Understanding the Buddhas: A Resurgence Travel Exploration

Buddha with birds

When people talk about “the Buddha,” they usually mean Siddhartha Gautama, the historical figure whose teachings are the foundation of Buddhism. But Siddhartha Gautama isn’t the only Buddha. In fact, many Buddhas have appeared throughout time, and more will come in the future. Understanding this broader concept helps us appreciate the cycle of enlightenment—a key theme explored by Resurgence Travel in their spiritual tours.

Southern Thailand Buddha images with Resurgence Travel

Who Was Siddhartha Gautama? A Resurgence Travel Insight

Siddhartha Gautama was born around the 5th or 6th century BCE in what is now Nepal. He was born into a royal family and lived a life of luxury. But after seeing the harsh realities of life, he left his royal life behind to seek a solution to suffering. These life-changing experiences are highlighted in Resurgence Travel’s educational and immersive travel experiences.

Siddhartha practiced extreme self-discipline for years, but he realized that neither indulgence nor extreme austerity would lead him to the truth. Instead, he found the “Middle Way,” a balanced path between indulgence and denial. Under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India, he attained enlightenment and became the Buddha, meaning “the Awakened One.”

His teachings, known as the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, have influenced millions of people for over two thousand years. Resurgence Travel often includes these teachings in their spiritual journeys, helping travellers connect with the roots of Buddhism.

Golden Buddha images with Resurgence Travel

The Four Noble Truths: A Resurgence Travel Guide

The Four Noble Truths are central to the Buddha’s teachings and form the foundation of Buddhist philosophy. These truths explain the nature of suffering and the path to its cessation:

  1. Dukkha: The first Noble Truth states that life is inherently unsatisfactory and filled with suffering. This includes not only physical pain but also the mental stress and dissatisfaction that comes from life’s impermanence and constant change.
  2. Samudaya: The second Noble Truth identifies the cause of suffering as craving or desire (tanha). This craving leads to attachment, which in turn causes suffering when we don’t get what we want, or when we lose what we have.
  3. Nirodha: The third Noble Truth offers hope by stating that there is an end to suffering. This cessation of suffering is known as Nirvana, a state where all cravings and attachments are extinguished, leading to ultimate peace.
  4. Magga: The fourth Noble Truth outlines the path to end suffering, known as the Eightfold Path. This path provides practical steps to develop ethical conduct, mental discipline, and wisdom.

The Eightfold Path: Explained by Resurgence Travel

The Eightfold Path is the practical guide provided by the Buddha for ending suffering and achieving enlightenment. It is divided into three main categories: wisdom, ethical conduct, and mental discipline.

1. Right Understanding (Samma Ditthi): Grasping the true nature of reality and the Four Noble Truths. It involves understanding the impermanence of life, the cause of suffering, and the path to liberation.

2. Right Thought (Samma Sankappa): Cultivating thoughts of renunciation, goodwill, and harmlessness. This involves letting go of desires and cultivating a mind that is free from ill-will and harmful intentions.

3. Right Speech (Samma Vaca): Speaking truthfully, kindly, and avoiding harmful speech. This means abstaining from lying, gossiping, harsh language, and idle chatter.

4. Right Action (Samma Kammanta): Acting in ways that are ethical and do not harm others. This includes abstaining from killing, stealing, and engaging in sexual misconduct.

5. Right Livelihood (Samma Ajiva): Choosing a profession that does not harm others. This means avoiding jobs that involve exploitation, harm, or deceit.

6. Right Effort (Samma Vayama): Making a persistent effort to cultivate good qualities and abandon unwholesome states of mind. This includes preventing negative states from arising and promoting positive states of mind.

7. Right Mindfulness (Samma Sati): Developing awareness of the body, feelings, thoughts, and phenomena. This involves being fully present and attentive in each moment, cultivating a deep awareness of one’s inner and outer experiences.

8. Right Concentration (Samma Samadhi): Practicing deep meditation to cultivate mental focus and clarity. This involves focusing the mind on a single object to develop deep states of meditative absorption, leading to profound insight.

Resurgence Travel integrates the teachings of the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path into their journeys, helping travellers apply Buddhist principles in their everyday lives.

Buddha statue on lotus

The Concept of Kalpas in Buddhism: Explained by Resurgence Travel

To understand the concept of multiple Buddhas, it’s essential to grasp the Buddhist idea of kalpas. A kalpa is an incredibly long period of time, often described as an eon or an age, during which the universe undergoes cycles of formation, existence, destruction, and void. Resurgence Travel offers insightful programs that delve into these profound concepts, helping travelers understand the vast scope of Buddhist cosmology.

