What are the 7 holy cities of India?
India depicts an amalgamation of numerous cultures, ethnicities, religions, and cuisines. Since gaining independence in 1947, the subcontinent has been a secular nation hosting 9 different religions. Which coexist with each other in communal harmony and brotherhood. Hinduism, being the oldest and the most followed religion in India covers a major part of the population, followed by other religions like Islam, Christianity and Jainism.
According to Bhagwat Gita- the holy book of Hinduism, there are 7 sacred cities located in various parts of India which when combined is known as “Sapta Puri”. Read on to know more about the Sapta Puris. The primary aim of this article is to decipher the cultures, location, and the best time to visit these 7 holy cities of India. So, without any further ado let’s dive into it.
Ayodhya
According to sources, Ayodhya was the birthplace of Lord Ram. The seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Ayodhya is considered to be one of the holiest places in India. Located in Uttar Pradesh on the banks of the Sarayu river, this city is believed to be more than 9000 years old. Comprising more than 700 temples, 8 mosques, 4 gurudwaras and multiple other religious spots Ayodhya is our first inclusion on the list.
Best time to visit:- From October to March.
Varanasi
Also known as “Shiv ki Nagri”, Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in India. Located in Uttar Pradesh on the banks of river Ganga. Varanasi is considered the spiritual capital of India. According to medieval texts, Lord Shiv created Kasi(modern-day Varanasi) with his own hands. Thus, Hindus all over the world consider it to be a prime religious location of India. Home to more than 20000 temples, Varanasi is all about sacred ghats. It is believed if you die in this city you will attain salvation (Moksha).
Best time to visit:- From November to February.
Mathura
Located in Uttar Pradesh on the banks of the river Yamuna, Mathura is one of the most important Hindu cities in India. Believed to be the birthplace of Shree Krishna, the eighth and most popular incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Also popularly known as the” The heart of Indian culture”, Mathura is filled with multi-hued temples, ghats, forests, etc. Th city is also very famous for its magnificent Buddhist art, which is preserved since the golden ages of Indian culture. Every year more than 2 million devoted followers of Krishna visit Mathura. So next time you visit this amazing city, be sure to book hotels online in advance to avoid unnecessary last-minute hassles.
Best time to visit:- From November to February, especially during Janmashtami.
Haridwar
Perhaps the most popular spot in our list, Haridwar is hands down the most prominent Hindu-religious site in India. Located in Uttarakhand, situated on the banks of river Ganga. Haridwar is also known as “The gateway to Lord Vishnu”. It is believed to be the spot where Bhagirath succeeded in bringing down the Ganga on earth for the prosperity and welfare of the human race. Haridwar is most famous for Kumbh Mela and Andh-Kumbh Mela that takes place here every 12 and 6 years respectively. Which is statistically the largest human gathering on the face of the earth. It is advised to book hotels online before visiting Haridwar as this place is bustled with devotees throughout the year.
Best time to visit:- Any time of the year, especially during the Kumbh Mela or Holi.
Dwarka
A complete trip to Sapta Puri is incomplete without a visit to Dwarka. Located in Gujrat, this is the place where Shree Krishna spent his life after the assassination of King Kansa. Over its 6000-year-old rich history, Dwarka has witnessed many great events including the battles of Mahabharat. This city depicts the life of Krishna, his great deeds, the history of the Yaduvansh Dynasty, and how a part of it eventually submerged into the Arabian sea after the demise of Krishna. Dwarka is perhaps the most interesting city on the list.
Best time to visit:- From November to February.
Kanchipuram
Located in Tamil Nadu, situated on the banks of river Vegavathi, Kanchipuram is the jewel of South India. World-famous for its divine temples and unparalleled natural beauty. Kanchipuram is also called “The city of Temples” and “The city of gold”. A hub of culture and learning, this city has everything to please a devotee. Some of the best 5-star hotels in India are located in and around Kanchipuram. Thus, if you want to experience it all don’t forget to book hotels online.
Best time to visit:- From December to Mid-January.
Ujjain
Last but not the least, Ujjain is another interesting spot on our list. Believed to have emerged during the Samudra Manthan, a battle between gods and demons to attain immortality. A drop of Amrit spilled here which gave this city an immortal boon of prosperity. Since then Krishna devotees have flocked here to pay their homage to Mahakaleshwar. Like Haridwar, Ujjain too hosts Kumbh and Ardh-Kumbh Mela at the interval of 12 and 6 years respectively.
Best time to visit:- From October to Mid-February, especially during the Kumbh Mela.
India is a land of faith, devotion, and religion, a great nation where people have strong faith in their deities, their ideals, and their karma. And you can feel this divine force too by visiting the Sapta Puri. Here’s hoping that this list helps you to get a detailed brief about the 7 holy cities in India, and don’t forget to book hotels beforehand when you visit them.