No matter which God you worship, no religion is different when it comes to spirituality. The mythological tales and philosophies of every religion have something unique to teach. Eventually, all that matters is the path that leads us to the enrichment of our soul. India, a secular nation, beholds almost every major religion on the planet. Whether Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Christianity, or Islamism, the nation harbors the belief of every individual. So, those who are seeking a spiritual awakening in India, following are the pilgrimages they have to take.
Bodh Gaya, Bihar
Believers of Buddha are enticed by the magnificence of Mahabodhi temple in Bodh Gaya, Bihar. It is a prominent Buddhist pilgrimage site in India, containing the Bodhi tree under which pilgrims seek Nirvana (enlightenment). You will encounter several monks meditating in front of the temple. If you want, you too can join them to feel rejuvenated and alive and find peace within. The spellbound view of larger than life Buddha statue is another majesty to admire in the temple. Despite their differing religion, many pious people visit this sanctum to expand their knowledge about Buddhism.
Basilica of Bom Jesus, Goa
Due to the relics of St. Francis Xavier that it beholds, Basilica of Bom Jesus is revered as a World Heritage Site. Situated in the coastal state of Goa, the edifice is one of the best models of baroque architecture. Pilgrims embark upon this pilgrimage to witness the silver casket, which contains the body of St. Francis Xavier. This silver casket is believed to be placed in mausoleum gifted by the Grand Duke of Tuscany. You will definitely admire the peacefulness of the 408 years of Basilica and the beauty of architecture on the outside as well as inside.
Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Ajmer
Islamic mosques also behold a significant place in the hearts of Indians and many pilgrims from abroad. Ajmer is the home of famous Ajmer Sharif Dargah, renowned for its sacred beliefs, ancient architecture, and quaint marketplace outside the sanctum. This prestigious Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti Dargah attracts not only Sufi devotees but also pious people from across the world. One of the three gates that it contains is believed to be built by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan. The legends say that those who pay their homage to Allah with their whole heart at this Dargah, never return empty-handed.
The Golden Temple, Amritsar
Often visited by people as a popular tourist attraction in the state of Punjab, the Golden Temple is originally a pilgrimage site of Sikhs. It is situated in the ever-illuminated city of Amritsar and shines as bright as gold. Also known as Harmandar Sahib Gurudwara, it was erected by the fifth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Arjan Singh. It has four entrances, a spectacular lake, and a small shrine amid the lake. The walls of the temple are manicured by the intricate carvings and inscriptions. The lake contains holy water (Amrit), so you can take a dip in the Sarovar while listening to the Gurbani and feel energized and rejuvenated.
The Great Char Dham
Char Dham is the abode of four popular Hindu pilgrimage sites, situated at different locations within the nation. Badrinath in the North, Rameswaram in the South, Puri in the East, and Dwaraka in the West, are the ultimate destinations of the great Char Dham pilgrimage. Pilgrims also obtain Chota Char Dham tour packages, which is an alternate for the original wayfare. It is a collection of four sanctums in Uttarakhand, namely, Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. Either of them is construed as the provider of Moksh or salvation and should be visited at least once according to Hindu mythology.
It is not mandatory to be an ardent devotee to embark on the foregoing pilgrimages. So, forget about your religion and beliefs for once and visit these pious sites for the enrichment of your mind, soul, and body.