Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour of Places Associated with Lord Buddha

7 Days Duration

Experiences

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About This Tour

Follow in the footsteps of Lord Buddha on a 7-day pilgrimage through some of India’s most sacred Buddhist and spiritual destinations. Beginning in Varanasi, thi...

Duration: 7 Days · Tour type: Private · Activity level: Easy · Accommodation: Included · Transport: Included · Wheelchair access: No · Cities: Patna, Varanasi, Bodh Gaya, Sarnath, Rajgir, Nalanda · Languages: English

Know before you go: INFANT SEATS AVAILABLE; PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION NEARBY; STROLLER OR PRAM ACCESSIBLE; Infants must not sit on laps; Not suitable for pets; Not wheelchair accessible; Hotels used or similarVaranasi x 2 nights3* - Meraden Grand/ Amaya Hotel4* - Rivatas by Ideal/ Palace On Ganges5* - Radisson Hotel/ Gateway Hotel TajShravasti x 1 nights3* - Hotel Pawan Palace/ the sravasti residency4* - Lotus Nikko Hotel/ Hotel Platinum5* - Lotus Nikko Hotel/ Hotel PlatinumKushinagar x 1 nights3* - Hotel The Ideal/ Hotel Adelphi Grande4* - The Royal Residency/ Lotus Nikko Hotel5* - The Royal Residency/ Lotus Nikko HotelPatna x 1 nights3* - Hotel Patliputra Ashok/ Patliputra Exotica4* - Lemon Tree Premier/ Hotel Gargee Grand5* - Maurya Hotel/ The PanacheBodhgaya x 1 nights3* - Hotel Taj Darbar/ Hotel Mahamaya4* - The Royal Residency/ Lotus Nikko Hotel5* - The Royal Residency/ Lotus Nikko Hotel; We provide pickup from all hotels in Varanasi

About Bodh Gaya

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Bodh Gaya

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What's Included

Breakfast
Assistance on arrival at the airport.
6 Nights' accommodation (if option selected) in selected price category hotels.
Private AC car/van for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program.
English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per the program
Monument entrances and activity charges mentioned in the itinerary.
Bottled drinking water in the car.
Government taxes.

Not Included

Any flight ticket.
Camera charges at monuments if any.
Meals other than mentioned in inclusions.
Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet, etc.
Gratuities and optional activities.
Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.

Itinerary

1

Day 01

Arrive VaranasiUpon arrival at Varanasi airport, our representative warmly welcomes you, facilitating your transfer to the hotel, where you'll immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of Varanasi. Feel the energy of the ancient city pulsating through its streets.Begin your journey with a soul-stirring walking tour along the sacred Ghats of the Ganges, witnessing the pulsating life and spirituality that defines this ancient city. Observe the rituals and ceremonies performed by devotees along the riverbanks.Experience the awe-inspiring Ganga Aarti ceremony, a mesmerizing spectacle of devotion, music, and flames. Feel the spiritual energy as priests offer prayers to the sacred river amidst the enchanting chants and the flickering light of lamps.Embark on a serene sunset boat ride on the mystical waters of the Ganges. Drift along the river, soaking in the tranquility of the surroundings as the golden hues of the setting sun cast a magical glow over the city.Overnight at hotel.
2

Day 02

VaranasiStart your day with an early morning boat ride on the Ganges, a spiritual odyssey to witness the profound rituals and prayers that unfold along the riverbanks during sunrise. Feel the serenity of the moment as the first light of dawn illuminates the waters.After breakfast, venture to Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, exploring sites like the Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, and Sarnath Archaeological Museum. Marvel at the ancient relics and artifacts that provide glimpses into the life of Buddha.Visit the renowned BHU Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, renowned for its architectural grandeur and spiritual significance. Marvel at the intricate carvings and sculptures that adorn its walls, embodying centuries of devotion and craftsmanship.Explore the iconic Durga Temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga, where devotees seek blessings and spiritual solace amidst the serene ambiance. Admire the intricate architecture and colorful decorations that adorn the temple.Discover the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, a popular temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, where devotees come to seek blessings and relief from troubles.Visit the Tulsi Manas Temple, a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Rama, known for its serene ambiance and spiritual significance.Overnight at hotel.
3

