Ghargoti: India

1. If one wants to see a stone museum with all varied shapes than one can not afford to miss the Ghargoti stone museum which is around 35 Kms from Nashik (Maharashtra).

2. I was initially apprehensive but than when I once visited the same than I was dumb founded seeing the amazing collection of the stones. Do make it a point to visit the stone museum.

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SOUTHERN INDIA S VERITABLE PARADISE FOR PILGRIMS

Gopurams soaring high. Temple towns filled with arcbitectural marvels.
Intricate sculptures adorning temple walls. Delicate minarets reaching out to the sky. Towering catbedrals and doznes of shrines . Southern India is a treasure house of a glouries heritage.

Bowhere is this rich heritage more visible than in Tamil Nadu, home to some of the most exquisite temples in the world. The earliest Temples were built of brick and mortar. UP to about 700 BC, temples were scooped out of rocks. The Pallara Kings (up to 900 AD) were great builders in stone. The Cholas (9001250 AD) added ornate mandapams and large gopurams. The Pandya style (up to 1350 AD) SAW THE EMERGENCE OF BUGE TOWERS, HIGH WALL ENCLOSURES AND TOWED GATEWAYS. The Vijayanagar Kings (1350-1560 AD) brought in intricacy and beauty, while the Naiks (1600-1750 AD) developed large prakarams and pillared halls.

The most Indian of Indian cities. Chennai is home to dozens of temples, some of them over 1200 years old. The Kapaleeswarar Temple at at Mylapore is an ancient shrine glorified in the Tamil hymns of the 7th century AD. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple has a vast tower studded with stucco images.


The Parthasarthy Temple at Trilicane, is one of 108 Divya Desams- the Temples and Celestial Abodes of Lord Vishnu. Built in the 8th century by an early Pallava King., this Temple has five shrines and is the only Divya Desam, where Lord Krishna is seen enshrined with images of his family.

The two-spired Shore Temple housing the shrines of both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu is at Mamallapuram 64 km from Channai. Also here is the Stalasayana Perumal Temple.

Kanchipuram one of the seven most sacred pilgrim centers of Hindus, was once called the city of Thousand Temples. It is home to the imposing 14th century Sri Kamakshi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, the magnificient Ekambareswarar Temple, whre Lord Shiva is worshipped as the Prithvi Lingam and the Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham. The temple is also one of the Panchabhoota Stalams signifying the five elements.

The Temple Town of Tiruvannamalai is home to one of the grandest temples in India, the Arunachaleswarar Temple. Among the most revered of Shiva Temples this temple has a great tradition of festivals, the most important of which is Kartikai Deeoam. The Temple town was also home to Sri Ramana Maharishi, the saint- philosopher, whose movement today is famous worldwide.

The Nataraja Temple at Chidambaram is one of the most ancient and most celebrated shrines in India. Lord Shiva can be seen in his Ananda Tandava pose (The Cosmic Dance of Bliss). One of the Panchabhoota Stalams and one of the five Dance Halls of Shiva, the Chidambaram Temple Complex reflects a collection of architectural and sculptural styles, assimilated over several centuries.

Sirkazhi near Chidambaram has one of the most revered Shiva Temples of Tamil Nadu. It also home to the Shiva saint Tirugnanasambandar . Also near Chidambaram is the ancient temple townof Mayiladuturai, with several temples, the foremost of which are the Mayuranathar and Parimala Ranganathar Temples.

At Thanjavur is the famed Brihadeeswarar Temple, built during the reign of Raja Raja Chola.Testimony to the Cholas; commitment to arts and culture, the temple is an architectural marvel with an imposing 200 feet high Vimana. Thanjavur also has 70 other temples.

At Mannargudi, near Thanjavur is the huge, 1000 year old Rajagopala Temple, referred to as Dakshina Dwara situated on the banks of River Cauvery, Kumbakonam is home to Kashi Viswanathar, Kumbeswarar, Nageswarar, Sarangapani and Ramaswammy Temples. The Mahamagam Festival occurs once every 12 years.

In and around Tiruchchirappalli are the Rock Fort Temple. Uraiyur, Samayapuram, Tiruvanaikkval, Srirangam Uttamar Koli, Vayaluretc. The largest and among the grandest templesin India, Srirangam enshrines Lord Ranganatha and its etrance is crowned with the loftiest tower in India. The Mariamman Temple near Tiruchchirappalli is a centre of Shakti worship.

At Pillayarpatti, Karaikkudi, is one of the oldest cave temples of Tamil Nadu, housing the familiar image of Karpaka Vinaayakar. Nearby is the hill temple of Shanmukhanthan at Kunnakudi.

The crowing glory of the historic city of Madhurai is the Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple and ancient centre of worship as well as an art gallery of vast proportions. The festival traditions here represent a confluence of the Saiva, Shakti, Skanda and Vaishnava streams of Hinduism.

The Azhagar Koli near Madhurai, has been venerated by the hymns of the Alwars. Also near Madhurai is the hill temple of one of the revered Aaryu Padai Veedu Shrines (Six Abodes) of Lord Murugan.

Known as the Varansi of South India, the sacred island of Rameswaram, is held in great reverence by devotees of both Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. The Ramanathanswamy Temple has a thousand Pillared Corridor-said to be the longest in the country. The deity here constitutes one of the 12 Jyotirlingams of India. Another famous temple here is the Kothandaramaswamy Temple.

The ancient shrine of Kanniyakumari gives the southernmost tip of India its name. The Temple here is dedicated to the virgin Goddess Kanniyakumari who is believed to stand guard over the country. The Vivekananda Rock Memoral here is the place where sami Vivekananda the patriot saint of modem India sat in a long and deep meditation in 1892.

Nine ancient shrines in Tirunelveli are closely associated with Nammalawar. Eight of the nine. Navagaraha stalams in Tamil Nadu are temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Seven of these are associated with the Bhakti movement of the 1st millennlum.

Near Tirunelveli is Srivilliputtur, the birthplace of Sri Andal, one of the 12 Alwars and another of the revered Tiruppavai humns.

The Lord Murugan shrine at Marudamalai, the Lingeswarar Temple and the Perur Patteeswaraar Temple are located near Coimbatore.

The Jain Circuit

About 7 km west Bhubaneswar are the hillsof Udayagiri and Khandaragiri whre caves cut from rocks seem to form a honeycomb. Many caves are omately carved and most are through to have been chiseled out for Jain ascetics in the 1st century. Also part of this complexare a series of Jain temples.

Mandu, in Madhya Pradesh, houses a Jain Temple Complex, with richly decorated temples. They also feature. Thirthankaras in marble, silver and gold, some with glinting jade eyes.

The Buddhist Trail of Central India

On the bank of River Daya, a few kilometers away from Bhubaneswar, in Orissa, is the Dhauli Hill, famous for the Dhauli Edicts carved by Emperor Ashoka, relating the horrors he experienced during the Kalinga War, his anguish at the needless bloodshed and his subsequent conversion to Buddism.The adjacent large hill is topped by a Shanti Stupa., established by the Kalinga. Nippon Buddha Sangha. There is also a monastery here called the Saddharma Vihar. About 60 km north-east of Cuttak, are the three hills of Ratnagiri, Lalitagiri and Udaigiri. Extensive excavations here have unearthed monastics complexes and relices.

68 km north of Bhopal, the capital of MadhyaPradesh is Sanchi home to some of the oldest and most interesting Buddhist shrines in the country. Most notable of these, is the Great Stupa No 1 built by Emperor Ashoka in the third century BC Stupa No 2, dating backto the 2nd century BC, stands at the very edge of the hill with a stone balustrade surrounding it. Stupa No 3, located into the northis were the relics of two famous disciples of Buddha were found.-east of the Great Stupa . Besides these ancient Stupas, Sanchi has ruins of several Buddhist temples and monasteries. The Great Bowl, caved out of single block of stone, contained food that was distributed amongst the monks of Sanchi.

ABODE OF SURYA

Sun worship in India has been prevalent since time immemorial. Venerated as an inexhaustible source of energy, the Sun God is portayed seated on a chariot frawn by seven horses. The more well known sun Temple are :-

The Konark sun Temple at Konarks, in Orissa.

Suryanagar Koil near Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu.

The Surya Paha Temple at Goalpara in Assam.

The Modhera Sun Temple in Patan Gujarat.

The Suryanarayana Temple at Arasavalli in Andhra Pradesh.

The Dakshinaarka sun Temple at Gaya in Bihar.

The Sun Temple at Ranakpur in Rajastan.

The Sun Temple at Unao in Madhya Pradesh.

The central state of Madhya Pradesh has a rich history that can be traced back to Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd ventury BC, who built a great Stupa at Sanchi, not far from present day Bhopal. The Chandellas who ruled the north-eastern parts of Madhya Pradesh, between 950 and 1050 AD gave India the famous Khajuraho Temple. Madhya Pradesh is also home to two ancient pilgrim centres : Ujjain and Omkareshwar.

The ancient city of Gwalior was once known as Gopadri or Gopachala. The Chaturbhuj Temple here is dedicate to Lord Vishnu. The saas – Bahu Temple (meaning the Mother-in-law. Daughter-in-law Temple) are located on the eastern side of the Gopadri Hill. Both thse ornately decorated Temple are built in the Nagar style of architecture. Teli-Ka-Mandir is the highest building in the fort of Gwailor, reaching a height of 100 feet,. While the decorative details follow the North Indian idiom., the tower is in the Dravidian style. Near the temple is the Suraj Kund, a tank belived to have miraculous properties.


Unao, near Jhansi houses a Sun Temple the Bhramanya Dev Temple. The stone image of the Sun God here stands on a brick platform covered with black plates. 21 triangles, representing the 21 phases of the sun are engraved in the shrine.

Orchha, once the capital of the Bundelas, ia today home to some impressive Temples that date back to the 16th century. They are still in use and are visited regulary by thousands of devotees. The more significient of these are the Raja Rani Temple and the Lakshmi Narayan Temple.

The village of Khajuraho is home to several renwowended temples from the 9th to the 13th centuries. The temples, built in the indo-Aryan Nagara style of architecture, can be divided into three district groups. The western group has temple to Shiva and Vishnu, the northern group has Vaishnava temples. The south-eastern group consists of Jain temples.The oldest of these temples is the Chaunsat Yogini Temple in the western group. Aboutn 65km north of sanchi is Udaypur. The large Neelakanteshwara Templehere isprofusely and very finely carved. The Temple is aligned is such way that the first rays of the morning sun shine on the Shivalingam in the sanctum.

Ujjain, one of the seven Mukti Stals, is a highly venerated pilgrim centre. The Temple heree enshrines Mahakaleswar, one of the Jyotirlinga manifestations of Lord Shiva. Also in Ujjain are the Bade Ganeshji – Mandirthe Parvti-Harasiddhi Devi Temple. The marbal-spired Gopal Mandir and ancient Chintaman Ganesh Mandir.

Ujjain is one of the sites of the Kumbha Mela, which is held here once in 12 years.

Near Indore is Omkareswar, one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines of Loard Shiva. Pereched on the Mandhata Hills on the banks of River Narmada., this temple built in the Nagara style, in characterized by a lofty shikara. There are also shrines of Annapoora and Ganesha here.

A SPIRITUAL JOURNEY IN THE HEART OF INDIA.