In the context of Buddhas, each Buddha arises during a specific kalpa when the teachings of the previous Buddha have faded. The appearance of a Buddha is a pivotal moment, as they rediscover and share the Dharma, guiding beings toward enlightenment. Resurgence Travel often explores these profound concepts, offering participants a unique perspective on the vast scope of Buddhist cosmology.

Metteya (Maitreya): The Future Buddha in Resurgence Travel Journeys

According to Buddhist tradition, Metteya (Maitreya) is the Buddha who will appear in the future when the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama have been forgotten. Metteya is believed to currently reside in Tushita Heaven as a bodhisattva, awaiting the time to descend and become the next Buddha. Resurgence Travel often includes discussions on Metteya in their journeys, exploring the future of Buddhist teachings.

Metteya is often depicted as a serene figure, seated on a throne, waiting for the right time to come to earth. His future coming is seen as a beacon of hope, symbolizing the continuation of the Buddha’s teachings.

Buddha with birds

Other Current Buddhas

In addition to Siddhartha Gautama, Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions recognize other Buddhas who are considered “current” in a different sense. These Buddhas are seen as celestial beings who exist in different realms or dimensions:

  • Amitabha Buddha (Amida Buddha): The Buddha of Infinite Light and Life, central to the Pure Land traditions. He resides in the Western Pure Land, Sukhavati, where those who have faith in him can be reborn. Resurgence Travel includes explorations of Amitabha’s Pure Land in their spiritual tours.
  • Vairocana Buddha: A primordial Buddha representing the universal truth in Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism. He is central to esoteric practices, especially in Tibetan Buddhism.
  • Bhaisajyaguru Buddha (Medicine Buddha): The Buddha of Healing, revered for his ability to heal physical, mental, and spiritual ailments.
  • Samantabhadra Buddha: In some traditions, Samantabhadra is seen as a primordial Buddha, representing the ultimate reality or the universal mind.

The Path to Enlightenment: Guided by Resurgence Travel

In Buddhism, the journey to enlightenment, known as Bodhi, is the central goal of spiritual practice. Enlightenment is the realization of the true nature of reality, where one is freed from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara). Resurgence Travel explores these paths to enlightenment, offering participants practical insights into the practices leading to Buddhahood.

In Mahayana Buddhism, the path to becoming a Buddha is often described through the Bodhisattva Path. A Bodhisattva is someone who has generated the wish and intention to attain Buddhahood for the benefit of all sentient beings. This path involves the practice of six or ten paramitas (perfections), which must be cultivated to progress toward enlightenment.

In Theravada Buddhism, the pathway to enlightenment is laid out through the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. This approach focuses on personal liberation from suffering but can also lead to Buddhahood if pursued to its ultimate conclusion.

Summing Up the Journey

Siddhartha Gautama, the current Buddha, is part of a long lineage of enlightened beings who have discovered and taught the path to liberation. The concept of kalpas, with their vast stretches of time, highlights the enduring nature of the Dharma and the continuous cycle of spiritual awakening. From the Buddhas of antiquity to the future Buddha, Metteya, the tradition of multiple Buddhas reinforces the universal and timeless quest for enlightenment. Resurgence Travel offers opportunities to explore these teachings, helping participants deepen their understanding of Buddhism.

Additionally, the path to enlightenment and Buddhahood is a profound journey requiring immense dedication, wisdom, and compassion. Whether through the Bodhisattva Path in Mahayana Buddhism, the Eightfold Path in Theravada Buddhism, or the cultivation of the Ten Perfections, the journey toward awakening is significant. By understanding and practicing these teachings, one can move closer to enlightenment, contributing to the well-being of all beings and possibly becoming a Buddha in a future life. Resurgence Travel continues to provide opportunities for individuals to explore these paths, deepening their spiritual understanding and connection to Buddhist teachings.

Love Trekking Nepal – Lo Mustang Hotel Review

Resurgence Travel Hotel Lo Mustang Exterior

When trekking Nepal its is always a good idea to stay in a hotel that will allow you to rest well before your adventure and a relaxing post trek recovery.

Resurgence Travel Hotel Lo Mustang Exterior

Hotel Lo Mustang

The Hotel Lo Mustang is located in the heart of Thamel, but secluded just enough to allow a breather form the busy streets. After spending a day roaming the busy streets of Kathmandu you will appreciate this respite.

We stayed in the hotel in early October 2023 for 10 days so that we could sample the hotel for our recommended trekking Nepal packages, and hotels.

