India is a Hindu homeland with a rich cultural heritage with several Hindu and other religious temples.
From the sacred rivers to ornate temples, India boasts several revered pilgrimage sites across the country.
We have shortlisted the Hindu spiritual places in India to visit in 2024 – 2025.
Check them out them!
Hindu Spiritual Places In India
Below is the list of Hindu spiritual places in India.
1. Mata Vaishno Devi Temple, Jammu and Kashmir
Vaishno Devi (also known as Mata Rani, Trikuta, Ambe and Vaishnavi) is a manifestation of the Hindu mother goddess Lakshmi. It is located in the Trikuta Mountains in Jammu and Kashmir. It is believed that the Mata Vaishno Devi truly fulfils the wishes of its ardent devotees.
At this holy site, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery, and hills and pay your respects to the Goddess Mata Vaishno Devi. This is where Mata Vaishno Devi culminate her journey at the Holy Cave where she merged her human form with the astral form of her creators, the three Supreme Energies (Holy Pindies).
- Things to Do: Trekking to reach the Mata Vaishno Devi temple, enjoy the beautiful scenery and hills, small caves and pay your respects to the Goddess Lakshmi.
- How to Reach: Jammu is the nearest airport and railway station to Katra. You can take a taxi or bus from Jammu to Katra, the base camp for Vaishno Devi. From Katra, to Mata Vaishno Devi Temple you have to trek by road or you can hire a trekker. If the weather is clear then Helicopter is also available from Katra to the base site of Mata Vaishno Devi Temple.
- Where to Stay: You can book a hotel at Jammu or Katra.
- Visit at: https://www.maavaishnodevi.org/
Important Points
▶ The temple is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
▶ Pilgrims must register online before starting the trek.
▶ There is no entry fee for the temple.
▶ Photography and videography are not allowed inside the temple.
▶ Pilgrims are advised to carry their water and food.
▶ There are medical facilities available at various points along the trek.
2. Sri Ram Janma Bhumi, Ayodhya
Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Ram and is often referred to as Ram Janma Bhumi. Ram Mandir is a temple devoted to Lord Ram and situated in the holy city of Ayodhya.
Ayodhya is a city situated on the banks of the Sarayu River in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.
You can witness the beautiful architecture and pay your respects at this holy site.
- Things to Do: Visit the temple and witness the beautiful architecture. Also, visit Ramkot, Hanuman Garhi, and Nageshwarnath Temple
- How to Reach: Ayodhya is well-connected by road, rail, and air.
- Where to Stay: Hotels available in Ayodhya
- Visit at: https://srjbtkshetra.org/
3. Sri Krishna Janma Bhumi, Mathura
Mathura is the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Lord Shri Krishna manifested Himself in the prison house of the cruel king Kansa and set free his father Vasudeva and his mother Devaki.
Mathura is a sacred city that boasts numerous temples and pilgrimage sites, attracting devotees and travellers seeking spiritual experience in India. Among its treasures, you must visit the Lord Sri Krishna Janmasthan Temple, which is the divine birth site of Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna’s purpose was to destroy evil, protect the virtuous, and establish righteousness in society.
- Things to Do: Visit the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, Barsana Shri Radha Rani Temple, Dwarkadhish Temple, Radha Kund, Vishram Ghat, and go on an adventurous journey on Govardhan Hill.
- How to Reach: You can reach Mathura by road, rail and air.
By Air: Mathura is 46 km away from Kheria Airport (AGR), Agra, Uttar Pradesh and Mathura is 136 km away Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), New Delhi, Delhi
By Rail: There are regular trains from other major cities of the country to Mathura. Railway Station(s): Mathura Junction (MTJ), Mathura Cantt. (MRT)
By Road: Mathura is well connected to other major cities of the country via regular buses. Bus Station(s): Mathura
- Where to Stay: You can stay in Mathura in Hotel. However, it is advisable to stay in Agra.