Orissa is a treasure trove of monuments. Its Temples are built in the Lndo-Aryan Nagara style of architecture, with distactive features specific to the region. They usually consist of a sanctiom, one or several front porches, usally with pyramidal roofs, a dancing hall and a of offerings. The Golden Triangle of Orissa comprising Bhubaneswar, Puri and Konark attracts millions of devotees and tourists alike. However, there are hundreds of lesser known Temples in Orissa, each with its own history and rich traditions.

Bhubaneswar, The capital city of Orissa, is a city of Temples. Built over several centuries, many of these V have architectural significance too. The thousand-year-old Lingaraj Temples, is one of the best examples of the Orissa style of Temples building. Located in a specious courtyard covering over 2,50,000 sq.ft, the Temples is bouded by fortified walls. The elaborately carved tower is 180 feet high. The Bhagwati Temples is located in the northwest corner of the courtyard. Thesre are several other shrines and Temples in the courtyard. The 10th century Mukteshwara Temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is considered to be the gem of Orissa’s architecture. Although it is a small shrine, literally every inch of its surface is carved. This Temple has also been described as a dream realized in sandstone. Located on the eastern bank of the Bindu Sagar Lake, the Anantha Vasudeva Temple is one of the few Vaishnavaite Temple in Bhubaneshwar. The Temple enshrines images of Lord Krishna, Balarama and Subhadra. Other important Temples in Bhubaneshwar are the Parasurameswara Temple, Raja Rani, Kedareshwar and Siddeshwara.

Puri, is a Venerated pilgrim centre, enshrining Krishna- Jagannath in a colossal Temple. Also enshrined here are images of Balarama and Subhadra, the brother and sister of Lord Krishna. The vast Temple complex is spread across more that 4,00,000 sq ft. A 20 feet high ortified wall encloses the complex which houses about 120 shrines and Temple. The shikara of the Jagannath Temple towers to a height of 192 feet. The Rath Yatra during June-July is a spectacular festival, involving the procession of three colossal chariots bearing the three deities, through the streets of Puri.

The magnificent Sun Temple at Konark, endorses the genius of the architects who envisioned and built it. Also known as the black pagoda, this is one of the grandest Temple of India. The entire Temple has been conceived as a Chariot of the Sun God, with 24 Wheels, with spokes and elaborate carvings. The Temple is pulled by seven horses and two elephant-crushing lions guard the entrance. Even in its ruined state, the Sun Temple is truly awe-inspiring.

The Jain Circuit

The Cave Temples of Ellora, near Aurangabad (Maharashtra), include five Jain Caves, with exceptionally detailed work. Caves 32 the India Sabha is the finest of the Jain Caves with images of the Jain Thirthankaras : Parasnath and Gummateshvara. Inside the shrine is a seated figure of Lord Mahavira. On the hilltop over the Jain Temples, a 5 metre high image of Parasnath looks down of Ellora. Gujarat has a rich heritage of Jain Temples. To the north of the old city in Ahmedabad is the Hathee Singh Temples, made of white marble. Built in 1848, it is dedicated to the 15th Jain Thirthankara. About 215 km from Ahmedabad is Palitata one of Jainism’s holiest pilgrimage destinations. The Shatrunjay Hill here is held sacred by the Svethambara Jains. Dotting the hill are over 800 Temples dating from the 11th to the 19th century. The Adishvara Temples on the hill contains a large statue of Rishanath with crystal eyes and a golden crown.

The Girnar Mountain in Junagarh District is Gujarat’s second great centre of Jain pilgrimage. High on the summit of the mountain are 12th century Temples, richly decorated with fine carvings. Also of importance are the 16 Temples at Neminatha, the Mallinatha Temples and the hundreds of Temples in Patan, 130 km from Ahmedabad. The Shantinath Mandir and the Adinath Mandir in Jamnagar are dedicated to the sixteenth and the first century Thirthankaras, respectively.

The Jain Dilwara Temples at Mount Abu, in Rajastan, built in the Nagara style are the most popular centres of pilgrimage for followes of Jainism. The group of five Temples here is known to posses the most intricate marble carvings in the world. The Vimala Vasahi Temples the first Jain Temples of Dilwara, is dedicated to the first Jain Thirthanakara, Adi Nath. The most striking feature of the Tejapala Temples is its dome, which stands on 8 pillars. The pendant of the dome is a perfect gem; where it drops from the ceiling it looks like a cluster of half open lotuses. Amassive idol of naminatha adorns the Garbagriha. Also in Rajastan are several other Jain Temples of great significance. These are.

The glorious Temples at Lodhruva. The Satbees Deva in Chittaurgarh, which has 27 images of Jain divinities. The splendid Mahavira Digambara Jain Swami Temples and the Kirti Stamba in Chittaurgarh. The 15th century Temples in the Aravalli Hills at Tanakpur 98 km from Udaipur. The most important of thse is the Chaumukha Temples with 1444 differntly carved pillars and a magnificent ceiling. The Temples of Rishabhadeva, 65 km south of Udaipur is a renowned pilgrim centre for noth Jains and Hindus. Hindus consider him an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

Bringing the Joys of a Pilgrimage in India

Be it East, West, North or South, India has the proud heritage of pilgrimage centres. more so, places of Hindu worship and faith. Mingling with these are also places that enshrine the beliefs of Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, Jainism and Sikhism.

Thus India is truly the only world state that has the spirit to respect all religions and have distinct shrine for them. A riot of culture is reflected through these religious. The glorious Himalayas house the Chardham, the true abode of the Gods and Goddesses.

Down south, the rich temples of the Chola period stand testimony to the deep knowledge of art, science, culture and religious. South-west you have the magnificent churches of Goa reverberating with its own spiritual ethos. The Golden temple of Amritsar, the home of the Granth Sahib, the temple of miracles of lord Jagannath of Puri, the Dargah of Moinnudin Chisti of Ajmer the list goes on and on. The faith unbreakable. The glory of which is to be seen and cherished only in India. In the pages that follow, an attempt to complete many places of religious significance for the Hindus, Sikhs, Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Jews and Zoroatrians has been mad4e. These demonstrate the important role that religious plays in the day-to-day life of every Indian. Space constraints prevent us from covering all the pilgrim cetres of India. Any exclusion is totally unintentional.

SPIRITUAL RETREATS IN THE MIDST OF BEACHES AND DESERTS : THE SHRINE OF WESTERN INDIA

The states of Goa, Maharastra, Gujarat and Rajastan, add to India’s rich religious tapestry, with their distinctive Temple, Churches and shrines, their unique customs and traditions, their inimitable art and architecture.

Goa is celebrated for its sun-kissed beaches. The spiritual side of this beach country is evedent in its many ancient churches. The main church of Panaji, the charming capital city of Goa, is the church of our lady of the immaculate conception. It stands above the square in the main part of the town. Consecrated in 1541, it was here that Portuguese sailors offered thanks for a safe passage. Just 9 km east of Panaji, old Goa is the spiritual heart of the christen community here. There are many imposing churches and cathedrals here. The largest of these is the se cathedral, built in the Portuguese-gothic style. The tower here houses the famous Golden bell. The convent and churches of st, Frencis of Assisi has rich interiors including a stunning ornamental screen behind the altar murals depict scenes from the life of St Frencis. The Basilica of Bom Jesus is famous throughout the Roman Catholic world, containing as it does the mortal remains of st Frencis Xavier, housed in a silver casket. On the walls surrounding it are murals depicting scenes from the saint,s journeys. Also of interest is the church of st cajetan modeled on the original design of st peter,s in rome, the church of st monica, the chapel of st Anthony, the church of st Catherine and the church of our lady of the Rosary.
Maharastra, the land of forts, canvas and legends is home to ancient pilgrim centres and Temple the most important of these being the shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesha Ganesh chaturthi is a big event in Maharastra with celebrations resounding from every nook and corner of the state. Mumbai, the capital city of Maharastra, is home to the Mahalkshmi Temple the siddhi Vinayaka Temple and the walkeshwar Temple. The last one is associated with Lord Rama, who it is believed, stayed here on his way from Ayodhya to Lanka. He built a linga of Lord Shiva here, out of said. About 9 km north east of the Gateway of India, in Mumbai are the Elephanta Caves. These rock cut Temples, dedicated to Shiva Mahadeva, are rich in sculptural content and enshrine a colossal 20 feet-high image of the three headed shiva, Trimurthy. 375 km south of Mumbai is Ganapatipule. The swayambhu Ganapati or the naturally formed monolithic Ganesh attracts thousands of pilgrims. In the village of Bhavagiri, about 110 km away from Pune, is the Bhimashankar Temple, enshrining Bhimashankara. This ancient shrine is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Shiva. Near the Temple is a shrine to Kamalaja, an incarnation of Parvati. The Mokshakund Thirtha is located behind the Bhimashankara Temple. The Sarvathirtha, the Kusharanya Thirtha and the Jyankakund are also of importance. About 195 km from pune Shirdi, associated with the mystic saint sai Baba. Pilgrims of all faiths visit here to seek the blessings of shirdi sai Baba. Standing on River godavari one of the holiest river of the Deccan, is Nasik, peppered with hundreds of Temple and bathing ghats. An important pilgrim centre, Nasik has many associations with the Ramayana and is also the venue of the Kumbha Mela held once every 12 years. The city,s holiest Temple is the Kala Ram Mandir, housing the shrines of Rama, Sita and Lakshman. Also of importance are the sita Gumpa cave, the Sundar Narayan Temple and the Mukti Dham Temple. 30 km from Nasik is Tryambakeshwar, revered as one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines of Shiva. Tryambakeshwar is the source of River Godavari. The Temple isa built of black stone in the Nagara style of architecture with the sanctum housing a small Shivalinga Tryambaka. The other Temple of significance here are Kolhambika dedicated to Parvati Ganga Devi enshrining a white marble image of Ganga and shrine to Kedarnath Rameshwar Gowtameshwar, kashi Vishwanath, Jareshwar, Kanchaneshwar, Tribuvaneshwar, Rama Parashuram, Krishna, Balaji, Lakshmi Narayan and hanuman. Also held in reverence are the Gangadwara Thirtha the varaha Thirtha the Kushavarta Thirth, the varaha Thirtha the Kushavarta Thirtha, the Gangasagar the Gautamlaya, Bilva Thirtha, Indra Thirtha, Vishwanath Thirtha, Mukund Thirtha, Prayag Thirtha, Rama Kund, Lakshman Kund and the confluence of River Ahalya and Godavari. The massive rock-cut monolithic Kailasanatha Temple at Ellora, near Aurangabad, is built in the Dravidian Style. Famed for its architectural grandeur and sculptural splendour , the Temple covers an area of over 60,000 square feet and the profusely sculpted shikhara, rises to a height of about 90 feet. Other caves of interest in Ellora are the Rameshwar cave, the sita ki Nahani cave and several Jain caves. The Temple of Ellora have a world heritage listing. 11 km from Daulatbad, near Aurangabad is Grishneshwar an ancient pilgrimage site revered as the abode of one of the 12 Jyotrlingas of Shiva. Ramtek, about 40 km north west of Nagpur has a number of picturesque 600-year old Temple spectacularly situated on a Hill above the town. Lord Rama is said to have spent time here with Sita and Lakshman. Bhavani was the tutelary deity of Maharaj Shivaji, the valiant Maratha ruler. At the Bhavani Temple in Tuljapur, near sholapur, she is worshipped in the form of a three foot-high granite image with eight arms holding weapons, bearing the head of the slain demon Mahisharura.

