spiritual

Spiritual experiences in India are one of the reasons that inspire travellers from all around the globe. In India, traditions are a part of the culture. Spiritual practices quieten the mind, strengthen the soul, and teach limitless compassion and wisdom. And, for this, you need not take the difficult path. There is a lot to explore in the country. Giving the gift of connecting with the soul, spiritual experiences in India are unlike any other.

Get inspired for your next escape with these hand-picked suggestions for you.

Varanasi

In Mark Twain’s words, Benares, now Varanasi, is older than tradition, older even than legend, and twice as old as both of them put together. The holy city of Varanasi, perched by the River Ganga, is among the holiest cities in India. Owing to its rich spiritual legacy and history, it is a reflection of authentic India. In Varanasi, people come to wash away their sins, seek knowledge, and experience spirituality. The river ghats are witness to multiple aspects of life. The ancient temples are the sanctuaries of divine grace. Its people are a friendly lot, helping all those who are lost. And the sacred Ganges, which forms the backbone of the city, is the foundation of life and inspiration for many. In the hours leading up to sunset, the ghat comes to life with the vibrant, mystical, and magical ritual called the Ganga Aarti. This grand and opulent ceremony is considered one of the most lively and exciting spiritual experiences of India.

India, rich in holy places, traditions and rituals, offers incredible spiritual experiences. The country is a vast treasure for those seeking knowledge and awareness in spiritual terms. In the vast diversity, there are innumerable places and moments that connect you with the divine and a higher calling. Visit some of the popular sacred destinations of various faiths to experience spirituality.

Haridwar

Nestled by the holy River Ganges, Haridwar meaning the "Gateway to God" is one among the holiest places in India. Popular with Hindu pilgrims who come to take a dip in the holy waters of the fast-flowing Ganges River and wash away their sins. Unlike Varanasi, the water is clean and fresh in Haridwar. The evening Ganga Aarti holds ​a special appeal. Another popular attraction is the Mansa Devi Temple. The largest religious gathering in the world, the Kumbh Mela, is held in Haridwar as well. Plan your trip there with this Haridwar travel guide.

Rishikesh

Rishikesh, the birthplace of yoga, is a popular place to come and meditate, do yoga, and learn about other aspects of Hinduism. It’s situated a short distance upriver from Haridwar, surrounded by hills on three sides. Rishikesh lures those seeking knowledge and peace with its numerous ashrams and yoga institutes. It especially draws spiritual-seeking foreigners, while Haridwar holds more significance for Hindu pilgrims. Because of their close proximity, many people come to Rishikesh and Haridwar in the same visit. Plan your trip there with this Rishikesh travel guide. There are Rishikesh hotels and guesthouses for all budgets so you can find a great place to stay.​

Amritsar

Amritsar, in the state of Punjab, was founded in 1577 by Guru Ram Das, the fourth guru of the Sikhs. It’s the spiritual capital of the Sikhs and gained its name, meaning "Holy Pool of Nectar", from the body of water around the Golden Temple. The exquisite Golden Temple attracts pilgrims from all over the world. It looks particularly arresting at night when it’s beautifully lit up, with its imposing pure gold dome illuminated. The Wagah Border is a popular side trip from Amritsar. 

Amritsar’s most famous landmark, the Golden Temple, is lit up beautifully every evening, and visiting it after dark is an entirely different experience altogether.  This trip is generally timed to not only allow tourists to see the temple lit up, but also to witness the sacred Palki Sahib ceremony, which takes place every evening. The Holy Book of the Sikh religion, the Guru Granth Sahib, is now regarded as the eternal Guru by the Sikhs, and each evening is carried on a palanquin by devotees to the inner sanctum, where it is placed overnight.

Dharamshala

Nestled in the picturesque Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas, Dharamshala is famous as the holy residence of the 14th Dalai Lama. The Tibetan monk in exile was granted residency in the mountain town in Himachal Pradesh. The divine presence of His Holiness brings visitors from far ends of the world to bask in the spiritual bliss. A hub of Tibetans in exile, the town is considered to be one of the best places to learn and explore Buddhism and Tibetan Culture. 

Goa

Goa has a rich history and culture waiting to be discovered and also beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage churches and convents that are worth visiting.  This walking tour starts by taking you to several of the UNESCO World Heritage churches in the area before exploring Panjim's charming Latin Quarter. This district is renowned for its wonderful Portuguese era architecture - many of the gaily painted buildings have been beautifully preserved and still boast their original wrought iron railings and terracotta tiled roofs.

