Best 30 Religious Tourism Places in India

Embrace the spiritual whirlwind in you..

India can be rightly called the ‘Land of Faith’. Trudge through the mighty mountains and you shall experience divine presence or traverse through the meandering alleys, where spirituality combined with history waits to quench your spiritual thirst.

The existence of a large number of temples, mosques, churches, Gurudwaras and monasteries in India beckons the traveler to visit a country that is tolerant, spiritual and most of all diverse yet united.

Spirituality has propelled many ordinary destinations into significant religious places in India. As a result, along with a large number of pilgrims that visit these religious destinations once a year, many travel enthusiasts have started to throng these hubs. Tourism has grown manifold and so has the fame of India.

Let us together get acquainted to a different and vital side of the country and learn about these fascinating religious tourism places in India:

List of 30 Famous Religious Tourism Places in India

Vaishno Devi Temple, Jammu Kashmir	Golden Temple Amritsar, Punjab
Sun Templ in Konark, Odisha	Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha
Somnath Jyotirlinga, Gujarat	Ranakpur Temple, Rajasthan
Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh	Hemkund Sahib, Uttarakhand
Dargah Gharib Nawaz in Ajmer, Rajasthan	Velankanni Church, Tamil Nadu
Amarnath Cave, Jammu & Kashmir	Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Goa	Dwarka, Gujarat
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand	Mathura, Uttar Pradesh
Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh	Haridwar, Uttarakhand
Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu	Badrinath Dham, Uttarakhand
Hampi, Karnataka	Madurai, Tamil Nadu
Bodhgaya, Bihar	Shirdi, Maharashtra
Leh, Ladakh	Omkareshwar and Mamleshwar Temple, MP
Karni Mata Temple, Rajasthan	Meghna Cave Temple, Arunachal Pradesh
Thousand Pillar Temple, Telangana	Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Kolkata

Recommended Popular Religious Tour Packages

Vaishno Devi Temple, Jammu & Kashmir

Vaishno Devi Temple

‘Receive Strength at the Earthly Abode of Goddess Shakti’

From high up in the mountains, Mata Vaishno Devi calls out to her devotees… Situated on the Trikuta Hills in Jammu, the abode of Mata Vaishno is amongst the most popular pilgrimage in India.

Experience an indescribable delight in taking an arduous trek that further leads to the caves where the goddess presides over and bestows countless blessings. Beautiful landscape, pervading divinity and thrilling adventure. This is one journey in India that will remain etched in your memories forever.

Recommended Tour Packages

Also Read: Interesting Facts about Vaishno Devi Temple

Golden Temple, Swarn Mandir/Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar

Golden Temple Amritsar, Punjab

‘Set Your Eyes on the Vast Horizon and Divinity is all you can see’

The unparalleled reflection of the pious golden edifice on the ambrosial nectar (lake) and the horde of pilgrims loitering in the shrine complex urge one to visit this popular religious place in India.

Built by the fourth Sikh Guru- Ramdass Sahib Ji, Gurdwara Harmandir Sahib is the most important Sikh pilgrimage site to visit in India. The golden gilded temple commemorates a number of Sikh historical events. A bringer of peace, the Golden Temple is nothing short of a legacy in India.

Sun Temple (Surya Mandir) in Konark, Odisha

Sun Temple in Konark, Odisha

‘Pay Homage to the Source of Power and Victory’

The masterpiece of Indian architecture, Sun Temple is the epitome of exquisite architecture and unmatched spirituality. Situated in Konark, Odisha, the Sun Temple boasts of a massive size and is an incredible example of genius. The Sun God sitting on a majestic chariot depicts the victory of King Narsimhadeva I (who defeated a number of Muslim invaders).

The incredible architecture that includes 12 pairs of carved wheels, hall of offering, imposing pyramidal roof and erotic scenes have been the key driving force for art lovers and travel enthusiast who visit here, thereby making the Sun Temple one of the best places to see on a religious tour in India.

Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha

‘The Lord of the Universe Watches Over You…’

An important pilgrimage in India, Jagannath Temple is the finest monument in Odisha. The main deities presiding over the temple are Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra.

Although a popular pilgrimage, Jagannath Temple comes to life during the annual Rath Yatra when a very large number of people throng the temple. The sacred shrine is believed to be the authentic reflection of Indian culture.

Also Read: Puri Tourism Guide

Somnath Jyotirlinga, Gujarat

‘Let the Protector of Moon Safeguard You from all Tribulations’

Reckoned to be the first Dwadash Jyotirlinga (Pillar of Light) of Lord Shiva, Somnath Jyotirlinga in Gujarat holds an important place in India. The survivor of many attacks in the past, Somnath Jyotirlinga has been a source of divinity and spirituality for many Hindu pilgrims.

