After spending time in amazing Amritsar it was time to head north to Dharamsala, the home of the Tibetan exiled community and His Holiness the Dalai Lama. After just a few hours on the road I started to see the impressive Himalayas with their white, snow covered peaks. The scenery changed completely and I found myself surrounded by beautiful hills, green forests, and fresh powerful air charged with prana.
While in India I spent most of my time in Dharamsala and the surrounding areas. Everything was orchestrated so perfectly that everywhere I went to visit I had some amazing experience. The first place I stopped was the Namgyal Monastery, also known as the “Dalai Lama’s Temple”, and it immediately became my favorite place in Dharamsala. Even though it is quite popular and there are many tourists at times, you can still enjoy circumambulating the temple while turning the golden prayer wheels as you chant the mantra Om Mani Padme Hum.
The following day I went to see the other famous Buddhist Monasteries in the area. The first stop was Palpung Sherabling – an impressive complex of stupas, retreat centers, monastic schools, and a Mandala Temple. The main shrine hall houses a 42 foot Maitreya Buddha statue! The ego shatters to pieces just coming into the presence of this statue. The whole complex is surrounded by a pine forest allowing for quiet and inspiring walks.
Very close by in Baijinath there is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva which is over 1,000 years old. The water in this place is believed to contain medicinal properties. During our trip to India we will make a special stop here to get the chance to make a wish and have it granted by the Adi Yogi. This is such a special experience!
While visiting the Tashi Jong Monastery I had the privilege to see and be blessed by the Togdens – highly realized Tibetan yogis. I was told this is something very rare as they are usually in meditation for years at a time practicing secret, advanced Tibetan yogic practices. In contrast, there are many young playful monks roaming through the large courtyard.
Another beautiful Monastery is the Gyuto, the temporary residence of the 17th Karmapa – the head of the most ancient lineage in Tibetan Buddhism. I arrived while the monks were practicing and filling up the space with their famous deep voiced chants – you can only imagine hearing over 100 monks chanting live! The feeling was amazing – inside the Monastery you can feel the energy from the chants while outside you see the Himalayas right in the backyard…surreal! As I was wandering around in awe, the lama who was taking care of the temple called me over to gift me with a red string bracelet that was blessed by the 2 above mentioned leaders of Tibetan Buddhism. What a gift!
There were so many other very special places in Dharamsala, but my story remains just words unless you experience it yourself!
Give your soul a gift and join us for the trip of a lifetime in India! Our spiritual journey is 12 days and starts on October 25th. This is a unique yoga and meditation retreat where you can experience these wonderful spiritual places first hand. Join us on this extraordinary adventure and accelerate your spiritual growth!