India, rich in holy places, traditions and rituals, offers incredible spiritual experiences. The country is a vast treasure for those seeking knowledge and awareness in spiritual terms. In the vast diversity, there are innumerable places and moments that connect you with the divine and a higher calling. Discover the spiritual treasure with some unforgettable experiences. From sacred temples and enormous religious pilgrimages to yoga ashrams and beyond, spiritual experiences in India offer visitors healing, wellness, and the chance to forge a deeper connection with their surroundings. Begin your year afresh—and embark on an inspiring discovery tour of India’s most peaceful corners.

Stay in a Ashram

Attend Worship Rituals

Serve the needy

"India is the cradle of the human race, the birthplace of human speech, the mother of history, the grandmother of legend, and the great grandmother of tradition. Our most valuable and most destructive materials in the history of man are treasured up in India only!" -Says Mark Twain.

These lines by Mr Twain well describe the in-depth features of mysterious, magical, and magnificent India. Over the years, this country has witnessed different eras under different rulers, seen many dynasties taking over, and watched different cultures assimilating under one entity. The diversity in language, culture, religion, and heritage has made this country the most distinguished and amazing place on Planet Earth! Hence, tourists from across the world throng India to explore the pristine and serene surroundings.

You will definitely fall in love with this country after watching the dazzling wonders in the form of vibrant architecture, the rich cultural trail, the beauty of nature spread throughout, and the variety of caste, creed, and religion. If you become a guest in India, you will be able to explore the most varied and vibrant nation, which has smartly marked its place on global tourists' maps. Let's share five reasons why you should visit India once in a lifetime!

1. You can explore the oldest culture in the world: Do you know that Indian culture is the oldest one? Despite being ruled by the Mughals and the British for a long time, this country has managed to retain its customs and traditions. There's hardly any culture in the world that is as varied and vibrant as India. 

Literature, dance, music, art, and craft, etc, have all been an integrated part of Indian culture. In this country, the arrival of each season is welcomed by a festival, and folk dances are performed to celebrate it. The exquisite cuisine also defines the start of a new season in different parts of the country. It's the Indian cultural magic that has spread the marvel of bindis to bangles, to yoga across the world!

2. Glance at astounding history and incredible sights: India is blessed with architectural marvels. As the country's history interweaves its cultures, the religious symbols and cultural indicators blend to form beautiful structures. And hence comes out the beautiful display of the most exquisite architecture, which is a treat to the eyes.

3. Step into the spiritual world: Spirituality and mystical charm, for years, have drawn people from across the world to India. This country has been the land of spiritual leaders and saints. Arts like Yoga and Ayurveda, coupled with religion, have helped evolve the existence of spirituality in India. The country has seen different religions like Hinduism and Buddhism, originating here.

Thus, a chunk of travellers visit India seeking spiritual solace! Haridwar and Rishikesh in Uttarakhand, Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, Bodhgaya in Bihar, Tiruvannamalai and Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, etc, are a few sacred places thronged by travellers.

4. Experience the adrenaline rush: You can feel the adrenaline rush in almost all regions in India, no matter whether you are in East, West, North, or South India!

There are plenty of options for adventure enthusiasts to feel the adrenaline rush. From trekking in Himalayan tracks to paragliding in Goa to facing the rush rapids in Rishikesh to biking tours in Arunachal Pradesh, India is a treasure trove for adventure lovers. The adventure lust can also be quenched by being in states like Goa, Lakshadweep, Andaman, and Kerala, where different adventure activities can hold your breath.

5. Spot the big striped cats in jungles: India is home to a variety of wild animals and houses 102 national parks, 43 tiger reserves, 528 wildlife sanctuaries, and 13 biosphere reserves. You can explore tigers in Jim Corbett, Uttarakhand, or watch beautiful birds in Bandipur National Park, Karnataka, trace Asiatic lions in Gir forests, and see rhinos and Bengal tigers in Sundarbans.

India's multitude of national parks, reserves, and conservation areas are among the most amazing ones to see on the planet.

There are many more reasons you should visit India. Now, see how and when you can make it happen to explore this country, which is filled with culture, history, and architectural wonders!

Author Bio: Archana Sharma is freelance writer who is passionate about her profession. Travelling is something that excites her. She has been in the creative field for over 15 years and has been writing for print media and digital media.