Spirituality is often confused with similar concepts, such as religion, to be something untouchable but profound that only the worthy ones will achieve. On the other hand, many see spirituality as pointless, made for dreamers.

 

However, spirituality is more than that ―its spectrum can include asking yourself deep questions, connecting with other people and looking for your purpose in the world. Being spiritual can be anything you want, as long as it provides a feeling of interconnectedness, which is why there are so many types of spirituality, from breathwork to prayer and spending time in nature.

 

But sometimes, you may need to start with spirituality in a place where people find it. Luckily, there are plentiful of these places scattered around the world.

 

The Western Wall

The Western Wall in Jerusalem is one of the holiest places on Earth and holds an important place in people’s history. It brings together Jewish, Muslim and Christian people, but it’s open for visiting by anyone who wants to release their sorrows. Most people come here to meditate in the prayer section, but other parts of the construction simply support the complex structures.

 

It’s the place where you can participate in green Christian pilgrimage tours and get to know the locals, learn more about yourself and respect nature. Practising gratitude in a holy place can help you become more mindful, even if you may not be religious.

 

The religious way of practising spirituality is common, and it’s based on a set of rules you might need to get accustomed to. Most of the time, it’s exercised within a community, but discovering the place and experiencing the gathering can also be done alone. So, you may want to get some books from Israel to learn essential communication or get accustomed to the culture.

 

Uluru

If you’re looking for spirituality where Indigenous people live, the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Australia will offer you a sacred experience. The sandstone formation is 550 million years old, and it’s a giant paving the natural setting in the northern part of the country. Its mystical feeling comes from multiple paintings and rock caves, providing the perfect area for spiritual rituals.

 

Uluru might seem like an excellent adventure for hikers, but it’s advised that you don’t climb it out of respect for the Aboriginals’ culture. At the same time, some parts of Uluru must not be photographed. There are also stories surrounding people who take rocks from the formation and are said to have experienced only misfortune.

 

Uluru is a special place in people’s hearts, and many come here to learn more about indigenous culture. However, others visit to experience the intensified feeling of stepping on the same land as the Aboriginals, and the weight of that happening is enough for some to strengthen their spirituality and become more acceptant of the world.

 

Varanasi

Varanasi is the “spiritual heart of India” since it’s the oldest city in the country. It’s said that Varanasi is where Buddhism was founded, one of the most spiritual religions. That’s why, in the Hindu world, the city is the principal place for traditions in pilgrimage and death, so it’s got massive importance in the world. Varanasi is also known for silk weaving and other crafts that attract numerous tourists. But it’s an educational and musical centre.

 

Three holy rivers surround the city where rituals are performed — Ganga, Yamuna and Brahmaputra. Cremations are sometimes organized here, too, but it’s not unusual since, for locals, this is natural; that’s why the location is a representation of death also.

 

Besides exploring the Ghats, you could have a tour of the Oldest Temple, Kashi Vishwanath, a sacred place. Another holy place used by citizens is Dhamek Stupa, but it’s 13 km away from Varanasi city. Finally, don’t forget to try the local food here.

 

Cape Reinga

Moving on to New Zealand, we have Cape Reinga, a sacred heavenly spot of the Maori people, considered of the spirits. Locals believe that dead people’s souls use Cape Reinga to leave Earth and enter the afterlife. Locals advise people to avoid eating here and leave the place untouched to avoid disturbing it. The Maori people also had ceremonial burials that cleanse the dead’s souls with water from a spring that’s called the “Living Waters of Tāne).

 

The location’s uniqueness doesn’t stop here. Two oceans collide here ―the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean, which can be seen from the lighthouse on top of the hill. These are the reasons why Cape Reinga is one of the most loved tourist attractions in New Zealand.

 

To uplift your moods and get spiritual, you should visit Toputaputu Bay, an accessible beach near where you can have a picnic or camp. For more adventures, the Te Paki Coast Track is the perfect spot to experience a four-day hike.

 

Machu Picchu

We can’t finish the list better than mentioning Machu Picchu in Peru, an impressive spot where the Inca Empire constructed one of the most remarkable sites with temples, shrines and caves. Machu Picchu is recognized as essential in history and for visitors as a testament to Inca astronomy, civilization and love for nature. Its spirituality comes from itself, starting from the natural setting to the design of the city. It was long ago seen as the home of the gods, so its energy is unique.

 

Anyone who visited the sacred site recognized a strange feeling while being there that supposedly comes from an energy vortex from Mother Earth. It can be similar to what you feel when visiting sacred places in India or Tibet, and it will make you feel tranquil and provide spiritual peace. The highest energy points here are The Intihuatana and the holy rock.

 

Wrapping up

Improving your spiritual experience can be a tough challenge, especially if you only see it as religious. But this journey is about finding your path in life, becoming happier and more balanced and becoming a better person. Still, visiting sacred places, whether religious or not, can get you closer to your goal.