List of travels

In 2017, a cultural journey across India explored several northern and eastern states, with the primary theme of "Buddhist India" and the New Year in Sikkim. This journey led to the discovery of major Buddhist spiritual sites while also providing insight into the cultural celebrations of Sikkim.

The trip began in Bihar at Bodhgaya, one of the most sacred Buddhist sites, where the Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. Nalanda, an ancient Buddhist university and center of learning, along with Rajgir, a city associated with the Buddha's early teachings, highlighted the historical and spiritual significance of the region. Patna, the capital of Bihar, was also visited for its cultural heritage.

The Himalayan region of Sikkim then featured prominently, with stops in Gangtok, Pelling, Ravangla, Melli, and Kalimpong. The Sikkimese New Year, celebrated with dances, prayers, and rituals in monasteries, provided a glimpse into the local culture and Tibetan Buddhist traditions. Monasteries like Rumtek and Pemayangtse offered a close look at the role of Buddhism in daily life.

Other stops, including Delhi with its numerous monuments and cosmopolitan character, and West Bengal, particularly Darjeeling and its monasteries, added further perspectives on India's Buddhist and cultural influences. Lesser-known cities like Padrara, Raipura Brahman, and Shahabad added a rural and local context to the journey.

This 2017 journey through India allowed for an immersion into the Buddhist heritage and the local celebrations of Sikkim, revealing the religious and cultural diversity of these regions.

date of the trip: 02-03/2017

Travel agent: SRC

https://www.src-reizen.nl

Country: { • India • }

States: { • Bihar • Delhi (NTC) • Rajasthan • Sikkim • West Bengal • }