’s more? You need to trek through the hill to reach the top. It is especially one of the crowded pilgrimage destinations during the Navratri festival. So, book your tickets soon! 

6. Amarnath, Jammu and Kashmir

A massive formation of Shiva Lingam with ice invites thousands of devotees to witness the rare phenomenon. The Amarnath Yatra is a super popular pilgrimage journey. What’s more? It is believed that Lord Shiva revealed the secret of immortality to Goddess Parvati right in this cave. You must know that it is indeed a tough pilgrimage. Being one of the most visited religious places in India, it sure has its own unique powers and tranquil surroundings.

7. Sabarimala, Kerala

Religious places in India especially in the southern part are all about colourful gopurams and amazing architecture. Situated on the top of a hill, Sabarmati Temple is a divine place for locals and tourists alike. It is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. What’s more? Many devotees fast for 41 days before visiting the temple. They wear black-coloured outfits during their journey. Sabarimala is surely one of the ideal pilgrimage destinations in Kerala.

8. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Also known as Kashi or Banaras, Varanasi is one of the booming religious places in India. It is home to the holy river of Ganga, and you can especially witness the spiritual vibes on the ghats. The city is home to truly massive ghats, including Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat and Assi Ghat. What’s more? The powerful Ganga Aarti in the evening illuminates the ghats. Subsequently, visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple for a divine time.

9. Jagannath Temple, Odisha

Get ready to witness an architectural marvel with stories of mystery. Jagannath Temple in Puri goes against the scientific findings with its extraordinary presence. You can witness it on your own. As you visit one of the special religious places in India, you can hear the sound of waves even when there is no water body around. The flag on top of the temple flies in the opposite direction of the air. Even the idols of Lord Jagannath and his siblings are made of wood.

10. Shirdi, Maharashtra

Dedicated to Sai Baba, Shirdi is one of the most visited pilgrimage destinations in India. It is believed that Sai Baba truly helped people throughout his life. That’s exactly why devotees especially visit the place of worship in large numbers. Being one of the best religious places in India, you can witness Sai Baba’s tomb here. It is best to plan your journey well in advance for a convenient time.

11. Badrinath, Uttarakhand

You cannot forget the holy place of Badrinath dedicated to Lord Vishnu. You must know Badrinath is generally the third temple in the Char Dham Yatra. Surrounded by truly mesmerising snow-capped mountains, Badrinath is home to hot springs and the Alaknanda River. As you reach the temple, notice the beautiful colours and detailed carvings. It is one of the best religious places in India that allows you to self-reflect and introspect in a spiritually awakened environment.

12. Bodh Gaya, Bihar

With many religious places in India, we simply cannot miss out on the importance of Buddhism. Bodh Gaya is a popular destination for Buddhists and other pilgrims. What’s more? It is the magical place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. You can especially witness the huge Bodhi tree where Buddha meditated. You can visit many monasteries and be a part of meditative sessions, prayers and chantings.

13. Ranakpur, Rajasthan

There’s a temple wherever there is faith! So is the presence of Jain temples in Ranakpur. Located in Rajasthan, the city is popular for the very first tirthankara of Jainism. You can truly witness the beautiful architecture here. Chaumukha Temple attracts devotees with its marble work and extraordinary carvings on pillars. It is dedicated to Lord Adinath. What’s more? There are many temples dedicated to Lord Parshvanath and Lord Neminath as well. It sure remains one of the popular pilgrimage destinations for Jains across the globe.

14. Rishikesh

Known as the Yoga Capital, Rishikesh is one of the famous religious places in India. It is situated in the serene foothills of the majestic Himalayas. So, you can visit the divine Neelkanth Mahadev Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. What’s more? Attend the Ganga aarti at the Triveni Ghat for a great experience. Do not forget to visit the Laxman Jhula when in Rishikesh.

15. Haridwar

As we talk about pilgrimage destinations, Haridwar has to be on the list! The Har ki Pauri Ghat is a must-visit place in the city. You can also take a dip in the holy river Ganga. Watch the divine aarti and soak in the spiritual vibes. Some of the other famous temples in Haridwar are Chandi Devi Temple, Mansa Devi Temple and Maya Devi Temple.

16. Mathura, Uttar Pradesh

The soothing land of Mathura is known to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna. It is one of the famous religious places in India for devotees. What’s more? You can visit the Krishna Janmanbhoomi temple and watch the amazing architecture. Mathura, especially, is home to many other temples dedicated to Lord Krishna. Visit Dwarkadhish Temple, Banke Bihari Temple and ISKCON for a truly enchanting time.

17. Somnath Temple, Gujarat

Somnath Temple has a truly shocking history. The temple has been destroyed many times however, it has been rebuilt for its divine faith. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the place of worship is an architectural wonder. You can witness different styles including Rajput, Solanki and Chalukyan. What’s more? It is also known to be one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines in India. So, get ready to visit one of the prime pilgrimage destinations in Gujarat.

18. Karni Mata Temple, Rajasthan

Get ready to meet thousands of rats at the Karni Mata Temple. It is truly one of the unique religious places in India. Dedicated to Karni Mata, rats run in the temple. These rats are believed to be the incarnations of the Goddess. They eat the prasad and also consume milk. Moreover, devotees also consume the same prasad. It is advisable to walk carefully to avoid stepping on rats.

19. Manikaran, Kullu

Manikaran is an amazing destination of beauty. The confluence of Hindus and Sikhs elevates the significance of this place. It is truly believed that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati stayed here for a long time. Apart from this, it is also the place where Guru Nanak Ji spent his time during the journey. You can visit the Gurudwara and take a dip in the hot springs too. Being one of the prime religious places in India, it is covered with towering mountains and views of the Parvati Valley.

20. Jama Masjid, New Delhi

Jama Masjid is one of the most popular religious places in India. The one in New Delhi is especially known for its unique history. The place of worship was once used by the British for internal meetings. After the efforts of Indians, the masjid received its significance. The awe-inspiring craftsmanship is something people truly adore! Do not forget to offer prayers and spend time in the calm surroundings.

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