Divine bliss

"Pilgrimage is an important milestone in life; a journey of devotion, a search of meaning or something to be attained, before we die. It is a quest that fills you with profound longing that gets still, only when we follow our personal journey."

Last week, I wrote about our experiences of staying close to Himalayas. One equally beautiful facet to our expedition to Himachal, which made our trip a complete experience, was visiting several temples and Buddhist monasteries. Why I am  writing again about Himalayas, you must be wondering. 

Well, multiple images collide in my mind and I experience unique thrill when I find my imagination walk within the spaces of new discoveries at intellectual, emotional, cultural and spiritual levels. The discoveries instilled beautiful spiritual vibes that I still feel even after having returned to my very demanding routine of urban life.  

                         His Holiness, Dalai Lama's residence                                 

 

Since time immemorial, the Himalayas have been sanctuary for Sadhus, spiritual leaders and God. When we planned our journey, the only pilgrimage we had in our minds was, the main temple at Dharamsala and meeting H.H. Dalai Lama. Sadly, our wish could not be fulfilled due to his prior engagements. However, we explored the nearby places and found some of the most amazing places of worship with stunning surroundings. Exploring new places is always baffling and thrilling experience. Such interludes often introduce me to new spaces of thinking, a delightful wandering that I truly revel.

                         Baijnath temple built in 9th century, A.D

Baijnath temple, an ancient temple of Lord Shiva, situated about 16 km from Palampur, is captivating blend of intricate carvings and exquisitely sublime architecture, in stone. Looking at the edifice in the backdrop of mystical, snow clad mountains is ethereal experience! 

                         Monastery at McLeod Ganj market

  

Entrance of Sherab Ling monastery amidst the pine forest

The Sherab Ling Monastery premises, situated in Bhattu ( Kangra district)

The moment we drove down from the entrance of the Sherab Ling monastery, sprawled across thirty acres of pine forests at the foothills of Kangra valley, we were in complete awe! The main shrine of Lord Buddha at the monastery evokes very soothing vibes. Tears of joy rolled down my cheeks and for few minutes I felt as if I was in magical, deep trance! I was cleansed. It was divine bliss.

Watching little monks perform their prayers, observing the child in them was very fascinating. The Buddhist chants have great impact and when one observes spiritual gurus engaging in earnest discourse with the disciples, it feels as if we are in completely different era!

The expanse of the Himalayas teaches us humility every moment and provides great solace for soul. The experience is humbling but it is not attained as outcome of any process but learnt  through wanderings that introduce us to a beautiful journey within, all anew!