The Buddhist Circuit Tour: Lumbini, Kushinagar, Bodhgaya, and Sarnath

Day 1: Arrival in Gorakhpur – Drive to Lumbini

Upon arrival at Gorakhpur Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and begin your drive to Lumbini, covering approximately 135 km in 4 to 5 hours, including border formalities. The journey takes you through scenic plains and rural landscapes, offering glimpses of local life along the Indo-Nepal border. Upon arrival in Lumbini, check in at your hotel and relax after the drive. The peaceful ambiance of this sacred town sets the tone for your spiritual journey ahead. Spend the evening at leisure, allowing time to absorb the tranquil surroundings. Overnight at hotel in Lumbini.

Day 2: Lumbini Sightseeing

After breakfast at the hotel, begin the city tour of Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the sacred Maya Devi Temple, marking the exact birthplace, followed by the Ashoka Pillar, an important historical monument. Explore the serene Lumbini Garden and Sacred Pond, both significant pilgrimage spots. Continue to visit international monasteries built by various countries, each reflecting unique architectural styles and Buddhist traditions. The entire complex offers a peaceful and meditative atmosphere ideal for reflection. Return to the hotel in the evening. Overnight at hotel in Lumbini.

Day 3: Lumbini – Drive to Kushinagar

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and drive to Kushinagar, covering approximately 170 km in 4 to 5 hours, including border crossing. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax briefly before beginning your sightseeing. Visit the Mahaparinirvana Temple, where Lord Buddha attained final nirvana, featuring a reclining Buddha statue of great significance. Continue to the Ramabhar Stupa, believed to be the cremation site of Buddha. The serene surroundings offer a deeply spiritual experience for visitors. Spend the evening at leisure reflecting on the sacred atmosphere. Overnight at hotel in Kushinagar.

Day 4: Kushinagar – Drive to Bodhgaya via Kesariya and Vaishali

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and begin your drive to Bodhgaya, covering approximately 280 km in 7 to 8 hours. En route, visit Kesariya Stupa, one of the tallest and most impressive Buddhist stupas in the world, showcasing ancient architectural brilliance. Continue to Vaishali, an important Buddhist site where Lord Buddha delivered his last sermon, and explore its historical ruins and Ashokan pillar. The journey offers a blend of spiritual discovery and scenic countryside views. Upon arrival in Bodhgaya, check in at your hotel and relax. Overnight at hotel in Bodhgaya.

Day 5: Bodhgaya Sightseeing – Drive to Varanasi

After breakfast at the hotel, begin the city tour of Bodhgaya, one of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Visit the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. Explore the Bodhi Tree, Animesh Lochan Chaitya, and various international monasteries representing different Buddhist traditions. The serene environment provides a deeply spiritual experience. Later, drive to Varanasi, covering approximately 250 km in 5 to 6 hours. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and in the evening witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at the ghats. Overnight at hotel in Varanasi.

Day 6: Varanasi and Sarnath Sightseeing

After breakfast at the hotel, begin your excursion to Sarnath, located approximately 10 km from Varanasi (30 minutes drive). Visit the Dhamekh Stupa, marking the spot where Buddha delivered his first sermon, and explore the Chaukhandi Stupa along with the Archaeological Museum housing ancient relics. Return to Varanasi and continue your city tour with a visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and explore the famous ghats along the Ganges. In the evening, witness the spiritual Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat. The day offers a rich blend of spirituality and cultural immersion. Overnight at hotel in Varanasi.

Day 7: Departure from Varanasi

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and transfer to Varanasi Airport for your onward journey. The transfer distance is approximately 25 km and takes about 1 hour depending on traffic conditions. As your journey concludes, carry with you the spiritual experiences and cultural insights gained through visits to some of Buddhism’s most sacred sites. This tour leaves you with a deeper understanding of the life and teachings of Lord Buddha. Tour concludes.

• Warm assistance on arrival and departure at airport/railway station
• 6 nights accommodation in well-selected hotels as per chosen category
• Daily breakfast at all hotels (buffet or fixed menu)
• Private air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers, intercity travel, and sightseeing as per itinerary
• Services of professional English-speaking local guides during sightseeing tours
• Monument entrance fees for all sites mentioned in the itinerary
• Bottled drinking water in the vehicle throughout the journey
• All applicable government taxes, tolls, parking charges, and driver allowances
• Assistance during border crossing between India and Nepal

Hotels used or similar for 6 nights accommodation

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

Kushinagar x 1 nights
3* - The Imperial/ Hotel Sidharth Inn
4* - The Royal  Residency/ Lotus Nikko Hotel

Bodhgaya x 1 nights
3* - The Imperial/ Hotel Taj Darbar
4* - Marasa Sarovar Premiere/ The Royal  Residency

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

• Any domestic or international airfare or train tickets
• Visa fees for Nepal (if applicable) and travel documentation expenses
• Camera/video charges at monuments and sites
• Meals other than breakfast unless specified
• Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, beverages, tips, and gratuities
• Travel insurance and medical or emergency expenses
• Any increase in government taxes, fuel prices, or monument fees
• Optional tours, additional sightseeing, or services not mentioned in the itinerary
• Anything not explicitly mentioned under inclusions