India Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour

12 Days

Duration

New Delhi (India)

Tour Starts In

New Delhi (India)

Tour Ends In

English +8 More

Operated in

1 - 80 Yrs

Age Group

20 Pax

Max Group Size

Destination Covered

New Delhi Varanasi Sarnath Lucknow Kushinagar Shravasti Nalanda Rajgir Patna Kapilvastu Lumbini Vaishali Bodhgaya 6+ More Destinations

Highlights
Itinerary
Inclusions
Accommodation
FAQ
Terms

Tour Package Highlights

Indulge in a 12-day India Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour, that blends the awe-inspiring Taj Mahal with a profound exploration of Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Walk where the Buddha walked, visiting his birthplace in Lumbini and Shravasti, where he resided for 24 rainy seasons. Witness ancient Buddhist wonders at Bodh Gaya, the site of his enlightenment, and delve into the rich history of Buddhism across India and Nepal. This all-inclusive tour covers domestic flights, deluxe accommodations, meals, transfers, expert guides, and more. Book your India Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour to learn about Buddhism and it's in-depth history.

Key Highlights of Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour with Taj Mahal:

Immerse yourself in the world-renowned UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the breathtaking Taj Mahal and the historical Agra Fort.
Experience Varanasi, among the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, dating to 11th century B.C.
Explore Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, and visit the historic Dhamekha Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, and the Archaeological Museum.
Experience the profound serenity of Bodhgaya, the sacred site where Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree.
Explore Kushinagar, the revered site where Buddha attained Parinirvana and visit the Mahaparinirvana Temple and Rambhar Stupa.
Experience Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, featuring the sacred Maya Devi Temple and the historic Ashoka Pillar.
Discover Sravasti, where Buddha spent many years teaching and meditate at the sacred Jetavana Monastery and the revered Ananda Bodhi Tree.

Tour Package Itinerary

Explore the Day-to-Day Itinerary for a detailed schedule of the India Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour to understand your daily activities and travel plans. The tour is fully customizable. Please contact us to tailor the itinerary to your preferences.

Day 1: Arrive in New Delhi

On arrival at the New Delhi airport, Alkof Holidays representative will meet you and transfer you to the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the city's bustling streets or wander its wide tree-lined boulevards to get your first taste of India. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 2: Taj Mahal Excursion Trip from Delhi

Early in the morning, embark on a scenic drive to Agra, famously known as the city of the Taj Mahal. Upon arrival, begin your exploration with a visit to the exquisite Itmad-ud-Daulah, often referred to as the "Baby Taj" for its intricate marble latticework and stunning Persian-inspired design. Next, delve into the rich history of Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you'll marvel at the impressive red sandstone architecture and the stories of the Mughal Empire that it holds. Finally, experience the breathtaking beauty of the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, as you take in its magnificent white marble structure and the enduring love story it symbolizes. After a day filled with cultural and historical wonders, return to Delhi in the evening, where you will settle in for an overnight stay.

Day 3: New Delhi - Varanasi (By Flight) - Sarnath Sightseeing

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, you'll head to New Delhi airport for your flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival, our local person will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Later in the afternoon, begin your spiritual journey with a visit to Sarnath, a revered Buddhist pilgrimage site. Here, you’ll explore the Dhamekha Stupa, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon, and admire ancient artifacts at the Archaeological Museum. Next, visit the Chaukhandi Stupa, a significant monument marking the spot where Lord Buddha first met his disciples. Originally built as a terraced temple during the Gupta period, this stupa is crowned by an octagonal tower added during the Mughal era, adding layers of historical significance to the site. In the evening, head to the banks of the River Ganges to witness the mesmerizing Aarti ceremony. After this serene experience, return to your hotel for overnight stay.

Day 4: Varanasi - Bodhgaya (260 kms/6 hrs drive)

Early in the morning, enjoy a boat ride on the River Ganges, followed by a visit to Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple or a walk through the various sacred Ghats of Varanasi (As per your interest). Later in the afternoon, leave for Bodhgaya. Upon arrival check-in at the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 5: Exploring Bodh Gaya

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a full day of exploration in Bodhgaya, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. Begin your sightseeing tour with a visit to the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. Next, visit the Bodhi Tree itself, a direct descendant of the original tree, and the Vajrasana or Diamond Throne, the exact spot where Buddha meditated. Continue your tour with a visit to the Great Buddha Statue, an impressive 80-foot tall statue depicting Buddha in meditation pose. Explore the various monasteries and temples in the area, each built by different Buddhist nations and reflecting their unique architectural styles and cultural traditions. Notable ones include the Thai Monastery, Japanese Temple, and the Tibetan Monastery. In the afternoon, visit Sujata Kuti, the house of Sujata, who offered Buddha rice pudding, ending his years of asceticism and leading him on the path to enlightenment. Also, explore the Dungeshwari Cave Temples, where Buddha meditated before coming to Bodhgaya. After a day filled with spiritual discovery and historical insights, return to your hotel for a relaxing overnight stay in Bodhgaya.

