For the first time in many years, ISKCON UK organized a youth bus tour, reviving a tradition that once shaped earlier generations. Over three weeks last summer, thirty young devotees travelled across Britain, combining outreach, pilgrimage and adventure.
The tour carried the pioneering mood of the late Tribhuvanatha prabhu, who led similar journeys in the 70s and 80s. For many, it became life-changing, building friendships and deepening commitment to Krishna consciousness.
Inspired by Tribhuvanatha prabhu’s fearless spirit, organisers Ekavarna Das and Sandipanimuni Krishna Das set high standards. Chaperones, dress codes, and daily sadhana ensured discipline. Travel challenges led them to use two 17-seater minibuses, which created healthier dynamics than a full coach.
The real impact lay in transformation. Introverted youth opened up, parents noticed new engagement, and individuals facing grief or depression rediscovered strength through service. Even crises brought meaning—when a storm toppled a tree onto a car, devotees rescued a mother and child, who soon joined the chanting.
Life on the road fostered community. Campsites buzzed with shared cooking, while playful rivalries between the boys’ and girls’ buses added fun. The schedule balanced service and adventure: hiking in the Highlands, harinams in city centres, swimming in waterfalls, and interfaith debates.
Support Across the Yarra
Temples in Leicester, Manchester, Scotland, and Wales offered shelter and food, often refusing payment. Partnerships with Food for All enriched the journey, and several youth continue volunteering at festivals.
Encounters with Elders
The youth also met senior devotees, including Kripamoya Das and Radhanath Swami. One participant said meeting Radhanath Swami at Bhaktivedanta Manor during Janmastami “deepened her spiritual path.”
Looking Ahead
For Ekavarna, this was just the beginning. Plans include more tours, service trips, and stronger cooperation with local devotees. He credited chaperones, temples, Food for All, his guru Sivarama Swami, and above all, Srila Prabhupada’s mercy.
The 2025 UK Youth Bus Tour rekindled a tradition, inspiring new friendships, service, and unity across ISKCON UK.
“I express my sincerest gratitude for the support of the Bhaktivedanta Manor management, “ write Ekavarna das, “The funding and assistance were instrumental in making the tour a resounding success, and we are incredibly thankful for your partnership…”