Vindhyachal, a town in Mirzapur district, situated on the bank of River Ganga is one of the most respected Shaktipeeths of a Vindhyavasini. Referred in the ancient scriptures, Goddess Vindhyavasini is believed to be the instant bestower of blessings. Best known for the several shrines dedicated to the Goddess, this holy town also offers the visitors a chance to come close to natural wonders. Though Vindhyachal is a bustling town soaked with religious fervour, there is also a tranquil side not to be missed by the visitors. Located on banks of River Ganga, the land boasts green landscapes giving nature lovers their share of treat.
Chitrakoot meaning "the hill of many wonders" falls in the northern Vindhya Range of mountains spread over the states of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Lord Rama spend a major part of his exile here. According to the epic Ramayana, Chitrakoot is the place where Bharat, brother of Lord Rama came to visit him and asked him to return to Ayodhya and rule the kingdom. It is believed that the supreme Gods of Hinduism, (Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva) took incarnations here. The place is dotted with many temples and several religious sites. At Chitrakoot, everything relates to Lord Rama. One can also explore the amalgamation of culture and history on this land. Chitrakoot is a spiritual retreat, thronged almost throughout the year by travellers, who have a penchant for the unknown and unexplored. Chitrakoot is a perfect blend of divinity, serenity, and natural beauty.
Varanasi or Banaras, mentioned in the scriptures as Kashi, is less of a city and more of a dreamy experience. It is a paragon of Indian culture, philosophy, traditions and spiritual ethos since times immemorial. It is among the Sapta Puris, meaning seven sacred cities of Ancient India. The city is located on the bank of River Ganga which has two tributaries in the city: Varuna and Assi; hence the name Varanasi. The combination of Kashi - the holy city, Ganga- the sacred river and Shiva- the supreme God, makes Varanasi an immortal destination. Today, Varanasi remains the hub of cultural and holy activities. In the field of learning, especially of Religion, Philosophy, Yoga, Ayurveda, Astrology, Dance and Music, the city is certainly unparalleled. The Banarasi Silk Sarees and Brocades are known worldwide for its elegance. Varanasi is full of surprises abounding every corner; the more one explores it, the more one falls in love with it!
The Varanasi Corridor, now completed at a length of 400 meters and a width of 75 meters, facilitates easy access for 50 to 75 thousand devotees, including senior citizens and Divyangs, to reach the temple comfortably.
Ayodhya, situated on the east bank of River Saryu, is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site with deep ties to the Ramayana. Eminent kings like Ikshvaku, Sagar, and Lord Ram ruled the capital city, epitomizing the ideals of Ram Rajya. The ongoing construction of the Ram Mandir, inaugurated on January 22, 2024, holds immense significance for Hindus and marks a contemporary chapter in Ayodhya's legacy, impacting tourism positively. Government initiatives focus on sustainable tourism and cultural preservation. Pilgrims and tourists can partake in vibrant festivals, rituals, and explore key sites with improved accessibility and accommodations. Ayodhya's cultural aspects, including traditional arts, crafts, and cuisine, provide a unique experience. In conclusion, Ayodhya's allure lies in its rich history, vibrant culture, and profound spiritual significance, inviting exploration of its timeless charm.
The Uttar Pradesh government has given its approval for the development of Bhraman Path, a road project in Ayodhya aimed at connecting the Saryu River with the Ram temple. This initiative is designed to offer devotees a more convenient and accessible route to reach the revered Ram temple.
Shringverpur holds significance as a site approximately 45 km away on the Lucknow Road in the district of Prayagraj. According to legend, this is where Lord Ram, accompanied by Goddess Sita and Lakshman Ji, crossed the Ganga River during their exile. In the Ramayana, Shringverpur is depicted as the capital of Nishadraj's kingdom, and during excavations in the area, the temple of Shringi Rishi was unearthed, believed to have lent its name to the city. The epic recounts an incident where Lord Ram, along with Lakshman and Goddess Sita, spent a night in Shringverpur due to difficulties in crossing the river. Nishadraj intervened, offering to help on the condition that he could wash Lord Ram's feet. It is said that Nishadraj's act of devotion, symbolized by washing Lord Ram's feet with Ganga water and drinking it, earned him the Lord's favour. A platform now marks the spot where Nishadraj performed this sacred act.
