I enjoyed a guided tour with a ranger, who walked with us around Uluru monolith and shared his knowledge about indigenous people of Australia, who are considered to be the oldest living civilization on earth. Uluru is a sacred site for indigenous people. They used to live and hold their ceremonies here. Their ancient rock paintings are present evidence of their strong bond with the land. Their traditions, ceremonies and art are still practiced today and passed on from generation to generation to keep their culture alive. Walking around this red colored sandstone monolith which has a circumference of nearly 6 feet was fascinating. It’s not only a natural wonder worthy of seeing but it also has spiritual, mystical energy which goes deep into your soul. It is no surprise Uluru was declared by UNESCO as a double-listed property for its outstanding natural and cultural values.
Thirty miles west from Uluru lies a second sacred aboriginal site called Kata Tjuta. Also called, the Olgas, meaning “many heads “ in aboriginal Anangu language, this formation of 36 gigantic sandstone rock domes reaches up to 1800 feet. It’s absolutely beautiful during sunrise and sunset with its changing colors. It is pure evidence of the natural beauty of Australia and spiritual significance of indigenous people. Since 1995 it has been a site where cultural ceremonies take place after taking a break for many years.
I am forever grateful to the Anangu indigenous people for allowing me to visit their land in the spiritual heart of Australia and for making my trip a special, once in a lifetime experience!