Bhavani is also known as Tulja, Turaja, Tvarita and Amba. 65 km west of sholapur is Pandharapur, enshrining Vithoba in a grand Temple on the banks of River Bhima. Vithoba is a form of Krishna. The worship of Vishnu- Vitthala at Pandharpur is derived mainly from the puranas and has been augmented by the contribution of the great Vaishnava saints of Maharastra from the 13th through the 17th centuries Namdev, Jnaneshwar, Eknath, Tukaram. There is also a shrine to saint Pundalik, at Pandharapur. Situated on the banks of river panchganga, Kolhapur is full of ancient Temple and shrines. The most important of these is the Mahalakshmi Temple, with its three sancta housing Mahalakshmi, Mahakali and Mahasaraswati. Above the Mahalakshmi sanctum is a shrine with a Shivalinga and Nandi. The Devakoshtas house Venkatesha, Katyayani and Gowri Shankar. There are a number of subsidiary shrine in the courtyard. Also located in the courtyard is the Temple tank Manikarnika Kund on whose bank is a shrine to Visweshwar Mahadev. On the western coast of India is Gujarat, a state steeped in history, Archaeological finds at Lothal near Ahmedabad and Razdi in Saurashtra trace its history back to 3,500 years to the times of Harappa and Mohenjodaro. Legends date it even earlier. The somnath Temple, for instance, is said to mark the creation the Universe. 30 km south of Patan is the village of Modhera, home to the famous sun Temple, a truly magnificent structure, with a sanctum, a pradakshina patha and a sabha mandap in front. The exterior of the sanctum has many carved images of the sun god. The Temple has been designed in the such a way that the sun’s rays illuminate the sanctum at dawn, during the time of the Temple now. In front of the Temple is a colossal tank, with a series of caved steps leading to the bottom. Several miniature shrines adorn the steps of the tank which is an art gallery in itself.

Gurudwaras & Synagogues of Western India

About 272 km from Aurangabad is Nanded, an important Sikh pilgrim centre Gur Gobind Singh, the tenth and last of the Sikh gurus, lived here towards the end of his life. His ashes are buried at the famous Sach Khand Shri Huzur Sahib Gurudwara, on the banks of river Godavari.

A short boat ride from the Gateway of India, in Mumbai will bring one to Alibaug,. This beach town is home to a popular Synagogue. Another Synagogue is at Pen, near Mumbai.

Mosques & Shrines in Western India

The Haji Ali Dargah is one of the better-known landmarks o0f Mumbai, Set 500 yards into the sea, this mausoleum of the famous Muslim saint. Haji Ali, is accessible only during low tide. The Dargah of Sayeed Burhan Ud Din in Aurangabad is associated with the Chisti missionary buried here in 1334. It is believed that the shrine contains hair from the Prophet’s beard, which magically increases in number when they are counted each year. Another important shrine in Aurangabad is the Dargah of Baba Shah Muzaffar, a Sufi saint and a great spiritual advisor of Aurangzeb.

At Khuldabad, near Aurangabad is the VargaH OF Sayeed Zain-ud din. The Dargah houses a sacred relic, the Robe of Prophet Mohammed. This jealously-guarded relic is revealed to the public once a year, on the twelfth day of the Isalamic month of Rabi-ul-Awwal (usually around November).

When the tomb becomes the focus of a festival attracting crowds of worshippers from all over Indai. In the small village Shivapur, near Pune, lies the celebrated Kumar Ali Darveh Dargah, visted by people belonging to all religions. A unique feature of this Dargah is the presence of two huge stones which can be easily lifted by recting the sacred name of Kamar Ali Darvesh in one breath. The Dargah is also the venue of an annual ‘Urs’. In the centre of the old city of Ahmedaba, In Gujarat, lies one of the most beautiful mosques of India, the Jumma Masjid, built by the city’s founder, Sulthan Ahmed Shah in 1423 AD. Built in yellow sandstone, this Mosque combines the best of Hindu and Muslim styles of architecture. Also in Ahmedabad is the Sidi Sayyid Mosque, famed for its exquisite stone window tracery. Each year, during the six-day Urs, thousands of devotees from different religious backgrounds, gather at the Dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, in Ajmer. Rajasthan, the final resting place of the Sufi Saint. It is believed that those who pray here with a pure and devour heart will have their whishes fulfilled.

PRAYER FLAGS PRAYER WHEELS AND PICTUREQUE GOMPAS, THE BUDDHIST TRAIL

The remote region of Ladakh has a GEAT Buddhist tradition with about 13 major monasteries. The most important of these is the Hemis, considered the Gompa of Gompas 45 Km from Leh, the administrative capital of Ladakh the Hemis Gompa has well preserved frescoes, good Buddha figures, the largest Thangka in ladakh and an excellent library. It is also the venue of the famous Hemis Festival in June.

Within Leh itself is the Namgyl Tsemo Gompa, the Soma Gompa and the Sankar Gompa. The Shanti Stupa here is truly imnpressive, especially when it is illuminated at night. About 8 km from Leh is the 15th century Spituk Gumpa, perched on a hilltop above the Indus River. The Thiksey Gompa, 17 km south of Leh is situated on a hilltop amidst picturesque surroundings. One of the largest monasteries in the region. Thiksey has rooms full of statues, stupas and Tankahs- religious paintings of all kinds.

Alchi. A little village about 70 km from Leh, is known as a jewel among the religious sites in Ladakh. Abandoned centuries ago, this monastery has been lovingly maintained by the monks at Likhir, the nearest functioning Gompa. It is popularly known as Chose-kor (religious enclave) and comprises five temples.

Western India’s Buddhist Link

Set in the heart of the Borivali National Park, 42 km north of Mumbai, the Kanheri Caves consist of 109 caves dating from the 1st century BC to the 9th century AD.

11 Km from Lonavala, are the Karla Caves, dating back to the 2nd century BC. The oldest and finest examples of early Buddhist rock cut temple art in India. Karla has a magnificent Chaitya Hall, the largest and most evolved examples of its class.

12 km from Lonavala are the 18 Bhaja Caves. 10 are Viharas (monasteries), while Cave 12 is an open Chaitya., earlier than Karla contaqining a simple dagobha. The last cave to the south has excellent sculptures including that of the famous Dancing Couple. The Birthplace of Maratha Chieftain Chhatrapati Shivaji, Junnar is 177 Km from Mumbai on the Mumbai-Aurangabad Route. The hills surrounding the plains of Junnar are boneycombed with a cluster of Buddhist caves, divided into three district groups, the Tulija Lena Group, the Manmodi Hills Group and the Ganesh Lena Group.

Awe-inspiring breathtaking, truly timless... the famed frescoes of the Ajanta Caves, included in the World Heritage List of Monuments, are situated 104 km from Aurangabad. A unique combinations of Architecture, sculpture and paintings, the 39 caves demonstrate the sheer mastery of the unknown artists., illustrating the major events from the life of Buddha and tales from the Jatakas.

BRAHMA TEMPLE

Pushkar, 11 km from Ajmer, is an important pilgrim centre. There are several Temple here the most famous being the Lord Brahma Temple, one of the few Temples in the world dedicated to this deity. One the hilltop overlooking the pushkar lake is the Savitri Temple. There are also numerous ghats lying along the lake. The Jagadish Temple in Udaipur, enshrines a black stone image of Lord Vishnu as Jagannath, Lord of the Universe. About 21 km from Udaipur is the twon of Eklingji, The architecture of this ancient Shiva Temple resembles that of the Jain Temples of Gujarat. Shiva is worshipped here as Parabrahma, represented by a four faced black marble image, the four faces representing Lord Brahma facing West, Vishnu facing North, Maheshwar facing South and Rury (Sun)facing East. The town of Eklingji is full Temples, there are about 70 Temple in all. Further 27 km from Eklingiji. lies Nathdwara, one of the wealthiest temples of India enshrining the image of Lord Krishna, as Govradhana Giridhari.

Jagat Ambika Mata, 58 Km from Udaipur, is a 1000-year –old Temple, pentagonal in shape, with 17 turrets and a pagoda-like roof. About 98 km from Udaipur in the vicinity of the exceptionally beautiful Jain Temple. Complex at Ranakpur, is the Sun Temple-a magnificent structure in white soapstone. Built in the classic Nagara style, the temple exhibits a profusion of intricate sculptural work.

TEMPLES DEDICATED TO LORD GANESH IN TAMIL NADU

Pillayaarpatti near Karaikkudi houses an ancient Temple with a rock cut shrine of Ganesh, Karpaka Vinyakar. Vatapi Ganapati is an image of Ganapati said to have been brought back by the pallava King during his conquest of Badami, formerly known as vatapi. The hill Temple dedicated to Taayumanavar Shiva is popularly referred to as the Ucchi Pillayar Temple (Rock Fort-Malaikkottai Temple Complex). The Tiruvalanchuzhil Shiva Temple near Kumbakonan is known more popularly for its shrine to sweta Vinayakar, said to be made of the foam of the milky ocean (Ksheera Sagaram).

Also of importance are the Gokarana Shivasthalam in Karnataka and the Baidyanath Dham )Jyotirlinga Temple at Deogarh in Bihar. Ganesha is said to have been the cause of the origin of these worship centers. The splendid Swaminaryan Temple (Akshardham) complex is at Gandhinagar, the capital of Gujarat is regarded as one of the Shakti Peetha shrinesof India. Also located here is the Koteshwar Mahadev shrine.

Somnath, at Prabhas Patan, near Veraval, is the foremost of the 12 Jyotirllinga Shrines of Shiva. The Temple is held in great reverence throughout India and is rich in legend, traditions and history. There are also the remains of an ancient Sun Temple at Somnath. To the east of the town is the Bank Theerth connected with the legend of Krishna’s Swargaarohanam.

Dwarka is one of the holiest sites of India. It is considered one of the Abodes of Lord Krishna. Legend has it that Lord Krishna built the city of Dwarka as his capital, after moving from Mathura.

The Darkadeesh Temple, also known as the Jagat Mandir, is believed to have been built by Sambha the grandson of Krishna. Visitors enter through the swarga Dwar and exit through the Moksha Dwar here. The Rukmini Temple here is believed to the 1600 years old. Nearby is the Gomi Sangmam where the River Gomi merges with the sea. A little north of Dwarka is the bet Dwarka Island where Krishna killed the demon Shankhasura. There are shrines of Rukmini, Trivikrama, Devaki, Jambavati, Lakshmi Narayan and other deities here.

Nageshwar, located on the route between Dwarka and the Bet Dwarka island is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrine of Shiva. He is worshipped here as Nageshwar.

Rajastan – The land of the Rajas conjures hundreds of beautiful images, camels making their way through deserts, magnificent palaces and forts, colourfully attired people and of course, some very splendid temples. About 95 km from Jaipur on the Ahmedabad Delhi railway line, is the ancient village of Abhaneri, The 10th century Harshat Mata Temple here is dedicated to goddess harshat Mata. This is a shakti peetham. Daily worship is offered to the deity in the Temple and an annual three day festival is also held in honour of the goddess. The chand Baori, a vast well with fights of steps on three sides is another 10th century monument here.

ABODES OF GANESHA

All worship services in India commence with a brief invocation to Lord Ganesha, believed to be the remover of obstacles and the source of good luck. There are several shrines to Lord Ganesha across the length and breadth of the Indian subcontinent. All shaivaite Temple bear several shrines to the elephant faced Ganesha.