4. Vrindavan
Vrindavan is well-known as the sacred home of Lord Krishna. The city holds profound significance in Hindu scriptures and is revered by devotees seeking spiritual solace. Visit the iconic temples in Vrindavan, such as the ISKCON temple, and engage in spiritual activities.
- Things to Do: Explore revered sites like the Banke Bihari Temple, ISKCON Temple, and Radha Raman Temple, participate in holy rituals, and immerse yourself in the divine aura of this sacred town.
- How to Reach: You can reach to Vrindavan by road and air.
- Where to Stay: You can book a Hotel in Vrindavan.
5) Kashi Vishvanath, Varanasi
Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines. It is present on the bay of the holy River Ganges. It is revered as one of India’s most ancient sacred destinations and is a culturally rich city that welcomes devotees from worldwide.
- Things to Do: Visit the beautiful temples and take a dip in the holy river. Witness the beauty of the city through a boat ride around the Ghats and attend the famous Ganga Aarti at this holy site.
- How to Reach: Varanasi is well-connected. You can fly to Varanasi or take a train or bus from Delhi.
- Where to Stay: You can stay in Hotels, guest rooms or Ashrams.
- Visit at: https://www.shrikashivishwanath.org/
6. Kedarnath Temple
Thousands of devotees visit Kedarnath for its sacred Kedarnath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Kedarnath Temple presents an imposing sight, standing in the middle of a wide plateau surrounded by lofty snow-covered peaks.
The temple was originally built in the 8th century A.D. by Jagad Guru Adi Shankaracharya and stands adjacent to the site of an even earlier temple built by the Pandavas. This esteemed site is a pilgrimage believed to bestow divine blessings on believers in Lord Shiva and pave the path to liberation.
As one of the Chota Char Dham sites, this magnificent landscape holds immense significance for Hindu devotees.
- Things to Do: Explore the ancient Kedarnath Temple, embark on scenic trekking at the base of the Himalayas, and immerse in spiritual rituals and Char Dham Yatra.
- How to Reach: You can go by road from Delhi and it is also accessible through helicopter services from Dehradun.
- Where to stay: Gust-house and Private Hotes are available at Sitapur. Sitapur (near Sonprayag) is around 20 Km from Kedarnath.
- Visit at: https://badrinath-kedarnath.gov.in/
7. Rishikesh
Rishikesh is nestled in the Tehri Garhwal region of Uttarakhand and is renowned as a spiritual hub in India. Home to numerous ashrams, temples, and yoga centres, this Himalayan town attracts spiritual people from around the globe. You can indulge in spiritual enlightenment and rejuvenate your soul.
- Things to Do: Immerse in yoga and meditation, indulge in adventurous activities like boat rafting, and try trekking and bungee jumping.
- How to Reach: Take a flight from the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun or a train from Haridwar Railway Station. And then take a cab to Rishikesh.
- Where to Stay: At Haridwar Hotels, Ashrams and Home Stay are available.
- Visit at: http://www.rishikeshtourism.in/
8. Badrinath
Badrinath is highly esteemed for its iconic Badrinath temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Believed to be one of the Char Dham sites, a visit to Badrinath is considered auspicious for Hindu devotees. You must visit this place with your partner and family to seek spiritual enlightenment.
- Things to Do: Explore the ancient Badrinath Temple, admire the majestic views of the Himalayas and savour the local delicacies.
- How to Reach: You can take a flight from the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun and a taxi to Badrinath.
- Where to Stay: Gust-house and Private Hotes are available.
- Visit At: https://badrinath-kedarnath.gov.in/
9. Haridwar
Haridwar is renowned for its spiritual significance and tranquil atmosphere. The city has several sacred sites, including Har Ki Pauri, where devotees gather for the Ganga Aarti, a mesmerising ritual that illuminates the riverbanks every evening. It is also one of the four sites of Kumbh Mela, a gathering of millions of Hindus.