Day 6: Bodhgaya - Rajgir - Nalanda - Patna (165 kms/4.30 hrs drive)

After a fortifying breakfast at your hotel, embark on a journey steeped in history and enlightenment. Your first stop is Rajgir, a city steeped in Buddhist significance. Ascend the sacred Gridhrakuta Peak, nestled atop Ratnagiri Hill. Here, Lord Buddha delivered countless inspiring sermons, inspiring generations. Atop the peak stands a majestic Peace Pagoda, built by the Buddhist Sangha of Japan, symbolizing the enduring legacy of Buddha's teachings. Your exploration continues with visits to Venuvan, a tranquil park where Buddha resided, and Bimbisara Prison, where he is said to have spent some time. Next, continue your drive to Nalanda, a historical and religious gem in central Bihar. Here, explore the ruins of the ancient university, once a beacon of knowledge in the ancient world. Established in the 5th century BC, Nalanda attracted scholars and pilgrims from across Asia. Some believe Lord Buddha himself, as well as the founder of Jainism, Lord Mahavira, taught here. A monument dedicated to the famed Chinese scholar-monk Xuanzang, who studied at Nalanda in the 7th century AD, stands as a testament to its global influence. Conclude your enriching journey with a drive to Patna, your final destination for the day. Settle into your hotel for a restful overnight stay.

Day 7: Patna - Vaishali - Kushinagar (240 kms/5.40 hrs drive)

After breakfast at your hotel, set off for Kushinagar, a destination steeped in Buddhist reverence. On your way, delve into the heart of ancient democracy with a stop at Vaishali, believed to be the world's first republic. This historically significant town holds particular importance for Buddhist devotees, as it's here that Lord Buddha delivered the renowned Radha Sutra to a massive gathering of eighty-four thousand followers. After immersing yourself in Vaishali's rich past, continue your drive to Kushinagar. Upon arrival in Kushinagar, check in to your hotel for overnight stay.

Day 8: Kushinagar - Lumbini (160 kms/4.30 hrs drive)

Embark on a poignant journey this morning as you visit the Mahaparinirvana Temple in Kushinagar. Believed to be the very place where Lord Buddha attained Parinirvana, or final liberation, this sacred site evokes a sense of serenity. Witness the serene remnants of his cremation site at the nearby Rambhar Stupa. Later, prepare to cross the Indo-Nepal border and continue your pilgrimage to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and unwind after your travels. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your own pace. Perhaps delve deeper into Buddhist history at local museums or simply relax and soak in the spiritual atmosphere of this sacred town. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner and a restful overnight stay at your hotel.

Day 9: Exploring Lumbini & Kapilvastu

Start your day with an early breakfast at the hotel before setting out to explore the sacred birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini. Begin your tour at the Maya Devi Temple, the exact spot where Queen Maya Devi gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama, who later became the Buddha. The temple is surrounded by a tranquil garden, and the sacred pond, Puskarini, is where Queen Maya Devi is believed to have bathed before giving birth. Next, visit the Ashoka Pillar, erected by Emperor Ashoka during his pilgrimage to Lumbini in 249 BC. The pillar is an important historical monument and bears an inscription marking the birthplace of Buddha. Continue your exploration of the Sacred Garden, which houses several monasteries, stupas, and meditation centers built by Buddhist communities from around the world.

Afterward, head to Kapilvastu, the ancient capital of the Shakya Kingdom, where Prince Siddhartha spent the early years of his life. Visit the Tilaurakot Archaeological Site, believed to be the remains of Kapilvastu, where you can explore the ruins of the palace, ancient walls, and gateways. These remnants offer a glimpse into the early life of Buddha before he renounced his princely life in search of enlightenment. Continue your visit to the Kudan Stupa, where Buddha met his father, King Suddhodana, after attaining enlightenment. The stupa marks the spot where Buddha preached his first sermon after returning to Kapilvastu. After a day of spiritual exploration, return to Lumbini. The evening is free for your own activities, or you can choose to meditate in one of the peaceful monasteries in the Sacred Garden. Overnight stay at the hotel in Lumbini.