SPIRITUAL RETREATS IN THE MIDST OF BEACHES AND DESERTS : THE SHRINE OF WESTERN INDIA

The states of Goa, Maharastra, Gujarat and Rajastan, add to India’s rich religious tapestry, with their distinctive Temple, Churches and shrines, their unique customs and traditions, their inimitable art and architecture.

Goa is celebrated for its sun-kissed beaches. The spiritual side of this beach country is evedent in its many ancient churches. The main church of Panaji, the charming capital city of Goa, is the church of our lady of the immaculate conception. It stands above the square in the main part of the town. Consecrated in 1541, it was here that Portuguese sailors offered thanks for a safe passage. Just 9 km east of Panaji, old Goa is the spiritual heart of the christen community here. There are many imposing churches and cathedrals here. The largest of these is the se cathedral, built in the Portuguese-gothic style. The tower here houses the famous Golden bell. The convent and churches of st, Frencis of Assisi has rich interiors including a stunning ornamental screen behind the altar murals depict scenes from the life of St Frencis. The Basilica of Bom Jesus is famous throughout the Roman Catholic world, containing as it does the mortal remains of st Frencis Xavier, housed in a silver casket. On the walls surrounding it are murals depicting scenes from the saint,s journeys. Also of interest is the church of st cajetan modeled on the original design of st peter,s in rome, the church of st monica, the chapel of st Anthony, the church of st Catherine and the church of our lady of the Rosary.
Maharastra, the land of forts, canvas and legends is home to ancient pilgrim centres and Temple the most important of these being the shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesha Ganesh chaturthi is a big event in Maharastra with celebrations resounding from every nook and corner of the state. Mumbai, the capital city of Maharastra, is home to the Mahalkshmi Temple the siddhi Vinayaka Temple and the walkeshwar Temple. The last one is associated with Lord Rama, who it is believed, stayed here on his way from Ayodhya to Lanka. He built a linga of Lord Shiva here, out of said. About 9 km north east of the Gateway of India, in Mumbai are the Elephanta Caves. These rock cut Temples, dedicated to Shiva Mahadeva, are rich in sculptural content and enshrine a colossal 20 feet-high image of the three headed shiva, Trimurthy. 375 km south of Mumbai is Ganapatipule. The swayambhu Ganapati or the naturally formed monolithic Ganesh attracts thousands of pilgrims. In the village of Bhavagiri, about 110 km away from Pune, is the Bhimashankar Temple, enshrining Bhimashankara. This ancient shrine is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Shiva. Near the Temple is a shrine to Kamalaja, an incarnation of Parvati. The Mokshakund Thirtha is located behind the Bhimashankara Temple. The Sarvathirtha, the Kusharanya Thirtha and the Jyankakund are also of importance. About 195 km from pune Shirdi, associated with the mystic saint sai Baba. Pilgrims of all faiths visit here to seek the blessings of shirdi sai Baba. Standing on River godavari one of the holiest river of the Deccan, is Nasik, peppered with hundreds of Temple and bathing ghats. An important pilgrim centre, Nasik has many associations with the Ramayana and is also the venue of the Kumbha Mela held once every 12 years. The city,s holiest Temple is the Kala Ram Mandir, housing the shrines of Rama, Sita and Lakshman. Also of importance are the sita Gumpa cave, the Sundar Narayan Temple and the Mukti Dham Temple. 30 km from Nasik is Tryambakeshwar, revered as one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines of Shiva. Tryambakeshwar is the source of River Godavari. The Temple isa built of black stone in the Nagara style of architecture with the sanctum housing a small Shivalinga Tryambaka. The other Temple of significance here are Kolhambika dedicated to Parvati Ganga Devi enshrining a white marble image of Ganga and shrine to Kedarnath Rameshwar Gowtameshwar, kashi Vishwanath, Jareshwar, Kanchaneshwar, Tribuvaneshwar, Rama Parashuram, Krishna, Balaji, Lakshmi Narayan and hanuman. Also held in reverence are the Gangadwara Thirtha the varaha Thirtha the Kushavarta Thirth, the varaha Thirtha the Kushavarta Thirtha, the Gangasagar the Gautamlaya, Bilva Thirtha, Indra Thirtha, Vishwanath Thirtha, Mukund Thirtha, Prayag Thirtha, Rama Kund, Lakshman Kund and the confluence of River Ahalya and Godavari. The massive rock-cut monolithic Kailasanatha Temple at Ellora, near Aurangabad, is built in the Dravidian Style. Famed for its architectural grandeur and sculptural splendour , the Temple covers an area of over 60,000 square feet and the profusely sculpted shikhara, rises to a height of about 90 feet. Other caves of interest in Ellora are the Rameshwar cave, the sita ki Nahani cave and several Jain caves. The Temple of Ellora have a world heritage listing. 11 km from Daulatbad, near Aurangabad is Grishneshwar an ancient pilgrimage site revered as the abode of one of the 12 Jyotrlingas of Shiva. Ramtek, about 40 km north west of Nagpur has a number of picturesque 600-year old Temple spectacularly situated on a Hill above the town. Lord Rama is said to have spent time here with Sita and Lakshman. Bhavani was the tutelary deity of Maharaj Shivaji, the valiant Maratha ruler. At the Bhavani Temple in Tuljapur, near sholapur, she is worshipped in the form of a three foot-high granite image with eight arms holding weapons, bearing the head of the slain demon Mahisharura.

Bhavani is also known as Tulja, Turaja, Tvarita and Amba. 65 km west of sholapur is Pandharapur, enshrining Vithoba in a grand Temple on the banks of River Bhima. Vithoba is a form of Krishna. The worship of Vishnu- Vitthala at Pandharpur is derived mainly from the puranas and has been augmented by the contribution of the great Vaishnava saints of Maharastra from the 13th through the 17th centuries Namdev, Jnaneshwar, Eknath, Tukaram. There is also a shrine to saint Pundalik, at Pandharapur. Situated on the banks of river panchganga, Kolhapur is full of ancient Temple and shrines. The most important of these is the Mahalakshmi Temple, with its three sancta housing Mahalakshmi, Mahakali and Mahasaraswati. Above the Mahalakshmi sanctum is a shrine with a Shivalinga and Nandi. The Devakoshtas house Venkatesha, Katyayani and Gowri Shankar. There are a number of subsidiary shrine in the courtyard. Also located in the courtyard is the Temple tank Manikarnika Kund on whose bank is a shrine to Visweshwar Mahadev. On the western coast of India is Gujarat, a state steeped in history, Archaeological finds at Lothal near Ahmedabad and Razdi in Saurashtra trace its history back to 3,500 years to the times of Harappa and Mohenjodaro. Legends date it even earlier. The somnath Temple, for instance, is said to mark the creation the Universe. 30 km south of Patan is the village of Modhera, home to the famous sun Temple, a truly magnificent structure, with a sanctum, a pradakshina patha and a sabha mandap in front. The exterior of the sanctum has many carved images of the sun god. The Temple has been designed in the such a way that the sun’s rays illuminate the sanctum at dawn, during the time of the Temple now. In front of the Temple is a colossal tank, with a series of caved steps leading to the bottom. Several miniature shrines adorn the steps of the tank which is an art gallery in itself.

IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF BUDDHA : THE BUDDHIST TRAIL OF BIHAR & UTTAR PRADESH.

The most important Buddhist pilgrimage centre in the world, Bodhagaya, is where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under a giant Bodhi (Peepul) Tree. The tree seen today is believed to have grown from the original Bodhi Tree. To the east of the Tree, is the magnificent 170 feet high Maha Bodhi Temple: an architectural amalgamation of many cultures, stone Stupas dot the temple courtyard. Also of interest is the Chaukramana, Animeshlochan Chaitya, Ratnagar Lotus Tank, a Tibetan Monastery with a large Dharma Chakra and the Thai, Japanese, Korean and Chinese Buddhist Temple built in recent times. 123 Km from Bodhgaya at Sasaram are the Buddhist Rock-Cut Caves. Rajgir holds special significance to Buddhists, as the Buddha spent several years here, delivering many of his sermons from the Gridhakuta Hill, which can be reached today Sby a cable ropeway. On the hill is a beautiful stupa, built by the Japanese. 12 Km away is Nalnda, one of ancient world,s Centre. It contained nine million books, ten thousand students and two thousand teachers. Both Lord Buddha and Lord Mahavira visited this place. Emperor Ashoka built a monastery to commemorate Buddha,s visit to Nalnda. Vaishali was where the Buddha delivered his last sermon, announcing his impending departure from the mortal world. Later Emperor Ashoka erected a huge pillar to commemorate the spot. A mere 10 km from the holy city of Varanasi is Saranath, in Uttar Pradesh. It was here that Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining Nirvana. The 34 metre high Dhamekh Stupa, is believed to mark the spot from where Buddha proclaimed his faith.

The Mahabodhi Temple close to the Dhamekh stupa, contains rate Buddhist relics from different parts of India. Emperpr Ashoka who convered to Buddhism after the Kalinga war also visited sarnath and laid the foundation of the Buddhist Sangha. The Ashoka pillar commemorates the event. 54 Km from Allahabad the ancient Buddhist Centre, Kaushambi was visited by Buddha in the sixth and ninth years after his enlightenment. He delivered several emons here. A revered place for Buddhist pilgrims, Kushinagar, 55 km from Gorakhpur, was where Buddha breathed his last. The Mahaparinirvana Temple, standing amidst a serene sal grove, is dedicated to this event. The temple has a huge statue of the Reclining Buddhism excavated in 1876. The Mata Kunwar shrine here contains a 10th century image of Lord Buddha. The Rambhar stupa is believed to mark the spot where Lord Buddha was cremated and his ashes divided into eight equal parts. Also of religious significance to pilgrims are the Chinese Temple, the Buddhist Temple, the Tibetan Temple, and the indo- Japan-sri Lanka Buddhist Centre. 110 km from Gorakhpur, Kapilavasu, was where Buddha spent his childhood. It was also from here that he embarked on his journey, in the quest of truth and salvation. There are several Stupas here. Archarological excavations have also revealed stone caskets containing relics, believed to be that of Lord Buddha,s. The Jetvana Gardens of Sravasti, 134 km from Lucknow had the honour of sheltering the Buddha for 24 rainy seasons. Besides stupas, monasteries and temples, Sravasti also has the famous Anand Bodhi Tree, an offspring of the original Bodhi Tree, said to have been plated by Buddha,s main disciple Anand. 47 km from Farrukhabad , Sankisa is believed to be the place where Buddha, along with Lord Brahma and Devraj Indra descended. At the spot of the descent stands a Temple with a statue of Buddha. The place is also known for a temple dedicated to Bsari Devi, an excavated Ashoka Elephant Pillar and a colossal Shiva Linga.

THE JYOTIRLINGA SHRINE OF SHIVA

The Dwadasha or 12 Jyotirlinga shrines, where Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of a Jyotirlinga, are held in great reverence by all Hindus. Associated with many legends from the Puranas, these Templea are spread out all over the country with the southernmost being in Ramaeswaram and the northernmost in Kedarnath.

