Waquar Habib
Vatican City, the centre of Catholicism, is home to the St. Peter's Basilica, a pilgrimage site with breathtaking architecture. The site also features the Vatican Museums, which house Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling and other art.
Mecca is the holiest city in Islam. It has the largest mosque in the world, Masjid al-Haram, which houses the sacred black structure, Kaaba. Every year, millions of Muslims visit Mecca for the Hajj, a mandatory religious ritual.
Angkor Wat in Siem Reap is the world's largest religious monument. It was once a Hindu temple but now serves as a Buddhist site. The complex is famous for its intricate carvings, vast moats, and impressive architecture, making it a symbol of Cambodia and a pilgrimage site for Buddhists and Hindus.
The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh is a popular Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. Known for its intricate architecture, the temple attracts millions of devotees annually and is situated on the Seven Hills of Tirumala.
Lumbini is Buddha's birthplace. The Maya Devi Temple in the sacred garden marks his birthplace. Many pilgrims visit to pay homage to the founder of Buddhism.
The Golden Temple, or Sri Harmandir Sahib, is the holiest shrine in Sikhism, known for its stunning golden architecture. It attracts visitors seeking spiritual solace from all over the world.
Santiago de Compostela's cathedral is the final destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, where St. James' relics lie. The cathedral's architecture and historical significance draw visitors from diverse backgrounds.
Bodh Gaya is where Buddha became enlightened under the Bodhi Tree. The Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO site commissioned by Asoka, is located there. People visit to meditate and explore the Buddhist heritage.
Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon is Myanmar's most sacred Buddhist pagoda adorned with gold leaf and diamonds. It is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists as it enshrines strands of Buddha's hair and other relics.
Varanasi, also called Kashi, is an ancient city and major centre for Hinduism. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is highly revered. The city's ghats along the Ganges River are sacred, attracting pilgrims for spiritual cleansing.