Budhist Pilgrimage Tour of Places Associated with Lord Buddha Life
Package price On Request
Product Code : AGORA581
Embark on a spiritually enriching journey through the Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour of Places Associated with Lord Buddha’s Life, exploring India’s most sacred Buddhist sites. Begin in Varanasi, experiencing the serene Ganges, Ganga Aarti, and the historic Ramnagar Fort before visiting Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon. Journey through Shravasti and Kushinagar to witness ancient monasteries, stupas, and the revered Mahaparinirvana Temple. Continue to Kesariya, Vaishali, and Patna, exploring stupas, pillars, and museums that highlight Buddha’s enduring legacy. Conclude in Bodhgaya, the site of Buddha’s enlightenment, with visits to the Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhi Tree, and international monasteries. This pilgrimage offers a profound combination of history, spirituality, and reflection, providing an unforgettable insight into Buddha’s life and teachings.
Day 1: Arrive Varanasi
Upon arrival at Varanasi airport, you will receive a warm welcome from our representative and be transferred to your hotel for relaxation and acclimatization. After settling in, embark on a walking tour along the sacred Ghats of the Ganges, witnessing the vibrant life and spirituality along the river. Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, a breathtaking display of devotion, music, and fire. Enjoy a serene sunset boat ride on the Ganges, observing the transformation of the riverbanks as day turns to night. Conclude your day with a visit to the historic Ramnagar Fort, exploring its museum and gaining insights into the royal family’s legacy and regional history.
Day 2: Varanasi
Start the day with an early morning boat ride along the Ganges to witness the sacred rituals and prayers performed by devotees at sunrise. Return to your hotel for breakfast before heading to Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, the monumental Mulagandha Kuti Vihar temple, and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum with its exceptional collection of artifacts and sculptures. Delve into the spiritual and historical significance of Sarnath, reflecting on Buddha’s teachings. The day concludes with leisure time at your hotel to absorb the spiritual ambiance of the surroundings.
Day 3: Varanasi - Shravasti (310kms/6hrs approx)
Embark on a scenic drive to Shravasti, a city closely associated with Lord Buddha’s life. After checking into your hotel, explore the ruins of Saheth and Maheth, both of immense historical importance. Visit key Buddhist sites including Angulimala's stupa, Anathapindika's stupa, and the Jetavana Monastery, which offers a tranquil environment for reflection. In the evening, witness the sound and light show at Saheth-Maheth, bringing the history and legends of Shravasti vividly to life. Enjoy your overnight stay in Shravasti, surrounded by centuries of Buddhist heritage.
Day 4: Shravasti - Kushinagar (160kms/4hrs approx)
Travel to Kushinagar, the sacred place where Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana. After hotel check-in, visit the Mahaparinirvana Temple to see the renowned reclining Buddha statue. Explore the Ramabhar Stupa, marking Buddha’s cremation site, and the Kushinagar Museum with its rich collection of Buddhist relics and artifacts. Visit the serene Japanese Peace Pagoda, offering a sense of tranquility and spiritual reflection. The day concludes with leisure time at your hotel, soaking in the sacred atmosphere of Kushinagar.
Day 5: Kushinagar - Kesariya - Vaishali - Patna (260kms/5hrs approx)
Drive to Patna, visiting the magnificent Kesariya Stupa, one of the tallest Buddhist stupas in the world. Continue to Vaishali, an ancient city associated with Buddha, exploring the Ashokan Pillar, Kundalpur, and the Buddha Stupa. Arrive in Patna and check in at your hotel before visiting the Patna Museum, home to an extensive collection of ancient artifacts, sculptures, and artworks. This day blends historical exploration with spiritual reflection on Buddha’s influence in Bihar. Overnight stay is in Patna.
Day 6: Patna - Nalanda - Rajgir - Bodhgaya (180kms/4hrs approx)
Journey to Bodhgaya, the holiest Buddhist pilgrimage site. En route, visit the ruins of Nalanda University, an ancient center of learning, followed by Rajgir, where you explore Gridhakuta Hill, Venuvana Vihara, and the Japanese Peace Pagoda. Upon arrival in Bodhgaya and hotel check-in, attend the Sutta chanting at Mahabodhi Temple, a serene experience in the spiritual heart of Buddhism. This day highlights both the educational and spiritual legacy of Buddha.
Day 7: Bodhgaya - Departure (Flight)
Spend the day exploring Bodhgaya’s sacred sites, beginning with the UNESCO-listed Mahabodhi Temple and the Bodhi Tree where Buddha attained enlightenment. Visit nearby monasteries including the Tibetan Monastery, Burmese Temple, Chinese Temple, and Thai Temple, each reflecting global Buddhist traditions. Immerse yourself in the spiritual aura and teachings of Buddha, gaining deeper insight into the philosophy and influence of Buddhism. After the final sightseeing, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight, concluding this enriching and spiritually awakening pilgrimage.
- Assistance on arrival at airport.
- 6 Nights' accommodation in selected price category hotels.
- Daily breakfast at 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 program.
- Cycle rickshaw ride in Varanasi
- Sunrise / sunset Boat ride on holy River Ganges in Varanasi
- Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
- Bottled drinking water in car.
- Government taxes.
Hotels used or similar for 6 nights accommodation
Varanasi x 2 nights
3* - Meraden Grand/ Amaya Hotel
4* - Rivatas by Ideal/ Palace On Ganges
5* - Radisson Hotel/ Gateway Hotel Taj
Sravasti x 1 night
3* - Hotel Pawan Palace/ The Sravasti Residency
4* & 5* - Lotus Nikko Hotel/ Hotel Platinum
Kushinagar x 1 nights
3* - Hotel The Ideal/ Hotel Adelphi Grande
4* & 5* - The Royal Residency/ Lotus Nikko Hotel
Bodhgaya x 2 night
3* - Hotel Taj Darbar/ Hotel Mahamaya
4* & 5* - The Royal Residency/ Lotus Nikko Hotel
- Any flight tickets.
- Camera charges at monuments if any.
- Meals other than mentioned in the inclusions.
- Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc.
- Gratuities and optional activities.
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions.