DAY 8

Today was going to be 2 halves. A visit to the Dalai Lama’s home and ministry including the temple followed by a 14 hour car trip to Delhi.

The ministry is located in a village of Mcludganj which is just above the main town of Dharamshala. As we wondered through the village, monks went about their business. We strolled through the village towards the ministry taking in all the sights and going into the odd shop looking at Buddha’s and other interesting things.

We went into the ministry and looked around. Monkeys swung in the trees and would run across the corrigated rooves making all sorts of noises. And yet the place was incredibly peaceful. A group of young monks came through as if going to their next class. Others would sit quietly reading. If a monk would catch your eye, they would smile. I felt so peaceful and looking at Ian, he did too.

We made our way into the temple. It was quite a small area. One elderly monk was sat with his back against the wall chanting mantras. A smell of incense filled the air in a subtle way. Not like the incense sticks you buy at Tesco’s.

There is a strong Tibetan community here so locals would be coming into worship too.  We looked at the statutes and in centre stage was the Dalai Lama’s throne. It was covered. I imagine it is only uncovered when he takes his seat and gives a sermon.

I sat near the monk and closed my eyes. I felt at total peace with the world.

After a while, Ian joined me and sobbed. In May 2008, Andy, a friend of Ian’s   from their local round table contracted cancer and died. The bike trip was partly in his memory and why ending here was so important. Ian had carried Andy’s order of service on every bike ride and left it on the Dalai Lama’s throne. As he sat down next to me, he was overcome with emotion.

We sat peacefully with the monk chanting quietly for what seemed like hours.

Eventually, we left the temple and found a small room where people lit a candle. I have never lit a candle in such a place though felt I needed to now. Ankur our guide checked on the protocol and Ian and I went in to light a candle. I would have been happy to light one, instead I lit 100!

We looked around the ministry and entered a smaller temple. Again, beautiful statues. Shortly after we left. We found a coffee shop and had a proper latte.

I came away wishing to explore Buddism far more. I would say that I am not religious though spiritual. This has changed.

We decided we were ready to make our way to Delhi and made a few purchases as we walked back to the car.

Ian and I reflected in the car on an incredible morning. We reflected too on the whole adventure. I was not sure what I would find though I feel I have changed.

We chatted for hours, which was good as we had a 14 hour car journey. Whilst it was long, it was bearable.

Tomorrow was going to be the last day in India and a visit to the Taj Mahal was the plan.

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