From January 31 to February 13, 2026, a group of Plum Village monastics will join the legendary Shantum Seth for this 14-day pilgrimage, which retraces the Buddha’s life-long journey and offers deep insight into the heart of his teachings. Shantum has been leading these pilgrimages for more than 30 years.
We will visit Varanasi and Deer Park in Sarnath as well as have the opportunity to sit under the Bodhi Tree at Bodh Gaya and walk up to the Buddha’s favorite meditation spot at Vulture Peak. If you would like to join us on this journey, please find more information at www.buddhapath.com
(Brother Phap Huu and Jo Confino will both be on the pilgrimage, and they will take the opportunity to record special episodes of The Way Out Is In podcast directly from India.)
Dates
- Peepal Pilgrimage Pilgrimage: Saturday, January 31 – Friday, February 13, 2026
Optional Extensions:
- Building Love – Agra (Taj Mahal and Agra Fort): February 13–14, 2026 (ending in Delhi)
- The Exquisite Caves – Ajanta & Ellora: February 14–17, 2026 (beginning and ending in Delhi)
Meaning of Peepal Pilgrimage
The Peepal tree (Ficus religiosa) is the species of tree under which the Buddha attained awakening in Bodh Gaya. This pilgrimage is named in honor of this sacred tree, symbolizing the Buddha’s realization and the timeless path of practice.
Registration & Information
