INDIA (Commonwealth Union)_ India is a lively country where the old and modern worlds collide and are marked by striking contrasts. India, the second-largest country in terms of population and the seventh-largest country by land in the globe, has a rich past that is the consequence of centuries of contact with many cultures and religions.
There are many spiritual encounters and religious locations to visit in India, and those who love nature will appreciate its sun-drenched beaches, lush national parks, and fascinating wildlife reserves.
The Taj Mahal, Agra
The Taj Mahal, undoubtedly India’s most famous building, serves as the best illustration of the transformational power of love. After Mumtaz Mahal, the beloved wife of Emperor Shah Jahan, passed away in 1631, construction on this most magnificent of mausoleums began. It took 20,000 workers till 1648 to finish it. The best times to visit are at dawn or dusk, when the lighting remarkably alters the atmosphere. The Taj Mahal’s reflection in the Yamuna River provides for an interesting (and safe) selfie, so, if at all possible, try to see it from the opposite bank.
Varanasi, the Sacred City
One of the world’s oldest cities that has been inhabited continuously since the eighth century BC is Varanasi. This holy city, which is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus, has long been associated with the mighty Ganges River, one of the religion’s most essential sacred symbols.
Traveling to Varanasi has many benefits, not the least of which is the opportunity to explore the Old Quarter near the Ganges, where you can find the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which was completed in 1780. The New Vishwanath Temple, which contains seven distinct temples, is another intriguing temple.
Hindus attach great emphasis on taking a bath in the Ganges, and several places called “ghats” have staircases leading to the water where the committed take a dip before prayers. The two largest are Assi Ghat and Dasashvamedh Ghat. Due to its location near the confluence of the Asi and Ganges rivers, the latter is especially respected.
Harmandir Sahib: The Golden Temple of Amritsar
Ram Das founded Amritsar in 1577, and it is an important hub for Sikh history and culture. Harmandir Sahib, which was built in 1604 and is still popularly referred to as the Golden Temple due to its superb gold embellishments, is the main attraction in this area.
The temple is the most sacred of the several Sikh shrines in India and was built using a combination of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles. It also draws a sizable number of Hindus and followers of different religions. The lower marble piece contains stunning inlaid floral and animal themes, while the enormous golden dome features a lotus blossom, a Sikh symbol of purity.
