Back in medieval days the correct garb for a pilgrim was a long sackcloth type of robe and a sturdy stick. The sackcloth was a representation of the pilgrims’ penance and the walking stick was as much to guard against wild animals than to give support. Obviously, things have progressed since then, and there are…
The second giant step into the world’s greatest walks, having already walked around North and South America and a brief stroll in Greece, we now look at England, Argentina and some other remarkable places. Fitz Roy Massif This testing walk is not for the feint hearted, and warm clothing is a necessity to navigate the…
If you love to travel like a pilgrim on your own two feet, then you are probably familiar with taking long walks in highly unusual locations. In this series of blogs, we will be looking at some of the world’s most spectacular walks, some you might be aware of and others definitely not. We will…
The United States of America has one of the most diverse landscapes on the planet, from wide open plains, to snowy mountains and everything in between. The sheer land mass of this part of North America throws up some exciting, challenging but vastly rewarding walking trails. In this blog we discover some of the ultimate…
It is time to take up the baton and explore even more pilgrimage paths for the tourist to follow. In this edition we traverse through India, China and Spain amongst other thrilling places. So, gather up your bags, put on your hiking boots and grab your trusty staff as we follow paths well and truly…
It is hard to believe but the greatest coming together of people on the planet is not as you would think on gorgeous beaches, or at political rallies. It is without doubt at significant religious sites, such a vast cathedral, small grottoes or by sacred rivers. For instance, the great Kumbh Mela pilgrimage attracts 120…
Going on a pilgrimage is as old as religion itself, the great religions of the world all have significant places where people can make extraordinary journeys to show their faith. In this blog we look at the great pilgrimages of the Muslim faith and why people travel vast distances to visit certain places. In reality…
The origins of Buddhist pilgrimages are associated with the places that the teacher visited, and the places associated with his teachings. The four main places are Kusinara, Lumbini, Bodh Gaya and Sarnath. Lumbini holds special significance as it was where Gautama Buddha was born. Other significant places are in India, and Bodh Gaya was the…
To make a pilgrimage is traditional in all religions of the world, it is human nature to search for your origins, why you exist and to have a “holy” place or thing to believe in. This place or thing belongs closer to heaven, and brings the pilgrim closer to some divine entity that offers a…
There are many types of Pilgrimages, but one usually associates them with faith based activity. Taking a journey to a place that for some reason has a special significance plays a big part in many religions and cultures. The great pilgrimages from history play a most important part in formulating art, architecture, social anthropology and…