Top 9 Temples in North India, Fun Facts
🌐
Northern India consists of states such as Uttarakhand, UP, Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, and Haryana. It is the loosely defined northern part of the Indian subcontinent, with the Indo-Gangetic Plain and the majestic Himalayas. Wildlife sanctuaries, gleaming glaciers, historic forts and palatial palaces – if you name it, this area has it all, making it a beautiful area to explore and a top spot on your travel bucket list. The colourful mix of different cultures in the region makes the tour even more fascinating – think the spicy food of the Rajasthan region with its gleaming decorative clothing and vibrant glass bangles, to the simple clothing and hiking trails of Himachal Pradesh.
Lush green valleys, peaks covered in white wool, refreshing waterfalls and flowing creeks…what else? North India is not only a must-see for its unparalleled beauty and rich typography. In fact, it is one of the most important areas of the country for those seeking a true spiritual journey and a search for the divine. Many faiths and gods are worshipped in the area, but it is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites (not only in India, but around the world), attracting devotees every year to the gates of these historic temples that bring us closer to our ancestors’ The past and the overall heritage of India.
From the world-famous Golden Temple, Badrinath and Amarnath, to Vaishno Devi – these names need no introduction, one and all adorning the blessed land of this country. Are you ready for an amazing pilgrimage? Here is this well thought out list of the 9 most important temples in North India that we have put together for you, you need to start planning your visit now!
1. Birla Mandir, Jaipur, Rajasthan:
Birla Mandir is located on the high ground at the foot of Mount Moti Dungari in Jaipur, Rajasthan. The fairly new building built in 1988 by the Birla Group of Industries looks spectacular at night when it’s lit up. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. The temple has three stunning huge domes. The marble structure is magnificent, to say the least. Surrounded by lush green gardens with blooming flowers, you can enjoy the beauty of nature. The walls are covered with carvings and writings of great poets and the like. It is indeed one of the main landmarks of Jaipur city and a must-see for religious pilgrims and tourists.
- address: Jawahar Lal Nehru Marg, Tilak Nagar, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302004
- time: 8 am to 12 noon and 4 pm to 8 pm
- Dress Code: In temples in the area, no dress code is always recommended, but decent attire is always recommended. Lightweight cotton clothing is ideal for the summer heat, and if visiting in winter, you can wear something warm and wool.
- About. Visiting time: 30 minutes – 1 hour
- how can I get there: It is located in the city of Jaipur itself. Use public transport (taxi or car) to reach this temple from anywhere in the city.
- Best time to visit: Morning and evening aarti times on weekdays (to avoid a rush). Diwali is celebrated very well here and it is a magical experience not to be missed.
- Other attractions: This temple is unique because it promotes love and acceptance of all religions. The three domes actually represent the three earliest religions in the country. The complex also has a great place to buy trinkets, and a museum that showcases Birla family ancestral art and clothing, among other things. After Birla Mandir, you can visit Ganesh Mandir, Jantar Mantar and Hawa Mahal.
2. The Golden Temple in Amritsar, Punjab:
Harmandir Sahib Temple is one of the most famous temples in North India, commonly known as the Golden Temple (famous for its scenic exterior and golden coating). Yes, the upper level of the temple is actually covered in gold. However, it is not only significant for its rich appearance, but it is actually considered the holiest Sikh Guruvara in the world. Every Sikh aspires and mostly does come at least once in their lifetime. It is located in Amritsar, Punjab. It was founded in 1574 by the fourth Sikh Guru, Guru Ram Das. The entrance to the Golden Temple has four doors, symbolizing the welcome of all people and religions to enter. The Guru Granth Sahib is the holiest text of Sikhism and occurs in Gurudwara during the day. It has a free community kitchen and meals or Langar and attracts 100,000 people a day. Therefore this temple is also known as the largest free kitchen in the world.Its architecture is absolutely fascinating, depicting a perfect harmony of Hindu and Muslim styles
Buildings come together to shine and work wonders.
- address: Golden Temple Rd, Atta Mandi, Katra Ahluwalia, Amritsar, Punjab 143006
- time: 8am to 7pm
- Dress Code: There is no strict dress code, but shoulders must be covered (so no sleeveless) and shorts or dresses above the knee should be avoided. You have to cover your head when entering the temple, so bring a scarf/handkerchief and chun li.
- About. Visiting time: 3 hours
- how can I get there: The temple can be easily reached using public transport such as taxis and cars. Some people also rent private cars for this purpose. The Temple Trust has also arranged for a free bus service from Amritsar Railway Station to the location.
- Temple website: http://sgpc.net/sri-harmandir-sahib/
- Best time to visit: Vaisakhi (second week of April) is the main festival here. Guru Nanak Jayanti was also solemnly celebrated. Visit Diwali for brighter views and fireworks displays.
- Other attractions: The temple is built in the center of the mystical Amrit Sarovar, from which the city of Amritsar takes its name. The tanks surrounding this temple are world-renowned for their healing powers. Come here with millions from all over the world to swim these sacred waters. You can view a collection of sacred Sikh weapons within the grounds, which also houses a Sikh Museum, where you can get a glimpse of how Sikhs were tortured at the hands of Mughals.
