Best North India Spiritual Tours with Varanasi
A spiritual journey through North India, culminating in Varanasi, can be incredibly enriching. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
Delhi
Start your journey in Delhi, the capital city. Explore the spiritual side of Delhi by visiting places like Jama Masjid, Lotus Temple, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, and Akshardham Temple.
Rishikesh
Travel to Rishikesh, known as the Yoga Capital of the World. Attend yoga and meditation classes, visit the Beatles Ashram, and witness the evening Ganga Aarti on the banks of the Ganges.
Haridwar
Continue to Haridwar, one of the seven holiest places for Hindus. Take a dip in the Ganges at Har Ki Pauri, visit the Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi temples, and witness the evening Ganga Aarti.
Adding Mathura to your spiritual journey through North India is a wonderful idea, especially considering its significance in Hindu mythology as the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Here’s how you can include Mathura in your itinerary:
Mathura
Start your day early with a visit to the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple Complex, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Explore the temple and soak in the spiritual ambiance. Then, proceed to Dwarkadhish Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna. Take part in the morning aarti (ritual offering) and witness the devotees’ fervent prayers.
Vrindavan
After Mathura, head to Vrindavan, just a short distance away. Vrindavan is intimately associated with the life of Lord Krishna and is filled with numerous temples and ashrams. Visit Banke Bihari Temple, Radha Raman Temple, and the ISKCON Temple, among others. Participate in the bhajans (devotional songs) and immerse yourself in the devotion surrounding you.
Govardhan
Consider a side trip to Govardhan, a sacred hill associated with Lord Krishna. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill to protect the villagers from the wrath of Lord Indra. Visit Govardhan Temple and circumambulate the hill for a spiritually uplifting experience.
Including Naimisharanya in your spiritual journey through North India offers a unique opportunity to explore a sacred pilgrimage site deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and spirituality. Here’s how you can incorporate Naimisharanya into your itinerary:
Naimisharanya (Naimisha Forest)
Naimisharanya, also known as Naimisha Forest or Neemsar, is a revered pilgrimage site mentioned in ancient Hindu scriptures. It’s believed to be the abode of Lord Vishnu in the form of Lord Hari. Here are some highlights of Naimisharanya:
- Vyas Gaddi: Visit Vyas Gaddi, where it’s believed that the sage Vyasa narrated the Mahabharata to his disciples. The spot is marked by a raised platform where visitors pay homage to Sage Vyasa.
- Chakra Teertha: Explore Chakra Teertha, a sacred pond where Lord Vishnu is said to have washed his Sudarshan Chakra. Devotees take a holy dip in the pond, believed to cleanse sins and bestow blessings.
- Temples and Ashrams: Naimisharanya is dotted with numerous temples and ashrams dedicated to various deities and sages. Visit prominent temples like Lalita Devi Temple, Hanuman Temple, and Narada Temple. Explore ashrams where spiritual seekers engage in meditation, study scriptures, and participate in spiritual discourses.
- Naimisha Van: Take a serene walk through Naimisha Van, the sacred forest believed to be blessed by the presence of sages and saints since ancient times. The tranquil surroundings provide an ideal environment for introspection and spiritual contemplation.
Ayodhya
Ayodhya holds immense religious significance for Hindus and is steeped in mythology and history associated with Lord Rama. Here are some highlights of Ayodhya:
- Ram Janmabhoomi: Visit the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple Complex, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama. The temple complex is undergoing renovations and is a symbol of faith for millions of Hindus worldwide.
- Hanuman Garhi: Explore Hanuman Garhi, a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman located atop a hill. It offers panoramic views of Ayodhya and is a popular pilgrimage site.
- Kanak Bhawan: Visit Kanak Bhawan, a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Rama and his consort Sita. It is believed to have been gifted to Sita by her father, King Janaka, upon her marriage to Lord Rama.
- Other Temples: Ayodhya is home to numerous temples dedicated to various deities. Explore temples like Nageshwarnath Temple, Treta Ke Thakur, and Chhoti Devkali Temple, among others.
- Saryu River: Take a serene boat ride on the Saryu River, which flows through Ayodhya. It’s a peaceful experience and offers a different perspective of the city.
formerly known as Allahabad, is a city of immense historical, cultural, and religious significance, particularly for Hindus. It’s famous for the confluence of three sacred rivers: the Ganges, the Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. Here’s how you can explore Prayagraj:
Triveni Sangam
Begin your journey at Triveni Sangam, the sacred confluence point of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. This is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in Hinduism. Consider taking a boat ride to witness the meeting of these rivers, and if possible, participate in a ritualistic bath or offer prayers at the riverbanks.
Kumbh Mela Grounds
Explore the Kumbh Mela grounds if you’re visiting during the Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Even outside of the Kumbh Mela, the grounds offer a serene atmosphere for meditation and reflection.
Allahabad Fort
Visit the historic Allahabad Fort, built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century. The fort offers insights into Mughal architecture and provides panoramic views of the city and the confluence of rivers.
Temples and Religious Sites
Explore the numerous temples and religious sites in Prayagraj, including the Hanuman Temple, Mankameshwar Temple, and Alopi Devi Temple. Each temple has its unique significance and architectural style.
Anand Bhavan
Visit Anand Bhavan, the ancestral home of the Nehru-Gandhi family and now a museum. It provides a glimpse into the lives of prominent figures in India’s struggle for independence.
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