Faith Tours of India
Soul of India’s expert-led tours of historic religious sites and religious pilgrimages across India blend beliefs and traditions, offering visitors a unique spiritual experience.
Religion and spirituality are central to India. Many faiths live peacefully side by side across the country. The beliefs of India’s people influence everything from politics to food, clothing and celebrations.
We are specialist tour operators with decades of experience connecting Eastern and Western cultures. Our passion is building tolerance and respect between different religions, cultures and customs. Our tours are carefully planned to allow travellers to understand how different faiths live in peace and harmony.
INDIA’S RELIGIOUS HISTORY
India’s religious history, ancient beliefs and spiritual traditions span thousands of years. Hinduism and Jainism both started life in India, and religious movements like Buddhism, began at places such as Sarnath Deer Park, where Buddha delivered his first sermon.
Several important figures have influenced India’s religious history. It’s thought that St. Thomas introduced Christianity, and Mahatma Gandhi led peaceful campaigns for Indian independence. Mother Teresa is also known to have spent time in India as part of her humanitarian work.
Our Great Faiths of India tour is a wonderful way to discover some of India’s fascinating religious history.
SPIRITUAL AND RELIGIOUS TOURS IN INDIA
Taking a spiritual or religious tour in India is a chance to experience the country’s many extreme contrasts whilst reflecting upon your own life and the challenges you may face.
Whether you’re travelling solo, in a group, or joining a pilgrimage, our tours are led by experts who have spent years building relationships with local people and businesses, giving you a uniquely authentic Indian experience.
For a mix of religion and relaxation, follow in the footsteps of St. Thomas and join our Pilgrimage to South India. You’ll travel from Chennai to Cochin, visit Fort St. George, the Shree Meenakshi Temple complex, and enjoy a guided nature walk at the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, amongst many other temples, tropical wildlife and scenery.
Alternatively, you can travel across northern India’s spectacular sites on the Faith Tour of North India. On this tour you’ll visit the Golden Temple at Amritsar and the Dalai Lama in the Himalayas, Dharamshala. Join the locals for morning prayers on Yamuna River, Mathura, and experience the peaceful singing and holy atmosphere. There will be time for reflection at the Baha’l Lotus Temple, with its white marble petals shaped like a lotus flower, and at the Cathedral of the Redemption, with its impressive stained-glass windows.
RESPECTING INDIAN CULTURE
It’s important to understand Indian cultural etiquette and practice cultural sensitivity in India. Remember to respect local customs and traditions, including using “Namaste”, a traditional Indian greeting.
Sharing meals is ingrained in Indian culture, but common dietary practices in India, such as vegetarianism, should be considered before ordering food.
Only pack loose, modest clothing, including trousers and skirts that fall below the knee. Avoid tight, short clothes and thin straps, and cover your shoulders. During the Holi festival, follow the Holi dress code and opt for traditional white clothes.
We’ll send you our detailed guide prior to travel which includes cultural insights specific to the locations and regions you’ll visit on your tour. By respecting Indian culture, you’ll help support responsible tourism in India.
CHRISTIAN TOURS IN INDIA
Christianity is believed to have been introduced to India in 52 AD by St. Thomas the Apostle. Followers believe in one God, made up of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.
India’s Christians celebrate many important events, including Christmas and Easter, and in some regions, the Feast of St. Thomas, also known as “Indian Christian Day”.
A specialist Christian pilgrimage tour in India will take you to many Historical Christian sites. Thousands of travellers visit Tamil Nadu and Kerala each year, where you’ll find St. Thomas Christian sites and churches built during the Portuguese colonial period, featuring intricate Christian art and music.
Explore the legacy of the St. Thomas Christians on the Christian Missionary Trail or join our tour. You’ll discover >St. Thomas’s Seven and a Half Churches, learn about the history of Christianity in Chennai, and unwind in the peaceful backwaters of Kerala.
BUDDHIST TOUR IN INDIA
Buddhism was founded over 2,500 years ago by Siddhartha Gautama, or Buddha. Buddhists believe in reincarnation, and what they will be reborn as depends on how they live their life.
