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Popular Yatras

Pilgrimage yatras are an important aspect of religious and cultural traditions in India. These yatras involve visiting holy sites, temples, and shrines that are believed to have great spiritual significance. Pilgrims travel to these destinations in large numbers seeking blessings, forgiveness, and spiritual enlightenment. These pilgrimage yatras are not just religious experiences but also offer an opportunity to explore India’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. They attract people from all over the country and even from different parts of the world.

Here are some of the popular thirth yatras in India:

  1. 108 Divya Desha Yatra
  2. Dwadash Jyotirlinga Yatra
  3. Char Dham Yatra (Uttarakhand)
  4. Ashtadasha Shakti Peeth
  5. Gaya Ayodhya Kashi  Prayaga Yatra (Uttar Pradesh/Bihar)
  6. Amarnath Yatra (Jammu and Kashmir)
  7. Vaishno Devi Yatra (Jammu and Kashmir)
  8. Kailash Mansarovar Yatra (Tibet)
  9. Panch Kedar Yatra (Uttarakhand)
  10. Panch Badri Yatra (Uttarakhand)
  11. Sriranga Yatra (Tamil Nadu)
  12. Tirumala Balaji Yatra (Andhra Pradesh)
  13. Ashtavinayak Darshan (Mahatashtra)
  14. Somnath and Dwarka Yatra (Gujarat)
  15. Jagannath Puri Yatra (Odisha)
  16. Kumbh Mela (Uttar Pradesh)
  17. Ahobilam Nava Narasimha Yatra (Andhra Pradesh)
  18. Navatirupati Temples (Tamil Nadu)
  19. Sabarimala Yatra (Kerala)

Please note that this list is not exhaustive and there are many more thirth yatras in different parts of India.

Popular Yatras Undertaken by Pilgrims

108 Divyadesha Yatra: 

    • The 108 Divya Desams are a group of temples that are considered the most revered shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Hinduism. These temples are spread across India, mostly in the southern states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh.

The term Divya Desam means “divine places” and the number 108 is considered sacred in Hinduism. The 108 Divya Desams are believed to have been sung in praise by the Alwars, a group of 12 Tamil poet-saints who lived between the 5th and 10th centuries CE.

The pilgrimage tour of the 108 Divya Desams is considered one of the most important and revered journeys for Vaishnavites. The tour takes the devotees through various temples, where they can offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Vishnu.

The temples are spread across India, and the tour can take several weeks or even months to complete. Some of the most famous temples among the 108 Divya Desams include the Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple, Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple, Kerala etc, and others.

The pilgrimage tour of the 108 Divya Desams is considered a journey of a lifetime for devotees of Lord Vishnu and is believed to bestow immense spiritual and material benefits upon the pilgrims 

In Hyderabad JIVA ashram HH Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamyji has blessed us to experience miniature temples of all 108 divya desams in one place. This ashram also hosts statue of equality – The largest statue of Sri Ramanujacharya standing 216ft.

The Dwadasha Jyotirlinga Yatra

    • It is a pilgrimage tour that involves visiting 12 sacred Hindu temples, collectively known as the Jyotirlingas. These temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva and are spread across different parts of India. 

 The twelve Jyotirlingas are :

            1. Somnath in Gujarat,
            2. Mallikarjuna in Andhra Pradesh,
            3. Mahakaleshwar in Madhya Pradesh,
            4. Omkareshwar in Madhya Pradesh,
            5. Kedarnath in Uttarakhand,
            6. Bhimashankar in Maharashtra,
            7. Viswanath in Uttar Pradesh,
            8. Triambakeshwar in Maharashtra,
            9. Vaidyanath in Jharkhand,
            10. Nageshwar in Gujarat,
            11. Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu, and
            12. Grishneshwar in Maharashtra.

