Must-Visit Spiritual Spots to Experience in India

India is vigorously diverse; whether it's climate, food, community or religion. Among these, religion is the soul of India, inviting several flights to India from UK. The 1000 years of religious austerity describe the country as mystical and ritualistic, deeply rooted in beliefs and spiritual thoughts. Down the years, with the rise of trade, economy and technology, man has become more work oriented, busy in earning bread than divine supplication.

The fact is proven, when tourists from the four corners of the globe embark on a spiritual journey to India. From the east to the west and north to south, every spot of this country sizzles with symbolic pilgrimage sites. A journey to these holy sites is considered as a boon and blessing.

Time and time again, the west always looks towards east for spiritual enrichment, with India being the central hub of religion To explore the true Indian spirituality, Prepare much in advance and consider visiting these places:

The Himalayan Chardham Yatra (Tour of Four Pilgrim Spots)

This spiritual tour is one of the most popular and reveredtour in India. 'Chardham' is associated with the four major temples of the Himalayan region - Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. The divine Yatra begins from April – May and is open till Diwali (October-November) each year.

As per Hindu mythology and present belief, the corrupt world burdens the soul with sin and journey to the Char Dham (four holy spots) is the opportunity to get sins washed and attain Moskha (salvation).

Amarnath Yatra

Amarnath is on the top of every devotees travel list. At least, once the entire lifetime a Hindu wishes to embark towards Amarnath. Dedicated to Shiva, this temple is located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir and the spiritual tour takes place in the months of July and August.

The cave's significance goes back to those times when Shiva chose this isolated spot to narrate the secret of immortality and the formation of the universe to his wife, Parvati.

Amarnath does not have direct trains. The station closest is Jammu, which is 110 miles from Amarnath. From Jammu, you can take a cab either to Baltal or Pahalgam. From Baltal, it is a trek of (9.3 miles) to reach Amarnath. If you're adventurous enough, this is going to be a journey of a lifetime.

Vaishno Devi Yatra

Another popular journey desired by every Indian Hindu. Located again in Jammu and Kashmir, this spiritual journey requires strong dedication, devotion and zeal.

It is believed that Vaishno Devi sat in prayers so that Rama could gain victory against Ravana. Due to the victory and blessings of Rama, Vaishno Devi attained mortality, attracting thousands of pilgrims to the temple situated there.

You can take a flight train or a bus to reach Vaishno Devi. Jammu Airport is the closest airport serving Katra. Once you deboard the plane, you can reach Katra in an hour and from here, enjoy a helicopter ride to the holy place.

Regular buses also ply at affordable rates from New Delhi and other places. Train is the considered to be the most scenic. The Katra railway station is the nearest from the holy cave. The fares are extremely reasonable, but book early to avoid hassles.

Rath Yatra

Rath Yatra or Drawing the Chariot is a famous event that takes place in Puri, Orissa. The festival takes places in the month of July, and it is participated by millions of people. So, make sure you make your flight bookings to India much in advance.

The gigantic chariots are decorated beautifully and the three deities are placed on top of them. Held by strong ropes, the chariots are drawn by the devotees while the musical instruments resound at the background.

Bodhgaya

Bodhgaya is the most popular destination in the world for Buddhists as it is the place where The Buddha reached enlightenment. Cherish your meditation under the Bodhi tree, visit the temples and monasteries, admire Buddhist architecture from various Buddhist countries and enjoy your stay at the peaceful meditation centre Root Institute.

By train, Gaya is the closest rail head, which is 8 miles from Bodh Gaya. Once you reach Gaya, a taxi will easily take you to the holy town. A few major attractions closer to Bodhgaya are: The Mahabodhi Temple, Great Budhha Status, Tibetan Refugee Market, Thai Monastery, Muchalinda Lake, Chinese Temple, Kundan Bazaar and much more.

Varanasi

Located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi bloomed as an important industrial centre, producing and manufacturing silk, ivory, perfumes and muslin. Other then that, it is one of the seven pious cities bearing an ancient history and charm. Famed as the city of Shiva, a belief goes around that anyone dying in Varanasi will be free from the reincarnation cycle.

The riverside ghats openly reveal several rituals, attracting not only the locals but international travellers too. Staying at a riverside hotel is highly recommended to get the best views. Suryauday Haveli, Jukaso Ganges, Ganges View hotel, Kedareswar Bed & Breakfast are a few recommended hotels overlooking the Ganges in Varanasi. Do not miss the evening aarti, or the evening riverside worship. It's a spectacle beyond words.

Rishikesh

How can we conclude without mentioning Rishikesh (Lord of the senses), the birth place of Yoga. Located at the Himalayan foothills, situated on banks of the River Ganges, Rishikesh lures seekers of peace and knowledge, and also daredevil rafters.

The town is filled with yoga institutes and ashrams. Check out the Beetles ashram and sip coffee at a roadside cafe, overlooking the Ganges. Not far from Rishikesh, lies the quaint town of Haridwar (gateway to God). With cheap airline tickets to India experience a holy dip in the Ganges and witness the evening prayers at the river.

The Southern Spirituality

Moving down South, the religious features, festivals and temples carry a different wonder. Get to admire 'Bridge on the Indian Ocean' at Rameshwaram, located on an enchanting island. This is the place where Rama created a bridge across the sea to reach Sri Lanka. Explore Rameshwaram, Agnitheertham and Dhanushkodi Temple, top religious sites in that vicinity along with ancient monuments and it's architecture.

Pondicherry is home to several religious spots, drawing visitors from everywhere. Get exposed to an amalgam of various traditions, the magnificence of the temples and other notable landmarks.

(add about auroville ashram, and that its was a French colony .)

Off late, religious places in India have become extremely popular with the juveniles. Once you step into the spiritual soul, the feel is awesome, which keeps pulling you back time and time again. These favourite and inspirational destinations of respective faiths not only help increase the sacred experience in India, but also boost tourism.

Since you are acquainted with the touristy devout places in India, go pack your bags and embark on the spiritual hunt with Flights to India. Do share your immaculate experiences with us.