Shambhala Travels & Tours have housed many sorts – tourists, trekkers, rafters and trotters. But the pilgrim is indeed a special guest.
There is the story about the Yogi who had been sitting under the same tree for decades, praying and meditating. Eventually the whole surrounding was vibrating with. One day the Yogi passed away. Not long afterwards a pilgrim happened to come by. Ignorant about the Yogi but sensing the tremendous serenity and powerful energy of the place, the pilgrim decided to stay for some time. He sat down under the tree, meditated and after a week attained enlightenment……
   A pilgrim is defined in Dharmapada as one who has abandoned the world, at least for the time being, to pursue a spiritual progress. The pilgrim’s ascetic habits and wandering mode of living, contributes to the propagation of spiritual ideals. Thus a pilgrims activities betters the world.
    The wandering about is not aimless but specifically directed towards sacred sites and shrines. Hence, the pilgrim also gains religious merits for him- or herself. This is perhaps the most important aspect of the pilgrimage – to improve oneself, to enhance and increase the inherent potential for enlightenment.
    The Pali word for pilgrimage is pravajya or prabajja, which literally means “going on retirement from the world”. The same word is used for admission to the first level of Buddhist monkhood. Today we call it Dharma Yatra and it is the ultimate expression of faith and a fundamental part of religious practice. A classic retreat always begins with a pilgrimage. It is traditionally the first stage in the process of spiritual purification and renewal of oneself.
    To accomplish all this, the pilgrim must be able to concentrate completely on the spiritual practices. In ancient times a pilgrimage was a considerable effort, very hazardous and randomly successful. This was often due to worldly interferences of various kinds. Today, travelling with us, you are safe and can pursue your spiritual path and growth without bothering about worldly matters at all. We take care of everything for you.
    In a not too distant future, we are planning to publish our Pilgrims Guide, a complete manual for doing pilgrimage. In the meantime this brochure, our agency and our know-how will have to suffice. We sincerely hope to be of the best service to you.
    And consider this: Due to your own karma you have come across this great possibility of travelling with us. Take that opportunity and do your spiritual practice on your way to Shambhala, with Shambhala Travels & Tours.

   Bon Voyage!

   Yours truly
      M.D.