The pilgrimage starts with the first Jyotirlinga, the Somnath Temple, which is located on the western coast of Gujarat. The next stop is the Mallikarjuna Temple, which is located in the town of Srisailam in Andhra Pradesh. The third Jyotirlinga is the Mahakaleshwar Temple, which is located in the city of Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. The fourth Jyotirlinga is the Omkareshwar Temple, which is located on an island in the Narmada River in Madhya Pradesh.The fifth Jyotirlinga on the yatra is the Kedarnath Temple, which is located in the Himalayas in Uttarakhand. The sixth Jyotirlinga is the Bhimashankar Temple, which is located in the Sahyadri range in Maharashtra. The seventh Jyotirlinga is the Vishwanath Temple, which is located in the holy city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. The eighth Jyotirlinga is the Triambakeshwar Temple, which is located in the town of Nashik in Maharashtra. The ninth Jyotirlinga on the yatra is the Vaidyanath Temple, which is located in the town of Deoghar in Jharkhand. The tenth Jyotirlinga is the Nageshwar Temple, which is located near the city of Dwarka in Gujarat. The eleventh Jyotirlinga is the Rameshwaram Temple, which is located on the island of Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu. The twelfth and final Jyotirlinga on the yatra is the Grishneshwar Temple, which is located near the city of Aurangabad in Maharashtra.

The Dwadasha Jyotirlinga Yatra is considered one of the most important pilgrimage tours in India and attracts thousands of devotees every year. It is believed that visiting all the 12 Jyotirlingas during the yatra will bring blessings and fulfillment of one’s wishes.

 

 Char Dham Yatra (Chota)

It is a pilgrimage tour that involves visiting four sacred Hindu temples located in the state of Uttarakhand, India. The four temples included in the Char Dham Yatra are:

          1. Yamunotri,
          2. Gangotri,
          3. Kedarnath
          4. Badrinath.

The pilgrimage usually starts from Yamunotri, which is situated at an altitude of 3,293 meters above sea level and is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna.

The next stop is Gangotri, which is located at an altitude of 3,100 meters above sea level and is dedicated to Goddess Ganga.

The third stop on the Char Dham Yatra is Kedarnath, which is located at an altitude of 3,583 meters above sea level and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to be one of the twelve jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.

The last stop on the Char Dham Yatra is Badrinath, which is located at an altitude of 3,415 meters above sea level and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is believed to be one of the 108 Divya Desams, which are holy shrines of Lord Vishnu.

The Char Dham Yatra is considered one of the most sacred pilgrimage tours in India, and it is believed that undertaking this journey can help one attain Moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death). The pilgrimage season usually starts in April or May and continues until November, as the temples are closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall.

Ashtadasha Shakti Peeth Yatra:

It is a pilgrimage to the 18 Shakti Peethas, which are considered to be the most sacred shrines of the goddess Shakti, also known as Durga or Parvati, in Hinduism. These 18 temples are spread across India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, and each temple is associated with a specific body part of Sati, the first wife of Lord Shiva.

According to Hindu puranas, when Sati, the daughter of King Daksha, was insulted by her father during a yagna, she immolated herself in the fire of the yagna. In his anger, Lord Shiva carried her burnt body and roamed around the universe in a state of grief. To calm him down, Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshan Chakra to cut the body of Sati into 51 pieces, which fell at different places across the Indian subcontinent. The places where these body parts fell are now known as Shakti Peethas.

The Ashtadasha Shakti Peeth Yatra involves visiting all 18 Shakti Peethas, which are located in various parts of India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.

