Uttar Pradesh - Pilgrimages and Temples

1. Pilgrimages and Temples of Sri Rama: (Uttar Pradesh)

-- Ayodhya - Ram Janambhoomi (MP-1) (DD-65) - Sri Rama incarnated

-- Anga - Kameshwar Dham - Sri Rama visited with sage Vishwamitra

-- Shringaverapura - Ram Sayan Ashrama - Sri Rama visited during forest exile and met Guha

-- Prayaga - Bharadwaja Ashrama (KM-1) - Sri Rama visited during forest exile and met sage Bharadwaja

-- Chitrakoota - Ram Ghat, Kamadgiri - Sri Rama stayed during forest exile

-- Bithoor - Valmiki Ashrama - Devi Sita stayed in Valmiki Ashrama and gave birth to Lava and Kusha


2. Pilgrimages and Temples of Lord Vishnu: (Uttar Pradesh)

-- Ayodhya - Sapta Hari (MP-1) (DD-65) - (1) Vishnuhari (2) Chandrahari (3) Dharmahari (4) Chakrahari (5) Guptahari (6) Bilvahari (7) Punyahari

-- Kashi - Bindu Madhava - A famous temple

-- Prayaga - Beni Madhava - A famous temple

-- Naimisharanya - Chakranarayana (SVK-5) (DD-66) - Swayam Vyakta Kshetra; Chakra Tirtha


3. Pilgrimages and Temples of Sri Krishna: (Uttar Pradesh)

-- Mathura - Krishna Janambhoomi (MP-2) (DD-71) - Vraja Bhoomi; Sri Krishna incarnated

-- Gokula - Nand Yashoda Bhavan (DD-72) - Vraja Bhoomi; Sri Krishna grew up

-- Vrindavana - Nidhiban, Seva Kunj (DD-71) - Vraja Bhoomi; Sri Krishna performed Rasa Leela

-- Govardhana - Mukharvind (DD-71) - Vraja Bhoomi; Sri Krishna lifted the Govardhana Hill

-- Nandgaon - Nand Bhavan - Vraja Bhoomi; Sri Krishna stayed during childhood

-- Raval - Radharani Temple - Vraja Bhoomi; Devi Radha incarnated [1]

-- Barsana - Radharani Temple - Vraja Bhoomi; Devi Radha incarnated [2]


4. Pilgrimages and Temples of Lord Shiva: (Uttar Pradesh)

-- Kashi - Vishwanatha Jyotirlinga (MP-4) (JL-7) - Lord Shiva created Kashi and abided as a Jyotirlinga

-- Anga - Kameshwar Dham - Lord Shiva burnt Kama deva

-- Ayodhya - Nageshwarnath - A famous temple

-- Mathura - Bhuteshwar Mahadev - A famous temple

-- Vindhyachala - Rameshwar - A famous temple

-- Naimisharanya - Bhuteshwarnath - A famous temple

-- Kalinjar - Neelkanth Mahadev - A famous temple


5. Pilgrimages and Temples of Devi: (Uttar Pradesh)

-- Vindhyachala - Devi Vindhyavasini - Devi abides as in Trikona (Vindhyavasini, Kali Khoh and Ashtabhuja)

-- Prayaga - Prayaga Shakti Peetha [Devi Alopi] - (SP-20) The Anguli Vrinda (Group of Fingers) of Devi had fallen

-- Prayaga - Prayaga Shakti Peetha [Devi Lalita] (SP-20) - The Anguli Vrinda (Group of Fingers) of Devi had fallen

-- Kashi - Varanasi Shakti Peetha [Kashi Vishalakshi] (MP-4) (SP-23) - The Kundala (Ear-Ring) of Devi had fallen

-- Kashi - Devi Annapoorna - Goddess of Food

-- Kashi - Devi Durga - A famous temple

-- Chitrakoota - Ramagiri Shakti Peetha [Kamadgiri] - The Stana (Breast) of Devi had fallen

-- Vrindavana - Vrindavana Shakti Peetha [Devi Uma] (SP-32) - The Keshajaala (the tresses of Hair) of Devi had fallen

-- Saharanpur - Devi Shakambhari - Goddess of Fruits and Vegetables

-- Naimisharanya - Devi Lalita - A famous temple

-- Tulsipur - Devi Patan - A famous temple of Devi Pateshwari


6. Pilgrimages and Temples of Surya deva: (Uttar Pradesh)

-- Ayodhya - Surya Kund - Ghosharka Kunda; Surya deva cured king Ghosha of his disease and endowed him with splendour


7. Pilgrimages and Temples of Sages: (Uttar Pradesh)

-- Naimisharanya - Soot Gaddi, Vyas Gaddi - Sri Soota narrated the Itihasas and Puranas to sages

-- Shukrataal - Akshay Vat - Sage Shuka narrated the Srimad Bhagavatam to king Parikshit


8. Pilgrimages and Temples of Rivers: (Uttar Pradesh)

-- Prayaga - Ganga - Yamuna - Saraswati Sangam (KM-1) - Place of Kumbha Mela

1. Ayodhya Kshetra - Moksha Puri (Ayodhya):

Ayodhya (Ayodhya district, Uttar Pradesh):
▬ River Sarayu flows (Aarti)
▬ River Tamasa flows

◍ Temples:
• Rama: Ram Janambhoomi, Dashrath Mahal, Kanak Bhavan, Rajgaddi, Mani Parvat, Tretanathji Temple, Kaleram Temple, Lakshman Mandir, Bharat Kund
Hanuman: Hanuman Garhi
• Sapta Hari: (1) Vishnuhari, (2) Chandrahari, (3) Dharmahari, (4) Chakrahari, (5) Guptahari (10 km), (6) Bilvahari, (7) Punyahari
• Varaha: Varaha Kshetra (outskirts)
• Shiva: Nageshwarnathji
• Devi: Choti DevKali, Vidya Devi Kund (2.5 km), Badi DevKali (5 km)
• Surya: Surya Kund (4 km)
• Others: Matgajendra, Sugreev Tila, Angad Tila, Valmiki Ramayan Bhavan, Makhauda Dham (20 km), Dashrath Samadhi (15 km), Janaura (7 km), Sonkhar
• Sarayu Ghats: Lakshman Ghat, Swargadwar Ghat, Guptar Ghat (Ram ki Paidi)
• Sages: Vasishtha Kund
• Saints: Tulsi Udyan

◍ Greatness:

1. Attributes:
• Moksha Puri: Ayodhya is one of the seven Moksha Puris.
• Divya Desam: Ayodhya is a Divya Desam (Thiru Ayodhi).