- Things to Do: Explore ancient temples like Maa Mansa Devi Temple and Maa Chandi Devi Temple, take a dip in the holy Ganges, and attend the vibrant evening aarti ceremonies
- How to Reach: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport, while Haridwar Junction is the central railway station.
- Where to Stay: Gust-house and Private Hotes are available
10. Pushkar
Among other Hindu spiritual places in India Pushkar is one of the oldest cities in India. It is located to the northwest of Ajmer. Pushkar is famous for its sacred Pushkar Lake and the Brahma Temple, devoted to Lord Brahma. Pilgrims believe that taking a dip in the holy waters of Pushkar Lake cleanses sins and bestows blessings.
Besides indulging in cultural and spiritual activities, you must also visit the colourful Pushkar Camel Fair, which shows the city’s vibrant culture and traditions.
- Things to Do: Visit the Pushkar Lake, explore the serene ghats, Brahma Temple, visit the Anasagar Lake for panoramic views, Savitri Temple, Rangji Temple, Sri Panchkund Shiva Temple, Atmateshwar Temple and shop for traditional handicrafts in the bustling bazaars.
- How to Reach: The nearest airport is Sanganer Airport in Jaipur at a distance of 146 kilometers, and Ajmer Junction is the nearest railway station. Pushkar is also well connected to the national highways of Rajasthan. Regular buses ply from Pushkar to the major cities.
- Where to stay: Many renowned Hotels are present in Pushkar.
- Visit at: https://www.tourism.rajasthan.gov.in/pushkar.html
11. Jagannath Temple, Puri
Jagannath Temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath and is located in Puri, Odisha.
Puri is a spiritual haven for Hindu devotees and beach lovers.
The temple is known for its annual Rath Yatra festival, during which the deities are taken on a chariot procession.
Visitors can explore the beautiful architecture and participate in the Rath Yatra festival at Puri.
Beyond the temple, you can also explore Golden Beach, Konark Sun Temple, and Puri Beach.
- Things to Do: Golden Beach, Konark Sun Temple, and Puri Beach, Participate in the Rath Yatra festivities and explore the surrounding area for local handicrafts and admire the architectural wonders.
- How to Reach: Bhubaneswar is Puri’s nearest airport and railway station. You can take a taxi or bus from Bhubaneswar to Puri.
- Where to stay: Hotels are available at Puri.
- Visit at: https://www.shreejagannatha.in/
12. Sun Temple, Konark
The Sun Temple is dedicated to the Sun God.
It is located in Konark, Odisha.
It is famous for its magnificent architecture and intricate details.
The temple walls are designed like a chariot, surrounded by 24 wheels representing Lord Surya’s chariot.
It was one of the earliest centres of Sun worship in India. Built around 1250 in the reign of King Narasingha Deva (1238-64), it marks the apogee of the wave of foundations dedicated to the Sun God Surya.
- Things to Do: Sun Temple, Visit the Ramchandi Temple and explore the local beaches.
- How to Reach: Bhubaneswar is Konark’s nearest airport and railway station. You can take a taxi or bus from Bhubaneswar to Konark.
- Where to stay: Hotels are available in Bhubaneswar or Puri.
- Visit at: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/246/
13. Dwarkadhish Temple, Dwarka
- Things to Do: You can visit Dwarkadhish Temple, Dwarka, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, Dwarka Beach, Gomati Ghat, Rukhmani Temple and Gopi Talav.
- How to Reach: You can reach by Air, Rail and Road, Dwarka city has Dwarka railway station. From the railway station, Dwarkadheesh Temple is about 2 km away and can be reached by road. The nearest airport is at Jamnagar and Porbandar.
- Where to stay: Hotels and Guest houses are available at Dwarka.
- Visit at: https://devbhumidwarka.nic.in/
14) Mahakal temple, Ujjain
Mahakal temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, the lingam at the Mahakala is believed to be Swayambhu (born of itself) deriving currents of power shakti from within itself as against the other images and lingams which are ritually established and invested with mantra-shakti.