Situated on the shores of Arabian Sea, this sacred shrine calls out to devotees from afar and blesses innumerable times. Feel the power of spirituality and lose yourself in the devotion at this holy place in India.

Ranakpur Temple, Rajasthan

‘Avail Spiritual Independence and Experience Paramount Divinity’

Humility is the greatest virtue and Jainism preaches just that! Situated in Ranakpur village in Rajasthan, Ranakpur is one of the best places of Indian pilgrimage tourism. The Ranakpur temple is one of the oldest Jain temples in India and thus holds a lot of importance for devotees.

Pilgrims from all over the world pay a visit to this temple that has majestic architecture and beautiful surroundings. Imbue yourself in the tranquil ambiance here and you shall definitely seek divinity that does not match anything ordinary.

Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati

Tirumala Venkateswara

‘Receive the Blessings Showered from the Venkateswara Hill’

The earthly abode of Lord Venkateswara (incarnation of Vishnu), Tirumala Venkateswara Temple is situated on the last hill of the Seshachalam range in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh.

Like many temples in south India, this holy temple is known for its exquisite architecture. It is also amongst the most visited Hindu temples in India as it is said that the temple attracts 60,000 pilgrims each day.

One must attend the Puja that is accompanied by many hymns and praises giving it a touch of unmatched divinity. The Laddoo Prasadam is yet another attraction of Tirumala Venkateswara Temple.

Shri Hemkund Sahib, Uttarakhand

Hemkund Sahib Yatra

‘Find Peace in the Solitude of Hemkund Sahib’

Situated in one of the most scenic locations in the country, Hemkund Sahib adds charm to religious tours in India. It is the crowning glory of Chamoli District. Unlike other Sikh pilgrimages in India, Hemkund Sahib has a pentagonal structure.

The scenic beauty of the place is worth mentioning as this shrine is nestled amidst lofty hills that are covered with snow. One shall be stunned with the kind of devotion that the pilgrims show here despite the adverse climatic conditions. The spiritual ambiance at Hemkunt Sahib may pursue you to stay a bit longer here.

Also Read: Shikh Religious Tourism in India

Dargah Gharib Nawaz in Ajmer, Rajasthan

Dargah Gharib Nawaz in Ajmer

‘Return with all Your Wishes Fulfilled’

Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti lay in peace here, listening to people’s wishes and fulfilling them. Once you enter through the gate of the Dargah, a queer peace takes over you. A sacred shrine in Ajmer, Gharib Nawaz Dargah Sharif is visited by millions of devotees every year from all over the world.

The Dargah for many reasons captivates one’s heart; there is certainly something that is magical about this place that people from different faiths come and worship here. Although the dargah is always crowded, the best time to visit Ajmer Sharif is during the Urs festival. The place comes to life during this festival that is held annually.

Velankanni Church, Tamil Nadu

‘Allow Our Lady of Health to Bless You with Good Health’

Religious tours in India would be incomplete if you miss out on Velankanni Church, situated in the Nagapattinam district of Tamil Nadu. Like many gothic style churches, Velankanni Church or the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health has graceful architecture but what attracts tourists the most to this church is the construction history of the Church.

Believed to have been built by a Portuguese sailor who survived a violent sea storm as a gratitude to the Supreme Power, this church is indeed one of the important pillars of faith in India. Each year The Feast of the Nativity of Mary is celebrated here and is attended by millions of devotees from around the globe.

Also Read: Must Visit Churches in India

Amarnath Cave, Jammu and Kashmir

Amarnath Temple Jammu and Kashmir

‘Experience Impeccable Divinity and the Existence of Supreme Power’

Baba Barfani calls out to his devotees spread all over the world to first take up an enthralling trek and then receive bountiful blessings from him. The holy Amarnath Cave is situated in the beautiful state of Jammu and Kashmir and can only be reached after a rigorous trekking expedition.

The cave holds importance as one of the ancient pilgrimages in India. The legend has it that Lord Shiva revealed the secret of immortality to his consort Goddess Parvati here, which was overheard by a pair of pigeons. It is also believed that even today, a pair of pigeons can be seen in the cave.

Amarnath is famed for the Linga that is created naturally by ice here every year. The Amarnath Yatra is an annual event in which pilgrims are allowed to trek to the cave temple.