THE 12 JYOTIRLINGA SHRINE ARE :-

1. Smnatheshwara at Prabhas Patan (Somnath), near veraval in Gujarat.

2. Mahakaleshwara at Ujjain, in Madhya Pradesh.

3. Bhim ashankara, near Pune, in Maharastra.

4. Tryambakeshwara, near Nasik, in Maharastra.

5. Ramanatheshwara, at Rameshwaram, in Tamil Nadu.

6. Baidyanath Dham, at Deogarh in Bihar.

7. Omkareshwara, near Mortakka in Madhya Pradesh.

8. Mallikarjuna, in Srisailam near Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh.

9. Kedarnatheshwara, near Rishikesh, in Uttaranchal.

10. Vishweshwara, at Varanasi In Uttar Pradesh.

11. Grishneshwara, near Aurangabad in Maharastra.

12. Nageshwara, near Dwarka in Gujarat.

IMPORTANT BUDDHSIT PILGRIM CENTRES IN THE EAST AND THE NORTH EAST

The beautiful hill station of Darjeeling and the neighboring Ghoom are well known for their Gompas, like the Bhutia Busty Gompa, the Yiga Choling Gompa, the samten Choling Gompa, the Thupten Sangag Choling Gompa and many others. Kalimpong, in west Bengal, is home to several Gompas. The Tharpa Choling Gompa belongs to the Gelupka sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The Thongsa Gompa, founded in 1692 is the oldest monastery in the area. Kalimpong,s largest monastery Zong Dog Palri Fo-Brang Gompa, is built on the spectacular Durpin Hill. There are close to 194 monasteryes in Skhim, India’s smallest state. Several of these are in Gangtok, the picturesque capital of Sikkim. The Enchey Gompa is the venue for the religious masked dances, performed during the Chaam Festival in December/January. The prayer hall here is completely covered with exquisite paintings and four intricately covered pillars support the roof. The gold apex of the huge Do-Drul Chorten (Stupa) is visible from many parts of Gangtok. Next to the Chorten is a gompa for young lamas.About 24 km from Gangtok is the Rumtek Monastery, with its Golden Stupa. The pemayangtse and Tashding Monasteries I West Sikkim the Ralong Monastery in the south and the phodung and Tolung Monasteries in North Sikkim are all well worth a visit. Not far from Bomdila in the north-eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, lies the Tawang Monastery, believed to be the largest in the country. It houses a superb collection of ancient scriptures, images, Thankas and 8 metres high gilded image of the Buddha.

CELEBRATING A RICH CULTURE. TEMPLES AND SHRINE OF EASTERN INDIA

The land of Rabindra Sangeet of poetry and Philosophy, of lusb green tea plantations and picturesque bill stations of bistoric monuments and rich traditions. West Bengal is also home to some very unique temples Resembling mud plastered thatched buts, with layers of slanting roofs, these temples are simple yet elegant. Temple bordering the state of Orissa show a distinct influence of the temple culture of Orissa, both in architecture and in tradition.

In the capital city of Kolkata, is the kalighat temple, on the banks of River Hooghly, regarded as a shakti Peetham, the Kalighat Temple draws numerous devotees all through the year. Nearby is the Dakshineshwar Kali Temple, in Hooghly District , bearing an image of Kali worshipped by the spiritual leader Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, Guru of Swami Vivekananda. The temple was built in 1847 and is surrounded by 12 other temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Sagar Island, at the mouth of River Hooghly, where River Ganges breaks up into hundreds of Streams and merges with the sea is a venerated pilgrim centre. There is a Kapila Muni Temple here. A dip in the ocean where the Ganga flows into the sea, is considered to be of greet religious significance, especially on Makara Sankranti day. 25 km north of Kolkata is Serampore. 3 km from here is Mahesh, which has an ancient Jagannanth Temple. Also near Serampore is Tarakeshwar, an important pilgrim centre in West Bengal. This 18th century temple is typical of Bengali temple, with a sanctum and a porch in front of it. The town of terracotta temples, Vishnupur, in Bankura District has a dozen or so temple. The facades of these temple are covered with ornate terracotta tiles, depicting scenes from the Hindu epics. The main temple are the highly decorated Jor Bangla, the large Madan Mohan, the pyramidal Ras Mancha and the Shyam Rai. Near Bankura is the village of Ekateshwara. The temple here enshrines Lord Shiva in the form of Ekapaadamurthi, with one foot and two hands. The Shyamaleshwar Temple, is located in Dantan, south of Kharagpur, near West Bengal’s border with Orissa. Its close proximity to Orissa has led to a noticeable profound Oriyan influence on the temple culture. About 114 km from Kolkata is Nabadwip, an important pilgrim centre dedicated to Lord Krishna. It attracts of devotees to its many temple. It is also an ancient centre of Sanskrit culture. Across the river in Mayapur is a large ISKCON Temple. The northern Eastern region of India is the most varied parts of India. Rolling forested hills, lush green fields a rich flora and fauna and a unique culture makes this region a traveler’s delight. The largest and most accessible of North eastern states is Assam. The Kamakhya Temple on the Neelachala Parvat, near Guwahati, in Assam, is one of the most revered Shakti Shrines in the country and is regarded as one of the Shakti Peethams. Other temple on the Neelachala Hill include those of Tara, Bhairavi, Bhuvaneshwari and Ghantakarna. Atop the Bhasmachala Hill in an island on River Brahmaputra is the Umananda Shiva Temple, built in the late 17th century and renovated in the 20th century. The Hastagiri Hill in Guwahati houses a temple to Shukreshwara Shiva believed to have to have been worshipped by sage Shukra. Another ancient temple in Guwahati is the Ashvakranta temple, associated with the legend of Krishna slaying the demon Narakasura. On the south eastern part of Guwahati is the Navagraha temple, or the Temple of nine shrine. Also near Guwahati is the Surya mandir, on the Surya Pahar Hill.

Enshrined in this temple are nine shivalignas, representing the nine celestial bodies. The ancient Hayagriva Temple at Hajo, near Guwahati, enshrines Vishnu as Hayagriva. Hajo is held in great reverence by both Hindus and Buddhists. The exterior walls of the stone temple built on a hillock, bear life size sculptures of the 10 avatars of Vishnu. About 20 km from Golaghat is the historic Negriting Shiva Temple. The Bana Linga enshrine in the sanctum of the temple is embedded in the centre of a large slab on which are carved a number of Shiva Lingas. On the banks of the Shiva Sagar Lake is the Shiva Dol Temple, possibly the tallest Shiva Temple in the country. Nearby in Gaurisagar is a temple dedicated to Devi.

MOSQUES & SHRINES IN BIHAR & UTTAR PRADESH

About 29 km away from patna is Maner, believed to be the earliest seat of Islam in Bihar. In the 13th century, Maner was home to the famous sufi saint Pir Hazrat Makhadun Yahiya Maneri. His tomb is known as the Chhoti Dargah. Bihar-sharif flourished as an important seat of Muslim culture during the 13th and 16th centuries. The tomb of a saint, Pir Makhadun Shah Shaarifuddin, attracts thousands of devotees. Bihar-sharif is 64 km from Patna. The Jama Masjid in the walled city of Fatehpur Sikri, in Uttar Pradesh, was built in 1572. One of the largest mosques in India, the Mosque has a vast congregational courtyard. In the northern part of the courtyard, is the relatively small but exquisite tomb of the sufi saint Sheikh Salim Chisti, Just as Emperor Akbar came to the saint four centuries ago seeking the saint,s blessing for a son, thousands of childless women make their way to the tomb even today. The intricate lattice screens among the most beautiful in the world have colourful threads tied around them by devotees asking for boons. To the left of the jama Masjid is the stone – cutter’s Mosque, the oldest place of worship in Fatehpur Sikri.

The Jain Circuit: Tourists Information

The Jain Temple in Sarnath, was built in 1824 and is thought to mark the birthplace of the 11th Jain Thirthankara, Shreyanshnath.

Vaishali in Bihard, is where Lord Mahavira, the final Thirthankara and founder of Jainism, was born. Pawapuri is where Lord Mavira died and was cremated around 500 BC. The marble temple, the Jala Mandir is held in great reverence by jains.

It is believed that Lord Mahavira spent some time in Rajgir. The hills here are topped with Digambara shrines. Just inside the Jharkhand state boundary with West Bengal is Parasnath, the railhead for sikayi a major Jain pilgrim centre. The 24 Temples, representing the Jain. Thirthankaras, stand at an altitude of 1366 metres. Parasnath, the 23rd Thirthankara, achieved Nirvana here 100 years after his birth.

ALONG THE COURSE OF THE SACRED RIVER GANGES

Steeped in history and religious traditions, the Gangetic Plains comprising the states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh become devotees with a rich offering of temple towns and pilgrim centers. The river Ganges-the most sacred of all rivers- flows through these two states and there are several major temple towns along its path. The states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh are also home to a number of places associated with the life and teaching of Buddha. This makes the3m sacred destinations for Buddhist pilgrims.

Varanasi. In Uttar Pradesh, is considered to be the holiest of all pilgrimage sites in India . Enshrining one of the 12 Jyotirlingames of Shiva, THE Vishwanath Temple, is the goal of millions of pilgrims who converge here. Also of significance here is the Annapoorna Temple and five other sacred spots: the Asi- Ganga Sangamam at Lolarka with a temple to the Sun God’ the convergence of River Ganges and River Varuna where there is a shrine to Kesava., the Panchaganga Ghat with a temple dedicated to Bindu- Madhava, the Dasaswamedha Ghat and the Manikarnika Ghat.

Varanasi, also known as Kashi in Hindu scriptures, has several other prominent temples and shrines. 135 km west of Varanasi is Allahabad. It is here that the River Ganges meets River Yammuna and the mythical River Saraswati. The confluence, known as Triveni Sangam, has great religious significance. Bathing here is believed to absolve one of all sins. This is also the site of the Kumbha Mela., held once in 12 years. Ayodhya, one of the seven Mukti Sthalams of India, is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama. It is also connected with many events in the Ramayana. There are several imnprotant Temples and shrines related to Rama, Sita, Lakshman and Hannuman here. The Ammaji Temple, built at a later date, on the banks of River Sarayu, is in the South Indian architectural style. The temple enshrines Lord RangANATHA AND Lord Rama. 47 Km north –west of Agra., Mathura, is the birthplace of Lord Krishna. It lies at the heart of Braj Bhoomi, a land imbued with sanctity, for it was here that the young Krishna was nurtured. Virtually every site in Mathura is associated with legends related to Krishna.

The splendid Katra Keshav Dev Temple is built over the little prison cell believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishana. The Gita Mandir has a fine image of Lord Krishna, with the Bhagvad Gita inscribed on its walls, Mathura’s most popular shrine is the Dwaradeesh Temple built in 1815.

There are about 25 splendid ghats along River Yammuna, that flows through the city. Of these, the most important is the Vishram Ghat, where Lord Krishna is believed to have rested afte3r killing Kansa. 15 Km from Matura is Vrindavan, closely linked to Lord Krishna’s youth and stories of his playful pranks. Today, it is a temple town with ghats along the river and numerous shrines. The most important of these are the Govind Deo Temple, built in 1590, The Rangaji Temple built in the Dravidian style, the Madan Mohan Temple- oldest in Vrindavan, the popular Banke Bihari Temple, the famous Radha Vallabh Temple and the ornate Shahji Temple. The incredible white marble Krishna Balram Temple complex, built by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) is also a ‘must –see’. 15 km south of Mathura is Gokul, where Krishna was brought up in secrecy by his foster parents Nand and Yashoda. There are a number of interesting temples here.

