7 Hindu Places Of Worship – SAPTA PURI!!

Neha Sharma posted on Friday, Jan 24th, 2025

The Sapta Puri, as described in Hindu scriptures, are seven sacred cities believed to lead one to Moksha (salvation) and ultimate peace. Moksha signifies liberation from the cycle of birth and death, offering a path to Nirvana. The seven holy cities include Ayodhya, Mathura, Maya (Haridwar), Kasi (Varanasi), Kanchi (Kanchipuram), Avantika (Ujjain), and Dvaravati (Dwarka). These cities are deeply tied to Hindu mythology, with Ayodhya being Lord Ram’s birthplace and Mathura as the land of Lord Krishna’s birth. Discover the serenity of these divine cities & immerse yourself in their spiritual essence.

Ayodhya 

Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram, is one of the most sacred places of Hinduism. Lord Ram, known as the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu, makes this city a pivotal part of the Hindu pilgrimage in India. Known as one of the Sapta Puri (seven holy cities of India), Ayodhya holds immense significance in India’s historical, political, and cultural landscape. Located in Uttar Pradesh, about 6 km from Faizabad, it rests on the banks of the sacred Sarayu River. Believed over 9,000 years old, it was once the capital of Raja Dashrath’s prosperous kingdom. With over 700 Hindu shrines, Ayodhya is a key Hindu center and among the holiest cities of Hinduism. 

Famous sites like Ram Janmabhoomi, Kanak Bhawan, Sita ki Rasoi, Hanumangarhi, and Treta ka Thakur attract pilgrims and tourists from all over the world, affirming its place among India’s most revered sacred sites.

Varanasi 

Known as Shiv ki Nagari, Varanasi is not only one of the oldest cities in India but also a sacred site for Hinduism. This holy city is a vital Hindu center with approximately 20,000 temples scattered throughout its streets. Hindu scriptures state that Lord Shiva crafted Kashi with his own hands, which is why it is regarded as the spiritual capital of India. Many believe that attaining Moksha (salvation) is possible by dying in this holy city. The Ghats of Varanasi, such as Manikarnika Ghat & Dashashwamedha Ghat, are known for their spiritual significance and the calming views of the holy River Ganga.

Other prominent sites include the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Asi Sangam Ghat, Bindhu Madhava, and Sankat Mochan Temple, making Varanasi a cherished pilgrimage destination in India.

Mathura

Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, is one of the most sacred cities of Hinduism. Located in Uttar Pradesh, near Vrindavan & the revered Goverdhan Hill, Mathura holds immense spiritual significance. Lord Krishna, considered an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, descended to protect the earth from the evil King Kansa. Known as the heart of Indian culture, Mathura is adorned with vibrant temples that showcase its rich heritage. The best time to visit this holy city is during Krishna Janmashtami when the entire city comes alive to celebrate the divine birth of Krishna. 

Apart from being a major pilgrimage site for Hindus, Mathura is also renowned for its magnificent Buddhist art, a timeless treasure from the golden era of Indian culture.

Haridwar 

Haridwar, which translates to “Hari ka Dwar” or the gateway of Lord Vishnu, is one of the holiest cities in India. It is a key stop for Hindus before embarking on the Char Dham Yatra (Four Abodes of Hindu Religion), where devotees take a ritualistic bath in the sacred waters of the River Ganga. According to Hindu religious texts, Bhagirath prayed to Lord Shiva to bring the divine Ganga to Earth for the welfare of mankind. It is believed that Har ki Pauri is the first place where the Ganga touched the earth. 

Some of the major Hindu temples in Haridwar include the Mansa Devi Temple, Bharat Mata Temple, Maya Devi Temple, and Chandi Devi Temple. Additionally, Haridwar is known for hosting the famous Kumbh Mela every 12 years, drawing millions of devotees to this sacred place.

Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram, Known as one of the seven sacred cities of India, is famous for its divine temples. Situated on the banks of the River Vegavathi, this city is often referred to as the “City of Thousand Temples” and the “City of Gold.” It holds immense spiritual significance in Hinduism, particularly because of the work of the great philosopher Adi Shankara, who spread Advaita philosophy here. Located just 75 km from Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, Kanchipuram attracts pilgrims from all over the world. The city has around 108 Shaiva temples and 18 Vaishnava temples, making it a prominent Hindu pilgrimage site. 

