Welcome to India! Upon arrival at New Delhi International Airport, receive a warm traditional “Swagat” (welcome). Our tour representative will escort you to your hotel for check-in. Take the rest of the day to unwind and prepare for the spiritual journey ahead. Overnight in Delhi.
Enjoy a relaxed morning in the capital. In the afternoon, proceed to the railway station to board your train to Lucknow – the gateway to your Buddhist pilgrimage trail. Overnight onboard or in Lucknow (based on arrival time).
Upon reaching Lucknow, begin your road journey to Sravasti, a significant site where Lord Buddha spent 25 rainy seasons preaching and meditating. Visit the ruins of ancient monasteries in Sahet-Mahet, where the master delivered many sermons. Overnight stay in Sravasti.
After breakfast, drive to Kushinagar, the sacred site where Lord Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana (final liberation). Explore Rambhar Stupa, believed to be his cremation site, the Mahaparinirvana Temple, and Chandramani Bhikshu Vihara, one of Kushinagar’s oldest monasteries. Visit the local museum showcasing relics and artifacts from ancient times. Overnight in Kushinagar.
Post breakfast, continue to Patna, the modern avatar of ancient Pataliputra, a thriving city during the Buddha’s time. Visit Kumrahar to see the excavated ruins of the great Mauryan assembly hall, once supported by 80 grand pillars. Check-in and overnight in Patna.
Explore Patna’s cultural and spiritual gems, including the Patna Museum (home to sacred ashes of Buddha), the massive granary Golghar, and the revered Sikh shrine Takht Sri Patna Sahib, birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh. Overnight in Patna.
Depart for Rajgir, visiting Nalanda University en route, the ancient center of Buddhist learning. In Rajgir, visit the Vishwa Shanti Stupa, Griddhakuta Hill (Vulture’s Peak), where Buddha delivered many discourses, and the hot sulphur springs of Satadhara, believed to have healing properties. Overnight in Rajgir.
After breakfast, head to Bodhgaya, the most sacred of all Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Visit the revered Mahabodhi Temple Complex, where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. Also explore the Bodhgaya Museum, which houses a rich collection of Buddhist sculptures and artifacts. Overnight stay in Bodhgaya.
Today, travel to Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world. Often referred to as Kashi or Benaras, this spiritual hub was visited by the Buddha after his enlightenment. Check-in at your hotel and relax. Overnight in Varanasi.
Start your day with a serene boat ride at sunrise on the River Ganges – a soul-stirring experience as you witness age-old rituals and sacred ceremonies on the ghats. Later, explore Varanasi’s temples and vibrant alleys, soaking in its spiritual essence. Overnight in Varanasi.
Catch your flight back to New Delhi. Upon arrival, check into a hotel to freshen up. Enjoy your leisure time in Delhi or indulge in some last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Overnight or late-night transfer to the airport.
Your spiritual journey concludes. Our team ensures a timely transfer to the airport or railway station for your onward travel. Thank you for choosing us to guide your Buddhist pilgrimage through India!
