By Welcome to India, a land of mystery where diverse beliefs are celebrated with fervour and compassion. India draws thousands of seekers towards it and gives them answers to questions they never knew they had in the first place. If you’re planning a spiritual trip and you wonder, ’why India?’ In this article, you will discover 7 reasons why India is the best place for spiritual tourism. Hari Om!
Introduction
Before we embark on our journey towards spiritual tourism in India, I’d like to revisit the meaning of Spirituality and its relationship to a concept called Religion through a short story;
Once upon a time, there was a fish called ‘Neo’ . He was the most curious fish of all. Once, he was swimming with an older fish named ‘Mo’ and exclaimed, ‘I want to see the ocean!’ Mo replied, ‘Look around you, Neo. You are in the ocean.’
“No, Mo, this is just water. I want to see the Ocean!” Mo just kept smiling.
Could you decipher which fish represented the concept of religion and which of spirituality?
7 Reasons Why India Is The Spiritual Tourism Hub
There is a rare breed of humans on this planet that seek answers to the greatest questions of all time and for whom the spiritual lifestyle of India fits them the best. They ask the questions that no one has the answers to; Who are we? Why are we here? Why are we, period? If you’re reading this right now, in all probability, you might have that seeker inside you as well!
Reason #1: Centre Of Positive Spiritual Energy
Auroville, is an experimental city in India where no religion exists. Where money does not exist and the main focus lies on Human Unity without barriers. Moreover, anyone may come to visit, stay and work alongside other seekers. You also can self-reflect and ponder over the meaning of life in the ‘Peace Area’ where silence is maintained at all times.
Next, is one of the many spiritual sites in India where people of all backgrounds are welcomed whole-heartedly to experience spiritualism – BodhGaya, Bihar. Being the one of the most visited spiritual places in India, BodhGaya is where Lord Buddha attained his enlightenment and the tree under which he attained it is still there to this day. If you find yourself backpacking through Northern India then BodhGaya, one of the positive energy places in India can offer you the best spiritual tourism experience.
Reason #2: Channeling the cosmic energy through Yoga retreats
Although the western world has adopted Yoga profusely into their lives, there are still some practices of Yoga that are specific to the Indian subcontinent only. There are many types of yogic traditions of India that primes the body in such a way that the student can channel and integrate higher levels of esoteric wisdom and even upgrade their DNA through mindfulness and intentional actions.
These are some of the best known Yoga Centres for self-rediscovery –
- Phool Chatti Ashram – If you’re travelling through Northern India, then do give this place a go. The ashram was founded in the late 1800s and is known for its seven-day yoga & meditation program. Furthermore,the Ashram’s teachings focus on the totality of yogic path and ashram life and what it means to be a true spiritual seeker.
- AyurYoga Eco Ashram – If you’re travelling through Southern India, then this place is for you. Located in Mysore Karnataka, this ashram is a haven for all soul-seekers with a wanderlust. Unlike the other fancy, regimented yoga centres, this Ashram teaches the practices of yoga & meditation in the most authentic way.
Reason #3: Experiencing the divine in chaos
Silent introspection is not for everyone. If you are one of those that thrive amongst lively crowds then this section is for you.
Kumbh Mela – The World’s largest religious gathering and the one of the most positive energy places in India. Millions of monks, sadhus, pandits, aghoris, nagas and civilians attend this once-in-every-12-years event. Kumbh is a celebration of the spiritual lifestyle of India. This is complete with fairs, education, mass feedings and entertainment.
It is also the only event where the mysterious Nagas and the Aghori sadhus show themselves to the World and silently retreat to their abodes after the Kumbh ends.
Reason #4: Places of worship shrouded in mystery
Kedarnath, the abode of Lord Shiva that ranks at the top of most visited spiritual places in India. People believe that Lord Shiva still resides and meditates on the top of Mount Kailash (nearby Kedarnath). Consequently, no one is allowed to scale Mount Kailash through the year. Amongst the few who dared to do so either lost their minds or never returned.
The faith, the mystery and the legend make Kedarnath & Mount Kailash the best spiritual destinations in India.
Reason #5: ‘Psychonaut’ Retreats
Looking for a meditation place in India? This section is for those who wish to experience the inner being and open their third-eye to the truths of the Universe. So, places like Manali, Shimla, Coorg offer a variety of plant-based spiritual retreats where consumption of mind-altering substances like marijuana and mushrooms offer a whole new perspective on life.
During these retreats, there is no one to interfere between you and the Universe and the wisdom of the Cosmos lies open for you to discover.
Recommended watch: The Story of the Psychonaut
Reason #6: Birthplace of legendary mystics and spiritualists
India is a centre of channelled spiritual energy and that’s why many Seekers of the truth find their salvation on this land. There are also mathas and gurukuls in India where esoteric wisdom are imparted to the most serious wills and minds. Moreover, if you’re a seeker, these spiritual sites in India may help you in your journey to find your truth.
Recommended watch: Mystic India Trailer
Reason #7: ORDO AB CHAO (Order Out of Chaos)
India’s charm lies in its chaos. The moment you step out of your comfort zone all your senses are completely engaged. Many people have found it be disconcerting but many more have found it to be helpful in practicing mindfulness. Observing all, absorbing none. Finding meaning out of chaos is what makes India a spiritual tourism hub.
Conclusion:
India is a place where you can lose yourself and then find yourself all in a day’s span. There is something for all types of seekers, whatever their beliefs and intentions may be…India has the answers to all of them. So, are you planning to explore the spiritual lifestyle of India?
Also read : Why is Pandharpur Wari A Perfect Spiritual Getaway?
Follow India Chalk on Instagram for more amazing travel content. You can share your travel story with us. Reach out to us on email at contact[at]ndiachalk[dot]com. This blog is curated by India Chalk and written by Aishwarya D.
3 Comments