The hotel has been recently restored and renovated to near new and the new furnishings were continuing during our stay. The theme is a tibetan and very tastefully decorated.

The ambience and feel of the hotel was amazing, with beautiful murals greeting you in each floor. It’s worth the hike up the stairs to see each floor.

A sister hotel to the famous Lo Mustang experience in the Himalayas you will not be disappointed.

Resurgence Travel Hotel Mustang Reception

Location

Located a short distance from the Tribhuvan International Airport (incidentally named after one of the first Kings of Nepal who was responsible for uniting the nation). The streets of Nepal as any new visitor will find are quite busy and for the uninitiated can be a little daunting. As in a lot of Asian countries there is scant regard for road marking and street signs. They make it work though and it all adds to the chemistry of your visit.

From your Hotel dorrstep there is a 5 minute walk to a really cool Bakery that offers a dleicsio and heart Peanut Butter and Baanan toasted sandwhich – a must try to feul up fdor that day on the pavement.

Across the street from the Pumpernickel Bakery you will find the famous Mandala Street of Thamel – a famous shopping strip frequented by visitors to Nepal. Among others this street is home to Resurgence Travel who will help you find your way and give you any advice you need about your local stay. Looking for some great souvenirs or some locally crafted jewelry be sure to visit Creator Handcrafts.

There are many hiking.trekking stores located nearby to the hotel if you need to do a last minute gear up – or just want to browse the local range of equipment. For the bargain minded you will definitely find some great “knock off” hiking gear that has still retains some of its quality.

Resurgen Travle - loaction of Hotel Mustan - the best hotel after trekking Nepal

Comfort

We stayed in both the Deluxe Room and the Suite. The beds were very comfortable and really led to a comfortable night’s sleep. Admittedly after being on our feet most days we could have slept on concrete and been so very happy.

When we are staying in hotels we really like to have some creature comforts, those that we can’t find in our tent. The bathroom means a lot to us. Lo Mustang Did not let us down. After hiking and trekking Nepal a hot shower with a good flow of water is heaven, and they delivered. Not only did they meet this need they upped the ante with high quality toiletries that had me smelling so good after my sweaty adventures.

Upgrading to the suite not only gives you a bath to soak in (separate to the shower) but a very functional lounge room. We did find the suite was not that necessary for our travel needs – but sitting in the bath with a cold beer overlooking the Monkey temple in the early evening is a memory to savour.

Both rooms are very new still and have quality fittings and furniture.

There are various and numerous rooftop bars with live music, dancing and nights out to enjoy. Although it did not bother me there was music playing each day on a close by rooftop and I could hear it quite clearly – I slept well – but I could see it might have an impact on light or early sleepers.

Resurgence Travel at Hotel Mustan before trekking Nepal
Resurgence Travel trekking Nepal - nice door at Hotel Mustang

Service

From the moment i stepped out of our transport to being shown to my room we were pampered and spoiled. The porters were on hand to greet us and whisk our luggage away.

As we walked up the steps into the hotel lobby we were faced with very happy and accommodating smiles from the reception team.

The check-in was a breeze, and we were escorted to our rooms old style and shown the basics of the room.

With the culinary variety that is offered in Kathmandu , it’s really hard to stay in the hotel for food. However one night I stayed back and had dinner at the Restaurant on the 5th floor. Selecting some Biryani and a cold local beer. It was an absolute delight and taste sensation. The table service was also exceptional and very friendly. Located on a partial rooftop it’s possible to dine outside and enjoy the ambience.

The prepared breakfast on the morning was included in the hotel price, and although i tended to go outside to sample different restaurants each night the one breakfast I had was quite amazing.

Room service had a minor glitch with a substantial wait for the menu to be delivered to the room, and no real instruction that if you wanted room service that you needed to call the reception to order a menu.

The food when it was delivered was of a similar standard I had enjoyed before and it was hard to remain disappointed with the menu glitch given the profuse apologies and the divine tastes.

Breakfats while trekking nepal with Resurgence Travel at the Hotel Lo Mustang
Quiet beer after trekking Nepal with Resurgence Travel
Resurgence Travel - Beer at Mustang Hotel - while trekking Nepal
Breakfast Bar at Hotel Lo Mustang - while Trekking Nepal with Resurgence Travel

Pros and Cons

Pros – service, location, facilities

Cons – sometimes louder music nearby

Summary

The Hotel Lo Mustang is well worthwhile for your stay in Kathmandu – regardless of before or after trekking Nepal as a layover or as a launching point for a few days of exploration of Kathmandu

Well located for access too many activities including the airport for onwards transport to Pokhara and the local trekking companies – Resurgence Travel within 5 minutes walk.

