Although India is endowed with numerous spiritual places, not many are like Varanasi, Ayodhya and Allahabad (Prayagraj). Such cities enveloped in history and spirituality give one a taste of the core of Hinduism. This trip inquires on sacred activities, ancient sites, and events that have lent themselves into the building of these cities.
What is there to do in Varanasi, Ayodhya and Allahabad?
Situated in Uttar Pradesh, these cities form the ‘spiritual triangle’ of Uttar Pradesh. Their significances are:
Varanasi : The spiritual capital city of India with its famous Ganges river ghats and the Ganga Aarti ceremony. The famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple which is also the part of 12 jyotirlinga is situated here.
Ayodhya : Ayodhya is cherished as the birthplace of Lord Rama. Who referred as Maryada Purushottam which means the perfect man. Because Rama is the embodiment of truth, he is the ideal son, the ideal husband, & the most important the ideal king.
Prayagraj : Triveni Sangam, infrastructure where the rivers Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati flow together amongst others placing Allahabad as a major center for religious activity during Maha Kumbh Mela.
All these places complement each other revealing an impressive perspective on, and exploration of Hindu literature, religious practice and Indian civilization.
Top Experiences in Varanasi
Ganga Aarti Ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat
Each evening, Varanasi ghats echo with bells and chants and illuminate with lamps as the priests carry out the Ganga Aarti. This religious proceeding, which is performed honoring the Ganges River, is a representation of the divine bond emerged through the waters. Aarti is one of the events that first time visitors of the city will be well advised to attend due to the need to appreciate the spirit of Varanasi.
Boat Ride on the Ganges at Sunrise
Varanasi has always attracted tourists to enjoy boats on its Ganga river and experiencing all of these along the Ganges in the early morning hours is magical. As the day begins, you will see numerous devotees who visit the ghats to perform some morning pooja and other programs. With the first light of sun rays ghat gets illuminated which slowly removes the darkness on ghats which are filled with fog. The sight of the historic ghats bathed in golden light is unforgettable.
Temples and Historic Sites
One of the holy cities of India where pilgrims goes to take a bath in the river Ganga and worships and offering prayers at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is one of the famous temples in the country whose presiding deity is the Lord Shiva. And the city has temples like Durga Temple and Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple. Besides, there is also an excursion to Sarnath not very far from Varanasi, which introduces one to Buddhism, the place where Buddha preached to his first followers after achieving enlightenment.
The Pilgrimage Center in Allahabad (Prayag)
Triveni Sangam
The Triveni Sangam at Allahabad is the meeting point of the Rivers Ganga, Yamuna and the inexistent river Saraswati. According to tradition, dipping oneself into the waters of this auspicious place for the first time, removes sins and absolves the devotee. The Sangam, in particular, is very important during Kumbh Mela, a festival where millions of people congregate in search of some spiritual awakening.
Historic Sites
Apart from being a pilgrimage, Allahabad is quite historical in terms of heritage. Go to the remnants of the fort built by emperor Akbar and Anand Bhavan, the home of Nehru descendants. Another intriguing place is Khusro Bagh which has with it majestic tombs and serene gardens which belong to the Mughal phase of Indis.
Festivals and Events
Allahabad comes in full bloom during the Maha Kumbh Mela, that is one of the biggest religious events in the world. The Mela is not the only period when the city has many of its festivals, the city is full of spiritual life at every turn throughout the year.
Discovering Ayodhya – The Place Where Lord Rama Was Born
Ram Janmabhoomi Temple
‘Ayodhya’ is the name of the city where lord Rama, the 7th incarnation of the vishnu, is believed to have been born. Ram Janmabhoomi Ayodhya is one of the vast religious haul in the country that brings devotees from India together . The temple complex not only serve the purpose of religion as a site of visiting towards Rama’s history but also the reminder of his life lesson.
Other Major Identified Temples
There are numerous temples in Ayodhya with each of them having varying importance. While Hanuman Garhi is a high rising temple of Ayodhya where devoties worship lord Hanuman. Kanak Bhawan dedicated to Ram & Sita. Similarly each temple narrates a different story and enhances the understanding of Hindu religion and culture.
Saryu River Aarti
Saryu river holds much reverence among the people of Ayodhya with many rituals availed at its shores. Here people bow their heads in front of the fire and river and worship the pilgrims in order to seek alms and sponsorship in the sacred waters.
Best Time to Visit and Practical Tips
Ideal Travel Season
The right months when you can visit Varanasi, Ayodhya & Allabad (Prayagraj) is between October and March. The weather conditions during these months are enjoyable therefore suitable for tours and outdoor activities. This season also overlaps with significant festivals including Diwali making the stay more enjoyable.
Cultural Etiquette
Women in particular should exercise caution concerning their dress code when in these places of worship. Cover your head and feet when entering the temples and do not talk in the halls where puja’s are performed. Respecting the people’s way of life makes a visit here worthwhile.
Packing Essentials
Comfortable walking shoes, complementing items such as a shawl when visiting the temples or basic items like sunscreen; hand sanitizers are also important for this purpose. Since a number of the sites requires outdoor activities, a water with a refillable is of assistance as well.
Choosing the Right Varanasi Ayodhya Allahabad Tour Package
While looking your Varanasi Ayodhya Allahabad tour package, choose the operator who is offering you the guided tour to the main attractions like Ram Janmbhumi at Ayodhya, Ganga Arti & Kashi Vishwanth Temple at Varanasi & Triveni Sangam at Allahabad. These tour operators also offer the customised itineraries which can be curated based on your interest like visit to temples, historical sites, adventure activities OR more immersive cultural experience. You can even ask for a customised Varansi Ayodhya Prayagraj tour for your tailored experience.
Conclusion: Embarking on a Spiritual Journey
The travel route of Varanasi, Ayodhya and Allahabad is not confined to a visit of temples only, but rather, they engage ‘s actual spiritual aspects as well. The great beats of Ganga Aarti, the calmness of Saryu River and the ancient glory of Allahabad Fort, these are the few instances that impress and appeal to the visitors. Be it a devotee, a person who has special interest in the past, or a simple traveler, the cities of pilgrimages will enrich everyone with the knowledge of the heartland of India. A package tour to these cities will surely satisfy the need of all such persons.
Accept and enjoy the adventure, amaze at undying traditions and walk away with pictures in your mind, that is not quite ordinary. Book your Varanasi Ayodhya Allahabad tour package and get ready to wander in captivating pilgrimage sites and hear interesting stories filled with divinity.
