A Proposed Bus Journey Across Europe: From London to the Heart of a Continent
By Lokanath Mishra
Travel is one of the most rewarding forms of education. It broadens our understanding of people, cultures, history, and geography in ways that books alone cannot achieve. Having recently arrived in London from India, I am planning an extensive journey across Europe during July 2026. Unlike many modern travelers who rely primarily on air travel, I intend to undertake much of this journey by bus, allowing me to experience the landscapes, towns, and countryside that connect the great cities of Europe.
This proposed tour is not merely a holiday; it is an opportunity to observe the cultural diversity, historical heritage, natural beauty, and spiritual traditions that coexist across the European continent.
A bus journey offers a unique perspective that is often missed when traveling by air. It provides an opportunity to witness gradual changes in language, architecture, agricultural practices, and lifestyles as one moves from one country to another.
Traveling by bus is economical, environmentally friendly, and allows one to appreciate the geographical continuity of Europe. It also offers opportunities to meet fellow travelers and members of the Indian diaspora settled in different countries.
The journey will begin in London and continue through several European countries including France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, Italy, Switzerland, and Spain.
Along with visiting famous historical landmarks, museums, and cultural institutions, I also intend to visit several important Hindu temples that have become centers of spirituality and cultural preservation for Hindu communities living in Europe.
My spiritual journey will begin with a visit to the magnificent BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, popularly known as the Neasden Temple. Built from intricately carved stone and marble, it is one of the largest and most beautiful traditional Hindu temples outside India.
I also hope to visit Shree Sanatan Hindu Mandir, an important center for religious and cultural activities among the Hindu community.
In the Netherlands, I plan to visit Shri Lakshmi Narayan Temple, which serves as an important place of worship and cultural gathering for Hindus living in the country.
Germany is home to several Hindu temples established by Indian and Sri Lankan communities. Among them, Sri Kamadchi Ampal Temple is one of the largest Hindu temples in continental Europe and attracts devotees from many countries.
While Switzerland is primarily known for its natural beauty, Hindu communities have established temples and cultural centers where travelers can participate in religious activities and interact with devotees from diverse backgrounds.
In Spain, I hope to visit Hindu Temple of Benalmádena, a beautiful temple overlooking the Mediterranean region and serving both local devotees and international visitors.
For a traveler from India, Europe offers valuable lessons in heritage preservation, public infrastructure, urban planning, and multicultural coexistence. Equally fascinating is the manner in which Hindu traditions have been preserved and adapted by Indian communities living abroad.
Visits to Hindu temples across Europe provide opportunities not only for worship but also for understanding how cultural and spiritual values transcend national boundaries. These temples serve as centers of devotion, education, language preservation, and community service.
Through this journey, I hope to witness the grandeur of European civilization while remaining connected to my own cultural and spiritual roots. The combination of historical sightseeing and temple visits will make the tour both intellectually enriching and spiritually fulfilling.
The journey will provide opportunities to meet people from different backgrounds, learn about their traditions, and observe how diverse communities coexist peacefully in modern Europe.
My proposed European bus journey in July 2026 represents more than a travel plan. It is a quest for knowledge, cultural understanding, and spiritual enrichment. Beginning in London and extending across several European countries, the tour aims to combine history, culture, nature, and devotion into a single memorable experience.
As travelers cross borders and encounter new societies, they discover that while languages and customs may differ, the fundamental values of humanity remain universal. It is with this spirit of exploration and learning that I look forward to undertaking this remarkable journey across Europe.