2. Presence of Sri Rama in Ayodhya:
(1) King Dasharatha performed the Putrakameshthi Yagna near Ayodhya. (Makhauda Dham)
(2) Sri Rama incarnated in Ayodhya. (Ram Janambhoomi)
(3) Sri Rama grew up in Ayodhya. (Dashrath Mahal etc.)
(4) Sri Rama stayed with Devi Sita in Ayodhya after marriage. (Kanak Bhavan) (Choti DevKali) (Mani Parvat)
(5) Sri Rama departed for forest exile from Ayodhya.
(6) Sri Bharata ruled with padukas of Sri Rama from Nandigrama near Ayodhya. (Dashrath Samadhi) (Nandigram)
(7) Sri Rama sent Hanuman to meet Bharata at Nandigrama while returning from forest exile. (Nandigram)
(8) Sri Rama met Bharata at Nandigram after returning from forest exile. (Nandigram)
(9) Sri Rama got coronated in Ayodhya after returning from forest exile. (Rajgaddi)
(10) Sri Rama ruled his kingdom from Ayodhya for 11000 years.
(11) Sri Lakshmana returned to his divine abode from Ayodhya. (Lakshman Ghat)
(12) Sri Rama returned to his divine abode from Ayodhya. (Swargadwar Ghat)
(13) Bhakta Hanuman stayed back as per the instruction of Sri Rama.
(14) Sri Rama as Lord Vishnu bestowed higher abodes to the residents of Ayodhya. (Guptar Ghat)

3. Presence of Lord Vishnu in Ayodhya:
(1) Vishnuhari: Brahmin Vishnu Sharma performed penance in Ayodhya. (Vishnuhari)
(2) Chandrahari: Chandradeva performed penance in Ayodhya. (Chandrahari)
(3) Dharmahari: Brahmin Dharma danced in spiritual ecstasy in Ayodhya. (Dharmahari)
(4) Chakrahari: The Chakra of Lord Vishnu fell in Ayodhya. (Chakrahari)
(5) Guptahari: Lord Vishnu performed penance secretly in Ayodhya. (Guptahari)
- Lord Brahma created a kunda and worshipped Lord Vishnu in Ayodhya (Brahma Kund).

4. Presence of Lord Shiva in Ayodhya:
• Ayodhya Mahatmya mentions about places associated with Lord Shiva in Ayodhya.

5. Presence of Devi in Ayodhya:
• Ayodhya Mahatmya mentions about places associated with Devi in Ayodhya.

6. Presence of devas in Ayodhya:
• King Ghosha of Solar race worshipped Surya deva in Ayodhya. (Surya Kund)
• Kubera showered gold for king Raghu in Ayodhya. (Sonkhar)

◍ Sages:
• Sage Chyavana had his ashrama in Ayodhya on the bank of river Tamasa.
• Sage Gautama had his ashrama in Ayodhya on the bank of river Tamasa.
• Sage Lomasha worshipped Lord Vishnu in Ayodhya and getting free of his debts (Rinamochana Tirtha).
• Sage Mandavya had his ashrama in Ayodhya on the bank of river Tamasa.
• Sage Parashara had his ashrama in Ayodhya on the bank of river Tamasa.
• Sage Rishyashringa performed the Putrakamesthi Yagna of king Dasharatha near Ayodhya. (Makhauda Dham)
• Sage Vasishtha had his ashrama in Ayodhya. (Vasishtha Kund)

◍ Saints:
• Alvars (5th - 9th CE) visited and eulogized Ayodhya (Divya Desam).
• Sri Tulsidas (1532 - 1623 CE) started composing the Ramcharitmanas in Ayodhya. (Tulsi Udyan)

◍ Puranic References:
• Valmiki Ramayana:
- Bala Kanda - 8 to 15 (About Yagnas of king Dasharatha near Ayodhya)
- Bala Kanda - 11 to 18 (About incarnation of Sri Rama in Ayodhya)
- Yuddha Kanda - 128 (About coronation of Sri Rama in Ayodhya)
• Skanda Purana - Ayodhya Mahatmya (About the greatness of Ayodhya)
• Stotras: Sapta Mokshapuri Sloka (About Ayodhya as a Mokshapuri)
• Festivals: Rama Navami (Chaitra Shulka Paksha Navami) (Sri Rama incarnated in Ayodhya)

2. Anga Kshetra (Ballia Kameshwar Dham):

Ballia Kameshwar Dham (Ballia district, Uttar Pradesh):
◉ Ganga - Sarayu Sangam (Confluence)

◍ Temples:
• Shiva: Kameshwar Mahadev

◍ Greatness:

1. Presence of Lord Shiva in Anga:
• Lord Shiva burnt Kama deva in Anga and made him Ananga (Bodiless).

2. Presence of Sri Rama in Anga:
• Sri Rama visited Anga and heard about Lord Shiva burning Kama deva. (Kameshwar Dham)

◍ Puranic References:
• Valmiki Ramayana - Bala Kanda - 23 to 24 (About Sri Rama visiting Anga with sage Vishwamitra)

3. Shringaverapura Kshetra (Shringverpur):

Shringverpur (Prayagraj district, Uttar Pradesh):
▬ River Ganga flows

◍ Temples:
• Rama: Ram Sayan Ashram, Ram Chaura Ghat
• Sages: Shringi Rishi Temple

◍ Greatness:

1. Presence of Sri Rama in Shringaverapura:
• Sri Rama visited Shringaverapura and met Guha. (Ram Sayan Ashram) (Ram Chaura Ghat)
• Sri Rama made his hairs matted at Shringaverapura.

