The sun was setting over the horizon, and a soft breeze rustled through the love apple trees. The wind carried with it the subtle fragrance of wild lemongrass and madhumalti flowers (Burma Creeper). Birds chirped animatedly as they awaited dusk.

My cousins and me, were ready to begin the Way of the Cross.

The Don Bosco Yuva Sanstha is located in the quiet village of Mote Vengaon in Karjat.

It is a community centre built for the youth. Spread over several acres of forest and hilly terrain it is managed by the priests of Don Bosco.

The Sanstha offers spiritual retreats and encourages pilgrims to walk the Stations of the Cross, a devotion especially popular during the season of Lent.

We began at the first station, Jesus is condemned to death, by Pilate. It was set at the base of the hill.

The sunlight felt warm, and a gentle breeze moved among the trees. After offering our prayers, we walked towards the second station. From here, we could see the trail gradually winding its way uphill.

The earth beneath our feet was compact and dry from the harsh summer sun. Red arrows marked the path ahead. The incline was gradual, and we walked solemnly, at a measured pace.

Choosing not to look down but to look around, I sensed a deep calm. The atmosphere was peaceful, almost meditative.

Along the way, we passed fruit trees heavy with mangoes, guavas, cashews, and chikoos.

As urban pilgrims, this was both delightful and unfamiliar. Signs reminded us not to pluck the fruit. I couldn’t help but feel like Adam being warned against the forbidden fruit.

At each station, the statues, finished in a bronze effect, glowed softly in the fading light.

The chirping of birds, the rustling leaves, the fragrance of fruit, and the crunch of dry earth came together like a gentle choir accompanying our journey.

The highlight of the walk was the twelfth station, Jesus dies on the Cross.

The sun hung low as a glowing orange orb, and the figure of Christ on the Cross appeared almost lifelike. In that moment, as darkness slowly gathered, it felt as though we were transported to that day in Jerusalem.

With daylight fading, we moved on to complete the remaining stations.

By the time we reached the fourteenth and final station, we were hot and covered in dust, but the view from the top made it all worthwhile.

The valley stretched out before us. Emerald rice fields and quaint houses nestled in shadow. The sun, in its final moments, dipped behind the distant hills.

I walked a little further to where the statue of the Risen Christ is set into the rock. The Way of the Cross was now finished.

After a few minutes of rest, we began our descent into the fading light.

Know more about the 14 Stations of the Cross HERE

How to Get There

Karjat is well connected by local trains from Mumbai. From Karjat station, you can hire an auto-rickshaw, the Sanstha is well known locally.

Google Map

Many groups also travel by bus from nearby parishes, including Mumbai and other cities.

Best Time to Visit

The season of Lent is ideal, as the presence of multiple groups adds to the prayerful atmosphere.

It is best to walk the Stations either at sunrise or before sunset. Some groups walk at midday, a testament to their faith and endurance. Others choose to walk at night, which can be a serene and unique experience under the stars.

The full walk takes approximately two hours.

What to Carry

• A cap or hat
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Water or ORS
• Light, breathable clothing

Amenities

The Sanstha provides excellent facilities for pilgrims, including restrooms, water stations, tea stalls, and dormitories for rest.

Free lunch is also provided.

Light wooden crosses are available for those who wish to carry them during the walk. They are but a symbolic reminder of the real Cross.

There are also two large halls where Mass is celebrated after completing the Way of the Cross.

Side Trips

Visit the Our Lady of Fatima Church near Karjat station—it’s history is worth exploring	Fatima Church
Explore the Saturday market, where locals and tribal communities sell fresh produce.	Saturday Market
On other days, support local vendors near the station selling fruits, vegetables, and handmade goods.	Karjat Station
For food, consider dining at Visava Family Restaurant, known for its wholesome Malvani cuisine.	Visava Restaurant

Walking the Way of the Cross amidst nature, crowned by a breathtaking sunset, offered a perfect blend of spirituality and reflection.

Jesus climbed Mount Calvary bearing His heavy cross. This path is meant to echo that final journey, but in truth, what we experienced was only a faint reflection of what He endured.

Also watch Mel Gibson’s The Passion Of Christ