Here is a list of the Ashtadasha Shakti Peethas:

        1. Kamarupa Devi Temple (Guwahati, Assam)
        2. Tara Tarini Temple (Berhampur, Odisha)
        3. Kamakhya Temple (Guwahati, Assam)
        4. Bakreshwar Temple (Birbhum, West Bengal)
        5. Tarapith Temple (Birbhum, West Bengal)
        6. Kalighat Temple (Kolkata, West Bengal)
        7. Bhavani Temple (Tuljapur, Maharashtra)
        8. Kolhapur Mahalakshmi Temple (Kolhapur, Maharashtra)
        9. Mahalakshmi Temple (Mumbai, Maharashtra)
        10. Chamundeshwari Temple (Mysore, Karnataka)
        11. Jogulamba Temple (Alampur, Telangana)
        12. Draksharama Temple (East Godavari, Andhra Pradesh)
        13. Vijayawada Kanaka Durga Temple (Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh)
        14. Srisailam Temple (Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh)
        15. Kanchi Kamakshi Temple (Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu)
        16. Madurai Meenakshi Temple (Madurai, Tamil Nadu)
        17. Jwalamukhi Temple (Kangra, Himachal Pradesh)
        18. Vaishno Devi Temple (Katra, Jammu and Kashmir)

The Ashtadasha Shakti Peeth Yatra is considered to be one of the most important pilgrimages for devotees of goddess Shakti, and is believed to help in attaining blessings, prosperity, and liberation. The journey can be physically challenging, as the temples are located in different parts of the country, and involve long distances and difficult terrain. However, the spiritual rewards of the yatra are believed to be immense.

Gaya, Varanasi (Kashi), Ayodhya, and Prayagraj Yatra:

Pilgrimage to Gaya, Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Prayagraj holds great significance in Hinduism. These four cities are considered extremely sacred and are associated with various religious rituals, traditions, and legends. Let’s explore each of these cities and their significance in the yatra:

      • Gaya:

The city is mentioned in several ancient Hindu scriptures, including the Mahabharata and the Puranas. Apart from the Pind Daan ceremony, Gaya is also associated with the legendary story of Lord Buddha attaining enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree in Bodh Gaya, which is located nearby. The city is home to numerous temples, including the Vishnupad Temple, where a footprint of Lord Vishnu is believed to be imprinted on a rock.

      • Varanasi:

Varanasi is regarded as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history dating back over 3,000 years. The city is a major center for Hindu philosophy, arts, and culture. It has been a hub for learning, with renowned scholars, saints, and sages imparting knowledge for centuries. The Ganga Aarti, a daily ritual worship of the river Ganges, is a major attraction in Varanasi. Devotees gather at the riverfront to witness the elaborate ceremony of lights and devotional songs. The city is known for its silk weaving industry, and Banarasi silk sarees and fabrics are highly prized.

      • Ayodhya:

Ayodhya is considered one of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism, known as Sapta Puri. It is believed to be the capital of the ancient Kosala kingdom and the birthplace of Lord Rama, the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu. The Ramayana, an ancient Hindu epic, chronicles the life and adventures of Lord Rama, including his birth, marriage to Sita, and his victory over the demon king Ravana. Ayodhya is home to several temples dedicated to Lord Rama, including the famous Ram Janmabhoomi temple.

      • Prayagraj:

Prayagraj, formerly known as Allahabad, is one of the oldest cities in India and holds great religious and historical significance. The city is renowned for hosting the Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, where millions of pilgrims gather to bathe in the sacred rivers and seek spiritual purification. Prayagraj is believed to be the spot where the mythical Saraswati River meets the Ganges and Yamuna rivers. The city is home to the magnificent Allahabad High Court, one of the oldest high courts in India, known for its architectural splendor.

These cities are not only important religious centers but also embody rich cultural heritage and historical significance. They offer pilgrims and visitors an immersive experience of spirituality, ancient traditions, and diverse cultural practices.

The Amarnath Yatra: 

It is an annual pilgrimage to the holy Amarnath Cave in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, India. The cave is located at an altitude of about 3,888 meters and is considered to be one of the holiest shrines for Hindus. The yatra is usually undertaken during the months of July and August and attracts thousands of devotees from all over the world.The Amarnath Cave is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva revealed the secrets of creation to his wife, Goddess Parvati. Inside the cave, there is a natural Shivlinga formed by the freezing of water droplets that fall from the roof of the cave. The yatra involves trekking to the cave, and the journey is considered to be challenging and rigorous due to the high altitude and difficult terrain.The yatra begins from the town of Pahalgam, and the first stop is the holy shrine of Chandanwari. From there, the trek continues to Sheshnag, Panchtarni, and finally to the Amarnath Cave. Along the way, the pilgrims encounter breathtaking views of the Himalayas, beautiful valleys, and pristine lakes.

