Day 1: Arrival in Bodhgaya
Upon arrival at Gaya airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Bodhgaya. Check-in at the hotel (standard check-in time 2:00 PM; early check-in subject to room availability) and relax after your journey. Begin your spiritual exploration with a visit to the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Explore the sacred Bodhi Tree, believed to be a direct descendant of the original tree under which Buddha meditated. Visit the Vajrasana (diamond throne) where Buddha is said to have meditated and contemplate the serene surroundings. Later, explore the Great Buddha Statue, Tibetan Monastery, Burmese Temple, Chinese Temple and Monastery, along with several other nearby monasteries that reflect Bodhgaya’s rich cultural heritage.

Day 2: Bodhgaya to Patna via Rajgir & Nalanda (180 km)
After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, embark on a scenic drive to Patna, passing through the historic city of Rajgir. Begin with a visit to Vulture's Peak (Gijjhakuta), a mountain where Buddha delivered many important discourses, followed by Sattapanni Cave, the site of the first Buddhist council. Explore the ruins of Nalanda University, one of the world’s oldest centers of learning and a prominent hub of Buddhist education. Witness the architectural grandeur and historical significance of this ancient seat of knowledge. Continue your journey to Patna and check-in at the hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

Day 3: Patna to Kushinagar via Vaishali and Kesariya (260 km)
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before setting off for Kushinagar, a city of immense Buddhist significance. En route, visit Vaishali, where Buddha delivered his last sermon, and explore the Ashokan pillar and the sacred Ramkund pond. Continue to Kesariya to marvel at the colossal stupa, one of the tallest in the world, reflecting the region’s Buddhist heritage. Upon reaching Kushinagar, visit the Mahaparinirvana Temple, Mahaparinirvana Stupa, and Ramabhar Stupa, all intimately linked with Buddha’s final journey. Explore the Kushinagar Museum to deepen your understanding of the historical and cultural context. Later, check-in at the hotel and unwind after a day of exploration.

Day 4: Kushinagar to Lumbini (160 km)
After breakfast at the hotel, cross the Sonauli border into Nepal and travel to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. On arrival, check-in at the hotel and take some time to rest and refresh. Begin exploring the tranquil surroundings and absorb the peaceful ambiance of this sacred site. The day allows you to ease into the spiritual significance of Lumbini, preparing for a full day of sightseeing tomorrow. Enjoy the calm environment and the gentle rhythm of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Overnight stay is at the hotel in Lumbini.

Day 5: Lumbini - Birthplace of Buddha
Dedicate the day to exploring the profound heritage of Lumbini. Visit the Maya Devi Temple, constructed at the precise location where Buddha was born, and witness the revered Ashoka Pillar marking Emperor Ashoka’s historic visit. Explore the monastic zones built by various countries, including Myanmar, Japan, China, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam, reflecting global Buddhist devotion. Stroll through the Sacred Garden, home to the Bodhi Tree, the Eternal Peace Flame, the World Peace Bell, and numerous other shrines that inspire peace and reflection. Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere that defines this hallowed site, connecting deeply with Buddha’s origins. Overnight stay is at the hotel in Lumbini.

Day 6: Lumbini to Shravasti (160 km)
After breakfast, cross back into India through the Sonauli border and meet your Indian driver for the onward journey to Shravasti. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel and refresh before beginning exploration of Saheth and Maheth, ancient ruins linked with Lord Buddha. Visit Angulimala’s stupa and Anathapindika’s stupa, as well as a Jain temple, showcasing the religious diversity of the region. Explore the sacred Jetavana monastery, a vital Buddhist pilgrimage site, and witness Gandhakuti and the Anandabodhi tree, significant relics of Buddha’s teachings. Overnight stay is arranged at the hotel in Shravasti.

Day 7: Shravasti to Varanasi (315 km)
After a hearty breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India. On arrival, check-in at your hotel and relax before the evening activities. Witness the mesmerizing Holy Ganga Aarti along the riverbanks, a deeply moving ritual that showcases devotion, light, and the spiritual energy of the Ganges. Observe devotees offering prayers and the intricate ceremonial practices that have continued for centuries. This immersive experience of Varanasi’s spirituality leaves a lasting impression. Overnight stay is at the hotel in Varanasi.

Day 8: Varanasi - Spiritual and Cultural Exploration
Start the day with an early morning boat ride along the Ganges to witness the ghats come alive with ritual baths, prayers, and ceremonies. Enjoy the sunrise and the vibrant life along the riverbanks. Return to the hotel for breakfast before exploring the city, including visits to Banaras Hindu University, Bharat Mata Temple, and Tulsi Manas Mandir. Later, explore Sarnath, the renowned Buddhist site where Buddha delivered his first sermon, and admire the Dhamekh Stupa and Ashoka Pillar. Optionally, visit the Ram Nagar Fort and Museum for a glimpse of the city’s regal history. Overnight stay is at the hotel in Varanasi.

Day 9: Varanasi - Departure
After breakfast at the hotel, proceed to Varanasi airport for your departure flight. This marks the conclusion of a profound Buddhist pilgrimage, filled with spiritual insight, historical exploration, and cultural enrichment. Take with you the memories of sacred sites, serene temples, and an immersive journey into the life and legacy of Lord Buddha.

- Assistance on arrival at airport.

- 8 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.

- Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.

- Nepal Visa fee.

- Bottled drinking water in car.

- Government taxes.

Hotels used or similar for 8 nights accommodation

Bodhgaya x 1 night
3* - Hotel Taj Darbar/ Hotel Mahamaya
4* & 5* - The Royal  Residency/ Lotus Nikko Hotel

Patna x 1 night
3* - Hotel Patliputra Ashok/ Patliputra Exotica
4* - Lemon Tree Premier/ Hotel Gargee Grand
5* - Maurya Hotel/ The Panache

Kushinagar x 1 nights
3* - Hotel The Ideal/ Hotel Adelphi Grande
4* & 5* - The Royal  Residency/ Lotus Nikko Hotel

Lumbini x 2 nights
3* - Hotel Nirvana/ Lumbini Bamboo Resort
4* & 5* - Buddha Maya Hotel/ Lumbini Hokke Hotel

Sravasti x 1 night
3* - Hotel Pawan Palace/ the sravasti residency
4* & 5* - Lotus Nikko Hotel/ Hotel Platinum

Varanasi x 2 nights
3* - Meraden Grand/ Amaya Hotel
4* - Rivatas by Ideal/ Palace On Ganges
5* - Radisson Hotel/ Gateway Hotel Taj

- 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.