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Varanasi Ghat

‘The City that Washes Away Sins’

A centre of faith for the Hindus, Varanasi in the state of Uttar Pradesh is a famous pilgrimage in India. Incredibly colourful and sacred, the beauty of Varanasi lies in the crowd of devotees who throng here every single day from one part of the country or the other.

The holy Ganga meandering through the city undoubtedly amplifies the sanctity of Varanasi. Also, the Ganga Arti performed ritualistically every morning and evening enhances the divinity. Devotees keeping faith in the power of the city to provide Moksha and cleansing their sins keep Varanasi always a favourite religion in India.

Goa

Goa Bom Jesus Basilica

‘Seize the Blessings of the Supreme amid Arresting Architectural Brilliance’

Goa by no means is a cliche pilgrimage destination in India; however, the number of churches in Goa justifies why it should be in the list of religious tourism places in India. A legacy of the Portuguese civilization that ruled the state for over a very long period, the Churches in Goa are worth exploring.

Along with being an epitome of Christian faith, these edifices contribute largely to the architectural collection of India. Amongst the most famous churches in Goa are Basilica of Bom Jesus, Church of the Lady of Immaculate Conception, Church of St. Lawrence and Church and Convent of St. Francis of Assisi.

Dwarka, Gujarat

‘Enter the Kingdom of Lord Krishna’

Situated on the western tip (Gujarat) of India, Dwarka is the land of unparalleled spirituality. It is said that when Lord Krishna escaped from Mathura, he made the city of Dwarka his capital. Since then, this fascinating city has been luring devotees from across the world.

In Dwarka, Dwarkadhish Temple is one of the most popular shrine of Lord Krishna. The very journey to this divine temple is a one step closer to attaining Nirvana. The temple yatra of Dwarkadhish is an integral part of the divine Char Dham Yatra. The white attire of local men keeps up with the sanctity of the place.

This fascinating town of Dwarka shall take you back in time of the Mahabharata. The 52 yard flag of dwarkadhish temple is the most fascinating sight to behold as it is changed 5 times a day by Guggali Brahmin, thrice in the morning, twice in the evening. One must visit the divine temple of Dwarkadhish to get eternal peace.

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Rishikesh-Weekend Destination

‘Walk Through the Land of Serenity’

The emerald Ganga, innumerable Hindu temples and the heavy settlement of yoga centres, in Rishikesh divinity has been redefined. Preserving the ancient Hindu practice called Yoga, Rishikesh opens a door to a different level of spirituality in India.

At Rishikesh one can praise nature in its truest forms and take a chance to lose himself in it. Therefore, this exceptional city makes for an incredible religious place to visit in India.

Mathura, Uttar Pradesh

‘Rejoice in the Land of Krishna’

The birthplace of the Hindu God Krishna, Mathura in the state of Uttar Pradesh can rightly be called a blessed land. Today, the town is dotted with a large number of temples including the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple that is thronged by a large number of devotees all through the year. However, Janmashtami is one festival during which this small town becomes overcrowded yet full of colours.

Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh

‘Witness the Spiritual Illumination at the Land of Radhe Radhe’

Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh is the city where Lord Krishna spent his childhood. Boasting about innumerable flashes from the historical pages, Vrindavan offers a journey back in time when Bal Gopal became Kanha and then finally Lord Krishna.

Each meandering alley has traces of holiness and is blessed with small and big temples that are dedicated to Radha and Krishna. As sweet as the Peda of Mathura is to the tongue, so is the ‘Radhe Radhe’ of Vrindavan to the ears. Inarguably one of the popular pilgrimage destinations in North India, Vrindavan lets you experience the spiritual illumination.

Haridwar, Uttarakhand

‘Enter through the Gate of Hari and Receive Countless Blessings’

Haridwar, located in the lap of mystical Uttarakhand is nothing short of an empyrean for the Hindus. Located by the holy river Ganga, the sacred town offers a great peace of mind.

Watch the flickering Diyas floating on the sparkling river along with the energetic Ganga Aarti in the evening and loiter around Har ki Pauri to seek unmatched divinity in Haridwar.

The Kumbh Mela, which happens once in every 12 years attracts millions to the city; nonetheless the city remains crowded with devotees all year round.

Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu

‘Pay Gratitude and Cleanse Yourself from the Sin’

Rameshwaram in the state of Tamil Nadu is one of the sites of the pious Char Dham yatra in India. Situated on an island called Mannar, this sacred destination is believed to be the place where Lord Rama worshipped and repented after killing Raavana.

Spirituality is set deep in Rameshwaram and the best place to experience it is at Ramanathaswamy temple. This beautiful temple is known for its incredible architecture that weaves divinity and culture together.

Shri Badrinath Dham, Uttarakhand

Climb the Staircase of Spirituality’

Nestled in the pristine Himalaya, Badrinath Temple in Uttarakhand is a door to unmatched spirituality. It is the place where everything is cuddled by divinity.

Badrinath is believed to be the home of Lord Vishnu or Badrinath Ji, who had come here to meditate after being rebuked by Narad for being too indulgent in worldly affairs. Thus, today Badrinath offers confinement from the materialistic world and takes you a step closer to the Supreme Power.

It is the vital destination for Chardham yatra in India and Chhota Chardham in Uttarakhand.

Hampi, Karnataka

‘Lose Yourself in Bewitching Divinity’

In the ruins of Hampi (Karnataka) lay innumerable temples that not only stuns but take you on a spiritual journey. Not all temples are in ruins in Hampi, as there are still some temples that sing the glory of the magnificent architectural designs and innovative ideas.

Hampi is indeed the perfect destination for spiritual tourism in India as it allows a peek inside the rich Indian culture, of which religion was an essential part. Virupaksha Temple is amongst the most famous temples in Hampi.

Madurai, Tamil Nadu

‘Plunge Your Soul in the Serene Pool of Holiness’

Heart-warming is the ambiance of Madurai (Tamil Nadu), which is also rightly known as the ‘Temple Town’. Legends have it that drops of honey fell from the matted hair of Lord Shiva who had appeared in the dream of the then King of Madurai and that is how the city got its name.

For centuries Madurai had been an important learning centre and a Hindu pilgrimage site in India. Madurai is also known for Meenakshi Amman Temple, which is one of the most famous temples in India. Walk through the alleys of Madurai and soak yourself in the sheer power of divinity.

Bodhgaya, Bihar

‘Get Enlightened in the Land of the Buddha’

Witness the historical place called Bodhgaya in Bihar, where Lord Buddha is believed to have been enlightened. Bodhgaya offers Buddhist pilgrims the ultimate place to pray and meditate.

The feeling of being on the land where Budhha once himself walked on is truly commendable. Mahabodhi Temple along with several other temples in Bodhgaya are frequented by many pilgrims that visit here from all over the world.

Shirdi, Maharashtra

‘Take the Path of Divine Consciousness and Surrender to the Guidance’

Forget about religion, caste, creed and other forms of discrimination, Shirdi in Maharashtra is the gateway to sheer spirituality. All his life the highly revered Sai Baba preached about One God (Sab Ka Maalik Ek) and thus earned himself many followers.

Today, his native place, Shirdi is thronged by multitude of devotees irrespective of religion, color or creed seeking peace, spirituality and paying homage to this great saint. Therefore, Shirdi is one of the most visited religious places in India.

Leh, Ladakh

Ladakh Alchi monastery

‘Imbibe from the Cup of Sanctity’

Leh is not only the haven for adventure seekers, it is also the paradise for those seeking inner peace. Dotted with a large number of Tibetan monasteries, Leh Ladakh lets you drench in the rain of spirituality. Most of the monasteries in Leh contain numerous stupas, statues, wall paintings, Thangkas, swords and large pillars that are engraved with the Buddha’s teachings.

While you are in Leh you cannot ignore these sanctified structures that often take you on a spiritual journey. Shey, Hemis, Lamayuru, Alchi and Thiksey are some of the most popular monasteries around Leh.

Also Check out: Complete Ladakh Tourism Guide

Omkareshwar and Mamleshwar Temple, Madhya Pradesh

Ladakh Alchi monastery

‘Dip into the divine waters and embrace the soul soothing aura’

The temple of Omkareshwar is one of the most significant pilgrimage sites for Hindu devotees. Located on the banks of the great expanses of River Narmada in Omkar Mountain, it is one of the 12 jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Omkareshwar, the name is derived from the sacred word ‘Om’.

The five storeys of temple are decked with different deities. Don’t forget to take a dip into the holy water of River Narmada before visiting Omkareshwar Temple as it is considered auspicious. The temple has a large Sabha Mandap which stands on 60 brown huge stone pillars.

Also visit Mamleshwar Temple. It is separated to Omkareshwar by a narrow ridge. It is believed that they are single forms of shiv lingam which is split into two.

In the soul soothing aura of the temples of Omkareshwar and Mamleshwar you will discover the true essence of your soul.

