This isn’t your typical tourist experience. A spiritual sojourn in India means immersing yourself in the divine energies that surround these Indian towns, witnessing humbling rituals, and being close to the local sages & fascinating mystics of the religious side of India. This tour is a rare opportunity to disconnect from the material world and feel inner peace, or simply hit the reset button in life. Anyone with an open mind & heart would enjoy going through the ancient rituals and philosophies that have shaped Indian spirituality for thousands of years. There are a number of towns in India tied to spirituality but for this blog, we will be focusing on the most experiential ones– Vrindavan, Varanasi & Khajuraho.
Best Commute Options to Get Around in the Towns
Hire a Taxi!
To get the best out of your stay duration in Assam, the best way to commute around is via a private taxi. We recommend hiring one through a good travel agency, or through your hotel. On an average it takes 25 mins to cover 10 kms of distance by road in the cities.
Although cheaper and visibly more in number than taxis, auto rickshaws can be frantic for those not used to it. It will give you the local Indian experience and can get you around the city pretty well. Having said that, you could consider hiring an auto rickshaw driver for a full day tour in Guwahati. But since they’re easily found outside any monument or popular place you visit, you might want to hire one every time you leave a sight.
VRINDAVAN
This small town is famous for its deep connection to Lord Krishna and his divine love stories. You’ll feel the spiritual vibes everywhere you go. Being home to Lord Krishna during his early childhood years, Vrindavan is dotted with numerous temples, mostly dedicated to him & Radha, his divine consort. The town is also famous for their vibrant celebrations, especially during the world renowned festival of Holi.
Best Places to Stay
Luxury Picks
- Nidhivan Sarovar Portico
- Hotel Shri Radha Nikunj
- Hare Krishna Orchid
Budget/Backpacker Options
- Dwarka Kunj
- Krishna Kutir
- The Vrindavan Inn
Must Visit Sights & Landmarks in Vrindavan
First up is the stunning Banke Bihari Temple. This is one of the most revered Krishna temples where devotees flock to catch a glimpse of the beautiful deity. Don’t miss the aarti ceremonies when the priests bathe the deity in rituals.
Another must-visit is the Radha Raman Temple housing a self-manifested deity of Radha and Krishna. This ancient temple has intricate carvings and an incredibly serene energy. You can attend lectures there to learn more about the love between Radha and Krishna.
For a full spiritual immersion, head to the huge ISKCON temple complex. Attend rousing kirtans where everyone sings along. Sit for insightful lectures to deepen your understanding of Krishna consciousness. And definitely don’t leave without trying the delicious satvik (vegetarian, no onion/garlic) meals at the temple kitchen.
The best time to visit & experience Vrindavan is during the festival of Holi, when the whole town comes alive in pompous celebrations, all in honor of Radha and Krishna’s divine love and pastimes.
Head to Mathura, a short drive away from Vrindavan. It is renowned for being the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Visit the beautiful Krishna Janmabhoomi temple among a few others.
VARANASI
Also known as Banaras or Kashi, Varanasi is believed to be the oldest, continuously inhabited town. It is situated at the banks of the holy river Ganga, where the devotees come to take a dip to cleanse their sins. The town is also famous for its numerous Ghats (steps that lead down to the river), such as the Manikarka Ghat, each famous for its own unique activities.
Best Places to Stay
Luxury Picks
- Taj Ganges
- The Clarks
- Radisson Hotel
Budget/Backpacker Options
- Dwarka Kunj
- Krishna Kutir
- The Vrindavan Inn
Must Visit Sights & Landmarks in Varanasi
No spiritual journey is complete without visiting the holy city of Varanasi on the banks of the sacred Ganges River. This is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, and its spiritual energy is off the charts.
One of the absolute musts in Varanasi is taking a boat ride along the Ganges. Climb aboard and take in the incredible scenery of the iconic ghats (steps leading to the river) lined with centuries-old temples and palaces. Watch as devotees perform sacred rituals and take dips in the holy waters believed to absolve sins.
As the sun starts to set, make your way to the famous Dashashwamedh Ghat. This is where the magical Ganga Aarti takes place every evening. Dozens of priests perform an ancient ritual with ringing bells, chants, and dancing flames to worship the Ganges river goddess.
Another top site is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred Shiva shrines. After passing through the lively Vishwanath Gali market, full of stalls selling puja items and souvenirs, you’ll reach the temple with its iconic golden spires.
Don’t miss a walk along Manikarnika Ghat, known as the main cremation ghat. While it may seem somber, Hindus view death as a natural transition, with the waters of the Ganges guiding souls to liberation.
KHAJURAHO
Khajuraho is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Madhya Pradesh and it is renowned for its group of medieval Hindu & Jain temples, some of the most exquisite temples covered in thousands of intricate carvings and sculptures. These temples were built in the 9th & 12th centuries by the Chandela dynasty and represent various aspects of life, mythology and spirituality.
Best Places to Stay
Luxury Picks
- The Lalit TempleView
- The Clarks
- Ramada by Wyndham
Budget/Backpacker Options
- Hotel Surya
- Hotel Isabella Palace
- Hotel Khajuraho Inn
Must Visit Sights & Landmarks in Khajuraho
Your jaw will drop when you lay eyes on the western and eastern groups of temples. Built between the 9th and 12th centuries, they are true marvels of craftsmanship. Notice the carvings depict everything from spiritual deities and Hindu mythology to romantic scenes. To fully appreciate the history and deeper meanings behind these UNESCO World Heritage temples, don’t miss the light and sound show in the evenings.
While the temples are renowned for their erotic sculptures, the overall architecture and artistry is simply breathtaking. From ornate pillars and archways to life-sized statues of deities, every inch is covered in incredible details for you to admire and interpret.