The Amarnath Yatra is considered to be a significant event in the Hindu calendar and is believed to bring blessings and good fortune to those who undertake it. However, due to the challenging terrain and weather conditions, the yatra can be physically demanding and requires careful planning and preparation. The authorities take several measures to ensure the safety and comfort of the pilgrims, including medical facilities, security, and food and accommodation arrangements.

Vaishno Devi Yatra:

It is a pilgrimage to the holy shrine of Vaishno Devi, also known as Mata Rani, located in the Trikuta Mountains in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, India. The shrine is one of the most revered and visited pilgrimage sites in India, and it is believed that a pilgrimage to Vaishno Devi brings fulfillment of wishes and blessings of the goddess.The yatra starts from the town of Katra, which is located about 42 kilometers from Jammu, the winter capital of Jammu and Kashmir. From Katra, pilgrims have to undertake a trek of about 13.5 kilometers to reach the shrine of Vaishno Devi. The trek passes through beautiful landscapes and steep hills, and it takes around 6-8 hours to complete, depending on the pace of the pilgrims.The shrine of Vaishno Devi is located at an altitude of 5,200 feet and is believed to be more than 700 years old. It is dedicated to the goddess Vaishno Devi, who is believed to have spent time in the cave before disappearing. The cave is around 30 meters long and has a narrow opening, and inside the cave, there are three natural rock formations that represent the three goddesses- Maha Kali, Maha Laxmi, and Maha Saraswati.

The pilgrimage to Vaishno Devi is considered to be a spiritually uplifting experience, and it attracts millions of devotees every year. There are various facilities available for the pilgrims, including accommodations, food, medical facilities, and helicopter services. The yatra is open throughout the year, but it is advisable to visit during the cooler months of the year, as the trek can be quite strenuous during the summers.

 

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra:

It is a sacred pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar in the Himalayas, located in the remote western region of Tibet, China. The yatra is considered one of the most difficult pilgrimages in the world due to its high altitude and remote location.Mount Kailash is a peak that stands at 6,638 meters above sea level, and is considered one of the holiest mountains in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon religion. Lake Mansarovar is a freshwater lake located at an altitude of 4,590 meters, and is considered one of the most sacred lakes in Hinduism and Buddhism.The yatra typically starts from Kathmandu, Nepal, and involves a journey by road to the Tibetan border town of Hilsa. From there, pilgrims trek through the high-altitude terrain of Tibet, with the help of yaks and ponies, to reach Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar.

The journey is physically demanding, and pilgrims are required to be in good health and physical condition. The yatra usually takes around 15-20 days to complete, and is conducted between May to September, during the summer months when the weather is relatively mild.

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is considered a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual journey, and is believed to bring about spiritual purification and blessings to those who undertake it.

Panch Kedar Yatra:

It is a pilgrimage tour that includes visiting five sacred Hindu temples, collectively known as the Panch Kedar. These temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva and are located in the state of Uttarakhand, India. The five temples that are part of the Panch Kedar Yatra are:

          • Kedarnath,
          • Tungnath,
          • Rudranath,
          • Madhyamaheshwar, and
          • Kalpeshwar

The pilgrimage starts from the Kedarnath Temple, which is situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters above sea level. It is believed that this temple is the place where Lord Shiva appeared in the form of a jyotirlinga. The next stop is Tungnath Temple, which is the highest temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located at an altitude of 3,680 meters above sea level. It is believed that the arms of Lord Shiva appeared at this temple.The third temple on the Panch Kedar Yatra is Rudranath, which is located at an altitude of 2,286 meters above sea level. It is believed that the face of Lord Shiva appeared at this temple. The fourth temple is Madhyamaheshwar, which is located at an altitude of 3,497 meters above sea level. It is believed that the navel of Lord Shiva appeared at this temple.

