Travel in India is increasingly expanding beyond conventional sightseeing, with travellers seeking experiences that offer space for reflection, cultural discovery and personal growth. From established spiritual centres and ashrams to contemporary spaces that bring together art, culture, wellness and introspection, these destinations reflect the evolving ways in which people are approaching meaningful travel. 

Why Are People Moving Towards Spiritual Tourism

There is a growing interest in travel that offers more than an itinerary: journeys that create space to slow down, look inward and reconnect. India's spiritual tourism landscape is also evolving beyond traditional pilgrimage, with travellers increasingly seeking experiences that combine spirituality, wellness, culture and personal transformation. 

According to a 2026 KPMG in India-PHDCCI report, over 60% of India's domestic tourist visits are estimated to be linked to religious travel, highlighting the country's deep connection with spiritual journeys.

Destinations Spiritual Tourism Enthusiasts

For From traditional ashrams and spiritual centres to contemporary spaces for art, culture and self-exploration, here are five destinations across India for those seeking a more meaningful travel experience. 

1. Eternal Oasis, Gurugram

Launched in March 2025, Eternal Oasis is a centre for art, culture and spirituality located on Golf Course Road, Gurugram. Spread across 100,000 sq. ft. in Sector 42, the centre was conceived by Umesh Mathur as a space designed to nurture the mind, body and spirit.

Envisioned as a dedicated “third space” beyond home and workplace, Eternal Oasis brings together art, culture and spirituality under one roof. The centre houses three performance venues, six flexible workshop spaces, an art gallery, professional recording studio, 30 residential rooms and an 80-seater eatery, alongside a Buddhist temple, meditation room, terrace and landscaped lawns.

The centre offers a contemporary setting for creativity, mindfulness, self-development and meaningful human connection, making it a distinctive destination for those looking to experience culture and spirituality in an urban setting.

2. Maharishi Ayurveda Retreat, Rishikesh

The Maharishi Ayurveda Retreat, Rishikesh is a well-known retreat located in the Tapovan area of Rishikesh, near the banks of river Ganga. This is one of the best places in Rishikesh for you to get away from the sounds of hustle and bustle. This place takes away your screen time and you feel like you have entered the serene time. 

3. Parmarth Niketan, Rishikesh

Founded in 1942 by Pujya Swami Shukdevanandji Maharaj, Parmarth Niketan is one of Rishikesh's best-known spiritual centres. Located on the banks of the Ganges, the ashram offers programmes around yoga, meditation, spiritual learning and Indian culture, alongside the daily Ganga Aarti and the annual International Yoga Festival.

4. Hari Ganga Niwas, Haridwar

Hari Ganga Niwas is a property standing since 1913, and they have restored a 15 key hertiage retreat boutique near Ram Ghat, Haridwar. They offer various wellness retreat options such private bathing in the Ganges, peaceful dips both in evening and in the morning. On-site they offer activities such as relaxing massages, and they also have dedicated yoga and meditation rooms. 

Conclusion

Whether it is an established ashram on the banks of Ganges, or a contemporary spiritual hub in the middle of Gurugram, these destinations offer different ways to step away from the noise and make space for stillness, reflection and self-discovery. 

(Image Credits: Instagram)

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