Siddhartha Gautama, the prince of a small kingdom in Nepal, found enlightenment in India and came to be known as Gautam Buddha. Beautiful Buddhist monasteries and stupas over the relicshave become an inseparable part of Indian art, culture and architecture. Nalanda was once a world center for Buddhism and its philosophy until it disappeared suddenly in 13th century except for the small kingdoms in the hilly tracts. Early 20th century saw re-emergence of Buddhism and even today some of the famous pilgrimage sites in India related to Buddhism attract large number of devotees and visitors every year. Most of them are situated around the River Ganges. The significant sites to be visited as great Buddhist centres are Lumbini, Bodhgaya, Sarnath, Shravasti, Sankashaya, Nalanda, Rajgir, Sanchi stupa and other cave temples as in Ajanta and Ellora.
Lumbini is said to be the birthplace of Buddha and the site is marked by ruins a great stupa and pillar by Emperor Ashoka. Buddha finally got enlightenment in Bodhgaya, when he was 29 years old, under the Bodhi tree, which seems to have eternal life as it keeps sprouting even after destroyed completely. The Mahabodhi temple and a monastic order looking after the three monasteries are things of interest here. Sarnath monasteries from 3rd century B.C.E. to the 1st century C.E. are in ruins now. The key factors of Buddhism such as the four noble truths and the philosophy of moderation were taught here. There is Shravasti, where there are several legends about Buddha’s miracles said to be performed there and there is Sankashaya, where there are no temples and monasteries but is still a revered place because it was here that Buddha was said to be descended from the Tushita Heaven. Nalanda, Rajgir, Sanchi Stupa, Amravati, and cave temples of Ajanta and Ellora are the preferred Buddhist pilgrimage spots in India.
DESTINATION: DELHI –VARANASI – BODHGAYA – RAJGIR – NALANDA – PATNA – VAISHALI – KUSHINAGAR- LUMBINI – SRAVASTI – LUCKNOW – DELHI.
Day 1: Arriving at Delhi
Once you touch down in New Delhi, you will meet a friendly guide and be greeted with a garland. After that, you will be taken to the hotel. You can then relax, take your dinner, and have a good night’s rest.
Day 2: Delhi to Varanasi (via Flight)
After completing breakfast, you will fly to Varanasi from Delhi. After arriving, check into the hotel and then, after some time, head to the Ganges ghats to witness the evening Aarti. The floating lamps, the river’s glow and the chanting priest will create a spiritual tapestry that you will not forget. Stay overnight in Varanasi.
Day 3: Varanasi and Sarnath Excursion
Go on a traditional boat ride on the river to witness the sunrise. After that, witness the locals offering prayers and bathing at the rising sun. Then head to the holy cremation ghats of Harishchandra and Manikarnika. Here, it is believed that all the souls find liberation. During the afternoon, visit Sarnath to check the ancient ruins of the monasteries and the modern-day temple that marks the first sermon of Buddha. Return to Varanasi for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 4: Varanasi to Bodhgaya
After breakfast, head to Bodhgaya, where Buddha sat right under the Bodhi Tree. Check out the Mahabodhi Temple, and then walk along the Niranjana River. After that, visit the Sujata Village located nearby. Spend some leisure time in the evening at this beautiful pilgrimage town.
Day 5: Bodhgaya to Rajgir to Nalanda to Patna
Visit Patna and then stop by Rajgir, which is the former capital of Magadha and is encircled by five hills. This is the place where the truth was sought, and was wisely ruled by King Bimbisara. After that, continue towards the ancient site of learning at Nalanda, whose name means “insatiable in giving”. Come back to Patna, take dinner and stay overnight.
Day 6: Patna to Vaishali to Kushinagar
After breakfast, visit Vaishali’s archaeological remains, the site of Buddha’s last sermon. After that, head off to Kushinagar, where he attained Mahaparinirvana. Marvel at the Mukutbandhan Stupa and the serene reclining Buddha statue before settling in for the night.
Day 7: Kushinagar to Lumbini
Spend the morning at Mahaparinirvana Temple, then cross into Nepal to Lumbini, the Buddha’s birthplace, rediscovered in 1890. Walk through the sacred garden, see Ashoka’s pillar, and breathe in the peaceful atmosphere. Stay overnight in Lumbini.
Day 8: Lumbini to Sravasti
Drive back into India to ancient Sravasti, where Buddha spent 24 rainy seasons teaching in the Jetavana Gardens. Explore the Saheth‑Maheth ruins and the site of his legendary miracles. Take dinner and stay overnight in Sravasti.
Day 9: Sravasti to Lucknow to Delhi
After breakfast, transfer to Lucknow station for your AC train to Delhi. Arrive in the capital, freshen up at your hotel, and enjoy a relaxed evening with dinner.
Day 10: Delhi Departure
Enjoy a final breakfast before your private transfer to Delhi airport. Carry memories of an unforgettable pilgrimage as you head home or onward to your next adventure.
What’s Included in the Package
What’s Not Included in the Package
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