 India has fascinated people world over for its spirituality and mysticism. The religions mainly followed in India are Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Jainism and Sikhism. The entire scape of India is dotted with religious pilgrimage centers. The religious pilgrimage of North India includes places like -
Vaishno Devi - The shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi is situated in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is surrounded by the Trikuta Mountains and it lies at a height of 5,300 feet. The shrine is located in a cave, which has images of three deities namely Mahakali, Mahalakshmi and Mahasaraswati. The manifestation of the powers of all these three goddesses in a single source is known as Vaishno Devi. The yatra/spiritual journey starts from Katra and the pilgrims have to walk for 13 kms. The cave is about 98 feet, which has a number of images from the Hindu pantheon.
Yamunotri - This is the pious place of origin of the River Yamuna. It is situated in the Uttarkashi district of Uttar Pradesh at a height of 3293 meters above the sea level. Yamunotri is famous for its glaciers and thermal springs as well as a mythical connection. Yamunotri finds a mention in the Hindu mythology as well, where it's written that the revered Asit Muni found a secluded spot here.
 Badrinath - This shrine is said to be the abode of Lord Vishnu. It is situated in Garhwal, nestled between the mountain ranges of Nar and Narayan along the banks of river Alaknanda. The Badrinath is considered to be the holiest of all the shrines for the Hindus.
Hemkund Sahib - An important pilgrimage center for Hindus as well as Sikhs, the Hemkund Sahib is located amidst scenic environs. It houses a Sikh Gurudwara as well as a Lakshman Temple, surrounded by snow clad peaks and beautiful glaciers.
Ajmer Sharif - The tomb of the Moinuddin Chisti is located in Ajmer known as the Ajmer Sharif. He was also known as Gharib- Nawaaz or the protector of the poor. The saint embraced death in solitude of his room as he had asked not to be disturbed. These six days are celebrated each year as Urs. There is a prayer room in the Dargah for women, which was built by Shah Jahan's daughter.
Golden Temple - This is the most sacred religious place for the Sikhs. The Golden Temple is situated in Amritsar. The Temple is an example of religious tolerance and acceptance, one of the cardinals of the Sikh faith. The temple has gates on 4 sides. The other attractions around the Golden Temple include the Akal Takhat. It is an important nerve center of the community ever since its establishment in the year 1609. Every commandment related to the community is issued from here.
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