"The main point of pilgrimage is to subdue our minds. By eliminating mistaken thoughts, not allowing the mind to be under the control of delusion, the mind is better able to actualize the lam-rim realizations, from guru devotion up to enlightenment.”
- Lama Zopa Rinpoche

Cultivating the right intentions

The foundation of any meaningful pilgrimage lies in the purity of intentions. This entails cultivating intentions aligned with the core principles of the Dharma:

Contemplate the Dharma: By visiting these holy pilgrimage sites, one can gain a deeper understanding about the life of Buddha and the Dharma that the Buddha taught. Even one’s knowledge of Buddhism increases by listening and reading on the Buddha’s teachings and life at these holy sites. There is also inspiration to further one’s Dharma practice as seen from Buddha’s inspirational life stories.

Renunciation: Pilgrimage involves temporarily letting go of worldly distractions and attachments, creating space for introspection and spiritual growth. It's a practice of renouncing the mundane to focus instead on the sacred.

Personal Transformation: Intentions should include a sincere desire and a willingness to undergo transformative experiences. Pilgrimage often acts as a catalyst for personal, emotional and spiritual growth.

Awakening: Pilgrims aspire to deepen their understanding of Buddhist teachings, moving beyond intellectual grasp to experiential realization. This journey is about awakening the innate wisdom and compassion within oneself. One needs to participate actively by praying, contemplating and reflecting, circumambulating, and making offerings to gain the blessings of making a pilgrimage trip.

Connection and Community: Pilgrims aim to foster a sense of connection with fellow practitioners and the wider Buddhist community. Shared experiences and mutual support enhance the journey's depth and meaning. A pilgrimage trip led by a qualified Guru or teacher will deepen one’s learning and experiences of the Buddha’s teachings.

Benefitting self and others: By going on the trip, one gains special, surreal experiences and great blessings. Many merits are accumulated while on a pilgrimage trip. It is also a chance to think about the gratitude towards one’s parents, friends and all sentient beings who have been kind to us and made the pilgrimage possible, as not everyone has the conditions to go on a pilgrimage trip. One can also dedicate all the merits of this journey on the path to enlightenment for all sentient beings.

The four sacred sites of Buddhist pilgrimage

“And whoever, Ananda, should die on such a pilgrimage with his heart established in faith, at the breaking up of the body after death will be reborn in a realm of heavenly happiness.”
- The Buddha

Lumbini, Nepal: Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Lumbini is a serene site where Siddhartha Gautama, the historical Buddha, was born around 563 BCE. Pilgrims visit the Mayadevi Temple, where Queen Mayadevi is said to have given birth under a sal tree. The sacred garden surrounding the temple is adorned with prayer flags and stupas, evoking a sense of tranquillity and reverence. Here, amidst the peaceful ambiance, pilgrims reflect on the Buddha's early life, his noble aspirations to alleviate the suffering of birth, old age, sickness and death.

Bodh Gaya, India: Located in the state of Bihar, Bodh Gaya is synonymous with the Bodhi Tree, under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. The original tree is believed to have been a descendant of the original Bodhi Tree, which was destroyed over the centuries. Pilgrims from around the world gather at the Mahabodhi Temple Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to meditate under the Bodhi Tree's descendant. The profound stillness of this site invites pilgrims to delve deep into meditation, contemplating the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, central teachings that lead to liberation from suffering.

Sarnath, India: Situated near Varanasi, Sarnath holds immense significance as the place where the Buddha delivered his first sermon,  or the "Turning of the Wheel of Dharma." The Dhamek Stupa, an ancient monument marking this event, stands as a symbol of the Buddha's teachings and the beginning of the ordained Buddhist community. Pilgrims explore the ruins of monasteries and reflect on the teachings of impermanence, non-self and cessation, deepening their understanding of the path to liberation.

Kushinagar, India: In the state of Uttar Pradesh, Kushinagar is the site of the Buddha's Mahaparinirvana, his final passing into nirvana. The Ramabhar Stupa, believed to mark the Buddha's cremation site, is a place of solemn reflection for pilgrims. Kushinagar represents the culmination of the Buddha's earthly journey and signifies the ultimate liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara). Pilgrims contemplate impermanence and the nature of existence, gaining profound insights into the transient nature of life and the quest for transcendence.

“After my passing away, the new Bhikkhus who come and ask of the doctrine should be told of these four places and advised that a pilgrimage to them will help purify their previously accumulated Karmas or actions."
- The Buddha

Buddhist pilgrimage isn't a mere holiday; it's a transformative journey of the heart and mind. By setting the right motivations and intentions, pilgrims infuse their travels with purpose and depth, fostering personal growth, connection, and spiritual awakening. The sacred sites serve as external mirrors reflecting the inner landscape of one's journey towards wisdom, compassion, and awakening. If you have the means, it is highly encouraged to go for a pilgrimage as you can personally experience the blessings of a pilgrimage yourself.

The journey to self-discovery starts from within yourself. As you seek for answers both internally and externally, it is helpful to find a community that is supportive of your journey. Come and get to know Thekchen Choling through our annual Vesak Day celebration on 22nd May 2024. There will be Four Holy Site themed activities for all to enjoy. Come and discover more about Buddha’s life and his teachings!