Day 03

Varanasi - Shravasti (310kms/ 6hrs approx)Depart for Shravasti, delving deeper into Buddha's journey. Feel the anticipation of exploring ancient sites steeped in history and spirituality as you embark on your journey.Visit the significant Buddhist sites of Saheth and Maheth, including Angulimala's stupa and Anathapindika's stupa, each bearing testimony to the rich historical and spiritual legacy of Buddhism. Imagine the bustling life that once thrived in these ancient cities.Explore the revered Jetavana monastery, where Buddha spent a significant portion of his monastic life, and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings that echo with centuries of meditation and introspection. Reflect on the teachings of Buddha amidst the serene ambiance of the monastery.Witness the captivating sound and light show at Saheth-Maheth in the evening, a mesmerizing spectacle that vividly brings to life the stories and legends of Shravasti's ancient past. Let the colorful lights and enchanting narrations transport you back in time.Overnight at hotel.
4

Day 04

Shravasti - Kushinagar (160kms/ 4hrs approx)Journey to Kushinagar, where Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana. Experience a sense of reverence as you approach this sacred site, knowing that you are walking in the footsteps of the Buddha.Visit the Mahapari-nirvaana Temple, Ramabhar Stupa, and Kushinagar Museum, where you'll gain deeper insights into Buddha's final teachings and the profound impact of his enlightenment. Explore the artifacts and relics that offer glimpses into the life of Buddha and the spread of Buddhism.Reflect on Buddha's teachings of peace and enlightenment at the serene surroundings of the Japanese Peace Pagoda, a symbol of global harmony and spiritual unity that stands as a beacon of hope amidst the tranquil landscape. Take a moment to contemplate the message of peace that resonates from this sacred monument.Overnight at hotel.
5

Day 05

Kushinagar - Kesariya - Vaishali - Patna (260kms/ 5hrs approx)Enroute to Patna, explore the grandeur of the Kesariya Stupa, a monumental structure that stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Buddhism in the region. Marvel at the architectural marvel of this ancient stupa, which has stood the test of time.Delve into the rich history of Vaishali, visiting the Ashokan Pillar, Kundalpur, and Buddha Stupa, where echoes of Buddha's teachings continue to resonate through the ages. Imagine the vibrant past of this ancient city as you explore its archaeological wonders.Gain insights into the region's cultural heritage at the extensive collection of ancient artifacts at the Patna Museum, where you'll encounter artifacts that offer glimpses into the rich tapestry of Bihar's history and heritage. Appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of the artifacts on display as you journey through the museum's galleries.Overnight at hotel.
6

Day 06

Patna - Nalanda - Rajgir - Bodhgaya (180km/ 4hr approx)Journey to Bodhgaya, the pinnacle of Buddhist pilgrimage. Feel a sense of anticipation as you approach this sacred site, knowing that you are about to witness the place where Buddha attained enlightenment.Explore the ruins of the ancient Nalanda University, a center of learning and intellectual pursuit that flourished during the ancient Gupta period. Imagine the bustling life that once thrived within the walls of this prestigious institution.Reflect on Buddha's teachings of compassion and wisdom at Gridhakuta Hill, Venuvana Vihara, and the Japanese Peace Pagoda, where the tranquil surroundings invite contemplation and introspection. Take a moment to absorb the serenity of the surroundings and reflect on the timeless wisdom of Buddha's teachings.Overnight at hotel.
7

Day 07

Bodhgaya - Departure (Flight)Explore the sacred sites of Bodhgaya, including the iconic Mahabodhi Temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the intricate carvings and architectural details of the Mahabodhi Temple, and immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance.Visit the Tibetan Monastery, Burmese Temple, Chinese Temple and Monastery, and Thai Temple, each offering unique insights into Buddhist teachings. Gain profound insights into Buddhism and its global impact through the diverse temples and monasteries in Bodhgaya.After an extensive sightseeing tour, you'll be transferred to the airport for your onward departure flight, marking the end of your spiritually enriching journey.

Meeting Point

Meeting point: Pickup service provided in Varanasi. · Tour start: Pickup service provided in Varanasi. — Tour ends at the same location as the start point.