Religious Travel and India
If you’re looking for religious travel, India can be one of the most rewarding experiences in the world. Whether you are a practicing Hindu, or just want to learn more about this fascinating religion, India will not disappoint. In this article we will explore the culture and attitudes you should expect while traveling in India.
Makar Sankranti: A great festival where everyone jumps into the Ganges river so that they may offer up water to the Sun God. Held on January 14.
Pongal: A harvest festival (not really religious, but a great time nonetheless!) If you happen to find yourself in Tami Nadu in mid January, be sure to hit this one up.
Shigmo: A classic Konkani Hindu religious festival, usually held between February-March.
Krishna Janmaashtami: One of the most important religious festivals in India, this celebrates the birth of Krishna.
Deepavali: literally meaning “row of lights.” One of the highlights of religous travel in india.
While Hinduism makes up a little over 80% of India’s religious make up, Buddhism still plays a role. It is interesting to note that in terms of size, Hinduism is the third largest religion in the world, and the vast majority of Hindus live in India.
Religious travel in India therefore must pay respect to these beliefs, which are among some of the more tolerant religions in the world. Hinudism, up until recently, rarely accepted converts (which is incredible, given the number of followers). Remember that while traveling through India, that Hindus do not eat beef, pork or consume alcohol.
The religious holidays in India are (dates are estimates only): Jan 14,: Maghi
Jan 24,: Vivekanada Jayanti
Feb 6,: Vasant Panchami
Mar 1,: Maha Shivaratri
Mar 5,: Ramakrishna Jayanti
Mar 18,: Holi
April 11,: Ramanavami
April 14,: Ugadi (New Years)
August 2,: Krishna Jayanti
August 3,: Ganesh Chaturthi
August 12,: Raksha Bandhan
August 20, 2003 : Krishna Janmashtami
August 31,: Ganesh Chaturthi
September 26-October 5,: Navaratra Dashara
October 5,: Dasera
October 25,: Diwali (Deepawali)
November 4,: Ramanavami
December 8,: Bodhi Day |