I should point out that there are several viewpoints and listings of Hinduism’s holies cities. Nonetheless, the following is a list of nine cities that many Hindus regard as holy and are well-liked pilgrimage locations:
- Varanasi (Kashi): Located on the banks of the holy river Ganges, Varanasi is considered the spiritual capital of India. It is believed that taking a dip in the river Ganges here can cleanse one’s sins and purify the soul.
- Ayodhya: Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Rama, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. It is also an important pilgrimage site for Jains and Buddhists.
- Mathura and Vrindavan: Mathura and Vrindavan are the birthplace and childhood home of Lord Krishna, respectively. These two cities are also known for their numerous temples and religious festivals.
- Haridwar: Haridwar is another holy city located on the banks of the Ganges. It is believed that taking a dip in the river Ganges here during the Kumbh Mela can provide moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death).
- Ujjain: Ujjain is considered one of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism. It is home to the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which are believed to be the most sacred abodes of Lord Shiva.
- Rishikesh: Rishikesh is known as the “Yoga Capital of the World”. It is a popular destination for spiritual seekers and yoga enthusiasts, and is believed to be the place where Lord Vishnu defeated the demon Madhu.
- Dwarka: Dwarka is believed to be the ancient kingdom of Lord Krishna. It is home to the Dwarkadhish Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Krishna and attracts thousands of devotees every year.
- Puri: Puri is the site of the famous Jagannath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The annual Rath Yatra festival, where the deities are taken out in a procession on chariots, is a major attraction.
- Kanchipuram: Kanchipuram is one of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism and is known for its many temples and silk sarees. It is home to the Kailasanathar Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered one of the oldest temples in South India.
9 sacred cities in bharat that every hindus must visit once in our life