The last temple on the Panch Kedar Yatra is Kalpeshwar, which is located at an altitude of 2,200 meters above sea level. It is believed that the hair of Lord Shiva appeared at this temple. The Panch Kedar Yatra is considered one of the most sacred pilgrimage tours in India, and thousands of devotees undertake this journey every year.

Panch Badri:

Panch Badri refers to the five ancient Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. The five temples are collectively known as Panch Badri, and they include:

        • Badrinath: It is the most famous and the most visited of all the five Badri temples. This temple is located in the town of Badrinath, and it is believed to be the place where Lord Vishnu meditated and did penance.

        • Yogadhyan Badri: This temple is located in Pandukeshwar, and it is believed to be the place where Lord Vishnu is said to have meditated in a yoga pose.

        • Bhavishya Badri: This temple is located in the Subain Valley and is believed to be the place where Lord Vishnu will be worshipped in the future, according to Hindu mythology.

        • Vridha Badri: This temple is located in Animath, and it is believed to be the place where the murti (idol) of Lord Vishnu was installed before it was shifted to the Badrinath Temple.

        • Adi Badri: This temple complex comprises of 16 small temples, and it is located in the village of Adi Badri. It is believed that the Pandavas built these temples during their exile and dedicated them to Lord Vishnu.

The Panch Badri Yatra is considered to be one of the most important pilgrimage tours in India, and it attracts thousands of devotees every year. The Yatra typically starts from the Badrinath Temple and covers all five temples in the Panch Badri circuit.

 

Srirangam Yatra:

 The Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, a form of Lord Vishnu, located in the town of Srirangam, in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is considered one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Vaishnavites, and attracts a large number of devotees from all over the country.

The Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple is believed to be the first among the 108 Divya Desams, which are the most revered temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple complex is spread over an area of 156 acres and comprises of several sub-shrines, mandapams, and gopurams.

The main shrine of the temple houses the idol of Lord Ranganatha, which is believed to have been installed by Lord Brahma himself. The idol is seen reclining on the Adisesha, the serpent god. The temple also has a shrine dedicated to Goddess Ranganayaki, the consort of Lord Ranganatha.

Apart from the main shrine, the temple complex has several other sub-shrines dedicated to various deities like Lord Narasimha, Lord Rama, and Lord Krishna, among others. The complex also has several mandapams like the 1000-pillar mandapam and the Garuda mandapam, which are known for their intricate carvings and architectural beauty. Within the Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple complex, there is a separate shrine called “Sri Ramanuja Shrine” or “Sri Bhashyakarar Sannidhi,” dedicated to Ramanujacharya. This shrine houses the physical remains of Ramanujacharya even today.

The Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple is also known for its annual festival called the Vaikunta Ekadasi, which attracts a large number of devotees from all over the country. During the festival, the temple is decorated with lights and flowers, and the main idol is taken out in a grand procession around the temple complex.

The Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple is a must-visit destination for devotees of Lord Vishnu, and is considered one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in India.

The Tirumala Yatra:

Tirumala is a pilgrimage tour to the Sri Venkateswara Temple, also known as the Tirumala Balaji Temple, located in the town of Tirumala in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and is one of the most visited and revered pilgrimage sites in India. 

In Tirumala, the main deity is Lord Venkateswara, and the Tirumala Venkateswara Swamy Temple is the primary and most renowned temple in the region. However, there are a few other notable temples in Tirumala that are worth mentioning. Here are some of them:

        • Sri Varahaswami Temple: Situated on the banks of the Swami Pushkarini (temple tank) near the Tirumala Venkateswara Swamy Temple, this temple is dedicated to Lord Varaha, the boar incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

        • Sri Bedi Anjaneya Swamy Temple: Located adjacent to the Tirumala Venkateswara Swamy Temple, this temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is believed to be the place where Lord Hanuman appeared before Lord Venkateswara to protect the holy Tirumala hills.