◍ Sages:
• Sage Rishyashringa had a hermitage in Shringaverapura (hence its name). (Shringi Rishi Temple)

◍ Puranic References:
• Valmiki Ramayana - Ayodhya Kanda - 51 to 52 (About Sri Rama visiting Shringaverapura during forest exile)
• Stotra: Nama Ramayanam - verse 27 (Sri Rama and Guha)

4. Prayaga Kshetra - Prayaga Shakti Peetha (Prayagraj):

Prayagraj (Prayagraj district, Uttar Pradesh):
◉ Ganga - Yamuna - hidden Saraswati Sangam (Confluence)
☘ Akshay Vat

◍ Temples:
• Triveni Sangam: Triveni Sangam, Akshay Vat, Patalpuri Mandir
• Dwadash Madhava: (1) Shankha Madhava, (2) Chakra Madhava, (3) Gada Madhava, (4) Padma Madhava, (5) Ananta Madhava, (6) Bindu Madhava, (7) Manohar Madhava, (8) Asi Madhava, (9) Sankashta Hara Madhava, (10) Adi Beni Madhava, (11) Adi Madhava, (12) Sri Beni Madhava
• Baldev: Baldev
• Rama: Bharadwaj Ashram
• Hanuman: Lete Hanumanji
• Shiva: Someshwar Mahadev
• Devi: Devi Alopi, Devi Lalita, Devi Kalyani
• Others: Nag Vasuki, Samudra Koop

◍ Greatness:

1. Attributes:
• Place of Kumbha Mela: Prayaga is one of the four places where Kumbha Mela is held.
• Shakti Peetha: Prayaga is identified with the Prayaga Shakti Peetha.

2. Presence of Triveni Sangama and Akshaya Vata in Prayaga:
• Triveni Sangama is present in Prayaga (Ganga - Yamuna - Saraswati). (Triveni Sangam)
• Akshaya Vata is present in Prayaga. (Akshay Vat)

3. Presence of Trinity in Prayaga:
• Prayaga is the imperishable abode of the Trinity.
- Lord Brahma lives in the north of Pratishthana (Prajapati Kshetra). (Nag Vasuki) (Samudra Koop)
- Lord Vishnu lives in the form of Beni Madhava. (Dwadash Madhavas)
- Lord Maheshwara lives in the form of Akshaya Vata. (Akshay Vat)

4. Presence of Devi in Prayaga:
• Prayaga is identified with the Prayaga Shakti Peetha. (Devi Alopi) (Devi Lalita)
- Where the Anguli Vrinda (Group of Fingers) of Devi had fallen.
- The Devi there is known as Lalitha and the Bhairava is called Bhavah.

5. Presence of Sri Rama in Prayaga:
• Sri Rama visited the Bharadwaja ashrama at Prayaga. (Bharadwaj Ashram)

6. Presence of Pandavas in Prayaga:
• The Pandavas visited Prayaga during their exile.

◍ Sages:
• Sage Bharadwaja had his ashrama in Prayaga where Sri Rama visited. (Bharadwaj Ashram)
• Sage Markandeya told king Yudhisthira about the greatness of Prayaga.

◍ Puranic References:
• Matsya Purana (About the greatness of Prayaga)
• Padma Purana (About the greatness of Prayaga)
• Peetha Nirnaya Tantra - Shakti Peetha Stotram - verse 28 (About Prayaga Shakti Peetha)
• Valmiki Ramayana - Ayodhya Kanda - 54 to 55 (About Sri Rama visiting Bharadwaja Ashrama at Prayaga)
• Mahabharata (About Pandavas visiting Prayaga)

5. Chitrakoota Kshetra (Chitrakoot):

Puranic Chitrakoota Kshetra spreads across Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh:

Chitrakoot (Chitrakoot district, Uttar Pradesh) (Satna district, Madhya Pradesh):
☗ Chitrakoota Mountain
☸ Chitrakoota Forest (Puranic)
▬ River Mandakini flows
▬ Rivers Payaswini flows

◍ Temples:
• Mandakini Ghats: Ram Ghat, Raghav Prayag Ghat
• Rama: Kamtanath, Sphatik Shila, Janki Kund, Sita Rasoi, Lakshman Pahari, Bharat Milap, Bharat Koop
• Hanuman: Hanuman Dhara
• Others: Gupta Godavari
• Devi: Maihar Sharada (outskirts)
• Sages: Valmiki Ashram, Atri-Anusuya Ashram, Sharabhanga Ashram, Suteekshna Ashram, Markandeya Ashram (outskirts)
• Saints: Rajapur Tulsidas birthplace (outskirts)

◍ Greatness:

1. Attributes:
• Shakti Peetha: Chitrakoota is identified with the Ramagiri Shakti Peetha.

2. Presence of Sri Rama in Chitrakoota:
(1) Sri Rama visited the Valmiki Ashrama while entering Chitrakoota. (Valmiki Ashrama)
(2) Sri Rama stayed in Chitrakoota during his forest exile and described its beauty to Devi Sita. (Ram Ghat) (Janki Kund) (Sphatik Shila) (Kamadgiri Hill) (Kamtanath Temple) (Lakshman Pahari) (Sita Rasoi)
(3) Sri Rama met Bharata in Chitrakoota and gave his padukas to him. (Raghav Prayag Ghat) (Bharat Milap Temple) (Bharat Koop)
(4) Sri Rama visited the Atri-Anusuiya Ashrama while leaving Chitrakoota. (Atri-Anusuiya Ashram)

3. Presence of Devi in Chitrakoota:
• Chitrakoota is identified with the Ramagiri Shakti Peetha. (Kamadgiri Hill) (Maihar Sharada)
- Where the Stana (Breast) of Devi had fallen.
- The Devi there is known as Shivani and the Bhairava is called Canda.

