Tracing the Footsteps of Lord Buddha

Day 1: Arrival in Varanasi – Evening Ganges Experience

Upon arrival at Varanasi airport, you will be received and transferred to your hotel for check-in. After some time to relax and freshen up, prepare to experience one of the most spiritual highlights of your journey.

In the evening, proceed to the ghats of the Ganges River for a serene boat ride, offering a unique perspective of Varanasi’s sacred riverfront. As the sun sets, witness the mesmerizing Ganges Aarti ceremony, where priests perform synchronized rituals with lamps, chants, and incense, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere.

After the ceremony, explore the narrow lanes and vibrant markets of the old city, where traditional shops, temples, and local life create a rich cultural experience.
Overnight at hotel in Varanasi.

Day 2: Varanasi Sightseeing – Excursion to Sarnath

After breakfast at the hotel, begin the city tour of Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Start with a visit to the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and experience its powerful spiritual ambiance.

Continue to Banaras Hindu University, known for its vast campus and cultural significance. Later, drive to Sarnath (approx. 10 kms / 30 minutes), an important Buddhist pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon.

Visit the Dhamek Stupa, a massive structure marking this sacred event, and explore the archaeological museum housing ancient relics and sculptures. Walk through the peaceful gardens and monasteries that reflect the calm essence of Buddhism.

Return to Varanasi in the evening and witness the spiritual vibrancy of the ghats once again.
Overnight at hotel in Varanasi.

Day 3: Varanasi – Drive to Kushinagar (Approx. 250 kms / 6–7 hrs drive)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Kushinagar, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage destination associated with Lord Buddha’s Mahaparinirvana. The journey covers approximately 250 kilometers and takes around 6 to 7 hours, passing through rural landscapes and small towns.

Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. Later, begin your exploration with a visit to the Mahaparinirvana Temple, where Lord Buddha is believed to have attained Nirvana. The reclining Buddha statue here creates a serene and reflective atmosphere.

Continue to Ramabhar Stupa, marking the cremation site of Lord Buddha, surrounded by peaceful surroundings ideal for contemplation.

Return to your hotel and spend the evening at leisure.
Overnight at hotel in Kushinagar.

Day 4: Kushinagar – Kesariya – Vaishali – Patna (Approx. 260 kms / 7–8 hrs drive)

After breakfast, begin your journey towards Patna, covering approximately 260 kilometers in 7 to 8 hours. This day is rich in historical and spiritual exploration.

En route, visit Kesariya Stupa, one of the tallest and largest Buddhist stupas in the world, reflecting ancient architectural brilliance. Continue to Vaishali, an important site in Buddhist and Jain history, known as the place where Lord Buddha delivered his last sermon.

Explore the ruins, stupas, and peaceful surroundings that highlight the historical significance of the region.

Later, continue your drive to Patna and upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax after the long journey.
Overnight at hotel in Patna.

Day 5: Patna – Nalanda – Rajgir – Bodhgaya (Approx. 180 kms / 5–6 hrs drive)

After breakfast, check out and drive towards Bodhgaya, visiting important historical sites along the way.

Begin with Nalanda, home to one of the world’s oldest universities, where you can explore the ruins of ancient monasteries, lecture halls, and libraries that once attracted scholars from across the world.

Continue to Rajgir, a scenic destination surrounded by hills and known for its spiritual significance. Visit sites associated with Buddhist teachings and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

Proceed to Bodhgaya and upon arrival, check in at your hotel. In the evening, visit the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site marking the place where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a deeply spiritual experience.
Overnight at hotel in Bodhgaya.

Day 6: Bodhgaya – Departure (Approx. 15 kms / 30 mins drive to Gaya Airport)

After breakfast at the hotel, take some time to revisit the temple area or enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Bodhgaya. The calm environment offers a perfect opportunity for reflection and meditation.

Later, check out and drive to Gaya airport, located approximately 15 kilometers away, for your onward journey.

Your tour concludes with unforgettable memories of a spiritually enriching journey through the sacred Buddhist circuit of India.

• Assistance on arrival
• 5 nights accommodation in selected category hotels
• Daily breakfast at hotel
• Private AC vehicle for transfers and sightseeing as per itinerary
• English speaking local guides during sightseeing
• Monument entrance fees as per itinerary
• Bottled drinking water in vehicle
• All applicable 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

• Airfare or train tickets
• Camera charges at monuments
• Meals other than specified
• Personal expenses such as laundry, tips, beverages, etc.
• Optional activities
• Any services not mentioned under inclusions