Gaya

Arrive at Gaya airport and transfer to Bodhgaya. This city is where Prince Siddhartha achieved enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree, marking his transformation into Buddha—the enlightened one. Bodhgaya is the site where Buddha began his mission to spread peace and nirvana. It is home to numerous monasteries and temples dedicated to Buddhism, creating a deeply spiritual and meditative atmosphere. As the most significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide, Bodhgaya offers a profound experience of Buddhist teachings. Overnight stay in Bodhgaya Hotel.

Mahabodhi Temple

Visit the Mahabodhi Temple, originally built by Emperor Ashoka 250 years after Buddha’s enlightenment. Reconstructed in the 7th century A.D., the temple has endured invasions, including destruction by Muslim invaders in the 12th century. It was restored by Burmese kings in the 14th century, and after being buried under silt, it received extensive restoration following excavation in 1861. The temple’s main attraction is the Bodhi Tree, under which Buddha meditated for a week after his enlightenment. Although the current tree is a descendant, it is one of the oldest and most revered trees in the world. A shoot of the original tree was taken to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century B.C. by Bhikkhuni Sangamitta, and it is still thriving at the Mahavihara monastery in Anuradhapura. In addition to the ancient remains, explore temples and monasteries built by various Buddhist countries, including Thailand, China, Sri Lanka, Japan, Korea, Nepal, Taiwan, and Bhutan. Overnight stay in Bodhgaya Hotel.

Rajgir

Morning leave for Rajgir which was once the ancient capital of the Magadha Kings. Buddha often visited this place, seeking the solitude and tranquillity of the Jivkamaravana monastery and preaching and meditating at the Griddhakuta hill (hill of vultures). At this hill, he converted one of the celebrated followers, the Mauryan king Bimbisara, to Buddhism. When Buddha arrived at ‘Parinirvana’ his devotees held the first Buddhist council at the Saptaparni cave. It was here, that his teachings were penned down for the very first time. Visit Venture’s peak where Lord Buddha set in motion His second wheel of law and preached sermons to his disciples for three months in the rainy season. The peak also houses a massive modern Stupa, the Shanti Stupa, built by the Buddhist Sangha of Japan.

Nalanda

Then proceed to Nalanda which was founded in 5th century B.C. It is one of the world’s oldest living cities. Buddha visited this place number of times. It is most famous for The Nalanda University which was established in 5th century B.C. The ruins of the university are spread over 14 hectares of land. All the buildings are made with red bricks built in Kushana style of architecture. The most imposing structure is the Sariputra stupa at the extreme south of the University. There are 9 monasteries. Each monastery was provided one shrine which contained the colossal image of Buddha. Also visit Museum here which possesses the treasure antiquities found during the excavations in Nalanda and Rajgir.

Patna

Finally, proceed to Patna. Check in at hotel for overnight stay in Patna.

Vaishali

Morning : Depart for Kushinagar, with an en route visit to Vaishali. This site is significant in Buddhism as Lord Buddha delivered his last sermon here and visited multiple times after his enlightenment. Vaishali was once the capital of one of the earliest republican states and is where Buddha instructed his disciple Ananda to gather the monks and announce his impending Mahaparinirvana, urging them to spread Dharma for global happiness.

Kesariya Stupa

Continue to Kesariya, formerly known as Kesaputta, where Buddha's pre-enlightenment teacher, Alara Kalama, is said to have resided. Buddha is also connected to Kesaputta, where he delivered the important Kessaputtiya Sutta (Kalama Sutta). The Kesariya Stupa honors the place where Buddha spent his final days before attaining Nirvana.

Kushinagar

Proceed to Kushinagar, a must-visit for Buddhist pilgrims. It was here that Buddha gave his final sermon and attained Nirvana. Although few ruins remain from the Mallas dynasty era, Ashoka the Great built several structures in Kushinagar. Arrive and check in at the Kushinagar hotel.

Kushinagar

Morning visit Kushinagar where excavations reveal structures and artefacts related to all sects of Buddhism. Kushinagar is the common thread of all sects of Buddhism through its magnificent Chaityas, Viharas, temples and monasteries. Visit Nirvana Temple perched high on a plinth, the temple houses reclining Nirvana statue of Lord Buddha and is made of monolithic red sandstone. The statue is placed over huge brick-pedestal with stone-posts at the four ends. Inscriptions are beautifully engraved on the statue which dates back to the 5th century. Ramabhar Stupa is the cremation site of Lord Buddha and is also called as Mukutsbandhan-Chaitya.