4 km from Gokul Mahavan, another location linked to Krishna’s childhood. The temple of Mathuranathji is well worth a visit. Just 8.5 km from Mahavan is Baldeo, famous for the temple dedicated to Lord Krishna’s brother Baldeo. 26 Km west of Mathura is Govardhan, where Lord Krishna is said to have lifted the Giriraqj Hill to protect his people from a deluge of rain sent down by Lord Indra. This is also the site of the 400 year old sandstone Temple of Haridev.

Barsana is about 50 km from Matura. Noted for being the birthplace of Lord Krishna’s beloved Radha, the town has temples dedicated to the divine couple. These are the only temples in India, where Radha is worshipped. Chief among them is the Radha Rani Temple, built in 1675.

56 Km from Matura is Nandgaon, the home of Lord Krishna;s father Nand. The spacious temple of Nand Rai is located on a hill. 65 km north of Lucknow, is Naimisaranya, mentioned frequency in the Ramayana and the Mahabaratha. The forest here is considered to have been the abode of 60,000 sages. This place has also been visited by Adi Shankaracharya. Surdas resided here. The Lalitha Temple, the Purna Mandir and shrines dedicated to Sage Veda Vyasa, Chakranarayana, Ganesh Rama and Lakshman adorn this town. There are also several sacred tanks, the most important being the Chakra Teertham.

Once the seat of powerful empires, Bihar was also a great religious centre for Jains. Hindusand more importantly Buddhist’s. Today the temples, Shrines and Stupas of the state bear mute testimony to the religious significance of Bihar.

Adjacent to the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya, is the Shaivaite Monastery with a cluster of four temples. The Jagannath Temple nearby, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has his statue carved in glistening black stone.

Gaya, an important pilgrim centre since time immemorial, is home to the Vihnupada Temple, one of the greatest Vaishnavaite Temples and the most sacred Pinda Daana Vedi (site of offerings to the ancestors). Vishnu’s footprint stamped on the a rock called Dharmashilla is the object of worship.

Other important temples in Gaya are the Prapitaamaheshwara Temple, where Shiva is worshipped in the form of a Linga., the Dakshinaarka Temple, an ancient shrine to the Sun God and the Mangalagowri Temple, dedicated to Shakti or the mother goddess. Gaya also has several Buddhist Temples like the Sujatha Sthan or Durgeshwari Temple.

The Chaumukhi Mahadeva at Vaishali is a Linga carved with four faces of Lord Shiva. At the Bhawan Pakhar Temple, a number of Hindu deities are enshrined at one place and worshipped together.

ALONG THE COURSE OF THE SACRED RIVER GANGES

Steeped in history and religious traditions, the Gangetic Plains comprising the states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh become devotees with a rich offering of temple towns and pilgrim centers. The river Ganges-the most sacred of all rivers- flows through these two states and there are several major temple towns along its path. The states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh are also home to a number of places associated with the life and teaching of Buddha. This makes the3m sacred destinations for Buddhist pilgrims.

Varanasi. In Uttar Pradesh, is considered to be the holiest of all pilgrimage sites in India . Enshrining one of the 12 Jyotirlingames of Shiva, THE Vishwanath Temple, is the goal of millions of pilgrims who converge here. Also of significance here is the Annapoorna Temple and five other sacred spots: the Asi- Ganga Sangamam at Lolarka with a temple to the Sun God’ the convergence of River Ganges and River Varuna where there is a shrine to Kesava., the Panchaganga Ghat with a temple dedicated to Bindu- Madhava, the Dasaswamedha Ghat and the Manikarnika Ghat.

Varanasi, also known as Kashi in Hindu scriptures, has several other prominent temples and shrines. 135 km west of Varanasi is Allahabad. It is here that the River Ganges meets River Yammuna and the mythical River Saraswati. The confluence, known as Triveni Sangam, has great religious significance. Bathing here is believed to absolve one of all sins. This is also the site of the Kumbha Mela., held once in 12 years. Ayodhya, one of the seven Mukti Sthalams of India, is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama. It is also connected with many events in the Ramayana. There are several imnprotant Temples and shrines related to Rama, Sita, Lakshman and Hannuman here. The Ammaji Temple, built at a later date, on the banks of River Sarayu, is in the South Indian architectural style. The temple enshrines Lord RangANATHA AND Lord Rama. 47 Km north –west of Agra., Mathura, is the birthplace of Lord Krishna. It lies at the heart of Braj Bhoomi, a land imbued with sanctity, for it was here that the young Krishna was nurtured. Virtually every site in Mathura is associated with legends related to Krishna.

The splendid Katra Keshav Dev Temple is built over the little prison cell believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishana. The Gita Mandir has a fine image of Lord Krishna, with the Bhagvad Gita inscribed on its walls, Mathura’s most popular shrine is the Dwaradeesh Temple built in 1815.

There are about 25 splendid ghats along River Yammuna, that flows through the city. Of these, the most important is the Vishram Ghat, where Lord Krishna is believed to have rested afte3r killing Kansa. 15 Km from Matura is Vrindavan, closely linked to Lord Krishna’s youth and stories of his playful pranks. Today, it is a temple town with ghats along the river and numerous shrines. The most important of these are the Govind Deo Temple, built in 1590, The Rangaji Temple built in the Dravidian style, the Madan Mohan Temple- oldest in Vrindavan, the popular Banke Bihari Temple, the famous Radha Vallabh Temple and the ornate Shahji Temple. The incredible white marble Krishna Balram Temple complex, built by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) is also a ‘must –see’. 15 km south of Mathura is Gokul, where Krishna was brought up in secrecy by his foster parents Nand and Yashoda. There are a number of interesting temples here.

4 km from Gokul Mahavan, another location linked to Krishna’s childhood. The temple of Mathuranathji is well worth a visit. Just 8.5 km from Mahavan is Baldeo, famous for the temple dedicated to Lord Krishna’s brother Baldeo. 26 Km west of Mathura is Govardhan, where Lord Krishna is said to have lifted the Giriraqj Hill to protect his people from a deluge of rain sent down by Lord Indra. This is also the site of the 400 year old sandstone Temple of Haridev.

Barsana is about 50 km from Matura. Noted for being the birthplace of Lord Krishna’s beloved Radha, the town has temples dedicated to the divine couple. These are the only temples in India, where Radha is worshipped. Chief among them is the Radha Rani Temple, built in 1675.

56 Km from Matura is Nandgaon, the home of Lord Krishna;s father Nand. The spacious temple of Nand Rai is located on a hill. 65 km north of Lucknow, is Naimisaranya, mentioned frequency in the Ramayana and the Mahabaratha. The forest here is considered to have been the abode of 60,000 sages. This place has also been visited by Adi Shankaracharya. Surdas resided here. The Lalitha Temple, the Purna Mandir and shrines dedicated to Sage Veda Vyasa, Chakranarayana, Ganesh Rama and Lakshman adorn this town. There are also several sacred tanks, the most important being the Chakra Teertham.

Once the seat of powerful empires, Bihar was also a great religious centre for Jains. Hindusand more importantly Buddhist’s. Today the temples, Shrines and Stupas of the state bear mute testimony to the religious significance of Bihar.

Adjacent to the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya, is the Shaivaite Monastery with a cluster of four temples. The Jagannath Temple nearby, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has his statue carved in glistening black stone.

Gaya, an important pilgrim centre since time immemorial, is home to the Vihnupada Temple, one of the greatest Vaishnavaite Temples and the most sacred Pinda Daana Vedi (site of offerings to the ancestors). Vishnu’s footprint stamped on the a rock called Dharmashilla is the object of worship.

Other important temples in Gaya are the Prapitaamaheshwara Temple, where Shiva is worshipped in the form of a Linga., the Dakshinaarka Temple, an ancient shrine to the Sun God and the Mangalagowri Temple, dedicated to Shakti or the mother goddess. Gaya also has several Buddhist Temples like the Sujatha Sthan or Durgeshwari Temple.

The Chaumukhi Mahadeva at Vaishali is a Linga carved with four faces of Lord Shiva. At the Bhawan Pakhar Temple, a number of Hindu deities are enshrined at one place and worshipped together.

MINARETS, DOMES AND CALLIGRAPHY ; THE MOSQUES & SHRINES OF NORTHERN INDIA

Undoubtedly the most important Muslim shrine of Kashmir is the Hazratbal Mosque, situated on the left bank of the Dal Lake in Srinagar. The shrine commands great reverence as it houses the Moi-e-Muqqadas; the sacred hair of propher Mohammed. The Moi-e-Muqqadas; is displayed on various occasions related with the life of the propher and his four holy companions. Also in Srinagar is the Charaf-E-Sharif, the tomb of Seikh Nooruddin, the greatest mystic-saint of Kashmir. One of the oldest Muslim shrine in the state of Jammu & Kashmir is the shah-e-Hamdan or Khanqah-e-Moula. Situated on the banks of River Jhaleum in the old city, the shrine was constructed in the memory of the Muslim preacher mir syed Ali Hamdani who had visited Kasshmir and stayed there for meditation and preaching. The Jama Masjid is one the most important mosques of Srinagar. The roof of this impressive mosque is supported by more than 300 soaring pillars, each made of a single deodar tree truck. First constructed in 1385, the Mosque was destroyed by fire three times and rebuilt. Shahdara Sharief, the tomb of Baba Ghulam shah is situated in the lap of mountains in Rajouri district. Held in respect by Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs, this famous shrine has over the years grown to symbolize communal harmony. Another popular shrine is the Ziarat Baba Buddan shah on the outskirts of Jammu city. Baba Buddan shah was born at Talwandi in Punjab and it is said that other shrine of this sint is located at Anandpur Sshib in Punjab. In Delhi, just across the higheway from Humayun,s Tomb, is the shrine of a revered sufi saint Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya or Nizam-ud-Din. Every Thursday, after the evening prayers, the Dargah resounds with Qawwalis. And twice during the year, on the death anniversaries of Hazrat Nizam,d-Din Auliya and Amir Khusro an Urs is held here when the entire area comes to life with pilgrims congregating from all over India. The tomb of Nasiru,d-Din Mahmud, the disciple of Hazrat Nizamu,d-Din, also known as Raushan Chiragh-i-Dili, is located on Malaviya Nagar-Kalkaji Road. The Tomb consists of a twelve-pillared square chamber, enclosed within perforated screens and surmounted by a plastered dome. The Jamali-Kamali Mosque and Tomb is located on the Mehrauli Bypass to Gurgaon. This is the tomb of Sikh Fazlu,llah also known as Jalal Khan a saint and poet who lived from Sikandar Lodi,s regign to that of Humayun. In the vicinity of the Red Fort in old Delhi is the Jama Masjid counted among the largest mosques in India with enough space to accommodate as many as 25,000 worshippers. The Jama Masjid was built by Emperor shah Jahan over six years. The construction was completed in 1644. A small shrine within the mosque houses the relic of propher Mohammed as well as the Holy Koran. On the southern outskirts of Mehrauli, New Delhi is Hauz-E-Shamsi, a large tank (Hauz) believed to have been built by Shamsu’d –Din Iltutmish in 1230. Legend has it that Prophet Mohammed appeared in Iltutmish’s dream and pointed out this site to him as suitable for building the tank., which he had in mind. The next morning Iltumish noticed the point of one of the hooves of the Propher’s horse, around which he built a domed platform and excavated the tank. The waters of the tank are regarded as sacred, and several graves of Muslim saints lie around it. The procession for the fair called ‘Phulwalon-ki-Sair’ or Sair- I –Gulfaroshan’., when flower vendors present flower-bedecked large fans at Dargah of Qutub-Sahib and at the Jogamaya TEMPLE, Starts from the overflow outlet of this tank, called `Jharna’.

