Overview

🕉️ Kashi (Varanasi)

Kashi, also known as Varanasi or Benares, is one of the oldest living cities in the world and a major spiritual center in Hinduism. It is considered the city of Lord Shiva and one of the seven sacred cities (Sapta Puri) in Hinduism.

• The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, is located here on the banks of the sacred Ganges River.
• The city is famous for its ghats, especially Dashashwamedh, Manikarnika, and Assi Ghat.
• Daily Ganga Aarti, cremation rituals, and spiritual practices draw pilgrims and tourists worldwide.
• It is believed that dying in Kashi leads to moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death).

🌊 Prayag (Prayagraj)

Prayagraj, formerly Allahabad, is located at the confluence (Sangam) of three rivers: Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati. This confluence is considered the holiest in Hindu tradition.

• Known as Tirthraj (the King of Holy Places).
• Host of the massive Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, where millions gather for ritual bathing.
• Major spiritual sites include the Akshayavat tree, Bharadwaj Ashram, and Alopi Devi Temple.

🏯 Ayodhya

Ayodhya is regarded as the birthplace of Lord Rama, the hero of the epic Ramayana. It is one of the most sacred cities in Hinduism.

• The city features the Ram Janmabhoomi temple, Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhavan, and Nageshwarnath Temple.
• The Ram Mandir, newly inaugurated in January 2024, is a major spiritual and cultural landmark.
• Ayodhya is also one of the Sapta Puri, the seven holiest pilgrimage sites in Hinduism.