3. Amarnath Temple, Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir:
About 3888m high, Amarnath Temple is located 45 km from Pahalgam in Kashmir, and the main reason for its popularity is its Shiva Linga formed naturally from the snow. The stalagmites that form in the 130-foot-tall Amarnath Cave due to the freezing of water droplets are considered Shiva Linga by Hindus. It is one of the oldest temples in North India. It consists of the sacred Amarnath Cave, which is considered one of the holiest places in Hinduism. It is believed to be the home of Lord Shiva on earth. According to legend, Shiva entered the cave with Parvati, sharing with her the secrets of creation and immortality. In June and August, large numbers of devotees indulge in the annual sacred Amarnath yatra. During the 45-day Shravan Mela season from July to August, pilgrims from all over the world come here to worship the Shiva Linga. It is believed that Lord Shiva called his devotees to visit this pious snow-covered cave where he could bathe them with his love and blessings. The beautiful setting of the surrounding snow-capped mountains will give you an enhanced sense of tranquility and divine bliss. Note, however, that hiking here is not completely trouble-free and you should be well stocked and prepared for extreme weather conditions and terrain.
- address: Baltal Amarnath Trek, Forest Block, Anantnag, Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir 192230
- time: 9 am to 5 pm
- Dress Code: Comfortable wool clothing is a must when hiking here and it’s always cold. Monkey hats, raincoats, gloves, etc. are a must.
- About. Visiting time: >3 hours
- how can I get there: There are two routes, one from Baltal and one from Pahalgam. Baltar is only 14 km from the cave and can be covered by road and helicopter. Pahalgam is 47 km from the starting point of caves and trekking. Both of these starting points are well connected to Srinagar. Srinagar is the nearest airport and Jammu is the nearest railway station.
- Temple website: http://www.shriamarnathjishrine.com/
- Best time to visit: Amarnath Yatra is only held in July and August. It is recommended to skip the first week of yatra which may start at the end of June and will be more confusing.
- Other attractions: Pahalgam is a scenic town worth exploring that will captivate you. Shri Shankar Acharya Temple is also relatively close.
4. Vaishno Devi, Trikuta Mountains, Jammu and Kashmir:
Located in the Trikuta Mountains in Jammu and Kashmir, the Vishnu Temple is dedicated to the mother goddess Mahalakashmi. More than 10 million people visit the holy site every year. The idol of Mahalakshmi rides on a tiger with seven arms holding a trident, bow, arrow, lotus flower, mace and sword. The eight arms are the posture of Abaye. The cave is located at 5,200 feet above sea level and is reached by a yatris trek from Katra Base Camp, 14.5 kilometers away. The more famous “Moonh Maangi Muradin Poori Karne Wali Mata” will surely help you achieve your goals. It has not yet been determined when the pilgrimage to the site will begin. However, according to research, the caves themselves are about a million years old.
- address: Katra-Reasi Rd, Bhavan, Katra, Jammu and Kashmir 182301
- time: 5am to 12pm and 4pm to 9pm
- Dress Code: It is recommended to wear light wool clothes in summer and thick wool clothes in winter. Wear espadrilles and avoid fancy shoes, especially when walking.
- About. Visiting time: >3 hours
- how can I get there: Jammu Airport is 50 km away. By train, Udhampur railway station is the closest, and via the state road, the J & K bus takes you to and from Katra.
- Temple website: https://www.maavaishnodevi.org/introduction.aspx
- Best time to visit: The Chaitra and Navratra festivals are very popular and if you’re queuing at extreme times (because the crowds are crazy at this time), it’s a very auspicious time. If you want a more comfortable darshan, try to plan in winter (away from monsoon and new year) to avoid crowds.
- Other attractions: Ardh Kuwari Cave and Bhairavnath Temple are must visit places. Street shopping in the area can bring you some souvenirs to bring back to friends and family.
5. Jwalamukhi Devi Temple, Kangra District, Himachal Pradesh:
Located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, Jwalamukhi Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Jwalamukhi, the god of the mouth of fire. The god is worshipped in the form of flames emerging from cracks in the rock. She is considered a form of Durga Mata. The sacred fire in the pit is generally dedicated to milk and water, and to the god bhog or rabri. Havan and Aarti are performed daily and parts of Durga Saptasati are recited. This temple was built by Raja Bhumi Chand Katoch. It was identified as one of the 52 Shakti Peethas and an important one. more importantly? Its location is picturesque, with the Dhauladha mountains gazing at it.
- address: Jawala Ji Temple Road, Jawalamukhi, Himachal Pradesh 176031
- time: 6am to 5pm
- Dress Code: There is no such dress code.
- About. Visiting time: 12 hours
- how can I get there: The nearest airport is in Gaggal (50 km). The nearest station is 20 km. The temple can be reached from Dharamsala, Gaggal, etc. using public transport such as direct buses and taxis.
- Temple website: https://jawalaji.in/
- Best time to visit: During Jwalamukhi mela (colourful bazaar full of fun and religious fervor)
- Other attractions: Gyuto Temple is 2.8 km from the hotel.
6. Lotus Temple, New Delhi:
The Baha’i Temple, also known as the Lotus Temple, is one of the best and unique temples in Delhi. The temple is shaped like a lotus flower and looks beautiful when lit at night. The gardens around this temple are also very picturesque…