Top Five Religious Places in India to Ring in the New Year

Typically, in India, whenever we start something new, visiting a religious place to seek blessings is a must. Similarly, welcoming the New Year on a religious note is considered auspicious by many. What better way to usher in 2019 than by travelling to one of these religious places in India:

1. The Golden Temple, Amritsar, Punjab

One of the most revered religious places in India, the gurudwara's golden hue amidst the calm and holy sarovar (lake) soothes you the moment you enter the temple complex. The main sanctorum, Darbar Sahib, houses the Adi Granth, which encapsulates the essence of Sikh philosophy. Architecturally grand, the circular dome of this temple in Amritsar is covered in 100 kilograms of gold. Listening to the gurbani (religious chants) inside the temple is an experience to treasure. Don’t forget to eat the delicious kadha prasad (holy offering) as you visit the Golden Temple this New Year.

Tip: Photographers should head out at the break of dawn or late at night for majestic shots of the temple.

Read More: A Walk Through Amritsar: Things to See and Do​

2. Vaishno Devi, Katra, Jammu and Kashmir

The most popular shrine in North India, Vaishno Devi situated at 5,300 feet in the Trikuta Hills, is visited by over 12 million tourists every year. In the winter, the shrine is gently clothed in snow and makes for a gorgeous sight. People from all walks of life come together for the 13 kilometre trek to the temple. According to popular belief, only the fortunate receive mata’s (Goddess) call to scale the mountains to receive blessings from the idols in the form of pindis (rock formations).

Tip: Don’t forget to stop at the Gulshan Kumar Bhandara near Ban Ganga towards the end of your trek. The free food service for pilgrims is a mouthwatering delight.

Read More: Your Guide to a Blissful Vaishno Devi Yatra​

3. Sai Baba Temple, Shirdi

There’s  no better way of ushering in new times than visiting the sanctuary of brotherhood and simplicity in Shirdi, the holy town of Sai Baba. One of the most visited religious places in India, this is where Sai Baba is believed to have performed miracles and left his mortal body for his heavenly abode. Even if you’re not a believer or follower of Sai Baba, the ambience of the temple complex is a spiritual and emotional experience. Listening to the joyous music of the Sai Baba aarti (prayer) makes the journey complete.

Tip: Have you seen houses with no doors? Do visit the unique village of Shani Shinganapur (a short distance from Shirdi) where houses have no doors or windows. Locals believe that the presiding deity Lord Shani keeps them safe. The town has had no robberies for over 150 years!

Read More: Here's Everything You Need to Know About Shirdi

4. Ajmer-e-Sharif, Ajmer, Rajasthan

It doesn’t matter if you are a believer or have no religious affiliations, a visit to Ajmer-e-Sharif is for everyone. The dargah of Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chisti is dedicated to the Sufi saint and is known to fulfill the wishes of people who visit. The atmosphere around is buzzing with devotion let you experience tranquility. This is one of those religious places in India that has been frequented by many Bollywood celebrities who pray here before the release of their movies.

Tip: Don’t forget to experience the famous Qawwali at the Mehfil-e-sama, in front of the dargah after prayers. The Sufi melodies will transport you to another world.

5. Basilica of Bom Jesus, Goa

One of the most popular attractions of Goa is also a place of immense faith. The 400-year old Basilica of Bom Jesus Church is famous for housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier inside a crystal tomb. Come Christmas, the Basilica is decorated with lights and Nativity scenes. The festivities continue well into the New Year. With multiple budget hotel options in Goa, this is the perfect place to usher good tidings.

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Tip: Lighting candles in the Basilica is a popular tradition. What you wish for will come true here!