On a Spiritual Trail to India

Sufis, saints and mystics have enamored travelers to India since time immemorial. Even today many spiritually inclined tourists back pack and set on a soulful journey. India presents a plethora of tranquil destinations that set many a fickle mind into complete calm. For the faithful, it is God's love, for the rational it's tranquility and peace.Spirituality transcends religion. It has hardly anything to do with faith.

It is as free as a bird. India may help you attain spirituality on the banks of its holy rivers, in a quiet corner of an ancient monument, in a Sufi shrine, on the bank of a holy pond, in a monastery, in the foothills of the Himalayas or perhaps in the smiles of wretched children.You can see sun rise as the first rays of sun kiss the morning waters of the Ganges. Roam through narrow winding streets of Varanasi or travel a few kilometers to Sarnath, where the Buddha set the 'Wheel of Dharma' rolling by preaching his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.

Travel further north and you will find yourself in Haridwar, one the sites of the Kumb Mela.About 20 kilometers from Haridwar is Rishikesh, the gateway to the char dhams of Uttaranchal. Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath are the char dhams, which are located in upper reaches of the Garhwal Himalayas. All the four dhams are about 200-350 kilometers from Rishikesh and are well connected by metallic road.

At places road is narrow and bumpy but work is on to widened the roads.Leh Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir and Sikkim in the north-east are other two wonderful tourist destination for the spiritually inclined. Both destinations have monasteries and boasts of strong Buddhist connection. Rumtek Monastery is about 24 kilometers from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.

Though barren but Leh Ladakh is beautiful.

No matter, where you go in India, the country provides enough reasons to reflect and introspect.

By: Bob Symn