Throughout history, the idea of attaining spiritual bliss or nirvana has led scores of people to India in search of their true selves. Steve Jobs, John Lennon, and many other successful people have flocked to India to find peace and spiritual knowledge. And why wouldn’t they? India is the birthplace of four of the major religions in the world. India has no dearth of spiritual sights, experiences, and festivals. So, the question arises, where does one start? Travelling to different locations in a single journey on the quest to find yourself comes with its own difficulties. So, making the task easier for us, Ritanveshi is taking you on a spiritual journey to some of the most ancient places in India, come January 2019. Excited yet?
Not only that, but the trip also offers a chance for seekers and devotees to attend the holiest of holy Hindu festivals, the Maha Kumbh Mela as well as an interaction with the famed Naga Sadhus. For those who don’t know about them, the Nagas are a group of Shaivite ascetics, who are known to be some of the most mysterious sadhus on the planet. Sounds really cool, doesn’t it? Here are the places that make up the entire journey:
1. Varanasi: Where Souls Find Liberation
Probably on top of the list of every spiritual backpacker travelling to India, Varanasi is one of the most religious places in India and also its spiritual capital. Be it Dashashwamedh Ghat or the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi is always abuzz with people from all over the world looking for spiritual answers. Just the sound of Ganga flowing, with a whole city based on its banks, sure sounds like a treat.
2. Sarnath: Where The Buddha First Taught Dharma
Sarnath is one of the four most important locations in Buddhism. Located near the confluence of the rivers Ganga and Varuna, Sarnath is the place where Lord Buddha first taught Dharma. The blissful and pure vibes that the place radiates will surely give you a small measure of peace.
3. Bodh Gaya: Where The Buddha Attained Enlightenment
Another one, if not the most important location in Buddhism, Bodh Gaya is the place where Lord Buddha first attained enlightenment. The Mahabodhi Temple in the city marks this site, where you can find the Mahabodhi Tree as well. No matter which religion you belong to, this is a spiritual site that you must visit once in your life.
4. Prayag: Where Three Sisters Meet
Known as Prayagraj after the most recent rechristening, Prayag is home to the confluence of three major Indian rivers; Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati. It is most famous for the Maha Kumbh Mela, which happens once in 12 years, and brings millions of devotees together. The Naga sadhus are a sure sight during the Maha Kumbh. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity, so do not overthink it.
Self-realization and inner peace are tough to find in this world. But who knows, maybe on this epic journey, you might just succeed. There is no shortcut to it, but Ritanveshi is showing us a path. So let’s follow it, shall we? The trip is from 6th January to 17th January, the best way to ring in the new year! For more details about the trip and bookings, click here.
My bags are already packed! What about you?
