Spiritual Journeys Reinvented: Gen Z's Innovative Approach to Religious Tourism
In the heart of India, a new wave of spiritual seekers is emerging, redefining the concept of inner awakening and artistic expression. This modern-day hippie subculture bears a striking resemblance to the 1960s and 70s counterculture in Goa, as Gen Z is now finding solace and enlightenment in experiences that were once the domain of religious institutions.
For many, the pursuit of spirituality has taken on a new form, with a growing desire for retreats that offer stillness and clarity. This shift is evident in the increasing number of bookings to destinations like Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun, according to Manjari Singhal, Chief Growth and Business Officer at Cleartrip.
One such individual is Shriya Roy, a corporate professional living in Scotland, who found her spiritual journey in Tosh, a remote village in Himachal Pradesh. Inspired by the locals' faith, she experienced a profound sense of peace amidst urban life, heartbreaks, and bills.
The most visited spiritual places for Gen Z in India include iconic destinations like Varanasi, Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Bodh Gaya, renowned for their deep spiritual and yogic traditions. These sites offer a unique blend of traditional pilgrimage and modern spiritual experiences that resonate with younger generations.
Mithi Singh, a digital creator and avid traveller, believes that spiritual retreats or peaceful places provide a much-needed break from the constant online life, offering a chance to breathe without pressure. For Shriya Roy, her first spiritual travel experience in Tosh marked the beginning of a journey towards finding peace and inner harmony.
In Kerala, there is a growing interest in spiritual and wellness retreats, with a focus on Ayurveda and tranquil escapes. The region is seeing a sustained demand for Ayurveda-based therapies and immersive yoga and meditation programs, as well as an increase in bookings for last-minute and early planned trips.
Gen Z isn't necessarily seeking spirituality in conventional terms, but rather consciously seeking peace on their own terms. This generation is more adaptable and personal in their approach to spirituality, according to influencer and actor Agasthya Shah. For him, spirituality is a personal connection that evolves with time and intention.
Spiritual and wellness retreats across India have been gaining momentum, with a 14% rise in last-minute bookings and a 10% increase in early planning. Destinations like Ayodhya, Prayagraj, and Amritsar have seen an increase in bookings from Gen Z solo female travellers, particularly in 2024.
Influenced by the experiences of individuals like Shriya Roy and Mithi Singh, Gen Z is rediscovering India's sacred sites as modern sanctuaries for mental clarity, detox, and identity exploration. While Goa remains the top leisure spot for solo female travellers, these towns, known for yoga ashrams, Ganga aarti, and holistic wellness, are emerging as new destinations for spiritual seekers.
From the Mahakaleshwar temple in Ujjain to the hidden Shiva temple in a forest trail in Jibhi, these spiritual journeys offer a unique opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. As Gen Z continues to explore and redefine the concept of spirituality, India's sacred sites will undoubtedly remain at the heart of this transformative experience.
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