◍ Sages:
• Sage Valmiki had his ashrama in Chitrakoota where Sri Rama visited. (Valmiki Ashram)
• Sage Atri had his ashrama in Chitrakoota where Sri Rama visited. (Atri-Anusuiya Ashram)

◍ Saints:
• Sri Tulsidas (1532 - 1623 CE):
- Sri Tulsidas was born in Chitrakoota. (Rajapur)
- Sri Tulsidas got the darshan of Sri Rama in Chitrakoota. (Ram Ghat)
- Sri Tulsidas composed part of the Ramcharitmanas in Chitrakoota.

◍ Puranic References:
• Valmiki Ramayana:
- Ayodhya Kanda - 56, 94, 95 (About Sri Rama staying in Chitrakoota during forest exile)
- Ayodhya Kanda - 99 to 112 (About Sri Rama meeting Bharata in Chitrakoota during forest exile)
• Peetha Nirnaya Tantra - Shakti Peetha Stotram - verse 37 (About Ramagiri Shakti Peetha)

6. Bithoor:

Bithoor (Kanpur Nagar district, Uttar Pradesh):
▬ River Ganga flows

Sita: Valmiki Ashrama
Brahma: Brahmavart Ghat
Vishnu: Dhruva Teela
Sages: Valmiki Ashrama

◍ Greatness:

1. Presence of Devi Sita in Bithoor:
• Bithoor is identified with the place of Valmiki Ashrama where Devi Sita resided and gave birth to Lava and Kusha.

2. Presence of Lord Brahma in Bithoor:
• Lord Brahma performed a Yagna at Bithoor.

3. Presence of Lord Vishnu in Bithoor:
• Bithoor is identified with the place where child Dhruva performed penance and gor the darshan of Lord Vishnu.

4. Presence of Sages in Bithoor:
• Bithoor is identified with the place of Valmiki Ashrama where Devi Sita resided and gave birth to Lava and Kusha.

◍ Puranic References:

1. Mathura Kshetra - Part of Vraja Bhoomi - Moksha Puri (Mathura):

Puranic Mathura Kshetra is identified with:

Mathura (Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh):
▬ River Yamuna flows (Aarti)

◍ Temples:
• Krishna: Krishna Janambhoomi, Potara Kund, Kans Kila, Dwarkadheesh Mandir
• Yamuna Ghats: Vishram Ghat (Aarti)
• Shiva: Bhuteshwar Mahadev (outskirts)
• Devi: Devi Ambika (outskirts), Devi Chamunda
• Others: Pagal Baba Mandir, Birla Mandir

◍ Greatness:

1. Attributes:
• Moksha Puri: Mathura is one of the seven Moksha Puris.
• Divya Desam: Mathura is a Divya Desam (Thiruvadamathurai).

2. Presence of Sri Krishna in Mathura:
(1) Sri Balarama incarnated in Mathura. (Krishna Janambhoomi)
(2) Sri Krishna incarnated in Mathura. (Krishna Janambhoomi) (Potara Kund)
(3) Sri Krishna inspired Vasudeva to exchange him with Devi Yogamaya in Gokula.
(4) Devi Yogamaya manifested as goddess Durga in Mathura.
--- Sri Krishna left Vrindavana for Mathura ---
(5) Sri Krishna showed the vision of Lord Vishnu to Akrura between Vrindavana and Mathura. (Akrur Ghat)
(6) Sri Krishna captivated the residents of Mathura.
(7) Sri Krishna broke the sacrificial bow of Kamsa in Mathura.
(8) Sri Krishna killed elephant Kuvalayapida in Mathura.
(9) Sri Krishna killed the wrestlers of Kamsa in Mathura.
(10) Sri Krishna killed Kamsa in Mathura. (Kans Kila)
(11) Sri Krishna defeated Jarasandha in Mathura several times.
(12) Sri Krishna saved Nanda Maharaj from the clutches of a huge snake in Ambika Forest. (Mahavidya Temple)

3. Presence of Devi in Mathura:
• Sri Krishna saved Nanda Maharaj from the clutches of a huge snake in Ambika Forest. (Mahavidya Temple)

◍ Puranic References:
• Srimad Bhagavatam - Krishna Avatara (About Sri Krishna incarnating and killing Kamsha in Mathura)
• Sapta Mokshapuri Sloka (About Mathura as a Mokshapuri)

2. Gokula Kshetra - Part of Vraja Bhoomi (Gokul):

Puranic Gokula Kshetra is identified with two nearby regions - Gokul and Mahavan:

Gokul (Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh):
▬ River Yamuna flows

◍ Temples:
Gokul (New Gokul):
• Krishna: Nand Yashoda Bhavan (Nand Mahal), Putna Moksha, Ukhal Bandhan, Gaushala, Chandravali Gujri
• Balarama: Balram Mandir
• Yamuna Ghats: Nand Ghat, Yamuna Temple, Yashoda Ghat, Gau Ghat (Aarti)
• Devi: Yogamaya Mandir
• Shiva: Darshaneshwar Mahadev
• Others: Meerabai Bhajan Ashram

