Temple Tours in India: Conserving the Divinity

First few scenes that mention of India evokes are typically those of Taj Mahal, its numerous temples, Sadhus, poor children begging on streets, elephants and tigers, and elaborate and colorful fairs and festivals celebrated in style. Mystery and mystique of Indian temples draw tourists from farthest corners of the world. Temple Tours in India offer you an opportunity to study the divine philosophy and spirituality steeped deep in Indian culture that won it glory and fame in the past and binds its such-vividly diverse diaspora today.

For the sake of convenience of international tourists, most Temple Tours start either from Delhi, the Capital of India; and Mumbai, the Financial Nerve of the country. India Temple Tours starting from Delhi generally focus on more on North India while those originating in Mumbai focus more on temples of South India. Unlike what you might think, Temple Tours in India are not for elderly or religious-minded people. They have much more to offer - history and mythology, architecture, adventure, dance and music, and even exotic once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Himalayas are considered ‘Abode of Divine' in India and indeed, many of the ancient temples are situated on hilltops or mountain sides. Though not much of a sight in terms of architecture, these temples mostly lure tourists with promises of fulfilling the prayers and wishes of true devotees, or curing them of certain diseases. You may find it amazing how thousands and lakhs of devotees brave the difficult trek of Amarnath Yatra every year to see the natural formation of ‘Shiva Linga' in ice.

Vaishno Devi Yatra and Char Dham Yatra in Uttaranchal featuring Gangotri - the origin of River Ganga, Yamunotri - the origin of River Yamuna, Badrinath Temple, and Kedarnath Temple offer much better comforts for the pilgrims. There are suitable places to sit, relax, eat and stay for a night after every few kilometers along with ‘palki' and pony rides for invalid. A quick helicopter ride straight to the temples is available for some of the most popular temples too.

Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Varanasi are three of the most sacred cities that are not only important Hindu pilgrimage destinations but also centers of Hinduism Philosophy, Spiritual Transcendence, Ayurveda, Yoga, and Meditation. You will find famous temples in every nook and corner of these cities but Ganga Aarti in the evening takes away the cake for being the most delightful visual treat with thousands of lighted earthen lamps and flowers floating in the water and lakhs of people singing and chanting in unison.

Temples of South India are architecturally grand and historically date back to ancient times. The pristine rituals and traditions followed here offer you a true glimpse of glory of a Hindu Temple. Their festivals too feature most amazing and breathtaking performances by world-famous classical dancers and musicians. Their costumes, headgear, makeup and accessories - all have artistic details worthy of study and research. Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, near Tirupati, is the world's richest temple while the intricate details of Meenakshi Temple in Madurai are enchanting. Take the temple tour of India to experience its myriad emotions, see its diverse manifestations, and listen to its heart beats.