The festival of Vesak celebrates Buddha’s birthday. Homes are decorated, processions line the streets, and families share food and gifts with each other.
Our specialist Buddhist pilgrimage tours in India explore sacred Buddhist sites, such as Sravasti, home to monasteries, including Jetavana, where Buddha taught. Our In the Land of Buddha tour takes you to the most important places Buddha visited.
You’ll travel through Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, into Bihar to Nalanda University and Bodh Gaya, where Buddha achieved enlightenment, and Kushinagar, where he died.
Meditation is important for Buddhists, helping them to understand their thoughts deeply. Discovering the Roots of Buddhism guides you through Buddhist meditation retreats to visit the Mahabodhi Temple and stupa and meet with Buddhist communities.
SIKH TOURS IN INDIA
Founded in the 15th century by Guru Nanak, Sikhism values equality, justice and devotion to the Sikh god Waheguru.
Sikh festivals take place throughout the year. During the Sukh Asana ceremony, the Sikh holy scripture, Guru Granth Sahib, is closed to rest each night in an act of respect.
Sikh gurdwaras in India are sacred places for prayer and commemorating Sikh gurus, with the most famous being Harimandir Saheb or the Golden Temple. Gurdwaras are centres of worship and community service, serving free meals and focusing on equality and devotion.
Many specialist pilgrimage tours visit historical Sikh sites. Our Encountering Religions tour explores Gandhi’s heritage alongside other faiths. You’ll visit the Taj Mahal in Agra and experience Sikh culture at the Golden Temple. You’ll also discover the Sikh pilgrimage sites of Tarn Taran and Goindwal Sahi, visit the Wagha daily flag-lowering ceremony, and see the Buddhist site of Varanasi.
HINDU TOURS IN INDIA
Dating back between 2300 and 1500 BC, Hinduism believes in many gods, reincarnation and karma.
Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated by decorating houses, lighting fireworks and holding Aarti ceremonies and rituals.
Many of our Specialist Hindu pilgrimage tours in India visit Rishikesh, a popular city during spiritual journeys of India. You can take part in yoga and Ayurveda experiences here, and Ganges River ceremonies, a tradition of offering prayers, lights and hymns to the river.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi is often visited on our Hindu temple tours. Along the Ganges are the spiritual ghats at Varanasi, sacred steps where locals pray, meditate and bathe.
If you’re a teacher, our Tours for Teachers and A Taste of Delhi tours take you to Hindu pilgrimage sites where you’ll have time to take photos and buy resources or souvenirs. You’ll visit a Hindu Mandir, explore Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial sites and browse the Chandini Chowk markets.
JAIN TOURS IN INDIA
Modern Jainism was founded by Lord Mahavira, one of many Jain mendicants dedicated to the monastic life of following Ahimsa, the non-violent philosophy of not harming any living being.
Lord Mahavira’s birthday is celebrated with prayers and rituals of peace during the Mahavira Jayanti celebrations in India.
The Songadh Tirtha in Bhavnagar is a pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Mahavira. Its temples are associated with Shrimdad Rajchandra, a Jain monk who spent a lot of time there meditating and writing.
Jain temples and heritage tours explore the Palitana Jain architecture of Palitan’s temples. Our Jain pilgrimage tours in India are popular ways to explore Jainism’s values and enjoy vegetarian and Jain cuisine.
Our Jainism and Jain Hill Shrines of Rajasthan and Gujarat tour takes you to the Jain shrines in Gujarat and Rajasthan, including Songadh Tirtha in Bhavnagar and Shatrunjaya. You’ll also visit Dilwara Temple and offer prayers in Ajmer.
JEWISH TOURS IN INDIA
Indian Judasiam stretches back to 75 CE. The first Jewish communities in India are thought to have been in the south. Followers believe in one God who created the world and still influences it.
The Bene Israel and Cochin Jewish communities in India both participate in Purim and Hannukah celebrations. Feasting and costumes mark Purim, celebrating the survival of a Persian plot to destroy the Jews. Hannukah, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated by lighting the menorah and enjoying traditional foods.