Mahavan: (Old Gokul)
• Krishna: Nand Bhavan (Chaurashi Khamba Mandir), Putna Moksha, Ukhal Bandhan, Gaushala
• Balarama: Revathi - Balram Mandir
• Yamuna Ghats: Brahmanda Ghat (Aarti)
• Devi: Yogamaya Mandir
• Shiva: Shiva shrine

◍ Greatness:

1. Attributes:
• Divya Desam: Gokula is a Divya Desam (Thiruvaipadi).

2. Presence of Sri Krishna in Gokula:
(1) Devi Yogamaya incarnated in Gokula. (Gokul Nand Bhavan) (Mahavan Nand Bhavan) (Mahavan Yogamaya Temple)
(2) Sri Krishna inspired Vasudeva to exchange Him with Yogamaya in Gokula.
(3) Sri Krishna appeared as the son of Yashoda in Gokula. (Gokul Nand Bhavan) (Mahavan Nand Bhavan)
(4) Sri Krishna killed Putana and liberating her in Gokula. (Gokul Putna Uddhar) (Mahavan Putna Uddhar)
(5) Sri Krishna overturned a handcart in Gokula.
(6) Sri Krishna appeared extremely heavy to mother Yashoda in Gokula.
(7) Sri Krishna killed demon Trinavarta in Gokula.
(8) Sri Krishna showed mother Yashoda the whole universe inside His mouth in Gokula.
(9) Garga Muni performed the naming ceremony of Sri Krishna secretly in cow-shed in Gokula.
(10) Sri Krishna performed various childhood pranks in Gokula.
(11) Sri Krishna showed mother Yashoda the whole universe inside His mouth in Gokula. (Gokul Yashoda Ghat) (Mahavan Brahmanda Ghat)
(12) Sri Krishna allowed mother Yashoda to bind him in Gokula. (Mahavan Ukhal Bandhan)
(13) Sri Krishna liberated Nalakuvara and Manigriva from a curse in Gokula.
(14) Sri Krishna allowed himself to be in complete control of the gopis in Gokula.
(15) Sri Krishna made a woman fruit-seller rich in Gokula.

◍ Puranic References:
• Srimad Bhagavatam - Krishna Avatara (About Sri Krishna growing up in Gokula)

3. Vrindavana Kshetra - Part of Vraja Bhoomi (Vrindavan):

Vrindavan (Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh):
▬ River Yamuna
• 12 principal forests of Mathura Mandala from Padma Purana:
(1) Bhadravana (2) Shrivana (3) Lohavana (4) Bhandiravana (5) Mahavana (6) Talavana (7) Khadiravana (8) Bakulavana (9) Kumudavana (10) Kamyavana (11) Madhuvana (12) Vrindavana

◍ Temples:
• Krishna: Chir Ghat, Kalidaha Mandir, Nidhiban, Seva Kunj, Sri Radha Madan Mohan Mandir, Sri Radha Raman Mandir, Banke Bihari Mandir, Radha Vallabh Mandir, Sri Krishna Pranami Paramdham, Prem Mandir, Iskcon Mandir
• Yamuna Ghats: Jugal Ghat, Chir Ghat, Keshi Ghat
• Shiva: Sri Gopeshwar Mahadev Mandir
• Devi: Devi Katyayani Mandir, Vaishno Devi Dham
• Others: Sahaji Mandir, Sri Dham Goda Vihar Mandir, Sri Ranganathji Mandir, Priyakanth Ju Mandir, Chandrodaya Mandir

◍ Greatness:

1. Attributes:
• Divya Desam: Vrindavan is a Divya Desam (Thiruvadamathurai).
• Shakti Peetha: Vrindavana is identified with the Vrindavana Shakti Peetha.

2. Presence of Sri Krishna in Vrindavana:
--- Sri Krishna left Gokula for Vrindavana ---
(1) Sri Krishna killed a demon in the form of a calf in Vrindavana.
(2) Sri Krishna killed demon Bakasura in Vrindavana.
(3) Sri Krishna killed demon Aghasura in Vrindavana.
(4) Sri Krishna humbled Lord Brahma in Vrindavana.
(5) Sri Krishna played with the cowherd boys in Vrindavana.
(6) Sri Balarama killed demon Dhenukasura in Vrindavana.
(7) Sri Krishna freed river Yamuna from poisonous serpent Kaliya in Vrindavana. (Kaliya Ghat)
(8) Sri Krishna swallowed the forest fire in Vrindavana.
(9) Sri Balarama killed demon Pralamba in Vrindavana.
(10) Sri Krishna's flute captivated the gopis during the autumn season in Vrindavana.
(11) Sri Krishna stole the garments of the gopis in Vrindavana. (Chir Ghat)
(12) Sri Krishna praised the unselfishness of Trees in Vrindavana.
(13) Sri Krishna asked food from the brahmanas in Vrindavana to test them.
(14) Sri Krishna made the residents of Vraja ponder over His real nature in Vrindavana.
(15) Sri Krishna was worshipped by Indra and mother Surabhi.
(16) Sri Krishna rescued Nanda Maharaj from the abode of Varuna.
(17) Sri Krishna showed a glimpse of His transcendental abode to cowherd men in Vrindavana.
(18) Sri Krishna performed Rasa Leela with the gopis in Vrindavana. (Sevakunj and Nidhivan)
(19) Sri Krishna saving Nanda Maharaj from the clutches of a huge snake in Ambika Forest. (Mahavidya Temple)
(20) Sri Krishna killed Sankhachuda in Vrindavana.
(21) Sri Krishna created a wondrous environment by playing his flute in Vrindavana.
(22) Sri Krishna killed demon Arishta in Vrindavana. (Radha Kund and Shyam Kund)
(23) Sri Krishna killed demon Keshi in Vrindavana. (Keshi Ghat)
(24) Sri Krishna killed demon Vyoma in Vrindavana.