We recommend this hotel for our clients who are going to be trekking Nepal.

Travel Nepal – 7 Reasons we love Nepal

Travel Nepal – 7 Reasons we love Nepal

A reason to travel Nepal !

We live in an era where the small things in life seem to become more elusive. It is always awesome to learn and experience new things. One of the best things that you can do in today’s world is travel. As you travel and see new cultures, you will learn a lot about yourself. Everything you do will broaden your horizons and make you more empathetic. Each step you take on a journey will teach you so much about the world around you. One of the best countries to visit to do this is Nepal. This country is a true melting pot of cultures and has something for everyone.

There is so much to see and do in this country that it is hard to pin it down to one place. Some want to see the massive Himalayas, while others want to immerse themselves in the Nepali culture. No matter which travel plans you have, traveling to Nepal is definitely worthwhile. We give you our perspective as a tourist, who is excited to learn about all the amazing places that you can see in Nepal.

View at Annapurna mountain range and its reflection in Phewa lake in Pokhara, Nepal

Why should you travel Nepal?

Nepal is one of the top places to visit in the world and is known for its diversity. It is a country in Southern Asia that is known for its architecture and cultural heritage. The country is a hot spot for natural beauty and cultural diversity. From the mountains to the plains, there is a lot to explore, from sacred temples to stunning backdrops.

The country is home to a variety of wildlife including tigers, snow leopards, brown bears, and elephants. When you travel to Nepal, you will be able to experience the beauty of the Himalayas. We know the Himalayas not only provides some of the most stunningly beautiful views but is also a wildlife reserve.

Nepal is a landlocked country

Nepal is considered one of the most beautiful countries in the world

Nepal has always been a place of mystery and intrigue. It is also known for its staggering natural beauty, magnificent culture, and amazing history. This is a place of endless wonders and adventure. You can trek through the Himalayas, watch the sunset over the river and feel the serenity of the mountains. It’s a place where you can get up close and personal with the local wildlife. Enjoy a taste of the local culture and traditions with a visit to a monastery in the mountains. Find peace and enlightenment at what we consider to be the birthplace of yoga. Need to find your own happy place! Extraordinary is all we can say. It is the perfect place to get away and explore the culture, appreciate the natural beauty and enjoy the local food. Taking adventure in Nepal so easy.

Prayer buddhist flags fluttering in the wind in Kathmandu, Nepal

The culture is truly unique

One of the most remarkable things about Nepal is the cultural diversity they have. Home to over thirty ethnic groups, the country is culturally diverse and full of beautiful sights, sounds, and smells. The Nepalese culture has been shaped by its geography and history, with the Himalayan mountains and the Tibetan culture in the north and the Indian culture in the south. It is this diversity that makes Nepal so intriguing.

Culture of Nepal is also unique in the way that it is diverse. You will experience a lot of culture and architecture in Nepal, and the people of the country are highly educated and multi-lingual. The Nepalese language is a blend of Sanskrit, Pali, Tibetan, and Arabic. From the Nepalese people’s generous hospitality to the stunning natural beauty of the country, and the various Buddhist, Hindu, and Muslim temples, Nepal is a truly special place. This makes the country a truly fascinating place to explore.

Daily life of people at a street market in Kathmandu

You can enjoy the best treks in the world

When people think about Nepal, they tend to think about Mount Everest. A trek through the Nepalese Dhaulagiri mountains will be the biggest trek you will ever do in your life! It is considered to be one of the most difficult destinations in the world to reach. Completing this will be one of the most rewarding and satisfying achievements for a traveler.

There are many rewarding treks including one of the most popular the Everest Base Camp Trek. Taking the “steps to heaven” will leave you with abundant memories. Magnificent forests , villages of the world renowned Sherpa and countryside that is nothing like what you will see at home.

Heading into Pokhara is the best place to get started for many treks and will give you the opportunity to take some easier less exhaustive treks but still experience the wonders of Nepal.

One of our favourite treks to start with is the Ghorepani Poonhill . The trek does have a drawback in that its so popular. The upsides are many though , your fitness levels don’t need to be the same as a base camp trek. You will see the Annapurna region and I am sure you will want more. The rhododendron forests are a sight to behold. If you want to travel Nepal and you don’t trek a lot we recommend this.

The Himalayas are so beautiful with the diversity in the land and its people. The sights you will be reward with include the world’s highest mountain and the most fierce waterfall in the world. Walking through the magical Himalayan forests is like creating pages in the book of your own magical wonderland. The experience of these treks are not just one of physical accomplishment but also one of spiritual enlightenment.