Apart from the Tirumala Venkateswara Swamy Temple, there are several other significant temples in and around Tirupati. Some of them include:

        • Sri Govindaraja Swamy Temple: Located in Tirupati town, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu’s incarnation, Sri Govindaraja Swamy. It is one of the earliest and most important temples in Tirupati.

        • Sri Kapileswara Swamy Temple: Situated at the foothills of Tirumala, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva appeared before Sage Kapila.

        • Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple: Located in Tiruchanur, near Tirupati, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Padmavathi, the consort of Lord Venkateswara. It is an important pilgrimage site for devotees.

        • Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy Temple: Situated in Srinivasa Mangapuram, about 12 kilometers from Tirupati, this temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara in the form of Kalyana Venkateswara. It is believed to be the place where Lord Venkateswara married Goddess Padmavathi.

        • Sri Kodandarama Swamy Temple: Located in Tirupati town, this temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, accompanied by Goddess Sita and Lord Lakshmana. It is a popular shrine and an important place of worship.

These are just a few of the many temples in and around Tirupati. The entire region is considered sacred, and millions of devotees visit these temples every year to seek the blessings of the deities.

Ashta Vinayaka Temples:

Ashta Vinayaka refers to the eight temples in the Indian state of Maharashtra that are dedicated to Lord Ganesha. These temples are located around Pune and are considered to be among the most important places of worship for Ganesha devotees.The eight temples that are part of the Ashta Vinayaka Yatra are:

        • Mayureshwar Temple – located in Morgaon
        • Siddhi Vinayak Temple – located in Siddhatek
        • Ballaleshwar Temple – located in Pali
        • Varad Vinayak Temple – located in Mahad
        • Chintamani Vinayak Temple – located in Theur
        • Girijatmaj Vinayak Temple – located in Lenyadri
        • Vighnahar Vinayak Temple – located in Ozar
        • Mahaganapati Temple – located in Ranjangaon

Devotees undertake a pilgrimage to visit all eight temples and seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha. The Ashta Vinayaka Yatra is believed to be an auspicious journey that brings prosperity, good health, and happiness to the devotees.

Somnath and Dwarka Yatra:

Somnath and Dwarka are two ancient cities located in the western Indian state of Gujarat, and are considered important pilgrimage sites for Hindus. Both these cities are associated with Lord Krishna, and are believed to be some of the most sacred places for devotees of Lord Vishnu.

Somnath is home to the famous Somnath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located on the western coast of Gujarat, near the Arabian Sea. It is believed that the temple was first built by the Moon God, Soma, and was later reconstructed by various kings over the centuries. The Somnath Temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout history, with the most recent reconstruction carried out after India gained independence in 1947. The temple complex is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings, and is visited by thousands of devotees every year.

Dwarka, on the other hand, is associated with Lord Krishna, and is believed to be the place where Lord Krishna ruled as a king. The city is home to the famous Dwarkadhish Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple is believed to have been built around 2,500 years ago, and is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites in India.

The Dwarkadhish Temple is known for its unique architecture, which features intricate carvings and a towering spire. The temple complex also includes several sub-shrines dedicated to various deities. The temple is visited by thousands of devotees every year, who come to seek the blessings of Lord Krishna.

There are several temples around Somnath and Dwarka, two important pilgrimage sites in Gujarat, India. Here are some of the temples you can visit:

        • Somnath Temple (Somnath): Somnath Temple is one of the most significant Shiva temples in India. It is located in Prabhas Patan near Veraval in Gujarat. The temple holds immense religious importance and is believed to have been rebuilt several times after being destroyed. It is a major pilgrimage site and attracts devotees from all over the country.

