The Indian Subcontinent is home to some spectacular religious spots and structures that are loved for their spiritual ambience as well as architectural ingenuity. Here are the top ten sacred spots in the India Subcontinent you must visit.
Varanasi, India
Also known as Kashi and Banaras, Varanasi is the cultural capital of India, frequented by a large number of tourists every year. Popular as one of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism, it is considered the oldest city of the world, with hundreds of temples here reflecting the country’s rich cultural and religious heritage. New Vishwanath Temple, Kathwala Temple and Kashi Vishwanath are some of the major attractions here.
Golden Temple, Amritsar
The holiest shrine of Sikhism, Golden Temple, also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, is easily the biggest attraction in Amritsar, Punjab. Darbar Sahib, featuring a delicate golden structure at the centre, is the most sacred part of the temple. Besides, a beautiful shimmering lake called the "Pool of Nectar" surrounds the temple.
Faisal Mosque, Islamabad
The biggest mosque in South Asia and the sixth largest in the world, Faisal Mosque in Islamabad, capital of Pakistan, covers an area of 54,000 square feet. It is considered the national mosque of Pakistan and appeals to the guests for its modern Islamic architecture. Do enjoy the picturesque view of Margla Hill from the mosque.
Dambulla Cave Temple, Sri Lanka
Also known as the golden temple of Dambulla, Dambulla Cave Temple is the largest cave temple in Sri Lanka, located at an elevation of 1118 feet from the sea level. The major attractions of the temple are scattered across its different caves. A total of 153 Buddha statues as well as statues of three Sri Lankan kings and four gods and goddesses can be spotted here.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Nepal
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a royal plaza with a number of pagoda and shikhara-style temples. While the complex has four different squares - Durbar Square, Dattatreya Square, Taumadhi Square and Pottery Square - the entire area is referred to as the Bhaktapur Durbar Square. It highlights the ancient arts of Nepal and is among the most charming architectural showpieces of the Himalayan country.
Rishikesh, India
Rishikesh lies at the foot of the Himalayas and is surrounded by hills on three sides. It is called the yoga capital of the world and is home to a number of temples, ashrams and yoga centres and retreats; not surprisingly, the town attracts travellers from all over the world. Moreover, you can enjoy several adventure sports here; in fact, river rafting remains one of the most loved recreational activities in the town.
Bodh Gaya, India
One of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world, Body Gaya is famed as the spot where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. It is a peaceful spot in Bihar, a central Indian province, where monks visit from across the globe. Bodh Gaya also houses dozens of Buddhist monasteries and temples.
Basilica De Bom Jesus, Goa
Basilica De Bom Jesus church is located in Old Goa and reflects the wonderful Baroque style of architecture. Dedicated to the newborn Jesus, the church is the World Heritage Monument and is perhaps the most visited church in Goa. The unique, unplastered exterior as well as exquisite white marble flooring and gilded altars adorned with frescoes and inlay work are all delightful. Besides, the church holds the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier in a silver coffer.
Dhakeshwari Temple, Dhaka
The primary Hindu temple in Bangladesh, Dhakeshwari Temple is located in Old Dhaka and is named after the Goddess Dhaka. It is the national temple of Bangladesh and holds the popular Bengali Hindu festival, the Annual Puja of Goddess Durga, every year. The temple is considered an important part of the cultural heritage of Dhaka.
Jama Masjid, Delhi
A peaceful spot amidst the maddening chaos of Old Delhi, Jama Masjid reminds the visitors of the Mughal era with its exquisite, Islamic architecture. The second largest mosque in the Indian subcontinent, it features three gates, two-40 metre high minarets and four towers. A visit to Delhi is not complete without exploring this holy place where hundreds of people gather every day to offer their prayers.