Some of the most revered temples include the Ekambareswarar Temple, Varadharaja Perumal Temple, Kailasnathar Temple, and Kamakshi Temple.

Ujjain

Ujjain, one of the seven sacred cities of India, also known as Sapta Puri, is situated on the banks of the Kshipra River. According to Hindu beliefs, Ujjain emerged during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean). The city is home to one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, making it a prominent Hindu pilgrimage site. Ujjain also holds deep spiritual significance due to its connection with Lord Krishna. It is believed that Krishna, along with his elder brother Balram, came to Ujjain to receive their education under the guidance of Muni Sandipani. 

A major attraction in Ujjain is the Gopal Temple, which houses silver statues of Lord Krishna, Balram, and Muni Sandipani.

Dwarka 

Your Sapta Puri Tour would be incomplete without a visit to Dwarka, a sacred city that holds immense significance in Hinduism. Dwarka is believed to be the place where Lord Krishna spent his life after the assassination of King Kansa. This spiritual city offers serenity & peace, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking mental calmness. Dwarka also tells the story of how Lord Krishna moved the capital of the Yaduvansh Kingdom here, & later, how the city was submerged in the Arabian Sea after Krishna’s death. Poetess Mirabai, who hailed from Dwarka, spread the message of Krishna Bhakti (devotion) to the world.

India is a land deeply rooted in faith, and visiting these holy cities will guide you toward attaining eternal peace and spiritual fulfillment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the seven holy cities of India?

A: The seven holy cities of India, also known as Sapta Puri, are Ayodhya, Mathura, Haridwar, Varanasi, Kanchipuram, Ujjain, and Dwarka. These cities are significant pilgrimage sites for Hindus and are believed to bring spiritual peace and salvation.

Q: Where is Ayodhya located?

A: Ayodhya, a sacred city in Uttar Pradesh, India, is one of the most significant holy places in Hinduism. Known as the birthplace of Lord Rama, it holds immense spiritual and cultural importance for followers of the Hindu faith.

Q: What are the sacred sites of Hinduism in Varanasi?

A: Varanasi, known as Kashi, is one of the oldest cities in India & is considered a Hindu holy city. It is famous for its sacred ghats along the River Ganga, such as Manikarnika Ghat and Dashashwamedha Ghat. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is also one of the most significant Hindu places of worship in the city.

Q: What is the significance of Mathura in Hinduism?

A: Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, is a sacred city for Hindus. It is located near Vrindavan and is associated with the life of Lord Krishna. Mathura is known for its temples and holy sites that commemorate the life & deeds of Lord Krishna.

Q: Why is Haridwar called a holy city in India?

A: Haridwar is considered one of the holiest cities for Hindus due to its connection with the River Ganga. It is the gateway to the Char Dham Yatra, & the Har Ki Pauri ghat is a famous site for taking a ritual bath in the holy river. Haridwar is also a major pilgrimage site where Hindus come for spiritual peace and liberation.

Q: What are the major temples in Kanchipuram?

A: Kanchipuram, known as the ‘City of Thousand Temples,’ is an important Hindu place of worship. Some of the key temples include the Ekambareswarar Temple, Varadharaja Perumal Temple, and Kamakshi Temple. These sacred sites are deeply connected with the traditions of Shaivism and Vaishnavism.

Q: What is Ujjain’s connection with Hinduism?

A: Ujjain is one of the seven sacred cities of Hinduism and is known for the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Ujjain also holds significance in Hinduism due to its connection with Lord Krishna and the ancient temple of Gopal Mandir.

Q: Why is Dwarka a significant Hindu holy place?

A: Dwarka is considered a sacred city because it was the home of Lord Krishna after the destruction of his kingdom in Mathura. It is believed that the city submerged into the sea after Krishna’s passing. Dwarka is also famous for the Dwarkadhish Temple and its importance in Hindu mythology.

Q: What is the meaning of Moksha in Hinduism?

A: Moksha refers to the liberation from the cycle of birth & death. Hindus believe that by visiting holy places like Ayodhya, Varanasi, and others, they can attain Moksha and achieve eternal peace and unity with the divine.

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