Visiting the two Bahá’í holy places—the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh at Bahjí near Acre and the Shrine of the Báb on Mount Carmel in Haifa—means more than simply ticking a box on a travel itinerary. It’s a journey of the heart and soul, a unique chance to step away from everyday worries and tune into something greater. Pilgrims gather in moments of shared devotion, offering prayers, studying sacred writings, and quietly reflecting in gardens meticulously tended to inspire peace.

Since Bahá’u’lláh’s own exile, pilgrimage has been a living thread connecting believers across continents. Without a clergy class, those who make the journey serve as living bridges between local communities and the Faith’s global heartbeat. Conversations under olive trees, shared meals, and collaborative service projects on-site all reinforce the Bahá’í emphasis on unity in diversity. Each pilgrim carries back fresh insights into how collective action nourishes spiritual growth.

In today’s world—post-pandemic and grappling with climate challenges—pilgrimage also sparks conversations about responsible travel. Many pilgrims combine their trip with efforts to reduce carbon footprints or engage with local sustainability initiatives. It’s not just about what happens in the shrines, but also how each visitor lives the Faith’s call for justice, compassion, and respect for the planet.

On April 21, Bahá’ís honor the Festival of Ridván, commemorating Bahá’u’lláh’s declaration in Baghdad. Although not a pilgrimage in the strictest sense, Ridván celebrations around the globe evoke the same spirit: communal gatherings, prayers, music, and a reaffirmation of unity. Together, these experiences weave a tapestry that reminds every believer of their role in fostering harmony—one heartfelt step at a time.