        • Dwarkadhish Temple (Dwarka): The Dwarkadhish Temple in Dwarka is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites and is believed to be the ancient kingdom of Lord Krishna. The temple is located on the banks of the Gomti River and is a revered site for Krishna devotees.

        • Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple (Dwarka): Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas (sacred abodes of Lord Shiva). It is situated near Dwarka and holds great religious significance. The temple attracts devotees who seek blessings from Lord Shiva.

        • Rukmini Temple (Dwarka): The Rukmini Temple is dedicated to Rukmini, the consort of Lord Krishna. It is located in Dwarka and is considered a sacred site for devotees. The temple architecture showcases intricate carvings and is a place of devotion and worship.

        • Gomti Ghat (Dwarka): Gomti Ghat is a sacred bathing ghat located in Dwarka. It is believed to be the spot where River Gomti meets the Arabian Sea. Devotees take holy dips in the Gomti River and offer prayers during their visit to Dwarka.

        • Bet Dwarka: Bet Dwarka, also known as Beyt Dwarka, is an island located near Dwarka. It is believed to be the place where Lord Krishna resided with his family. The island has several temples dedicated to Lord Krishna and is visited by devotees as part of the Dwarka pilgrimage.

These are just a few of the many temples you can explore around Somnath and Dwarka. The region is rich in spiritual heritage and offers a profound experience for devotees and tourists alike.

Puri Jagannath Yatra:

Puri Jagannath is a famous Hindu temple located in the city of Puri, in the state of Odisha, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of the lord Vishnu, and is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites for Hindus.

The history of Puri Jagannath dates back to ancient times. The exact origin of the temple is unclear, but it is believed to have been established in the 12th century by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva of the Eastern Ganga dynasty. The temple has undergone several renovations and expansions over the centuries, with contributions from various rulers and devotees.

Jagannath Yatra is a famous annual Hindu festival and pilgrimage that takes place in Puri, Odisha, India. The festival is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu, and is also known as Rath Yatra or Chariot Festival.During the festival, the idol of Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra, are taken out in a grand procession on elaborately decorated chariots called raths. The chariots are pulled by thousands of devotees through the streets of Puri. The procession starts from the Jagannath Temple and ends at the Gundicha Temple, where the deities stay for nine days.The Jagannath Yatra is believed to have been started by King Indradyumna, who is said to have discovered the wooden idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra and built the famous Jagannath Temple in Puri to enshrine them. The festival attracts thousands of devotees from all over India and the world, who come to witness the grand procession and seek the blessings of Lord Jagannath. The Jagannath Yatra is a symbol of unity and devotion and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy every year.

There are several important temples around Puri that are worth visiting. Here are some of the main temples:

        1. Konark Sun Temple: Located about 35 kilometers northeast of Puri, the Konark Sun Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a magnificent example of ancient Odishan architecture. Dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, the temple is renowned for its intricate carvings and the impressive chariot-like structure.

        2. Lingaraj Temple: Situated in the city of Bhubaneswar, approximately 60 kilometers from Puri, the Lingaraj Temple is one of the most revered Shiva temples in India. It is renowned for its architectural grandeur and houses a massive Shiva Lingam.

        3. Mukteshwar Temple: Also situated in Bhubaneswar, the Mukteshwar Temple is known for its exquisite stone carvings and unique architectural style. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is an important pilgrimage site and reflects the beauty of Odishan temple architecture.

        4. Sakshigopal Temple: Located around 20 kilometers west of Puri, the Sakshigopal Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is worshipped as Sakshigopal or “the Witness Gopal.” The temple is known for its beautiful idols and attracts a large number of devotees.

        5. Alarnath Temple: Situated about 24 kilometers northeast of Puri, the Alarnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his form as Alarnath. The temple is associated with a legend from the Jagannath Temple and is visited by devotees seeking blessings and spiritual solace.