Ali-Shah Qalandar, a Sufi saint who lived during the times of Qutubuddin Aibak, was held in high esteem by both Hindus and Muslims. The Dargah of Bu-Ali-Shaha Qalandar is situated just outside the town of Panipat. The Urs Mubarak is celebrated with Sufi abandon every year on the Saint’s death anniversary .

The Pathar Masjid of Kurukshetra is noted for its fluted minarets attached to its back wall. The ceiling of the mosque resting on pillars is decorated with floral designs carved in low relief. The 1qibia’ in the centre of the western wall, is flanked on either side by two arched niches inscribed with verses from the Koran.

Dharamshala , Mcleodganj and Leh

Mcleod Ganj 4 km above Dharmasala, in the kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh is the home of his Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. The Tsuglagkhang Complex here is the most important Buddhist monument in the region enshrining three magnificent images, including an enormous three metres high gilt statue of sakyamuni Buddha. Next to the Tsuglagkharg is the ‘Kaal charka Temple, housing a stunning mural of the Kaal charka (Wheel of Time). The remaining buildings from the Namgyl Gopa.

The main prayer hall of the ‘Dip Tse-Chok Gompa, houses an image of Sakyamuni Buddha. Superb butter sculptures are made here during the Losar festival and destroyed the following year. Fine and detailed sand mandals are also made here.

Within Leh itself is the Namgyl Tsemo Gompa , the soma Gompa and the sankar Gompa. The Shanti Stupa here is truly impressive, especially when it is illuminated at night. About 8 km from Leh is the 15th century Spituk Gompa, perched on a hilltop above the Indus River. The Thiksey Gompa, 17 km south of Leh, is situated on a hilltop amidst picturesque surroundings. One of the largest monasteries in the region. Thiksey has rooms full of statues, ttupas and Tankahs religious painting of all kinds.

Alchi, a little village about 70 km from Leh, is known as a jewel among the religious siter in Ledakh. Abandoned centuries ago, this monasteries has been lovingly maintained by the monks at Likhir, the nearest functioning Gompa. It is popularly known as Chos-kar (regigious enclave) and comprises five temples. Also part of the Buddhist devotee’s itinerary is the 400 year old mud-brick Gompa at Basgo, one of the top hundred endangered world Heritage sites; the magnificent Gompa at likir, the shey Gompa, 15 km south of Leh, with the12 metre high gold plated sakyamuni Buddha Statue the Matho and stakna Gompas and the stok Gompa with its fine maske and frescoes. You will find more Gompas in the Nubra valley of Ladakh, like the 150 year old Samstemling. Gompa at sumur, a large complex with seven temples, inaugurated by his holiness, the Dalai Lama, in 1962.

The largest district in Himachal Predesh, Lahaul & spiti is a picturesque region of high mountains and narrow valleys. Called the little Tibet of the Himalayas, the twin valleys have a pre-dominantly Buddhist culture and their Gompas are repositories of Buddhist treasures. Around Kaza, the administrative centre of spiti sub-district, are several Gompas. The largest and oldest of these is Ki Gompa. 14 km from Kaza, the Gompa has a spectacular location and a priceless collection of ancient Thangkas. 11 km from Ki village is the small village of

Kibber (or Khyipur), famous for the Ladarcha festival, held near Kibber each Jluy attracting Buddhists from far and wide. Built nearly 1000 years ago, Dhankar Gompa has a spectacular rocky setting and some interesting sculptures and frescoes. The Tabo Gompa is one of the most important monasteries in the Tibetan Buddhist world. Founded in 996 AD, the Gompa is said to be the initiative of the greet teacher, Rinchensang Po, also known as Mahaguru Ratnabhadra. Located at a height of 3050 metres, the Tabo Monastery complex comprises nine temple 23 chortens, a monks chamber and an extension that houses the nuns chamber. An earthen wall encloses the complex sprawled across an area of 6,300 sq mtr. On the sheer cliff face above the enclave are a series of caves once used as dwelling units by the monks. Taboi is often called the Ajanta of the Himalyas because of its breathtaking murals and stucco images.
Around Keylong, the capital of Lahaul & spiti is the 900 years old Khardong Gompa, with some excellent frescoes. The prayer wheel here is reputed to contain one million strips of paper bearing the mantra “Om Mani padme Hum” 3 km from keylong is the 16th century Shashur Gompa, the venue of the annual Chaam festival in June- July.

PRAYER FLAGS PRAYER WHEELS AND PICTUREQUE GOMPAS, THE BUDDHIST TRAIL

The remote region of Ladakh has a GEAT Buddhist tradition with about 13 major monasteries. The most important of these is the Hemis, considered the Gompa of Gompas 45 Km from Leh, the administrative capital of Ladakh the Hemis Gompa has well preserved frescoes, good Buddha figures, the largest Thangka in ladakh and an excellent library. It is also the venue of the famous Hemis Festival in June.

Within Leh itself is the Namgyl Tsemo Gompa, the Soma Gompa and the Sankar Gompa. The Shanti Stupa here is truly imnpressive, especially when it is illuminated at night. About 8 km from Leh is the 15th century Spituk Gumpa, perched on a hilltop above the Indus River. The Thiksey Gompa, 17 km south of Leh is situated on a hilltop amidst picturesque surroundings. One of the largest monasteries in the region. Thiksey has rooms full of statues, stupas and Tankahs- religious paintings of all kinds.

Alchi. A little village about 70 km from Leh, is known as a jewel among the religious sites in Ladakh. Abandoned centuries ago, this monastery has been lovingly maintained by the monks at Likhir, the nearest functioning Gompa. It is popularly known as Chose-kor (religious enclave) and comprises five temples.

Places of Religious Importance for Sikhs in Northern India

Amritsar the most sacred city for the Sikhs, is home to the Golden temple also known as Hari Mandir or Darbar sahib. The holiest shrine of Sikhism, the beautiful and serene temple stands in the middle of Amrit Sarovar, the sacred pool that gives the city its name. The two strayed marble temple is reached by a causeway known as the Guru’s Bridge. The golden dome is believed to represent an inverted lotus. Priests in the temple keep up a continuous reading from the Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy book. Around the temple are several other historical buildings. 22 Km from Amritsar is Taran Taran. The pool near this shrine is believed to have curative properties. Godindwal Saheb is 30 Km from Amritsar. The final resting place of Guru Angad Devji here. Baba Bakala, 45 km from Amritsar is dedicated to the ninth Guru Tegh Bahadur. There is a magnificent Gurudwara here. 40 Km from Chandigarh is Sirhind, the place where Guru Gobind Singh’s sons were martyred.

The fatehgarh Sahib Gurudwara, marks this spot. About 75 Km north-west of Chandigarh in Haryana is Anandpur Sahib One of the holiest sites for Sikhs, Anandpur Sahib has several historical Gurudwara and has been an important pilgrim centre for over 300 years. The largest Gurudwara here is the Gurudwara Kesgarh Sahib, believed to be where the Khalsa Panth was born. In March every year, this event is commemorated with the festival of Holla Mohalla. Facing Kesgarh Sahib is Gurudwara Anandgarh Sahib. 142 Km from Shimla, in Himachal Pradesh is Paonta Sahib home to an impressive Gurudwara dedicated to the Tenth Sikh Guru, Gobind Singh who were a major part of the Dassam Granth here.

A Spiritual Expedition in The Lap of The Himalayas : The Pilgrim Centres of Northern India.

For centuries the mighty Himalayas, crowning the Indian sub-continent, have been revered as the abode of divinity. Himalayas of shrines and pilgrim sites dot the Himalayas footbills and the lofty ice clad peaks many of them associated with the Indian epics. The sacred River Ganges originates here winding its way down to the plains. Also in the Himalayas are the prayags or the sacred confluences of the various river that feed the River Ganges.

The picturesque state of Jammu & Kashmir is home to several sacred shrines and pilgrim centres. Hindu Temples Muslim shrines, Sikh Gurudwaras and Buddhist Monasteries add to the cultural of this beautiful state. The most outstanding landmark in Jammu the summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir is the Raghunath Temple dedicated to lord Rama. The impressive shrine was built in 1835. Surrounded by snow-clad mountains, Amarnath, in the state of Jammu & Kashmir is one the most revered pilgrim centres of India. Located 140 Km north east of Srinagar, at a height of 13,000 feet above sea level, the Amarnath Cave enshrines a natural Shivalingam of ice. To the left of the Shivalingam is another ice block representing Ganesha, and to the right of the Shivalingam are blocks reprinting Parvati and Bhairava.

Inside the Amaranth cave is another small cave on the left of the image, from which a chalk like substance is given out to pilgrims as Vibhuti (Holy Ash). Open only for a few months during the year, Amarnath is reached after a strenuous hike through the Himalayas. In Amarnath the Vaishno Devi Temple too, requires an arduous trek, Situated about 60 Km north east of Jammu, on the triangular hill Trikoota Bhagwati, this shrine I sat an altitude of 5,300 feet and at a distance of 12 Km from Latra the last motorable point, The temple enshrines Vaishno Devi, a manifestation of the three forms of Goddess Shakti-Mahalakshmi, Maha Parvati and Maha Saraswati. Nestling in the northern lap of the Himalaya Ranges, Himachal Pradesh, literally means the land of the snow. Valleys overflowing with exotic flowers, snow-capped peaks and green hills, gushing rivers and streams. Himachal Pradesh is breathtakingly beautiful. It is also home to several temple and Buddhist is also home to several temples and Buddhist monasteries.

Mashobra, 11 Km from shimla has a wooden temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. About 15 Km north of Mashobra is the village of Naldhera, famous for its Mahunag Mandir. Rampur has several interesting temples including the ancient Raghunath Temple. Also worth a visit are the Purohit Mandir and the Sri sat Narain Temple. Sarahan is home to the Bhimakli Temple. This ancient temple complex is regarded as one of the finest examples of Himachal architecture. The two main temples are built in the form of towers, with elaborately carved overhanging upper storey. While the presiding deity is Bhimakali, the temple also house images of Paravati, Buddha and Annapoorna, among others Also in the courtyard is the Lankra Vir Temple.

The spectacular mountain village of Kalpa, is the legendary winter home of Lord Shiva. The village offers breathtaking views of Mt. kinnaur Kailash. The Narayan-Nagin Temple Complex here includes shrines of Hindu, Buddhism and Local deities. Kangra was once the capital of the princely state of Kangra. Today it is most famous for the Temple of Bajreshwari. It is said that the legendary wealth of this temple, tempted dozens of invaders. But the temple re-emerged from each invasion and in Jehangir’s time it was paved in plates of silver. About 34 Km south of Kangra is the temple of Jwalamukhi, the goddess of light. This temple is one of the most sacred sites in the Kangra vally and is topped by a golden dome and spire. Baijunath, 46 Km south-east of Dharamasala, is an important pilgrim centre. The ancient Baidyanth Temple here is dedicated to Lord Shiva in his incarnation as Vaidyanath Lord of the Physicians. This is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of India. Believed to date from 804 AD, this temple said to have been built by the Pandavas, is a prominent Hindu pilgrimage spot. 56 Km from Dalhouse is Chamba, a picturesque village with narrow streets and ancient temple. The six shikara-style temples in the Lakshmi Narayan Complex feature exquisite sculptures and date from the 10th century all the way up to the 19th century. The largest and oldest temple in this group is that of Lakshmi Narayan(Vishnu). Mandi, the Gateway to the Kullu Valley has more than 80 temple of Varying ages scattered around the hillside. The more well-known of these are the 16th century Bhutnath Temple, the 17th century Syamkali Temple (also called the Tarna Devi Temple), the Triloknath and the Panjvaktra Temples.