A glimpse of the trek to Ghorepani

Be the friend of a Nepalese village

When you travel to Nepal, you will feel the generosity of the Nepalese people. They are so friendly, and you will be able to experience their culture. When you reach the village, you’ll be the hero of the day. Your trek to the village will be met with a huge celebration. The people will give you food, drinks, and gifts that you could never get back home.

Your visit will have a huge impact on the Nepalese people. They’ll be able to tell their children that they had a visitor from a different place and will be able to look back and remember all of the good things that you did for them. You’ll be a hero in their eyes, and you’ll be happy knowing that you’ve made a difference. If you are ever in doubt about whether or not you should travel to Nepal, the answer is always a yes.

There are many avenues to experience this and we recommend that you choose one and know this feeling.

Namaste from a beautiful Nepali woman

A great way to learn a new language

Regretfully i cannot recall the attribution but its said “learning a new language is like gaining another soul”. A new language is so much more than a bunch of words and pronunciations. There is a magic that will be where it was not before.

Nepal is beautiful and there is so much to do! But I’m not just talking about the natural beauty of the country. There are also great opportunities to learn a new language and cultures. Nepal is a country built around ethnic groups of religions and languages. So, you’ll have a chance to learn about so many things that are different from your own.

A chance to see the Hindu, Buddhist, and Muslim religions. View the country through the eyes of the different cultures and learn what they think of each other. This is the best way to expand your perspective. If you’re looking to learn a new language, a trip to Nepal is a great way to accomplish this goal. It is also a great way to learn more about a country that is known for its diversity.

Feel the history beneath your fingers when you touch prayer wheel in a Nepalese temple

Spiritual connection. A new perspective of life.

Nepal is a country that has been shaped by the spiritual connection of its people. Nepal has a lot to offer for those who are interested in immersing themselves in a completely new culture and a new way of life. It is no surprise that there are so many tourists that want to visit Nepal, but I think it is safe to say that many people are unaware of the importance of the spiritual connection that Nepal has. It has the power to take you on a journey of the soul that you might not be able to find anywhere else.

The spiritual connection is a very personal one and it is up to the individual to interpret what they connect with. The spiritual connection is not just about worshiping one God or spiritual entity. It is about the connection to the Earth and life in general.

For many people in Nepal, visiting the country is not a vacation but an opportunity for spiritual transformation. It is common for people to give up all of their belongings and go on a spiritual journey to Nepal, where they will spend months or even years studying religious texts, living in a temple, mosque, church, and fasting.

See Monasteries in Nepal

Experience a lifetime of memories

Nepal is a country that has a lot to offer. As a traveler, you should know that Nepal is one of the most rewarding places to visit. When you visit the country and explore the sights and cultures, everything will become more clear.

This country is not just a country with a lot to see, but one that has a lot of history to be explored. When you visit Nepal, you will gain a lifetime of memories. There will be some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. Oh and the people they are some of the most unique you will meet in the world. The culture that you can sample in this country will create a depth of memory that will be hard to replicate. There are a lot of things to do in Nepal. You should make sure that you take the time to explore the country and learn about all that you can. Take a cultural tour, you will be spellbound. If you do nothing else you should also make sure to explore the country and learn about the people.

It’s going to be an experience that is unforgettable. One thing I can tell you is that it’s possible to find a lifetime of memories in Nepal. It’s going to be an important country in your life and you’ll have a lot of stories to tell.

Taking a Selfie in a rural village in Nepal.

Wrapping Up

For many people, the first thing that comes to mind is it’s time to take a vacation. Nepal is a destination that has been on the top of many people’s bucket lists for a very long time. If travelling with a group of friends or family, you’ll never have a dull moment.

If you are an outdoorsy person, Nepal has plenty of adventure options. There is a range of things to do, from skiing to rafting. If you are a vegan or vegetarian, you will be happy to know that there are plenty of vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Nepal.

If you are looking for a spiritual place, Nepal is the perfect destination for you. It has many religious sites that are full of history and meaning. It is a perfect destination for those that are looking for peace and love. If you’re looking to learn more about the world, you can study a language or culture here. If you like to shop, then come here. The shopping here is really amazing. You can buy anything from the mountains to the sea.

With all the reasons listed in this blog, we hope that you can see why you should plan a trip there sooner than later. Please contact us if you have any questions or comments while you are traveling to Nepal. We would love to hear from you! Thank you for reading, we are always excited when one of our posts can provide useful information on a topic like this!