Jewish heritage tours in India explore many historical synagogues. The Kochi Synagogue is the oldest in India and is a centre of worship and community. It is also part of the Malabar Jewish sites in Kerala.
For a personalised experience, Our Take Your Own Pilgrimage tour allows you to plan a tour of India’s rich Jewish history. We’ll manage the whole process, including itineraries and travel arrangements.
ISLAMIC TOURS IN INDIA
Islam first appeared in India during the Arab invasion of Sind in 712 CE. Followers believe in the Five Pillars of Islam, eat Halal cuisine and avoid pork and alcohol.
There are many Islamic festivals and observances in India. Eid-ul-Fitr celebrates the end of Ramadan fasting, and Eid-ul-Adha honours Prophet Ibrahim. During both festivals, Muslims share prayers and meals together with the less fortunate.
The Muslim mosques and heritage of Kerala are a stunning combination of wooden designs, carvings and sloping roofs. Cheraman Juma Masjid is believed to be India’s first mosque.
Specialised Islamic pilgrimage tours in India are a popular way to learn about India’s Islamic roots. Millions visit The Taj Mahal and Agra Fort every year to admire the Islamic domes and architecture.
A Taste of Delhi visits Chandini Chowk, the largest mosque in India, Jama Masjid, Delhi and Mughal architecture. You’ll also explore Humayun’s Tomb’s Islamic architecture.
SUFI TOURS IN INDIA
Introduced to India over 1000 years ago, Sufism has Islamic links. Followers focus on connecting with God and humility.
Sufi Zikr ceremonies help followers stay close to God by chanting holy words. Urs festival, on Saint Moinuddin Chishti’s death anniversary, is celebrated with prayers and music.
Sufi shrines and dargah visits are popular during specialist Sufi pilgrimage tours in India. Visitors pay their respects to the buried saint. On our Sufi tour , you’ll visit the Nizamuddin Dargah of Sufi Saint Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, a tomb and centre to study Sufi philosophy in India, in the Nizamuddin West area of Delhi.
WHY CHOOSE SOUL OF INDIA TOURS?
Soul of India is a trusted Indian travel and religious tour operator that values cultural tolerance and respect. Our expert local guides have decades of experience curating Indian tours, making your trip with us an unforgettable experience.
Travellers tell us that one tour highlight is our close relationship with local communities and businesses. They share their lives and customs, giving our traveller groups authentic Indian cultural insights.
Our exceptional service covers everything from efficient travel arrangements to tailor-made itineraries and consumer protection and compliance. Our 24-hour emergency contact number will also give you peace of mind on your travels.
Browse our tours and start your adventure.
INDIAN FAITH TOUR FAQs
Weather
- Winter lasts from October to mid-February. Summer is between April and May, with temperatures of up to 40C.
- July and August are the wettest months of monsoon season. The rain lasts longer in the south.
- We’ll send you detailed weather information so you can plan accordingly for your trip.
Clothes
- Shoulders and knees must always be covered, and heads must be covered in Sikh gurdwaras.
- Women must cover their heads in mosques and some temples.
- Remove footwear in religious buildings.
- Leather is forbidden in Jain temples and some Hindu temples.
- Wear a sun hat, bring an umbrella during monsoon season, and layered clothing for air-conditioned hotels.
Health
- Talk to your doctor for advice before you travel.
- Get vaccinations against typhoid, tetanus and malaria.
- Wash your hands before eating, avoid raw food, and only drink bottled water.
- Get medical insurance for emergencies.
Money
- The Indian currency is the rupee (Rs).
- Personal expenses cost a few dollars or pounds a day.
- International airports have 24-hour banking. You can exchange traveller’s cheques at most hotels in India.
- Haggling is common in bazaars, and prices vary. Souvenirs cost between a few rupees and hundreds of dollars.
- Exporting peacock feathers is illegal.
- Tip for small services and meals, and make a small offering in religious places.
Customs and etiquette
- Use your right hand to pass plates and food.
- Don’t touch food when you pass it to someone.
- Don’t point your feet at people or religious images.
- Avoid physical contact with women.
- Greet people with a traditional Indian gesture instead of shaking hands.