About 24 Km South west of Mandi is the Rewalsar Lake, of religious significance to Buddhist Sikh and Hindus. There are several Gompas here a huge Guru Govind Singh Gurudwar and three Hindu temples. These are dedicated to Rishi Lomas, Shiva and Krishna. 15 Km south of Kullu in the village of Bajaura is the 8th century Basheshar Mahadev, the largest stone temples in the kullu valley. The Temples has fine carving and sculptures. The Ragunath Temple is Kullu is dedicated to the principals God in the valley. Avoid 3 Km from Kullu in the village of bhekhli is the Jaganathi Devi Temple. Dusshera celebrations at Kullu are truly memorable. During the festival lord Rama is worshipped in his form as Raghunath whose image is borne though the streets in a grand rath. Famous for its hot springs, mannikaran, means jewel from the ear. Legend has it that a giant snake took earrings from Paravati while she was bathing and then snorted them through its nose to create spaces where the hot springs spewed fourth. It is a place revered by both Hindus and Sikhs. There is a monumental Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurudwara here.

The lovely little village of Naggar is known for its ancient temples, including the Temple of Gauri Shankar, dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Chatur Bhuj Temple dedicated to Vishnu, the pagoda-like Trioura Sundari Devi Temple with its ornate carvings and the Muralidhar Krishna Temple. Punjab and Haryana have been the cradle of early Aryan civilization. It was on the banks of the Punjab rivers that ancient Hindu sages had sung the Vedic hymns and authored for the Vedas. It was at Kurukshetra, now in Haryana, that the epic battle of Mahabharata was fought and Lord Krishna gave his advice to Arjuna, encapsulated in the Bhagvad Gita. This sacred book spells out the essence of Hinduism.

Near the Golden Temple in Amritsar is the 16th century Durgiana Temple, with a golden dome and silver portals. Dedicated to goddess Durga, this temple is an important place of pilgrimage for Hindus. Close by is a larger temple, built like the golden temple, the centre of a pool. This temple is dedicated to Lakshmi and Narayan.

Kurukshetra. In Haryana, is held in great reverence by Hindus. It is here that thousands of devotees converge to have a holy dip in the Sarovar, on the occasion of festivals and other auspicious days.

In Delhi, the capital city of India, is the Laksmi Narayan Temple. A modern temple, built by the Birlas in 1938, the temple houses the images of Naryan (Vishnu) and his consort Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth. The Temple also has images of other deities as well .

Adjoining the Qutub Minar is the famous Jogmaya Temple. Special worship is performed here at the time of the ‘Phoolwalon Ki Sair’

The recently formed state of Uttaranchal is a land of rolling hills, snow covered mountains, pristine, forests, high altitude meadows and glacial streams. It is also home to some of Hinduism’s most sacred sites.

Located at the point where the River Ganges emerges from the Himalayas, Haridwar is one of the most sacred cities of India. Haridwar ( and Rishikesh) represent the gateway to the Himalayan pilgrimage shrines of Badrinath and Kedarnath. Haridwar is also the venue of the Kumbha Mela, held once in twelve years.

The five sacred bathing spots in Haridwar are Gangadwara, Kankhal, Nila Parvata, Bilwa Theertha and Kusavarta. The main ghat at Haridwar is known as Hari- Ki – Pauri (known for a footprint of Vishnu on a stone in a wall). Nearby is the Gangadwara Temple, the most important of the several temples that dot this town. Also of significance are Mansa Devi Temple, Chandi Devi Temple, Pareshwar Mahadev Temple, Daksha Mahadev Temple, Pawan Dhama Temple and the Lal Mata Temple, a perfect replica of the Vaishno Devi Temple in Kashmir.

The Ganga Aarti which is performed every evening is a spectacular sight. The Aarti ceremony is performed at all temples in Haridwar at the same time. Lamps and flowers are offered to River Ganges immediately after the Aarti. Near Haridwar are the towns of Mayapuri and Kankhal. The latter houses the Daksheswar Temple, said to be the site of Daksha’s yagna, which was destroyed by Shiva. 24 Km from Haridwar, is Rishikesh, on the banks of River Ganges. It is surrounded by the Shivalik Range of the Himalayas on three sides. This is the starting point for the Char Dham Yatra. Triveni Ghat, believed to be the confluence of the Ganga, the Yamuna and the legendary Saraswati river, is a sacred bathing spot. After sunset, as part of the Aarti ceremony lamps are set afloat on the water offering a spectacular view. Also of significance at Rishikesh are the Lakshman Jhoola and the Ram Jhoola, the Bharat Mandir and Lakshman Mandir dedicated to the brothers of Lord Rama, the Swargashram and the Geeta Bhavan temples. 12 Km away from Rishikesh is located the Nilkanth Mahadeo Temple at a height of about 5,000 feet, commanding spectacular views of the region. 70 km from Rishikesh enrooted to Badrinath is the ancient pilgrim centre of Devaprayag, at the confluence of the River Alaknanda Bhagirathi. There is an ancient temple established by Adi Shankaracharya here enshrining Rama (Reghunathji). There are also shrines of Hanuman, Badrinathi, Kaal Bhairav and Shiva. Brahma, Dasharatha and Rama are said to have prayed here. 155 Km from Rishikesh, on the banks of River Ganges is Uttarkashi, an important stop on the way north to the Char Dham. There are numerous temple here, the most important being the Vishwananth Temple, sacred to Shiva. He gateway to the Dham of Badrinath, Joshi Mutt is home to the first Mutt established by Adi Shankaracharya. The temples of Narasimha and Vasudeva were also built by Adi Shankaracharya.

The char Dham High up in the Harhwal Himalayas, these four ancient temple mark the spiritual sources of the four sacred river of Hinduism the Yamuna (Yamunotri), the Ganges (Gangotri), the Mandakini (Kedarnath) and the Alaknanda (Badrinath). All have spectacular locations and draw thousands of pilgrims every year. Yamunotri is the source of River Yamuna, the second most sacred river in India. The river emerges from a frozen lake of ice and glacis on the Kalinda Parvat mountain at an altitude of 4421 metres. As the sources of the Ganges (Know as Bhagirathi until it reaches Devaprayag), Gangotri is one of the holiest places in India.

The 18th century Gangotri Temple has a ghat where the devout bathe. Nearby is the rock on which Lord Shiva is said to have received the Ganga in his matted locks. Kedarnath is the course of River mandakini. One of the best known Shivaasthalams in India, Kedarnath is revered as one of the 12 Jyotirlingams. This ancient shrine is accessible only on foot six months in a year. Sacred to Lord Vishnu, the ancient pilgrim centre of Badrinath represents the source of the Alaknanda River. Of Badrinath, it has been said “there are many sacred spots of pilgrimage in the heavens, earth and the nether worl, but there has been none equal to Badri, nor shall there be”.

Open only for six months a year, this temple has an image of Badrinarayan, flanked by Kuber and Garuda, Narada, Narayana and Nara. Mahalakshmi (refered to as Aravindavalli in the sri Vaishnava tradition) has a sanctum in the prakaram. There is also a shrine of Adi Shankaracharya. Ritual offerings to Pitrus (Souls of the dead) are performed at Brahma Kapalam (located at a distance of 200 ft from the main shrine) on the banks of Alaknanda.

Mount Kailash the Abode of Shiva : An arduos trek though the snow clad Himalayas leads a pilgrim to Mt Kailash (also known as hemakootam) in the Himalayas. This towering peak situated north of the Manasarovar lake (considered as one the Shakthi Peethams) is hailed as the Abode of Lord Shiva. Mt Kailash is one of the four Shiva in the Himalayas the other three being Gowrikund, Kedarnath and Indraneela Parvatha. Several major rivers have their source around the Manasarovar Lake and Mt Kailash.

Mt Kailash appearing like a giant Shivafingam placed in a 16 pedaled lotus, is regarded by Hindus as an embodiment of Shiva and parvati. The Buddhists refer to the sacred mountain as Kangri Karchchak they regard the presiding deity of Mt Kailash as the deity with three eyes, holding the Damaru and the Trishul his consort is referred to as Dorje Fangmo. The jains regard Mt Kailash as the Ashtapada mountain where the first Thirthankara Adinath (Rishabhadeva) attained Nirvana.

Bringing the Joys of a Pilgrimage in India

Be it East, West, North or South, India has the proud heritage of pilgrimage centres. more so, places of Hindu worship and faith. Mingling with these are also places that enshrine the beliefs of Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, Jainism and Sikhism.

Thus India is truly the only world state that has the spirit to respect all religions and have distinct shrine for them. A riot of culture is reflected through these religious. The glorious Himalayas house the Chardham, the true abode of the Gods and Goddesses.

Down south, the rich temples of the Chola period stand testimony to the deep knowledge of art, science, culture and religious. South-west you have the magnificent churches of Goa reverberating with its own spiritual ethos. The Golden temple of Amritsar, the home of the Granth Sahib, the temple of miracles of lord Jagannath of Puri, the Dargah of Moinnudin Chisti of Ajmer the list goes on and on. The faith unbreakable. The glory of which is to be seen and cherished only in India. In the pages that follow, an attempt to complete many places of religious significance for the Hindus, Sikhs, Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Jews and Zoroatrians has been mad4e. These demonstrate the important role that religious plays in the day-to-day life of every Indian. Space constraints prevent us from covering all the pilgrim cetres of India. Any exclusion is totally unintentional.

Aim of Travelling Blog

1. The aim of this blog is to ensure that the general public is able to get authenticated information related to travelling under a single window.

2. The content listed is authenticated and one can rely on the same. Initially all travel information related to India will be posted and thereafter it will cover other countries as we progress in life to make travelling a pleasurable experience.

Information of use for Parsi Devotee

Surat in Gujarat has several Parsi Temples, 29 km south of Surat is Navsari, the headquarters of the Parsi community since the earliest days of their settlement in India.Udvada, only 10 km north of Vapi (the railway station for Daman) has the oldest Parsi sacred fire in India. It is said that athe fire was brought from Persia to Diu, in 700 AD. Sanjan, in the extreme south of the state, is the small port where the parsis first landed. A pillar marks the spot.

LORD GANESHA SHRINES IN MAHARASTRA

The sidhi Vinayak Temple in Mumbai is a modern shrine. The ashta Vinayak Temple around pune. Moreshwar in Moregaon, is one of the most popular of these shrines, depicting Ganapati on a peacock mount.

Ranjangaon and Mahad enshrine Mahaganapati and varadvinayak respectively. Ozar depicts Ganapati as Vigneshwar.
Girijaatmaja Vinayak at Lenyadri hills is a representation of Ganesha in the form of an infant. Ballal Vinayak at Pali the Chintamani Vinayak at Thevoor, near Pune and the Siddhi Vinayak Temple is Siddhatek.