The Best Spiritual Experiences in India

Jun 09, 2021

By Debasree Chakraborty

Spiritual experiences in India is 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 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 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 as 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 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 to also 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 Himalayas, Dharamshala is the 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.