In the Footsteps of Buddha: A 13-Day Pilgrimage for Psychotherapists and Mindfulness Teachers, 2-14 November, 2026
Join us for a transformative journey through Nepal and India from November 2-14, 2026, an immersive experience in mindfulness, Buddhist philosophy, and reflective practice. This program includes online preparatory workshops, one-day orientation meeting, one-day retreat, and daily meditation and Dharma sessions throughout the pilgrimage, offering 50 CPD hours.
In the Footsteps of Buddha pilgrimage offers a profound journey to reflect on and embody the Buddha’s teachings. This pilgrimage visits the four most sacred sites of his life: his birthplace, the place of enlightenment, the site of his first sermon, and his place of passing, as outlined in the Parinibbana Sutta.
- Lumbini, where Siddhartha was born
- Bodhgaya, where Siddhartha became enlightened
- Varanasi (Sarnath), where the Buddha taught the path to enlightenment
- Kushinagar, where the Buddha attained Parinirvana
Mindfulness Practice and Dharma throughout the Pilgrimage
Daily morning meditation throughout the pilgrimage including mindfulness, yoga and evening Dharma-Sangha reflective sharing (28 CPD hours, 2.5 hours per day). Participants on this pilgrimage will receive licenced audio and books on Buddhism, mindfulness and links to psychotherapy, and are welcome to guide practices in meditation and yoga.
Mindfulness one-day Retreat and Group Orientation:
10am to 4pm, Saturday, 18 October 2025, Dunboyne Castle Hotel, (6 CPD hours) and 10am to 4pm, Sunday, 24 May, 2026.
Immerse yourself in the heart of mindfulness and Buddhist teachings with our one-day retreat and group orientation for the In the Footsteps of Buddha pilgrimage. This enriching experience allows you to connect with fellow pilgrims and engage in a comprehensive exploration of mindfulness, Buddhism, and neuroscience, enhancing both your personal practice and professional work.
Eight weekly online meetings: Buddha, Dharma and Sangha
Monday mornings 9am to 10am, 7, 14, 21, 28 September and 5, 12, 19, 26 October 2026.
Deepening the foundations of practice, teaching, and community in preparation for the pilgrimage.
Cost: The cost for accommodation and travel including breakfasts, overland travel, train and internal flights is €1,895 double occupancy, single accommodation is also available. Payment in three instalments.
Additional Costs: flights to Kathmandu/Delhi, daily allowance for meals (€20 per day), visas, insurance, tips for local guides.
Travel Agents
This pilgrimage is organised by a licensed and bonded Irish travel agent in collaboration with an international travel company dedicated to sustainability and responsible travel. Local tour guides with extensive regional expertise will enhance your experience throughout the journey
Teaching and Coordination: CPD certification 50 hours, one-day retreats, books, audio resources.
Dharma Leader: Gerry Cunningham is a mindfulness teacher and psychotherapist, as well as an intrepid traveller. He has organised charity walks across India, Nepal, Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, Brazil, Argentina, East Africa, and Central America.
Booking: Please complete the application form, attend an online meeting, and submit a non-refundable deposit of €650. This program and pilgrimage are open to psychotherapists, mental health professionals, mindfulness teachers, and individuals with extensive mindfulness practice. Full itinerary and information available at mindfulnessclinic.ie. T: 087-7989 301 E: info@mindfulnessclinic.ie