2. Presence of Devi in Vrindavana:
• Vrindavana is identified with the Vrindavana Shakti Peetha. (Katyayani Temple)
- Where the Keshajaala (the tresses of Hair) of Devi had fallen.
- The Devi there is known as Uma and the Bhairava is called Bhutesha.
• Sri Krishna saving Nanda Maharaj from the clutches of a huge snake in Ambika Forest. (Mahavidya Temple)

◍ Puranic References:
• Srimad Bhagavatam - Krishna Avatara (About Sri Krishna performing Leelas in Vrindavana)
• Peetha Nirnaya Tantra - Shakti Peetha Stotram - verse 38 (About Vrindavana Shakti Peetha)

4. Govardhana Kshetra - Part of Vraja Bhoomi (Govardhan):

Govardhan (Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh):
☗ Govardhana Hill

◍ Temples:
• Badi Parikrama: Giriraj Danghati Mandir, Sankarshan Kund, Puchri ka Lauttha, Giriraj Mukharvind Mandir
• Choti Parikrama: Radha Kund & Shyam Kund, Kusum Sarovar, Uddhav Mandir, Mansi Ganga

◍ Greatness:

1. Attributes:
• Divya Desam: Govardhana is part of Vrindavana and is a Divya Desam (Thiruvadamathurai).

2. Presence of Sri Krishna in Govardhana:
(1) Sri Krishna asked the elders to worship the Govardhana Hill instead of Indra.
(2) Sri Krishna assumed the form of the deity of the Govardhana Hill. (Govardhan Hill)
(3) Sri Krishna lifted the Govardhana Hill and sheltered the people. (Govardhan Hill)

◍ Puranic References:
• Srimad Bhagavatam - Krishna Avatara (About Sri Krishna lifting the Govardhana Hill)

5. Nandgaon - Part of Vraja Bhoomi:

Nandgaon (Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh):
☗ Nandeeshwar Hill
◼ Pavan Sarovar

◍ Temples:
• Krishna: Nand Bhavan Temple

◍ Greatness:

1. Sri Krishna staying: Sri Nand Rai moved from Gokul to Vrindavan due to the disturbances of demons. It is said that later Nand Rai moved to Nandgaon when the disturbances of the demons did not stop even at Vrindavan.

◍ Puranic References:

6. Raval - Part of Vraja Bhoomi:

Raval (Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh):
▬ River Yamuna

◍ Temples:
• Radharani: Radharani Temple

◍ Greatness:

1. Presence of Radharani in Raval:
Raval is identified with the place where Sri Radharani incarnated as the daughter of Vrishabhanu.
Note: Barsana is also identified as the place of incarnation of Sri Radharani. However, it is also believed that Raval is the place of incarnation of Sri Radharani and Barsana is the place where Sri Radharani grew up. The child form of Radharani is lovingly called as Ladliji and the youth form as Kishoriji.

◍ Puranic References:
• Padma Purana (About Radhanrani)
• Brahma Vaivarta Purana (About Radhanrani)

7. Barsana - Part of Vraja Bhoomi:

Barsana (Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh):

◍ Temples:
• Radharani: Radharani (Ladliji) Temple

◍ Greatness:

1. Presence of Radharani in Barsana:
Barsana is identified with the place where Sri Radharani incarnated as the daughter of Vrishabhanu.
Note: Raval is also identified as the place of incarnation of Sri Radharani. It is believed that Raval is the place of incarnation of Sri Radharani and Barsana is the place where Sri Radharani grew up. The child form of Radharani is lovingly called as Ladliji and the youth form as Kishoriji.

◍ Puranic References:
• Padma Purana (About Radhanrani)
• Brahma Vaivarta Purana (About Radhanrani)

1. Kashi Kshetra - Vishwanatha Jyotirlinga - Varanasi Shakti Peetha - Moksha Puri (Kashi):

Kashi (Varanasi) (Varanasi district, Uttar Pradesh):
▬ River Ganga flows (Aarti)
▬ River Varana flows
▬ River Asi flows

◍ Temples:
• Shiva: Vishwanath, Avimukteshwara, Omkareshwara, Trilochana, Vireshwara
• Bhairava: Kala Bhairava
• Others: Dandapani
• Ganesha: Dhundiraj Vinayaka
• Devi: Vishalakshi, Annapoorna, Vishwabahu, Sankata Devi, Siddheshwari
• Vishnu: Bindu Madhava
• Surya: Lolark Kunda
• Saints: Trailanga Swami

◍ Greatness:

1. Attributes:
• Moksha Puri: Kashi is one of the seven Moksha Puris.
• Jyotirlinga: Kashi Vishwanath is identified with the Vishwanatha Jyotirlinga.
• Shakti Peetha: Kashi Vishalakshi is identified with the Varanasi Shakti Peetha.
• Speciality of Kashi:
- Lord Shiva gives Moksha to anyone dying in Kashi by uttering the Taraka Mantra in their ear. (Skanda Purana - Kashi Khanda)
- Lord Shiva holds Kashi on his trident during dissolution (and Kashi does not get destroyed). (Shiva Purana)

2. Presence of Lord Shiva in Kashi (from Shiva Purana):
• Kashi Vishwanath is identified with the Vishwanatha Jyotirlinga. Lord Shiva created Kashi and abided there as Jyotirlinga. (Vishwanath Temple)

