4. Buddhist Monks as Early Tourists
Before the age of modern travel, Buddhist monks were among the Silk Road’s most dedicated voyagers. These spiritual pilgrims, like the famed Xuanzang, braved deserts and mountains to spread their teachings and collect sacred scriptures. Their journeys forged enduring religious and cultural bonds between India, China, and far-off lands. The artistic legacies they left behind—from intricate cave temples to ancient manuscripts—still inspire awe today. Learn more about these remarkable travels at British Museum.