Other Interesting Blog to Read

Must See Temples in Madhya Pradesh

Karni Mata Temple, Rajasthan

‘Take the holy blessings in the Serene abode of Rats’

Located 30 km away from Bikaner, the divine Karni Mata temple is a blissful abode of rats (also known as Kabbas). It is one of the most popular religious sites in India. This temple is dedicated to Karni Mata, an incarnation of goddess Durga.

It is said that Laksmana, the stepson of Karni Mata drowned in Kapil sarovar while trying to drink water. Mata Karni prayed to Yama- the god of Death. Yama God not only brought back Laksmana to life but also reincarnated all her sons in the form of rats.

The divine temple of Karni Mata has a mysterious vibe which will elevate your experience to a whole new level. Rats in this temple are harmless, they don’t spread any disease. Devotees get the prasadam tasted by these rats.

It is said that 600 families of the Charan Singh clan claimed to be the descendants of Karni Mata and are here in the form of rats. The temple has a blissful aura. Don’t forget to make a wish to the Lion’s ears which is at the main gate of the temple. Your spiritual experience would be incomplete without visiting the magnificence that lived on for centuries in the golden city, Rajasthan.

Meghna Cave Temple, Arunachal Pradesh

‘Feel the divinity of the mysterious cave temple’

The Meghna temple built in a cave some 5000 years ago stands still in pride on the hilltop at an altitude of 300ft to spread the divine euphoria in the city of Arunachal Pradesh, is a must visit place in India.

Thousands of devotees flock here during Makar sankranti and Shivratri. According to Kali Purana the temple is dedicated to Lord Lakulisha, 28th incarnation of Lord Shiva. Lush green forests and mountains here are dipped into the divine aura of this blissful cave temple which will delight your soul.

It is one of the must visit religious places in India. This cave temple was discovered in 1962. Detailed carvings in Sanskrit in the cave, swiftly flowing rivers and scenic surroundings will definitely blow your heart away.

Also Read: Pilgrimage Tourism in Arunachal Pradesh

Thousand Pillar Temple, Telangana

‘Revel in the ancient vibes of the blissful Thousand Pillar Temple’.

The historical grandeur of Warangal blaze more with brightness by the magnificent Thousand Pillar Temple, which is of unequalled loveliness and serenity. It is one of the oldest temples in South India. It is said that the temple took 72 years to be built. This mesmerizing piece of spiritual bliss is dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Surya and Lord Vishnu.The temple is built in the shape of a star. It is popularly known as Rudreshwara swamy Temple.

The temple is a marvellous example of Kakatiya architecture and art. You will be mesmerized by the charms of polished dolerite and granite stones, sculptures and rock cut elephants. The dolerite Nandi idol is the main site of attraction. It is considered as a heritage attraction in Warangal. If you are in the blissful shores of Warangal, Don’t forget to visit this divine temple.

Dakshineswar Kali Temple, West Bengal

Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Kolkata

‘Divine destination and a gateway to peace’.

Nestled in the delightful eastern banks of Hooghly River, lies the gateway to blissful vibes and divine serenity in the form of Dakshineswar Kali Temple. Thousands of devotees from all over the world come to Kolkata to dip themselves into the divinity of this mesmerizing temple. The temple is dedicated to goddess Bhavtarini – a form of goddess Kali. This temple was built by Rani Rashomoni in 1855.

The temple where gods have long been old and the divine aura never cease to attract the devotees was once upon a time dense forest. The nine spired temple has a grand courtyard. Apart from the main shrine, there are 12 shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva along the riverfront.

The temple of Dakshineswar is an absolute bliss as it is built in Nava Ratna style of architecture. The divine aura of the temple reverberates in the sacred waters of Hooghly River is a blissful sight to behold. This temple is one of the most visited places in Kolkata.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.Is there any dress code to follow in a religious place in India?

There is no dress code to follow in any religious place of India but one should respect the decorum of a sacred place. Always wear a decent and covered dress in any religious place in India.

Q.What are some useful tips to consider while travelling to a religious place?

Some useful tips to consider while travelling to a religious place in India are -

One should take a bath and always wear clean clothes while entering any sacred place.
Dress and behave decently. In some places a stole or scarf is needed to cover your head.
Smoking and public display of affection is not allowed in any religious places.
Most of the temples do not allow photography.
Beware of the people who ask for huge amounts of money for donation or Seva.
Accept the prasadam of the temple with both the hands.

Q. What are the best tour packages for religious travel in Tour My India?

Tour My India offers customized religious tours for all the major religious places in India. You name it and we offer you the best facilities available.

Tour My India offers the best tour packages for religious travel in India-