3. Presence of Lord Shiva and other Deities in Kashi (from Kashi Khanda):
(1) Creation of Kashi. (Varanasi)
(2) Creation of Manikarnika in Kashi. (Manikarnika Ghat)
(3) Advent of river Ganga in Kashi. (River Ganga Ghats)
(4) Creation of Kalabhairava in Kashi. (Kalabhairava Temple)
(5) Appearance of Dandapani in Kashi. (Dandapani Temple)
(6) Creation of Jnanavapi (Jnanoda Tirtha) in Kashi. (Jnanavapi Well)
(7) Creation of Avimukteshwara Linga in Kashi. (Avimukteshwara Linga)
(8) Appearance of 64 Yoginis in Kashi. (Yogini Temple)
(9) Appearance of 12 Adityas in Kashi. (Lolark Kund)
(10) Appearance of Lord Brahma in Kashi.
(11) Appearance of Shiva Ganas in Kashi.
(12) Appearance of 56 Vinayakas in Kashi. (Dhundiraj Vinayak Temple)
(13) Appearance of Panchaganga in Kashi.
(14) Appearance of Lord Vishnu in Kashi. (Bindu Madhav Temple)
(15) Lord Shiva returning from Mandara mountain to Kashi.
(16) Various Shiva Lingas in Kashi. (Various famous Shiva Lingas)
(17) Establishment of Devis in Kashi. (Devi Vishalakshi) (Devi Vishwabahu)
(18) Establishment of 8 Bhairavas in Kashi.
(19) Establishment of 64 Vetalas in Kashi.

4. Presence of Devi in Kashi:
• Kashi Vishalakshi is identified with the Varanasi Shakti Peetha. (Devi Vishalakshi Temple)
- Where the Kundala (Ear-Ring) of Devi had fallen here.
- The Devi is known as Vishalakshi and the Bhairava is called Kalabhairava.
• Kashi Vishalakshi is identified with the Varanasi Shakti Peetha. (Devi Vishalakshi Temple)
• Establishment of Devis in Kashi. (Devi Vishalakshi Temple) (Devi Vishwabahu Temple)
• Annapoorna Stotram of Adi Shankara. (Devi Annapoorna Temple)

◍ Sages:
• Sage Agastya had an ashrama in Kashi.
• Sage Agnibindu worshipped Lord Vishnu in Kashi (Bindu Madhava).
• Sage Jaigishavya worshipped Lord Shiva in Kashi (Jaigishavyeshwara Linga).

◍ Saints:
• Sri Trailanga Swami (1607 - 1887 CE) lived in Kashi.
• Baba Lokenath (1730 - 1890 CE) lived in Kashi for sometime with Sri Trailanga Swami.

◍ Puranic References:
• Skanda Purana - Kashi Khanda (About the greatness of Kashi)
• Shiva Purana - Koti Rudra Samhita - 22 to 23 (About Vishwanatha Jyotirlinga)
• Peetha Nirnaya Tantra - Shakti Peetha Stotram - verse 30 (About Varanasi Shakti Peetha)
• Sapta Mokshapuri Sloka
• Vishwanathashtakam (Vishwanath Temple)
• Kalabhairava Ashtakam (Kalabhairava Temple)
• Annapoorna Stotram (Devi Annapoorna Temple)

2. Anga Kshetra (Ballia Kameshwar Dham):

Ballia Kameshwar Dham (Ballia district, Uttar Pradesh):
◉ Ganga - Sarayu Sangam (Confluence)

◍ Temples:
• Shiva: Kameshwar Mahadev

◍ Greatness:

1. Presence of Lord Shiva in Anga:
• Lord Shiva burnt Kama deva in Anga and made him Ananga (Bodiless).

2. Presence of Sri Rama in Anga:
• Sri Rama visited Anga and heard about Lord Shiva burning Kama deva. (Kameshwar Dham)

◍ Puranic References:
• Valmiki Ramayana - Bala Kanda - 23 to 24 (About Sri Rama visiting Anga with sage Vishwamitra)

1. Vindhyachala Kshetra (Vindhyachal):

Puranic Vindhyachala Kshetra is identified with the Vindhya mountain region along with its northern extensions:

Vindhyachal (Mirzapur district, Uttar Pradesh) (Vindhya region, Madhya Pradesh):
☗ Vindhya mountain range
▬ River Narmada flows
▬ River Ganga flows
▬ River Ojhala flows
▬ River Karnavati flows

◍ Temples:
Devi (Trikona): Devi Vindhyavasini (Mahalakshmi), Devi Kali Khoh (Mahakali), Devi Ashtabhuja (Mahasaraswati)
Devi (Others): Sita Kund, Devi Tara, Devi Kankali
Shiva: Tarakeshwar, Rameshwar, Mukteshwar, Budhenath
Bhairava: Batuk Bhairav, Kal Bhairav, Lal Bhairav
Vamana: Vamandev
Rama: Ram Gaya, Rameshwar
Krishna: Sakshi Gopal
Hanuman: Sankat Mochan Hanuman
Sages: Sapta Sarovar
Yogis: Goraksha Kund, Matsyendra Kund
Others: Nag Kund, Gerua Talab, Motiya Talab, Narad Ghat

◍ Greatness:

1. Presence of Devi in Vindhyachala (from Devi Mahatmya):
• Devi to slay demons Shumbha and Nishumbha as Vindhyavasini (in a future incarnation).

2. Presence of Devi in Vindhyachala (from Devi Purana):
• Devi slayed demon Ghorasura as Vindhyavasini.

3. Presence of Devi in Vindhyachala (from Skanda Purana - Avanti Kshetra Mahatmya):
• Sage Agastya propitiated Devi Vindhyavasini.

