Delhi-Lucknow-Sravasti-Lumbini- Kushinagar-Patna-Vaishali-Nalanda-Rajgir-Bodhgaya-Varanasi (Sarnath)
Explore the spiritual journey of Gautam Buddha on this 12-day Buddhist Tour of India and Nepal, covering Delhi, Lucknow, Sravasti, Lumbini, Kushinagar, Patna, Vaishali, Nalanda, Rajgir, Bodhgaya, and Varanasi (Sarnath). India and Nepal, two fascinating neighboring countries, offer a unique blend of culture, history, and spirituality, making this tour an enriching experience. Buddhism, one of India’s prominent religions, transcended borders and influenced millions worldwide. Born as Prince Siddhartha in Lumbini, Gautam Buddha embarked on a quest for the answers to life’s sufferings. After years of meditation, he attained Nirvana and dedicated his life to teaching, eventually leaving his mortal existence in Kushinagar. This tour highlights the four pivotal sites in Buddha’s life—Lumbini (birth), Bodhgaya (Enlightenment), Sarnath (first sermon), and Kushinagar (Nirvana)—along with other significant locations he visited, such as Vaishali, Rajgir, Sravasti, and Kapilvastu. Witness the profound history and teachings of Buddha as you traverse these sacred sites, experiencing the essence of his spiritual journey firsthand.
Accommodation in comfortable hotels/resorts as per the itinerary
Daily breakfast and meals as mentioned in the itinerary
All transportation by private air-conditioned vehicle
English-speaking local guide for sightseeing
All entrance fees to monuments and attractions
Government taxes and service charges
24/7 customer support during the tour
Bottled water during excursions
International airfare to/from India
Visa fees and travel insurance
Personal expenses like laundry, telephone calls, etc.
Any meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Tips and gratuities to guides and drivers
Camera fees at monuments
Any optional activities or excursions
Medical expenses and evacuation costs
Upon arrival at Delhi airport, you’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel. After checking in (from 12:00 PM onwards), spend the rest of the day at leisure, unwinding and rejuvenating for the adventures ahead. Enjoy a comfortable night’s stay in Delhi.
Start your day with a breakfast at the hotel, followed by a guided sightseeing tour of Delhi. Explore Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Raj Ghat, Chandni Chowk (via rickshaw), India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Parliament House, Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, Humayun’s Tomb, Lotus Temple, and Qutub Minar. Overnight in Delhi.
After breakfast, fly to Lucknow (Flight: 6E 2107 08:25/09:35 Hrs) and drive to Sravasti. Visit Sahet-Mahet – known for Buddha’s supernatural feats. Overnight in Sravasti.
Drive to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Cross India-Nepal border with immigration formalities. Visit local sights or relax. Dinner and overnight in Lumbini.
Explore Maya Devi Temple, Sacred Garden, Bodhi Tree, Maya Devi Pond, Ashoka Pillar, World Peace Pagoda, and various international monasteries. Overnight in Lumbini.
Drive to Kushinagar. Visit Mahaparinirvana Temple (site of Buddha’s death) and Rambhar Stupa (cremation site). Overnight in Kushinagar.
Drive to Patna with stop at Vaishali, an important Buddhist site. Overnight stay in Patna.
Drive to Bodhgaya. En route visit Shanti Stupa in Rajgir and Nalanda University ruins. Check into hotel. Overnight in Bodhgaya.
Visit Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhi Tree, Great Buddha Statue, Niranjana River, Sujata Temple, and various monasteries. Overnight in Bodhgaya.
Drive to Varanasi. Evening boat ride on River Ganges with guide. Overnight in Varanasi.
Morning boat ride on Ganges. Visit Sarnath, Banaras Hindu University, and Bharat Mata Temple. Overnight in Varanasi.
After breakfast, transfer to Varanasi airport. Flight to Delhi. On arrival, proceed for international departure. End of tour.
The best time to visit India depends on the region. Generally, October to March is considered the best season for most tourist destinations, offering pleasant weather and clear skies. However, some areas like Kerala and Goa are great during the monsoon season (June to September).
Yes, most international travelers need a visa to enter India. You can apply for an e-visa online through the official Indian government website. The e-visa is valid for tourism, business, and medical purposes. Processing usually takes 2-3 days.
Indian Rupee (INR) is the official currency. You can exchange currency at airports, banks, or authorized money changers. ATMs are widely available, and major credit cards are accepted at hotels and restaurants. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and tips.
It's generally not recommended to drink tap water in India. Always drink bottled or filtered water. Most hotels provide purified water, and restaurants usually serve bottled water. You can also use water purification tablets or bottles with built-in filters.
Dress modestly and comfortably. Light cotton clothing is ideal for most parts of India. When visiting religious sites, cover your shoulders and knees. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for sightseeing. Don't forget sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for outdoor activities.
Your tour includes transportation by private air-conditioned vehicles. For longer distances, domestic flights may be arranged. Trains are another popular option for inter-city travel. Rickshaws and taxis are available in cities for short distances.
Most tour packages include daily breakfast and some meals as specified in the itinerary. Lunch and dinner are usually not included unless mentioned. You can choose from a variety of local and international cuisines available at restaurants.
Cancellation policies vary by tour operator. Generally, cancellations made 30 days before departure are eligible for full refund minus processing fees. Closer to departure dates, cancellation charges apply. We recommend purchasing travel insurance for flexibility.
