If you are in a place in your life where you need to take some time off to assess where you are and who you are in life and where you fit into this big wide world, then you are ripe for a spiritual journey. The aim is not to find the answer but rather to keep asking questions, to keep seeking the next adventure. Each journey is unique and there is no wrong way to get it done but we have selected some good places to start.
If you are ready to embark on a life-changing pilgrimage then fear not, there are destinations that will blow your mind and need not kill your bank account. You can go on the most spiritually significant trip you will ever experience with memories you will never forget. Here are 6 stunning metaphysical destinations for you to set your sights on.
1. India
India is a spiritual hub of many major religions and can be a spectacular experience for the spiritually-minded, giving you an opportunity to learn about Sikhism, Buddhism, Islam and Hinduism. One awe-inspiring place to check out is Rishikesh, a city which sits alongside the Himalayas, which has attracted many spiritual leaders who have established yoga retreats and ashrams.
You can also travel to the Source of the Ganges, the holiest river of Hinduism, which begins in Uttar Pradesh in the Himalayan peaks and runs all the way over 2000km into the Bay of Bengal. Regarded as the Holiest of Holies, many thousands of Hindus make their way to the source near Gangotri every year on a spiritual pilgrimage.
2. Japan
Japan is the home of many zen gardens, shrines, and temples and makes a stunning spiritual journey destination if you are looking for inner peace. Take a look at the 88 Temple Circuit on Shikoku Island. The island houses 88 temples, representing all of the evil human passions which Buddhist doctrine outline. The aim of traveling this circuit is to free yourself from each of these passions one by one.
The circuit, which begins at Tokushima, is a 1500km route and was traditionally walked, despite the fact that some of the temples are as many as 100kms apart. These days however, it is totally acceptable to complete this pilgrimage on the tour bus, most of which do the circuit clockwise.
3. Peru
Travel to Peru to see Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. Here you will get a glimpse into the legendary Incas and their link to star travelers. You odyssey can include a chance to see some of the most awe-inspiring locations in the world, like Ollantaytamo, Saqsayhuaman, the Andes Mountains, Lake Titicaca and the magnificent Amazon Rainforest.
4. Stonehenge
Stonehenge is regarded as one of the greatest mysteries of mankind and is one of the most magnetically charged locations on the globe. No other place in history has ever generated as much mystery and speculation as these stones, the sheer size of which will have you in complete awe.
5. Bali
Bali can be one of the most spiritually rewarding and renewing destinations you can embark on a spiritual odyssey to. Known for its yoga retreats, healthy organic eating, and spiritual healers, your spiritual journey offers you a chance to heal, to release, to grow and to surrender your stress on a beautiful island firmly rooted in the quest for continued spiritual growth and the practice of mediation.
6. Sedona
Known for its spiritual energy, Sedona in Arizona, USA is home to many shamans, reiki healers, and psychics. If you love hiking, star gazing and getting as close to nature as possible then Sedona is just the place for you.
This post was originally published on Travel Wkly.