Day 10: Lumbini - Sravasti (160 kms/4.30 hrs drive)

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, begin your journey to Shravasti, crossing the Indo-Nepal border along the way. Upon arrival in Shravasti, check in to your hotel and take some time to freshen up and relax. In the afternoon, embark on a visit to Jetavana Monastery, one of the most revered sites in Buddhist history. It was here that Lord Buddha spent 24 rainy seasons imparting his teachings, making it a place of deep spiritual significance. Stroll through the serene grounds, where you'll find the Ananda Bodhi Tree, believed to have been planted by Buddha's chief disciple, Ananda, and venerated by devotees for centuries. As the day winds down, return to your hotel for a peaceful overnight stay in Shravasti.

Day 11: Shravasti / Lucknow (150 kms/3.30 hrs drive) - New Delhi (By Train)

After breakfast at the hotel, leave for Lucknow railway station to board an Express Train to New Delhi (SWARAN SHATABDI (12003) at 15.30 hrs - 7 hrs journey). Upon arrival in New Delhi railway station around 22.30 hrs. Our local representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in New Delhi for overnight stay.

Day 12: Delhi Shopping & Airport Departure

After breakfast at the hotel, set out to explore Delhi, the National Capital of India with roots dating back to the 6th century BC. Begin your journey with a visit to Humayun's Tomb, an architectural masterpiece built in 1562, commissioned by Humayun's wife, Hamida Banu Begum. Next, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Old Delhi's Chandni Chowk, a bustling market filled with spices, silks, and shimmering jewelry. Enjoy a thrilling rickshaw ride through the narrow streets and indulge in some memorable shopping. After your Chandni Chowk adventure, visit the iconic India Gate, a majestic war memorial, and marvel at the grandeur of Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India (viewed from the exterior). Conclude your tour with a visit to the Qutub Minar, the world's tallest brick minaret and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing Delhi's rich historical tapestry. In the evening, our representative will ensure a smooth transfer to Indira Gandhi International Airport for your onward journey.

Tour Inclusion / Exclusions

Review the Inclusions/Exclusions section to see what's covered in the tour package and what's not, ensuring complete transparency and helping you plan accordingly.

Flights

1-Domestic flight from New Delhi to Varanasi (Economy Class).

Deluxe Accommodation

Accommodation changes or upgrades are available upon request and subject to availability. Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities.

11 nights accommodation in 3 star deluxe hotels on twin or double sharing basis.

Meals

Daily breakfast at the hotels (11 breakfasts).
Daily lunch at a local good restaurant or at the hotel (11 Lunch).
Daily dinner at the hotels (11 dinner).

Expert Guides

English speaking local destination guides.

Monument Entrance Fee

Entrance Fee to below mentioned specified Monuments.

Entrance fee to the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Shravasti, Lumbini, Vaishali, Nalanda, Rajgir-Venuvan, and Sarnath.

Transport

Airport pick-up / drop-off, all sightseeing and transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle as per the itinerary.
1-2 persons - Air-conditioned sedan car such as Toyota Etios or Suzuki Dzire or similar.
3-4 persons - Air-conditioned MUV car such as Toyota Innova or similar.
5 or more persons - Air-conditioned mini-van such as Tempo Traveller / Tourist Bus or similar.
1-Express train ticket from Lucknow to New Delhi (Chair Car Seating).

Additional Services

Our additional services enhance your travel experience with a variety of exclusive offerings. Enjoy a seamless and personalized journey tailored to your needs.

Personal assistance during arrival and departure.
Rickshaw ride in Lumbini.
Boat ride at river Ganges in Varanasi.
River Ganga Aarti at the banks of River Ganges.
Rickshaw ride in Old Delhi's Chandni Chowk.
1 mineral water bottle per person per day.
All applicable taxes.

Insurance

It is advisable that you buy a comprehensive medical/travel insurance in advance from your country before traveling to India and Nepal.

Additional Services

Optional additional services not included in the tour package can be booked separately to enhance your experience.

Please Note: Tour guides for specific languages, Italian, German, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Chinese, and Dutch, are also available on request basis at an additional cost.
VISA Fee (If Any).
Any monument entrance fee not specified in inclusions, camera fee.
Any kind of tips, personal expenses, laundry, or telephone charges.
Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.

Accommodation

Hotels are subject to availability. In case any hotel is not available we will provide alternative hotel of similar category. Upgrades to 4-star, 5-star luxury, or your preferred choice of hotels are available upon request. Pre-night and post-night accommodations are also available at an additional cost.

