Spiritual Places in India

Wondering whether to visit Haridwar or Rishikesh? These two holy places are located not far from each other but are vastly different in nature.

Every evening, as dusk descends, it's time for the Ganga Aarti to be performed in three of India's holiest cities. Where can you see it and what's its meaning?

After the snow clears at the foothills of the Himalayas in late April, pilgrims start flocking to the four ancient temples known as Char Dham. Find out options for going on a Char Dham yatra.

Feeling stressed? Many travelers like to take time out to study Vipassana in India. Here are the top centers for Vipassana meditation in India.

When it comes to south Indian temples, the state of Tamil Nadu dominates with its many ancient Dravidian masterpieces. These temples, which display some of India's greatest temple architecture, are the backbone of Tamil culture.

Spiritual India, rich in holy places, traditions and rituals, offers much for those seeking knowledge and awareness. Visit these sacred places to maximize your spiritual experience in India.

The Mahakaleshwar temple at Ujjain is an important pilgramage place for Hindus, and it has the only Bhasm-Aarti (ash ritual) of its kind in the world. However, does it live up to its hype?

Bangalore is rich in religious and spiritual cultures, which can be seen in the numerous religious places echoing Kannada art, culture and tradition. Bangalore is also the home of many of India's spiritual gurus.

India's eclectic temples, representing many different religions, are scattered all over the country. Here's where to find some of the most well known ones.

Amritsar is the spiritual capital of Sikhs. Marvel at the exquisite Golden Temple there, which is beautifully illuminated at night.

Bodhgaya, where the Buddha became enlightened, is the most important Buddhist pilgrimage place in the world. Visit Bodhgaya and see some incredible Buddhist temples.

Planning on visiting Haridwar India? This Haridwar travel guide has plenty of information and tips for your trip to one of the holiest seven cities in India.

Planning on visiting Rishikesh India? This Rishikesh travel guide contains plenty of travel information and tips for your trip to the birthplace of yoga.

Varanasi in India is another sacred Hindu city with a very old history. Travel to Varanasi and see this mystical city reveal its rituals along the banks of the Ganges River.

The God-souled Himalayas have a deep significance in Hindu tradition for a myriad reasons.

Your guide to the top 10 Tantra temples of India. Followers of the tantra path of Hinduism as well as people of the "bhakti" tradition attach great significance to these Hindu shrines.

Going on a pilgrimage is considered not only auspicious (for it is believed to cleanse one's sins) but it can also be reinvigorating to the mind. Here's how to do it.

The southern Indian city of Madurai is famous for its beautiful temples. One of the oldest in the sub-continent, it's more than just a place for pilgrims. Manoj Sadasivan writes about the many marvels of Madurai's Meenakshi temple.

Why do we visit Varanasi? Is it not perhaps to experience the closeness of life and death? This reflective article by a Swedish journalist has some fascinating insights.

The Mahabodhi Temple Complex, located in Bodhgaya in the state of Bihar, is one of the four holy sites related to the life of the Lord Buddha. It's also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This useful website contains a map and listing of 89 sacred sites in India. There's also detailed information on many of them.

Have you visited Haridwar or Rishikesh? What was your experience? Which place did you prefer? Share your views here and read the views of others.

Planning on visiting Sai Baba in Shirdi India? This Shirdi travel guide will help you prepare for your trip.

Have you visited the temple complex dedicated to Sai Baba in Shirdi? What was your experience like? How and when did you go, and was it crowded?

The temple of wish fulfilling Goddess Mansa Devi sits high on a hill in Haridwar. Find out how to best visit it in this guide.