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Sacred Sites of India: A Journey through Hindu and Buddhist Pilgrimage

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Product Code : AGORA341

The "Sacred Sites of India: A Journey through Hindu and Buddhist Pilgrimage" tour offers a captivating exploration of India's rich spiritual and cultural heritage. Starting from the bustling streets of Kolkata, the itinerary takes travelers on a mesmerizing journey through iconic landmarks like Victoria Memorial and Howrah Bridge. The pilgrimage continues with visits to revered sites such as Baba Baidyanath Dham in Deoghar, the ancient learning hub of Nalanda, and the enlightenment site of Bodhgaya. The tour culminates in the sacred city of Varanasi, where travelers can experience the ethereal beauty of the Ganges River and witness spiritual rituals dating back centuries. This meticulously planned itinerary promises a blend of history, spirituality, and cultural immersion, offering travelers an unforgettable journey through India's sacred heartlands.

 

Day 1: Kolkata Arrival

Upon landing at Kolkata's Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you with traditional greetings. They will assist you with luggage and facilitate a comfortable transfer to your chosen hotel in Kolkata's city center. After settling into your room and refreshing yourself, you can opt to explore the nearby areas. Experience the vibrant streets of Kolkata, perhaps starting with a stroll along Park Street or exploring the bustling New Market. Kolkata, known as the 'City of Joy', with its blend of colonial architecture, cultural festivals, and mouth-watering cuisine, offers a fascinating introduction to India.

 

Day 2: Kolkata Sightseeing

After a rejuvenating breakfast at the hotel's dining area, embark on a full-day city tour to explore Kolkata's iconic landmarks.

  • Fort William: Begin your journey at this imposing structure, built during the British colonial rule in India. While the fort itself is not open to the public, its exterior and surrounding grounds offer a glimpse into Kolkata's historical past.

  • Victoria Memorial: A short drive away, marvel at the majestic white marble structure of the Victoria Memorial. Built in memory of Queen Victoria, this iconic monument showcases Indo-Saracenic architecture and houses a museum with a vast collection of artifacts from the British era.

  • Netaji Bhawan: Visit this historic house-turned-museum dedicated to Subhas Chandra Bose, a prominent freedom fighter. The museum offers insights into Bose's life, struggles, and contributions to India's independence movement.

  • Howrah Bridge: Next, head to this iconic cantilever bridge, one of the busiest in the world, connecting Kolkata to Howrah. The best views of the bridge can be enjoyed from the Millennium Park or the nearby flower market.

  • Dakshineswar Kali Temple: Conclude your sightseeing with a visit to this serene temple complex located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, the temple's architecture and tranquil ambiance make it a spiritual retreat in the heart of the city.

After a fulfilling day of exploration, return to the hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

 

Day 3: Kolkata to Deoghar (Train Journey)

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Kolkata. Later, you will be transferred to the iconic Howrah railway station, one of the largest and busiest in India. Board the JANSHATABDI EXP (Train No. 12023) to Deoghar (Jasidih Jn). As the train winds through the Indian countryside, witness the changing landscapes, rural life, and vibrant train stations bustling with activity. On reaching Deoghar, our friendly driver will greet you at the station and transfer you to your hotel. After checking in and resting for a bit, you might want to take a leisurely walk around the hotel to soak in the local ambiance or try some regional delicacies for dinner.

 

Day 4: Deoghar to Bodhgaya (via Nalanda)

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, set out to explore the spiritual and historical sites of Deoghar.

  • Baba Baidyanath Dham: Visit this revered temple complex, one of the twelve jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Experience the spiritual rituals, listen to the melodious chants, and feel the divine energy of this sacred place.

  • Nalanda: Post lunch, embark on a scenic drive to Nalanda, an ancient center of learning and one of the world's first residential universities. Explore the archaeological ruins, the Nalanda Museum, and gain insights into the intellectual and cultural legacy of ancient India.

  • Vishwa Shanti Stupa, Rajgir: En route to Bodhgaya, stop at this magnificent peace pagoda located atop a hill in Rajgir. The stupa offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and is a symbol of global peace and unity.

Upon reaching Bodhgaya, check-in at your hotel, relax, and rejuvenate for the exciting days ahead.

 

Day 5: Bodhgaya to Varanasi

Begin your day with a visit to the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the place where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Explore the intricately carved temple complex, the ancient Bodhi Tree, Vajrasana (the diamond throne), and the tranquil Tibetan Monastery nearby. Reflect upon the teachings of Buddha and soak in the spiritual atmosphere of this sacred place.

Afterwards, journey onward to Varanasi, one of the holiest cities in India and a major pilgrimage site for Hindus. On arrival, check-in at your chosen hotel. In the evening, head to the ghats (riverfront steps) of the River Ganges to witness the mesmerizing Holy Ganga Aarti. The rhythmic chants, the glow of the lamps, and the spiritual fervor create an enchanting ambiance that is quintessentially Varanasi.

 

Day 6: Varanasi Sightseeing

Rise early to experience the ethereal beauty of Varanasi during a boat ride on the Ganges at sunrise. Glide past the ancient ghats, observe the morning rituals, and witness devotees offering prayers and taking holy dips in the sacred river.

After breakfast, embark on a comprehensive sightseeing tour of Varanasi:

  • Banaras Hindu University (BHU): Visit this sprawling university campus, one of Asia's largest residential universities. Explore its lush green campus, iconic clock tower, and the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, showcasing a vast collection of Indian art and artifacts.

  • Bharat Mata Temple: Dedicated to Mother India, this unique temple houses a large relief map of India carved out of marble. It symbolizes national unity and diversity.

  • Tulsi Manas Temple: This modern temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is constructed at the place where the great Indian epic Ramcharitmanas was written by Goswami Tulsidas.

  • Sarnath Temple Complex: A short drive from Varanasi, Sarnath is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, the Mulagandha Kuti Vihara, and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, housing ancient artifacts and sculptures.

If time permits, visit the Ram Nagar Fort & Museum to delve deeper into Varanasi's royal heritage and history.

Return to your hotel in the evening for a restful overnight stay.

 

Day 7: Varanasi Departure

After a relaxed morning and a sumptuous breakfast, our representative will transfer you to Varanasi Airport for your onward journey. As you board your flight to Kolkata/Delhi/Mumbai, take a moment to reminisce about the enriching experiences, spiritual insights, and cherished memories from your journey through the sacred sites of India. Your tour may be ending, but the stories, sights, and sensations of this cultural odyssey will stay with you forever.

- 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.

- AC Train ticket Kolkata - Deoghar.

- Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.

- Bottled drinking water in car.

- Government taxes.


Hotels used or similar for 6 nights accommodation

Kolkata x 2 nights
3* - Regenta Orko's/ The Fern Residency
4* - The Peerless Inn/ The Fern Residency
5* - ITC Sonar, a Luxury Collection/ The Lalit Great Eastern

Deoghar  x 1 nights
3*/4*/5* - GenX Rameshwaram By 1589/ Amrapali Clarks Inn

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

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