Join a life-changing journey walking the very paths where the Buddha lived and taught. From September 28 to October 11, 2025, Spirit Rock teacher Tempel Smith and renowned teacher Dharmacharya Shantum Seth will guide you through the sacred sites of northern India. This pilgrimage, a benefit for Spirit Rock and organized by Buddhapath Journeys, offers a unique blend of meditation practice, Dharma teachings, and cultural exploration, going far beyond sightseeing.
“Pilgrimage with Shantum Seth is an extraordinary and inspiring experience! The best and most blessed way to encounter and be transformed by Buddhist Asia.” —Jack Kornfield, Founding Teacher, Spirit Rock Meditation Center
“This wondrous journey opens Dharma door after Dharma door. Led by Shantum Seth, the pilgrimage teaches you through history and living Buddhism what the heart of the Buddha was truly about. Shantum himself is an example of practice, an inspiration and a teacher of grace, kindness and insight. With him, you feel the presence of Buddhism as a living tradition of compassion." —Roshi Joan Halifax, Founding Teacher, Upaya Zen Center
This is a mobile retreat, designed to deepen your spiritual practice as you travel across the land where the Buddha’s teachings first unfolded. You’ll engage in daily structured meditation sessions led by Tempel Smith and Dharma talks by Shantum Seth at sacred locations like Bodh Gaya, where the Buddha achieved enlightenment, Deer Park at Sarnath, where he gave his first teachings, Vulture Peak, Bamboo Grove in Rajgir, and more. The creation of a traveling sangha will be an important aspect of this trip, building a sense of support for those seeking to deepen their practice.
Space is limited—reserve your spot now for this unique opportunity to deepen your practice in the land where the Buddha's path began. A non-refundable deposit of $500 U.S. per person is required at the time of registration. The remainder of the cost of the pilgrimage is due by July 15, 2025. For more information, view the pilgrimage packet created by Buddhapath Journeys. To register, complete this document. Questions? Please email [email protected].