Lumbini

Finally, proceed to Lumbini which is famous in the world for being the sacred site of Lord Buddha’s birth. Upon arrival in Lumbini check in at hotel for overnight stay.

Maya Devi Temple

Morning Time, Visit Maya Devi Temple marks the spot where Queen Maya Devi gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama in around 563BC. The temple is enclosed by the brick foundations of monasteries and ancient temples. The ground floor of the temple still has remains of the ruins of the ancient Maya Devi Temple dating back to 3rd century BC. In the adjoining sacred garden you’ll find the pillar of Ashoka, ancient ruins of stupas, and maroon- and saffron-robed monks congregating under a sprawling Bodhi (pipal) tree decorated with prayer flags. There is a sacred pond beside the temple which is believed to be the birth spot where Maya Devi bathed before giving birth to the Buddha.

Later leave for Sravasti is where Buddha delivered many of his important sermons. Sravasti is the most important Buddhist pilgrimage site in the country. Lord Buddha bewildered his sermons with a million fold expression of himself, seated on a thousand-petaled lotus, as fire and water sprung from his body. After arrival check in at hotel for overnight stay in Sravasti.

In the morning visit Saheth in Sravasti. It has a number of Buddhist Stupas and monasteries. The main attractions here are two chambers; Gandhakuti and Kosambakuti, which were used by Buddha. Gandhakuti or fragrant chamber is the most sacred place as it was used as personal chamber by Lord Buddha and devotees offer large amount of flowers to the Lord.

Varanasi

Afterwards leave for Varanasi. It is the oldest living city of the world and is famous as the city of temples. Varanasi or Kashi as it is popularly known is the most important place of pilgrimage for Hindus and the sight of devout praying standing water deep in Ganges. Buddha had reached here after he attained Nirvana to look for five Hindus Ascetics who he had met earlier before enlightenment and who had insisted that the only path to salvation was through self-mortification. Buddha gave them the precious gift of spiritual knowledge thus they became his followers and the first members of the Sangha. After arrival at Varanasi check in at hotel for overnight stay.

Sarnath

Sarnath, Located near Varanasi is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. It is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, known as the Dharmachakra Pravartana (Turning of the Wheel of Dharma). The site includes the Dhamek Stupa, dating back to 500 CE, and various monasteries and temples built by Buddhist communities worldwide. The Ashoka Pillar, originally erected by Emperor Ashoka, once stood here, symbolizing the spread of Buddhism. Sarnath is a UNESCO tentative World Heritage Site and an important destination for those exploring India's Buddhist heritage.

Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a daily evening ritual on the banks of the Ganges, where priests perform prayers with lamps, fire, and chants.

Manikarnika Ghat

Manikarnika ghat becomes a powerful symbol of life and death, with ongoing cremation ceremonies, fire rituals, and sacred chants. While visiting, it's essential to approach with respect for the solemnity of the rituals. The sight of funeral pyres burning against the backdrop of the ancient city offers a deep reflection on the cycle of life. While tourists are allowed to witness the rituals from a distance, it is important to maintain respectful silence and discretion during visits.

Varanasi

Return to Hotel and over night stay in Varanasi hotel.

Assi Ghat

Assi Ghat, located at the southern end of Varanasi, is one of the city's most serene and significant ghats. It is where the Ganges and Assi rivers meet, making it a sacred spot for pilgrims. Assi Ghat is known for its peaceful atmosphere, and it's a popular place for meditation, yoga, and sunrise views. The ghat becomes vibrant during the early morning Ganga Aarti, which draws both locals and tourists. Unlike the bustling central ghats, Assi Ghat offers a more relaxed and reflective experience, making it a favorite among those seeking spiritual tranquility.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Kashi Vishwanath Temple, located in Varanasi, is one of the most revered Hindu temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It stands near the western bank of the Ganges and is considered a major center of worship, especially for devotees of Shiva. The temple's golden spire, donated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, is a prominent feature. It has been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout history, symbolizing the resilience of faith. Pilgrims believe that a visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and a dip in the Ganges can lead to liberation from the cycle of rebirth.

Banaras Hindu University

A prestigious educational institution with a beautiful campus and the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum.

Varanasi

Afterward, the guest will be dropped off at their preferred location in Varanasi, marking the end of the tour.