Hotel Rockland CR Park, New Delhi

Deluxe Hotel

New Delhi, India

The Surya Kaiser Palace, Varanasi

Deluxe Resort

Varanasi, India

Hotel Taj Darbar, Bodhgaya

Deluxe Hotel

Bodhgaya, India

Tour Package FAQ

At Alkof Holidays, we ensure smooth travel planning. Our FAQ covers everything from booking procedures and payment methods to travel itineraries, best times to visit, hotel upgrades, and more. For more assistance, contact us anytime.

When is the best time to visit North India?

The best time to visit North India depends on your preferences and the specific region you plan to explore. Generally, the ideal time is during the winter months from October to March when the weather is cooler and more pleasant. This period is perfect for exploring popular destinations like Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh, as temperatures are milder and conducive to outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring (February to April) and autumn (September to October) are also favorable, offering pleasant weather with fewer crowds compared to peak summer and winter seasons. However, regions like the Himalayas are best visited during the summer months (April to June) when the weather is warmer and ideal for trekking and outdoor adventures.

For more details, please check North India travel guide.

When is the best time to visit Lumbini?

The best time to visit Lumbini is from October to March, when the weather is cool and dry, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). October to November offers comfortable conditions, while December to February provides cooler temperatures ideal for exploring. Early March remains pleasant before the onset of heat. It's best to avoid the hot summer months (April to June) and the monsoon season (July to September) due to high temperatures and heavy rainfall.

For more details and personalized travel plans, visit Lumbini travel guide.

When is the best time to visit Bodhgaya?

The best time to visit Bodhgaya is from October to March, when the weather is cool and comfortable, ideal for exploring its spiritual sites. October to November offers pleasant temperatures between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), while December to February brings cooler weather, ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). Early March is also favorable before the heat of summer sets in. Avoid the hot summer months (April to June) and the monsoon season (July to September) due to extreme temperatures and heavy rains.

For more details and a personalized travel plan, visit Bodhgaya Travel Guide.

Can I customize this tour?

Absolutely! We understand that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't suit everyone. That's why we offer the flexibility to customize this tour to your preferences. Whether you'd like to add or remove destinations, include specific activities, or select your desired level of accommodation, we're here to tailor your journey to match your interests. Contact our team to create your dream vacation today!

Can we upgrade our hotels or choose our preferred hotels?

Yes, we can provide you with a variety of hotels to choose from, based on your preferences and budget. We have a wide network of hotel partners, from mid-range to premium and luxury hotels, so we are confident that we can find the perfect hotel for you. If you have already chosen any particular hotel(s) to stay, we can also provide that hotel(s) to you on request basis. Hotels are suject to availability. Cost may vary depending on your hotel choice.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?

Yes, the tour is suitable for solo travelers.

You might be interest in 10 Best Destinations to Visit in India for Solo Travelers.

Can we book this tour as a private tour just for our family or group?

Yes of-course, you can book this tour on private basis just for your family or group. Please email us your group details to book the tour on private basis.

Do you accept international credit cards, and are the payments secure?

Yes, we accept international credit cards. Your payments are highly secure, as we process them through trusted platforms such as CCAvenue and PayPal. This ensures your transaction details are protected with the highest level of security standards.

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Know Before Your Go

Important Information

If rooms are not available at the mentioned hotels, we will provide alternate hotels of a similar category. Early check-in or late check-out is subject to availability.
For easy communication on the go, consider downloading WhatsApp, as it is widely used in India, and Nepal.
Transportation is provided according to the itinerary only and is not available on a disposal or point-to-point basis.
Any costs arising from natural calamities such as road blockages, political disturbances (e.g., strikes), etc., are to be borne by the client. We will not be held liable for any refunds or compensation claims resulting from these circumstances.
India VISA: In most cases, you'll need a visa to visit India. Exceptions include Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and citizens of a few select countries with visa-free agreements. For more information, please check https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html.
Nepal VISA: In most cases, you'll need a visa to visit Nepal. Exceptions include Indian citizens, who do not require a visa to enter Nepal. Citizens of SAARC countries can also obtain a visa on arrival, and a few other nationalities are eligible for visa-free entry. For detailed information and to apply for a visa, please check the official website at https://www.immigration.gov.np/.

Payment Terms

A deposit of 10% is required to confirm this tour, and the remaining balance will be charged 30 days prior tour starting date. For any bookings within 30 days of departure, the full tour amount will be charged upon booking. This can be paid through bank transfer, credit/debit card, or cash.

Cancellation

If you cancel the tour at least 31 days before the scheduled departure date, there will be no cancellation fee. Kindly read complete details at Cancellation Policy.

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