10 Global Destinations for Sacred Rituals and Divine Awakenings

Varanasi, India

This sacred city on the banks of the Ganges is considered one of Hinduisms most revered pilgrimage sites. Temples, shrines and bathing ghats line the riverbanks.

Jerusalem, Israel

Jerusalem is a holy city for Jews, Christians and Muslims. Key sites include the Western Wall, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque.

Vatican City, Rome

The seat of the Catholic Church is home to St. Peters Basilica and the Vatican Museums. Millions visit annually to see the Vaticans iconic art and architecture.

Mecca, Saudi Arabia

Mecca is the holiest city in Islam. Its Great Mosque surrounds the Kaaba, the most sacred site for Muslims who face this shrine during daily prayers.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

This vast temple complex was originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. It remains an important religious site and pilgrimage destination.

Bodh Gaya, India

This is where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. Pilgrims come to visit the Mahabodhi temple complex.

Lumbini, Nepal

Buddhas birthplace contains ruins of ancient monasteries and temples. Its a UNESCO World Heritage Site and pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

Mount Kailash, Tibet

This peak in western Tibet is the legendary abode of Shiva and a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists.

Mount Sinai, Egypt

Said to be where Moses received the Ten Commandments, Mount Sinai is an important pilgrimage site for Christians, Jews and Muslims.

Stonehenge, England

The mysterious prehistoric stone circle in Wiltshire remains a site of spiritual significance and an intriguing sacred landmark.