UTTAR PRADESH
MATHURA
Mathura, revered as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, is a sacred city with deep spiritual significance. The city is dotted with temples and ghats along the Yamuna River, where devotees gather for prayer and rituals. Key sites include the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple and the Dwarkadhish Temple, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural and religious heritage of Hinduism.
VRINDAVAN
Vrindavan, closely associated with the life of Lord Krishna, is a spiritual town filled with temples and ashrams. Known for its vibrant festivals like Holi and Janmashtami, Vrindavan is home to famous temples such as the Banke Bihari Temple and the ISKCON Temple, where devotees immerse themselves in devotional music and prayer.
NANDGOUN
Nandgaon is a small town steeped in the lore of Lord Krishna's childhood. It is believed to be the home of Nanda Maharaj, Krishna's foster father. The town’s main attraction is the Nand Bhawan temple, where visitors can experience the peaceful ambiance and the traditional celebration of Holi, which is played with great fervor here.
BARSANA
Barsana is renowned as the birthplace of Radha, Lord Krishna's beloved. The town is famous for the Radha Rani Temple, perched on a hill, and for the unique celebration of Lathmar Holi, where women playfully hit men with sticks. Barsana is a key pilgrimage site that offers a deep connection to the legends of Krishna and Radha.
GOKUL GOVARDHAN
- Gokul, where Lord Krishna spent his early childhood, is a serene town with a number of sacred spots, including the Raman Reti, where Krishna is believed to have played as a child. The town offers a tranquil atmosphere with temples like the Gokulnath Temple and Baldev Temple, attracting devotees who come to relive the stories of Krishna’s childhood.
- Govardhan is a revered town known for the Govardhan Hill, which holds a special place in Krishna's lore. Devotees perform the parikrama (circumambulation) of the hill, which is believed to be a symbol of Lord Krishna's protection. The town is dotted with temples and is a significant pilgrimage site in the Braj region.
BRAJ MANDAL
Braj Mandal refers to the entire region associated with the life and legends of Lord Krishna, encompassing towns like Mathura, Vrindavan, Gokul, and Govardhan. This area is a spiritual hub filled with temples, ghats, and sacred sites, where devotees immerse themselves in the devotional practices and festivals celebrating Krishna's life.
AYODHYA
Ayodhya, one of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism, is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama. The city is known for the ancient Ram Janmabhoomi temple, as well as its ghats on the Sarayu River. Ayodhya is a focal point of pilgrimage, especially during festivals like Ram Navami, where the city comes alive with devotion and celebration.
BANARAS (VARANASI)
Varanasi, also known as Banaras, is one of the oldest living cities in the world and a major spiritual center in India. Situated on the banks of the Ganges River, it is renowned for its ghats, temples, and the vibrant atmosphere of devotion. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the Ganga Aarti are must-see experiences, offering a deep connection to Hindu traditions.
PRAYAGRAJ
Prayagraj, historically known as Allahabad, is a city of great religious importance, known for the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. It is also the site of the Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. The city is rich in history, with landmarks like the Allahabad Fort and Anand Bhavan.
CHITRAKOOT
Chitrakoot is a serene town with immense spiritual significance, believed to be where Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana spent part of their exile. The town is dotted with sacred sites like the Ramghat, Kamadgiri, and Bharat Milap Temple. Chitrakoot’s tranquil environment and connection to the Ramayana make it a peaceful pilgrimage destination.