- How to Reach: The best way to go is by rail and Road. However, a nearby city Airport is available.
- Things to Do: At you can visit
- Ujjain Mahakaleshwar Temple
- Kaalbhairav Temple
- Harasiddhi Temple
- Vedshala
- Sandipani Asrama
- Chintamani Ganesh Temple
- Triveni Navagraha
- Mangalnath Temple
- Siddhavath
- Gopal Mandir
Where to stay: From simple to 5-star Hotels, guest houses and Homestay are available at Ujjain.
Visit at: https://shrimahakaleshwar.com/
15. Somnath Mahadev Jyotirlinga
Somnath Mahadev Jyotirlinga is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Veraval, Gujarat. It is one of the 12th Jyotirlinga shrines in India and is an important pilgrimage site for Hindu devotees.
As per ancient traditions maintain that Moon had built a golden temple, followed by a silver temple by Ravana, Bhagvan Shree Krishna is believed to have built Somnath temple with Sandalwood.
Later several desecrations by invaders during the eleventh to eighteenth century A.D. happened. The temple was rebuilt every time with the reconstructive spirit of the people. The modern temple was reconstructed with the resolve of Sardar Patel who visited the ruins of Somnath temple on November 13, 1947.
- Things to Do: Pay your respects to Lord Shiva at the temple and explore other surrounding holy sites. Don’t forget to visit Somnath Beach and Panch Pandav Gufa.
- How to Reach: Veraval is the nearest railway station to Somnath. You can also reach Somnath by taking a bus from Ahmedabad.
- Where to stay: Hotels are available at Somnath or Veraval.
- Visit at: https://somnath.org/
16. Tirupati Balaji Temple
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams is a sacred pilgrimage destination renowned for the Sri Venkateswara Temple. Dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, this temple is believed to fulfil one’s wishes while receiving blessings from the divine. Lord Sri Venkateswara, also known as Srinivasa, Balaji, and Veṅkaṭachalapati, made Tirumala his abode five thousand years ago. Even before him, it was Lord Varahaswami who had made Tirumala his abode.
Tirupati attracts millions of devotees annually as one of the most famous Hindu Spiritual / Religious Places to visit in India.
- Things to Do: Stunning architecture of the Sri Venkateswara Temple, visit other sacred sites like the Sri Kapileswara Swamy Temple, visit a waterfall and participate in religious rituals.
- How to Reach: Tirupati has its own airport and railway station.
- Where to stay: Staying arrangements can be done online on the Tirupati temple organization site. Hotels and Guest houses are also available.
- Visit at: https://www.tirumala.org/
17. Ramanathaswamy Temple
Rameswaram is a town in Tamil Nadu known for the Ramanathaswamy Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that a visit to this temple can help one attain moksha (liberation).
The city is also one of India’s holy Char Dham sites for Hindu pilgrims.
- Things to Do: Apart from the Ramanathaswamy Temple, you can explore other popular places like the Arulmigu Ramanatha Swamy Temple, Pamban Bridge, and more.
- How to Reach: Madurai is the nearest airport and railway station to Rameswaram. You can take a taxi or bus from Madurai to Rameswaram.
- Where to stay: Hotels and guest houses available.
- Visit at: https://rameswaramramanathar.hrce.tn.gov.in/
18. Sabarimala
Sabarimala is renowned for its revered Sabarimala Temple, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. This region holds significant mythological value and scenic splendour. You can trek through the forested hills to seek blessings at this holy shrine.
- Things to Do: Visit the Sabarimala Temple, explore the serene surroundings, engage in rituals and prayers, try the local delicacies, and shop for souvenirs at the nearby shops.
- How to Reach: The nearest airport is Trivandrum Airport, and the railway station is in Kochi. From there, you can take buses or taxis to reach Sabarimala.
- Where to Stay: Hotels are available.
- Visit at: https://sabarimalaonline.org/