Kumbh Mela:

Kumbh Mela is a major pilgrimage festival in Hinduism, held every 12 years in rotation at four different locations in India: Allahabad (Prayagraj), Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain. The festival is also celebrated as Ardh Kumbh Mela every 6 years and Kumbh Mela every 12 years at each of these locations.

During the Kumbh Mela, millions of Hindu devotees gather to take a holy dip in a sacred river, which is believed to cleanse them of their sins and purify their souls. The most important and largest Kumbh Mela is held at Prayagraj, where the rivers Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati (which is considered a mythical river) meet.The festival is a massive gathering of ascetics, saints, sadhus, and devotees who come together to celebrate their faith and perform various rituals and ceremonies. The event also attracts foreign tourists who are interested in experiencing the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of India.

The Kumbh Mela is considered the largest peaceful gathering in the world and has been recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity. The festival has a rich history and is believed to have been first mentioned in ancient the Hindu scriptures.

The Navatirupati temples:

Nava Tirupati temples are a group of nine ancient Hindu temples located on the banks of the Tamiraparani river near Tirunelveli in Tamil Nadu, India. The word “Navathirupati” means “nine sacred abodes”, and the temples are dedicated to Lord Vishnu. All these 9 temples are classified as “Divya Desams”, the 108 temples of Vishnu revered by the 12 poet saints, or Alwars. A popular gathering of pilgrims happens every year at Alwarthirunagari during month of May-June to honour Nammaalvar one of the greatest Hindu philosopher. Here is the list of temples:

        •  Sri Vaikuntanathan Permual Temple (Timings- 7am-12pm & 5-8pm)
        •  Sri Vijayaasana Perumal Temple (Timings- 8am-12pm & 1-6pm)
        • ThiruPulingudi Perumal Temple (Timings- 8am-12 pm & 1-6pm)
        • Tirukulandhai  Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, (Timings 7.30am-12.30 pm & 4.30-7.30 pm)
        • Irattai Thiruppathy, Aravindalochanar Perumal  Temple (Timings- 8.30am-1pm & 2-6pm)
        • Irattai Thiruppathy, Devapiran Perumal  Temple (Timings- 8.30am-1pm & 2-6pm)
        • AlwarThirunagari Temple (Timings- 7am-12 pm & 5- 8pm)
        • Sri Vaithamanidhi Perumal Temple (Timings- 7.30am-12pm & 1-8pm)
        • Makara Nedunkuzhai Kannan Temple (Timings 7am-12 pm & 5-8.30 pm)
Sabarimala Yatra, Kerala:
 
Sabarimala is a Hindu pilgrimage site located in the Western Ghats mountain range of Kerala, India. The main deity of the temple is Lord Ayyappa, who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. The Sabarimala temple is known for its strict adherence to traditional customs and practices, and attracts millions of devotees every year.

The pilgrimage to Sabarimala is known as the Sabarimala Yatra, and it is considered one of the most challenging pilgrimages in India. The yatra starts with a 41-day period of fasting and abstinence from worldly pleasures, which is known as the “vratham”. During this period, devotees are required to follow strict dietary and behavioral restrictions, and abstain from alcohol, tobacco, and sexual activity.

The Sabarimala temple is located atop a hill, and the only way to reach it is by trekking through dense forests and steep terrain. The trek starts from a base camp called Pamba, and it takes several hours to reach the temple. The final leg of the trek involves climbing a flight of 18 steps, which is known as the “Pathinettam Padi”. These steps are believed to represent the 18 hurdles that Lord Ayyappa overcame to attain enlightenment.

The Sabarimala temple is open for worship only during certain periods of the year, which are known as the “mandalakalam” and the “makaravilakku”. The mandalakalam starts in mid-November and lasts for 41 days, while the makaravilakku is celebrated in January every year. During these periods, the temple receives a large number of devotees, and special arrangements are made for their accommodation and welfare.

The Sabarimala Yatra is a unique pilgrimage that combines physical endurance with spiritual devotion, and it is considered one of the most fulfilling experiences for a devotee of Lord Ayyappa.