Akshaya Tritiya, a sacred Hindu festival, is celebrated with immense passion across India. Akshaya Tritiya occurs on April 30, 2025. Akshaya Tritiya is considered one of the best days to start a new venture, buy gold, and receive God’s blessings. “Akshaya” means eternity in literal terms, and individuals feel that activities performed on Akshaya Tritiya bring eternal prosperity. For devotional travelers, a visit to holy places during Akshaya Tritiya will add to the positive energies of the day. Here are five holy places worth visiting on Akshaya Tritiya, representing an excellent balance of spirituality, history, and peace.
1.Varanasi: Lord Shiva’s City Eternal
Varanasi, India’s holiest city, is among the finest sights to visit during Akshaya Tritiya. Located in Uttar Pradesh, this old city is a temple for Lord Shiva and has sacred ghats on the Ganges River that draw millions of pilgrims. On Akshaya Tritiya, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a center of spiritual rejuvenation where pilgrims offer prayers for prosperity and liberation. Bathing in the Ganges on this day is believed to wash away sins and grant eternal blessings. The vibrant atmosphere, full of chanting and rituals, makes Varanasi eligible for a trip on Akshaya Tritiya.
2.Vrindavan: Land of Lord Krishna
Uttar Pradesh’s Vrindavan is a divine place to spend Akshaya Tritiya, especially for the followers of Lord Krishna. Located about 180 km from Delhi, the town is Lord Krishna’s childhood playground, and his temples are imbued with his divine presence. On Akshaya Tritiya, there are special celebrations conducted at the Banke Bihari Temple in the form of flower decoration and bhajans. The pilgrims also visit the Radha Vallabh Temple and participate in the celebrations. It is considered the best day to give charity and seek the blessings of Krishna for happiness and prosperity, making Vrindavan a perfect destination to travel on Akshaya Tritiya.
3.Tirupati: Lord Venkateswara’s Abode
Andhra Pradesh’s Tirupati is another sacred destination to visit on Akshaya Tritiya. The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, receives thousands of devotees on this auspicious day. It is believed that Akshaya Tritiya is the ideal time to seek the blessings of Lord Venkateswara for luck and success. Temple-specific special rituals are planned, and offerings typically include cash or gold as charity on the day of Akshaya Tritiya is stated to yield limitless returns. Spiritual ambiance and tranquility of its hilltop venue combine to provide Tirupati as a sacred high point in the festival of this occasion.
4.Dwarka: Kingdom of Lord Krishna
Holy pilgrimage site Dwarka at Gujarat is attributed to Lord Krishna, so the prominent place to visit on this day of Akshaya Tritiya. Dwarka is 440 km away from Ahmedabad and is said to be Krishna’s ancient kingdom. The beautiful Dwarkadhish Temple holds grand festivities during Akshaya Tritiya with abhishekam (sacred bath of the god) and aarti. Worshippers consider that seeking the god’s blessing here on Akshaya Tritiya will grant them prosperity as well as security from bad times. The religious atmosphere of this coastal city as well as the city’s ancient history make Dwarka an important visit during this sacred day.
5.Jagannath Puri: The Sacred Coastal Shrine
Jagannath Puri in Odisha is one such sacred place one must visit during Akshaya Tritiya, especially if someone requires Lord Vishnu’s blessing. The Jagannath Temple, one of the Char Dham pilgrimages, is where the festival emanates from. On Akshaya Tritiya, the process of chariot-making for Rath Yatra starts at the temple, which is a crucial ritual. Devotees from all over descend on the temple to pray for Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra hoping that their fortunes for wealth and prosperity will be granted. Spiritual energy and serene beaches of Puri make it a sacred site for Akshaya Tritiya.
Why go to Holy Sites during Akshaya Tritiya?
Visiting holy sites on Akshaya Tritiya holds immense spiritual significance. The day is associated with good vibes, and prayers or rituals at holy places are believed to bring long-term returns. Exclusive pujas, charity events, and community activities are held in temples across India, making the day festive. Whether it is a sacred bath in Varanasi or prayers at Tirupati, the spiritual energy of Akshaya Tritiya makes the experience even greater, making it a day of renewal and blessings.
Travel Tips for Akshaya Tritiya Pilgrimage
- Advance Booking: Temples get crowded on Akshaya Tritiya, so book accommodation and air/train tickets in advance.
- Wear Traditional Dress: Dress in traditional attire to demonstrate respect for the sanctity of such places on Akshaya Tritiya.
- Perform Rituals: Visit temple pujas or charity events because acts of goodwill on Akshaya Tritiya are highly rewarding.
- Hydrate: Carry water, especially in hot cities such as Dwarka and Puri, to stay comfortable while visiting on Akshaya Tritiya.
- Be Repectful of Local Tradition: Follow temple rules, such as removing shoes and staying silent during worship.
How to Travel to These Sacred Sites
- Varanasi: Fly to Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (25 km) or train to Varanasi Junction.
- Vrindavan: Drive 180 km from Delhi or take a train to Mathura (15 km), and then take a cab.
- Tirupati: Take a flight to Tirupati Airport (15 km) or take a train to Tirupati Railway Station.
- Dwarka: Take a train to Dwarka Station or take a flight to Jamnagar Airport (130 km), and then take a cab.
- Puri: Take a flight to Bhubaneswar Airport (60 km) or take a train to Puri Railway Station.
Akshaya Tritiya on April 30, 2025, is the perfect time to embark on a spiritual pilgrimage to these five holy places. From the holy ghats of Varanasi to the sacred Jagannath Temple in Puri, each place offers a unique way of connecting with the divine on Akshaya Tritiya. These places not only provide spiritual solace but also envelop you in India’s rich cultural heritage. So, undertake your pilgrimage, seek blessings, and let the divine power of Akshaya Tritiya imbue your existence with joy and peace.