4. Presence of Devi in Vindhyachala (from Aushanasa Purana - Vindhyachala Mahatmya):
(1) Taraka Kunda and Tarakeshwara Linga (Tarakeshwar Temple)
(2) Narayana Kunda (and Narayaneshwara Linga)
(3) Lakshmi Kunda
(4) Brahma Kunda
(5) Saptarshi Kunda
(6) Sanakadi Kunda
(7) Maricyadi Kunda
(8) Greatness of river Ganga in Vindhyachala
(9) Dharma Kunda and Dharmeshwara Linga
(10) Gokarna Kunda and Gokarneshwara Linga (Kameshwara)
(11) Yogishwara Kunda
(12) Greatness of the confluence of river Ganga and river Punyajala (Punyaugha)
(13) Vamanesha Mahadev
(14) Naga Kunda
(15) Devi Vindhyavasini residing as Maha-Trikona Yantra (Vindhyavasini Temple) (Kali Khoh Temple) (Ashtabhuja Temple)
(16) Origin of Devi Vindhyavasini (as the daughter of Yashoda) (Ashtabhuja Temple)
(17) Devi slaying demons Shumbha and Nishumbha (Vindhyavasini Temple) (Kali Khoh Temple)
(18) Rama Gaya (Ram Gaya Ghat) (Rameshwar Temple)
(19) Shiva Pura
(20) Akrodheshwara Linga
(21) Sita Kunda (Sita Kund)
(22) Mukti Kunda and Mukteshwara Linga

◍ Puranic References:
• Devi Mahatmya (About Devi slaying demons Shumbha and Nishumbha in a future incarnation)
• Devi Purana (About Devi slaying demon Ghorasura)
• Skanda Purana - Avanti Kshetra Mahatmya (About Devi Vindhyavasini and sage Agastya)
• Aushanasa Purana - Vindhyachala Mahatmya (About the greatness of Vindhychala)

2. Prayaga Shakti Peetha:

► प्रयाग शक्ति_पीठ (Prayaga Shakti Peetha)

• Prayaga Shakti Peetha: I meditate on the Prayaga Shakti Peetha where the Anguli Vrinda (Group of Fingers) of Devi had fallen. The Devi there is known as Lalita and the Bhairava is called Bhavah.
(Peetha Nirnaya Tantra - Shakti Peetha Stotram - verse 28)

- Prayaga Shakti Peetha
- The Prayaga Shakti Peetha is identified with multiple temples.
1. Prayagraj Devi Alopi (Prayagraj district, Uttar Pradesh).
2. Prayagraj Devi Lalita (Meerapur) (Prayagraj district, Uttar Pradesh)

3. Varanasi Shakti Peetha:

► वाराणसी शक्ति_पीठ (Varanasi Shakti Peetha)

• Varanasi Shakti Peetha: I meditate on the Varanasi Shakti Peetha where the Kundala (Ear-Ring) of Devi had fallen. The Devi there is known as Vishalakshi and the Bhairava is called Kalabhairava.
(Peetha Nirnaya Tantra - Shakti Peetha Stotram - verse 30)

- Varanasi Shakti Peetha
- Kashi Devi Vishalakshi (Varanasi district, Uttar Pradesh)

4. Kashi Annnapoorna:

Devi Annapoorna is the goddess of food.

Devi Annapoorna temple is a famous temple of Kashi kshetra (Varanasi district, Uttar Pradesh)

5. Ramagiri Shakti Peetha:

► रामगिरि शक्ति_पीठ (Ramagiri Shakti Peetha)

• Ramagiri Shakti Peetha: I meditate on the Ramagiri Shakti Peetha where the Stana (Breast) of Devi had fallen. The Devi there is known as Shivani and the Bhairava is called Canda.
(Peetha Nirnaya Tantra - Shakti Peetha Stotram - verse 37)

- Ramagiri Shakti Peetha
- Ramagiri Shakti Peetha is identified with multiple places:
1. Chitrakoot Devi Shivani (Chitrakoot district, Uttar Pradesh).
2. Maihar Devi Sharada (Satna district, Madhya Pradesh)

6. Vrindavana Shakti Peetha:

► वृन्दावन शक्ति_पीठ (Vrindavana Shakti Peetha)

• Vrindavana Shakti Peetha: I meditate on the Vrindavana Shakti Peetha where the Keshajaala (the tresses of Hair) of Devi had fallen. The Devi there is known as Uma and the Bhairava is called Bhutesha.
(Peetha Nirnaya Tantra - Shakti Peetha Stotram - verse 38)

- Vrindavana Shakti Peetha
- Vrindavan Devi Uma (Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh)

7. Saharanpur Shakambhari:

Saharanpur Shakambhari (Saharanpur district, Uttar Pradesh):
☗ Himalayas (Devi Shakambhari appeared in the Himalayas)

Devi: Devi Shakambhari

◍ Greatness: Bestower of Fruits and Vegetables

◍ Puranic References: Devi Bhagavatam (Shakambhari Mahatmyam)

1. Naimisha Kshetra - Swayam Vyakta Kshetra (Naimisharanya):

Naimisharanya (Sitapur district, Uttar Pradesh):
☸ Naimisharanya Forest (Puranic)
▬ River Gomati flows

◍ Greatness:

1. Swayam Vyakta Kshetra: Naimisharanya is a Swayam Vyakta Kshetra.

2. Divya Desam: Naimisharanya is a Divya Desam (Thiru Naimisharanyam).

3. Lord Narayana identifying Naimisharanya: Lord Narayana identified Naimisharanya (for sages to perform Yagna) by sending a Dharma Chakra.

4. Sages performing Yagna: Naimisharanya is the place where thousands of sages congregated to perform a Yagna running for several years.

5. Suta narrating Puranas: Naimisharanya is the place where Sri Suta, the disciple of sage Vyasa, narrated the Itihasas and Puranas to the sages during the interval of the Yagna.

◍ Puranic References:
• Padma Purana (Lord Narayana sending Dharma Chakra to identify Naimisharanya; Suta narrating the Padma Purana in Naimisharanya)
• Mahabharata (About Suta narrating the Mahabharata in Naimisharanya)

2. Shukratal:

Shukratal (Muzaffarnagar district, Uttar Pradesh):
▬ River Ganga

Shukdev, Akshay Vat

◍ Greatness: Sage Shukdev narrated the Srimad Bhagavatam to king Parikshit.

◍ Puranic References: