India is a deeply spiritual nation which is home to a wide collection of temples, holy shrines and pilgrimages. These pilgrimage attract a huge throng of devotees from all over the world who make their way to the house of the lords. There are some pilgrimages in India that are extremely remote and far away where the pilgrims will be required to go the extra mile in having a complete spiritual experience. If you are looking to bear it all for the lord, and have a fulfilling journey then here are some of the most remote pilgrimages in India which would be a great choice for you:
Amarnath yatra
Far away on the hills of Jammu and Kashmir is the holy cave of baba barfani where devouts throng to offer their prayers to the stalagmite ice shivling. People go on their Amarnath Yatra Darshan when the summer time commences and it can only be covered by covering a journey of 3 to 5 days amongst the high altitude, mountainous terrain.People are required to set camps en route, bear the inhospitable weather conditions and trek for 48 kms. Although the way to this holy cave is difficult but the resulting darshan is worth it and just one sight of the lord will make all your pain vanish.
Kedarnath temple
Located in the wonderful state of devbhoomi Uttarakhand, the ancient temple of Kedarnath is situated on an altitude of 3,583 metres above sea level which makes it another one of the most difficult pilgrimage routes in India. The path leading up to the temple is cemented and makes its way through the steep and undulating landscape. The temple is surrounded by the Kadar dome ranges and makes its way through some of the most testing and challenging pathways especially if you are physically unfit.
Kailash Mansarovar
Considered to be the permanent abode of lord Shiva, the peaks of Kailash Mansarovar is probably one of the most difficult and challenging pilgrimages in India. The pilgrims are required to walk on the icy stone cold snow and make rounds of the peak where shivji is believed to reside. The place is not only significant for Hindus but for Buddhists and Jains as well who visit here to take a dip in the icy cool waters of Mansarovar lake which is located at a distance of 20 kms from the peak.
Hemkund sahib
The holy Sikh pilgrimage destinations is situated on an elevation of 4,632 metres above sea level and is surrounded by incredibly scenic beauty. As beautiful as its surroundings is, reaching this holy place of worship is difficult to reach and can really test your physical abilities. The lake located here is said to be sacred and people take turns in taking a holy dip here. the 13 km of trekking journey is difficult but extremely rewarding in the end.
Phugtal monastery
This is probably one of the remotest and a unique monastery which is carved out on top of a mountain. It is so remote that it was hidden away from the outside world for several years. Ever since its discovery it has become a pilgrimage centre for Buddhists and this monastery on top of the limestone cliff requires you to cover a journey through some of the most challenging mountainous routes. People are required to complete a trekking journey of 7 km from Padum which is a rough and dusty trail.
Yamunotri temple
This is popular for being the starting point of the holy Chardham Yatra of Uttarakhand. Located on the cliffside and with the holy Yamuna river flowing below it, the temple is the seat of goddess Yamuna and can be reached by covering a trekking journey of 7 kms. The pathway is narrow and very exciting with mountain on one side and the deep valley on the other end. From Jankichatti people are required to walk through the undulating terrain which is quiet steep at some points making3,050 your journey difficult and kind of challenging too if you are not used to it.
Vaishnodevi
If you want to experience the real charm of religion in India then a pilgrimage trip to Vaishno cave atop a hillock will be the best choice for you. The trek up to the shrine is quiet steep and difficult but you will be accompanied with a throng of devotees from all over the world chanting jai mata di, which will keep you motivated. During the yatra you will be covering a trekking journey of 15 kms with taking halts in between. The high elevation makes it difficult for some pilgrims to make the journey who opt for helicopter journey to Vaishnomata.
Kartik Swami temple
Situated on the edge of a cliff on an elevation of 3,050 metres above sea level, this humble looking temple which is dedicated to lord kartikeya – the son of lord Shiva and goddess Parvati. In order to reach the temple, the pilgrims are required to cover a trekking distance of small yet testing journey of 3 km. the pilgrimage begins from Kanakchauri village and on reaching you will be treated with some of the most spectacular views of the surroundings.
Although all these treks are difficult yet in the end you will be treated with magnificent views and an unparalleled feeling of satisfying devotion.
