Seniors Visit A Buddhist Monastery

When in India, Tibet or Nepal, seniors, how about a visit to a Buddhist Monastery? When thinking of religion in India, Hinduism readily comes to mind.

However, Tibetan Buddhism is also thriving, especially in the mountains of northern India close to the Tibetan border. These historic monasteries are known as gompas.

Here is a list of ten well known monasteries for you to choose from. The idea of traveling to develop spiritually is increasingly popular for some seniors. Monasteries in Canada also offer accommodation and retreats for those who want to get away from it all and there is even an entire publication (Overnight or Short Stays at Religious Houses around the world) dedicated to helping travelers find their way.

Make A Senior Pilgrimage

Bodh Gaya is the most important Buddhist pilgrimage place in the world. Located in the state of Bihar, it’s here that Buddha became enlightened during intense meditation under a Bodhi tree. Tibet is loaded with Buddhist Monasteries.

Monks and nuns associated with Buddhism are recognized to spread their knowledge through teaching, and monasteries supply the perfect place.

If senior travelers want to specifically search out the most well known in the entire world, Spirit Tourism provides their listing of the top five and each is held in great reverence.

 Senior travelers don’t have to go overseas. Shasta Abbey, located on 16 forested acres near Mount Shasta in Northern California. It is a training monastery for Buddhist monks and a place of practice for lay Buddhists and interested visitors. It is said that many Westerners interested in Buddhism avoid temples and dharma centers because they are uncomfortable with the rituals.

Monasteries In The Himalayans

Tengboche Gomba is one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in Himalaya, Nepal. Just north of the ancient Buddhist town of Boudhanath is the monastery of international importance. With 260 Nepali and Tibetan monks, and a place of study for the 150 nuns this is a spiritual oasis for hundreds of visitors yearly from around the world.

There are many monasteries in Nepal, most of them are tibetan-buddhist. The nuns and monks – many of them children – live and study Buddha’s teachings.

Their days are meticulously structured, starting with an early morning puja (ceremony in tibetan language), meals and many, many lessons, ending with an evening puja and late self-study time.

Most Buddhist Monasteries are open to anyone, however it is a cloistered environment and visitors are asked to respect the monastic training schedule. Learn how to step inside respectfully prior to a visit. Wear loose-fitting clothing, dark or muted in color so as not to distract others. Dress modestly and do not wear shorts, sleeveless shirts, short skirts, tank tops or any perfumes or fragrances.

Enjoy your experience. By the way, I’m neither Buddist, nor am I pushing the Buddish religion but I would certainly visit a monastery if I were near one…jeb