Day 1: Arrival in Varanasi
Upon your arrival at Varanasi airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide and escorted to your hotel for check-in. Standard check-in is at 2:00 PM, with early check-in subject to room availability. After settling in and taking a brief rest, you will embark on a serene evening boat ride along the holy Ganges River, witnessing the rhythmic flow of devotion as locals perform traditional Hindu rituals and prayers. The sunset casts a golden glow on the ghats, creating an enchanting atmosphere ideal for photography and reflection. Later, explore the bustling lanes and local markets of the old city, filled with vibrant colors, aromatic scents, and a glimpse into the daily life of Varanasi’s residents. Conclude your day with an overnight stay at your hotel, immersing yourself in the city’s spiritual and cultural tapestry.

Day 2: Varanasi Sightseeing
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel before heading out to the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Take in the temple’s intricate architecture and experience the deeply spiritual ambiance that draws pilgrims from across the world. Continue to Banaras Hindu University, one of Asia’s largest residential universities, known for its sprawling campus, academic legacy, and serene surroundings. In the afternoon, drive to Sarnath, a pivotal Buddhist site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Here, visit the impressive Dhamek Stupa, a monument of historical and religious significance, and explore the archaeological museum, home to artifacts from the Buddhist era. End your day by witnessing the mesmerizing Ganges Aarti ceremony, a symphony of lights, chants, and devotion, before returning to your hotel for an overnight stay in Varanasi.

Day 3: Varanasi – Kushinagar (250 km)
After breakfast at your hotel, check out and embark on a scenic drive to Kushinagar, a city revered in Buddhist history. On your journey, stop at the Mahaparinirvana Temple, believed to be the place where Lord Buddha attained Moksha, and take a moment to absorb the serene and reflective atmosphere. Upon arrival in Kushinagar, check in at your hotel and unwind before heading out for the evening visit to the Ramabhar Stupa, marking the site of Lord Buddha’s cremation. Experience the tranquil ambiance that envelops this sacred place, offering an opportunity for introspection and spiritual connection. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay, reflecting on the journey through Buddha’s final days.

Day 4: Kushinagar – Kesariya – Vaishali – Patna (260 km)
Post-breakfast, embark on a full-day drive to Patna, tracing the route through historically and spiritually significant locations. Visit the grand Kesariya Stupa, the world’s tallest and largest Buddhist stupa, which stands as a magnificent testament to ancient Buddhist architecture and devotion. Continue to Vaishali, an ancient city recognized as the birthplace of Lord Mahavira, where you can explore historical landmarks and experience the serene environment that inspired centuries of spiritual thought. Arrive in Patna and check in at your hotel to rest and rejuvenate after a day rich in heritage and discovery. Spend the evening reflecting on the diverse religious and cultural influences encountered during the day before an overnight stay at your Patna hotel.

Day 5: Patna – Nalanda – Rajgir – Bodhgaya (180 km)
Following breakfast, check out from your hotel and proceed toward Bodhgaya, visiting remarkable sites en route. Stop at Nalanda, one of the world’s oldest universities, where the remnants of ancient monastic structures and educational heritage leave a lasting impression. Continue to Rajgir, famed for its scenic hot springs, lush hills, and ancient ruins that narrate tales of Buddhist and Jain history. Arrive in Bodhgaya and check in at your hotel, taking some time to rest and rejuvenate. In the evening, visit the Mahabodhi Temple, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment beneath the Bodhi tree, and feel the profound spiritual energy that pervades this UNESCO World Heritage site. Retire at your Bodhgaya hotel for an overnight stay, cherishing the culmination of a spiritually enriching day.

Day 6: Bodhgaya – Departure (Flight)
After a nourishing breakfast at your hotel, check out and prepare for your onward journey. You will be transferred to Gaya airport for your departure flight, bidding farewell to the sacred sites that trace the life and teachings of Lord Buddha. Carry with you cherished memories of serene landscapes, ancient monuments, and a deeply spiritual journey through India’s Buddhist heartland. Reflect on the immersive experiences, from the vibrant ghats of Varanasi to the meditative peace of Bodhgaya, and take inspiration from the wisdom and serenity that you have encountered along the way. This journey concludes, leaving a lasting imprint of spiritual and cultural enrichment.

- Assistance on arrival at airport.

- 5 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.

- Bottled drinking water in car.

- Government taxes.

Hotels used or similar for 5 nights accommodation

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

Kushinagar x 1 nights
3* - Hotel The Ideal/ Hotel Adelphi Grande
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

Bodhgaya x 1 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.