8 Life-Changing Getaways For Spiritual Seekers

You don’t have to travel to the other side of the world to get a life-changing experience, but it is still good to get a change of scene, explore exotic cultures and spend peaceful evenings high up in the mountains. There are also places that are considered special and highly spiritual, possessing some special qualities that are hard to explain with words, you can only go there and experience everything yourself. From the ancient mountains of Altai in Russia to the sacred city of Varanasi in India and the breathtaking natural sights of Ramon Crater in Israel, we present to you 8 spectacular getaways that will change your life forever.

Varanasi, India
People do not simply come to Varanasi for sightseeing, although there are around 2,000 temples, large and small, scattered all over the narrow gut-like streets of the ancient Benares, also known as Kashi. Witnessing the cycle of life and death right before your own eyes is not for the faint-hearted, but it is a sight that will capture your mind, body, and soul. Head to the Manikarnika Ghat to quietly observe the burning of the bodies that is happening non-stop 24/7. The Ganga Aarti ceremony that takes part every day on the bank of Ganga after sunset is one of the most auspicious and unforgettable sights you’ll ever see. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Benares is one of the most ancient cities on Earth that has remained inhabited for thousands of years.

Altai, Russia
Altai, the ancient land of shamans and spectacular Siberian nature, is a real gem for travellers, hikers, and people seeking life-changing experiences. One of the most breathtaking destinations in Altai is the sacred Belukha Mountain. Also known as Uch-Sumer, the mountain is often compared to the legendary Mount Meru that connects Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism, and is considered the center of all spiritual, physical, and metaphysical Universes. It is actually true that Belukha Mountain is located in the geographical center of Eurasia! Explorers from all over the world, as well as locals, believe this mountain to be one of the most mysterious and powerful places on the planet.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia
You don’t have to be religious or love history to enjoy the marvels of Angkor Wat – this place speaks for itself! Located near the town of Siem Reap in Cambodia, this spectacular temple complex stretches for hundreds of hectares. Boasting exquisite Khmer architecture and more than 3,000 carvings of celestial apsaras on its walls, Angkor Wat is a place where you’ll want to spend at least a few days carefully exploring each of the ancient temples and its masterful decorations. Historians believe the main temple of the Angkor Wat complex was built to represent the four Yugas (ages in Hinduism) and as you travel from outer layers to the very centre of the temple where the statue of Vishnu stands proud and tall, you are also travelling from modern times to the age of the creation of the world.