Kolkata, Bodhgaya & Varanasi Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Kolkata

Upon arrival at Kolkata Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and assisted before being transferred to your hotel. After check-in, take time to relax and recover from your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy a short orientation walk in nearby areas to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Kolkata, often referred to as the cultural capital of India, reflects a unique blend of colonial charm and modern life. You may explore local cafés or markets in the evening at your own pace. Dinner can be enjoyed at the hotel or a recommended restaurant. Overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Kolkata City Tour

After breakfast at the hotel, begin the city tour of Kolkata with a visit to the iconic Victoria Memorial, a grand marble structure surrounded by lush gardens. Continue your drive past the famous Howrah Bridge, witnessing the bustling life along the Hooghly River. Visit the Indian Museum, one of the oldest museums in Asia, showcasing historical artifacts and art collections. Proceed to St. Paul’s Cathedral and Marble Palace, known for their architectural beauty. Later, explore the vibrant New Market area, ideal for shopping and local experiences. Return to the hotel in the evening after a comprehensive city exploration. Overnight at hotel.

Day 3: Kolkata – Patna – Bodhgaya (110 km / 3 hrs drive)

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and transfer to the airport to board your flight to Patna. Upon arrival, meet your driver and begin your drive to Bodhgaya, covering approximately 110 kilometers in around 3 hours. En route, visit Nalanda, an ancient university site that was once a renowned center of Buddhist learning. Continue to Rajgir, a historic town surrounded by hills and associated with both Buddhism and Jainism. Explore key sites before proceeding to Bodhgaya. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax in the peaceful spiritual surroundings. Overnight at hotel.

Day 4: Bodhgaya Spiritual Exploration

After breakfast at the hotel, begin a full-day spiritual exploration of Bodhgaya. Visit the sacred Mahabodhi Temple, where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. Spend time in quiet reflection or meditation within the temple complex. Continue to visit international monasteries including Tibetan, Thai, Japanese, and Bhutanese temples, each showcasing unique architectural styles and spiritual practices. Explore the Great Buddha Statue and nearby meditation centers. In the evening, you may attend prayer sessions or temple rituals that create a deeply serene atmosphere. Return to the hotel after a spiritually enriching day. Overnight at hotel.

Day 5: Bodhgaya – Varanasi (250 km / 5–6 hrs drive)

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and drive to Varanasi, covering approximately 250 kilometers in around 5 to 6 hours. Enjoy the scenic drive through rural landscapes and small towns. Upon arrival in Varanasi, check into your hotel and relax. In the evening, proceed to the ghats of the Ganges River to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. Experience the spiritual energy as priests perform rituals with lamps, chants, and devotional music. The atmosphere is deeply captivating and offers a glimpse into India’s spiritual traditions. Return to the hotel after the ceremony. Overnight at hotel.

Day 6: Varanasi & Sarnath Exploration

Early morning, enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Ganges River during sunrise, observing pilgrims performing rituals along the ghats. Return to the hotel for breakfast at the hotel. Later, begin the city tour with a visit to Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Continue to Bharat Mata Temple and other important cultural landmarks. In the afternoon, drive to Sarnath (10 km / 30 minutes), where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, archaeological ruins, and museum. Return to Varanasi in the evening and explore local markets or relax at the hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 7: Departure from Varanasi

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and transfer to Varanasi Airport for your onward journey. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for last-minute shopping or a short visit to nearby ghats. Your journey concludes with unforgettable memories of India’s spiritual, cultural, and historical richness experienced across Kolkata, Bodhgaya, and Varanasi.

• Assistance on arrival and departure
• 6 nights accommodation in selected category hotels
• Daily breakfast at hotels
• Private air-conditioned vehicle for transfers and sightseeing
• English-speaking local guides as per itinerary
• Monument entrance fees as per program
• Bottled drinking water during travel
• All applicable government taxes

Hotels used or similar for 6 nights accommodation

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

Bodhgaya x 2 night
3* - Hotel Taj Darbar/ Hotel Mahamaya
4* & 5* - The Royal  Residency/ Lotus Nikko Hot

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

• Domestic flight tickets (Kolkata–Patna & Varanasi onward)
• Camera fees at monuments
• Meals not mentioned in inclusions
• Personal expenses such as laundry, tips, beverages
• Optional activities
• Anything not mentioned under inclusions