Sapta Puri- Top Seven of holy cities of India

Top Seven holy cities of India

Seven of holy cities of Sapta Puri are Ayodhya, Mathura, Maya (Haridwar), Kasi (Varanasi), Kanchi (Kanchipuram), Avantika (Ujjain) and Dvaravati (Dwarka)

India, known as the Land of Gods and Deities, has an inexhaustible number of Pilgrimage Sites. India, the world's most ancient civilization, is not only rich in heritage opulence but also has a glorious mythological past. Every year, tens of thousands of people flock to holy shrines in search of solace or blessings. Tourists from all over the world are drawn to the long journey to many popular pilgrimage destinations. Religion and beliefs are deeply ingrained, and there are numerous Religion Tours in India to choose from. Some of the most popular pilgrimage destinations to visit in 2023 are listed below.

Thousands of people travel to India from all over the world in search of spiritual enlightenment. In addition, the majority of these pilgrimage sites are hidden away in areas of breathtaking natural beauty. We select the top 7 pilgrimages to make in India, a country known for its temples and pilgrimages.

Suggested Tour: Char Dham Tour Packages, Kedarnath Badrinath Yatra

Also Read: 15 Famous Forts & Palaces to Visit in India

Ayodhya

Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Ram. He is said to be Lord Vishnu's seventh incarnation. It is the holiest city in India and has long been an important part of Uttar Pradesh's economic, political, and historical history. Ayodhya is about 6 kilometres from Faizabadon on the Sarayu River's bank. This 9000-year-old city served as the capital of Raja Dashrath's prosperous kingdom. This auspicious city contains over 700 temples, making it one of India's most sacred cities. Some of the best places to visit include Ram Janam Bhumi, Kanak Bhawan, Sita ki Rasoi, Hanumangarhi, Gular Bari, Daashtrath Bhawan, Nageshwarnath Temple, Treta ka Thakur, and Dashrath Bhawan.

Varanasi

Varanasi, also known as Shiv ki Nagari, is said to be India's oldest city. There are nearly 20,000 temples in the city, which can be found on every street corner. Lord Shiva is said to have built the holy city of Kashi with his hands, which is why it is known as India's spiritual capital. It is widely held that if you die in this city, you will achieve Moksh (salvation). Varanasi is all about the sacred Ghats, which will provide you with the most scenic and tranquil views of the holy River Ganga. Manikarnika Ghat, Dashashwamedha Ghat, Pancha-Ganga Ghat, Asi Sangam Ghat, Varana Sangam Ghat, and Kashi Vishwanath are the main attractions in Varanasi.

Suggested Tour: Golden Triangle Tour with Varanasi

Mathura

Mathura is the birthplace of Lord Krishna, located in Uttar Pradesh near the cities of Vrindavan and Goverdhan. Lord Krishna is also thought to be Lord Vishnu's incarnation, who came to save the world from the evil and powerful King Kansa. Mathura, known as the "heart of Indian culture," is filled with multicoloured temples. The best time to visit this holy city is during Krishna Janamashtami, when the entire city is in full swing and everyone is excited to celebrate Krishna's birthday. Apart from being significant for Hindus, Mathura is also known for magnificent Buddhist art that dates back to the golden age of Indian culture.

Suggested Tour: Mathura Vrindavan Tour from Delhi

Haridwar

Haridwar is the literal translation of Haridwar (gateway of Lord Vishnu). It is where Hindus come before embarking on the Char Dham Yatra (Hindu Religion's Four Abodes) for the ritualistic bath in the holy Ganga water. Bhagirath prayed to Lord Shiva and was successful in bringing Ganga to Earth for the benefit of humanity, according to Hindu religious books. Har ki Pauri is said to be the first place Ganga landed. Mansa Devi Temple, Bharat Mata Temple, Maya Devi Temple, and Chandi Devi Temple are among the prominent temples in Haridwar. Every 12 years, the world-famous Kumbh Mela is held in this holy city of India.
Suggested Tour: Haridwar Rishikesh Same Day Tour

Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram is one of India's seven sacred cities due to its divine temples. Kanchi, located on the banks of the River Vegavathi, is also known as the City of Thousand Temples and the City of Gold. Advaita philosophy was spread in this city by Adi Shankara, a great Hindu philosopher. Kanchipuram is only 75 kilometres from Chennai, the state capital of Tamil Nadu. This is why it is one of the most visited holy cities in India. Kanchipuram has approximately 108 Shaiva temples and 18 Vaishnava temples. Kanchipuram's famous temples include Ekambareswarar Temple, Varadharaja Perumal Temple, Kailasnathar Temple, and Kamakshi Temple.

Ujjain

Ujjain is one of India's Sapta Puri - seven sacred cities - and is located on the banks of the Kshipra River. This holy city is thought to have emerged during the reign of Samudra Manthan. Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas located here. Ujjain has a long history with Lord Krishna, as it is said that Krishna and his elder brother Balram came to Ujjain to be educated by Muni Sandipani. In Ujjain, there is a Gopal Temple with silver statues of Lord Krishna, Balram, and Muni Sandipani. 

Dwarka

Your Sapta Puri Tour will be incomplete unless you visit Dwarka, which is said to be the place where Lord Krishna spent his life after King Kansa was assassinated. It is yet another sacred place in India to visit for mental peace. Dwarka tells the story of Krishna's life when he moved the capital of the Yaduvansh Kingdom and how it eventually submerged in the Arabian Sea after Krishna's death. Poetess Mirabai, who taught the world power of Krishna Bhakti, was also from this divine city.