13N/14D Buddhist Circuit - Delhi to Kathmandu via Bodh Gaya & Lumbini

Delhi, Varanasi, Bodhgaya, Rajgir, Nalanda, Vaishali, Kushinagar, Lumbini, Kathmandu · 13 nights / 14 days · India

From ₹24,106 per person

Stay plan: Delhi (1N) – Varanasi (2N) – Bodhgaya (2N) – Rajgir (1N) – Nalanda (1N) – Vaishali (1N) – Kushinagar (1N) – Lumbini (2N) – Kathmandu (2N). Arrive Delhi, depart Kathmandu.

Where the nights are

Delhi (1N) → Varanasi (2N) → Bodhgaya (2N) → Rajgir (1N) → Nalanda (1N) → Vaishali (1N) → Kushinagar (1N) → Lumbini (2N) → Kathmandu (2N)

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival at Gateway & Transfer to Delhi

   Arrive at the airport or railway station in Delhi, where our local representative will meet you and assist with the transfer to your hotel or ashram. The rest of the day is at leisure to rest after the journey. In the evening there is a welcome briefing and orientation covering the pilgrimage route, followed by peaceful aarti and prayers. Overnight stay in Delhi.

   Overnight: Delhi

2. Day 2 — Sacred Exploration & Rituals in Varanasi

   After breakfast, transfer from Delhi to Varanasi by your scheduled flight or train and continue to your accommodation. The day is dedicated to holy darshans, participation in sacred rituals, a holy dip in the Ganga where applicable, and guided historical and spiritual monument tours in Varanasi, including Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the riverside ghats. The evening is kept for a spiritual discourse or the Ganga aarti and a stroll through the local bazaar. Overnight stay in Varanasi.

   Overnight: Varanasi

3. Day 3 — Sacred Exploration & Rituals in Varanasi

   Begin your day with a morning tour of Varanasi's revered temples, each offering a glimpse into the city's profound spiritual heritage. Visit Assi Ghat along with other prominent ghats, witnessing the daily life and rituals along the sacred Ganges River. Dive into Varanasi's vibrant markets, renowned for their exquisite silk and handcrafted items, capturing the essence of local artistry and culture. As the day comes to a close, settle in for an overnight stay in Varanasi, reflecting on the rich experiences and discoveries of the day. - Annapurna Temple Triveni Sangam is the convergence of river Ganges, Yamuna, and Parvati stole her fair complexion (Gauri form). She asked Shiva for his help to reacquire her Gauri form. Shiva asked her to donate anna (food) in Varanasi. Hence, she took the form of Annapurna (the goddess of food) with a golden pot and ladle, and donated food in Varanasi. - Kaal Bhairav Mandir Kaal Bhairav Mandir (Hindi: काल भैरव मंदिर) is one of the oldest Shiva temples in Varanasi, India. Situated in Bharonath, Vishweshwarganj (Varanasi), this temple has great historical and cultural importance in Hinduism; especially amongst the locals. - Bindu Madhav Temple According to a saga in Kashi Khand (mentioned in Kashi Vishnu Yatra) when Lord Vishnu evicted King Divodasa from his Kingdom he established himself in the form of Adi Keshav at Padodak teerth. Thereafter, Lord Vishnu when reached Panchnad Teerth he got infatuated with the glory of Kashi. - Tulsi Manas Temple One of the famous Hindu epics, Ramayan was originally written in Sanskrit language by Sanskrit poet Valmiki between 500 and 100 BC. Being in Sanskrit language, this epic was not accessible to and understood by masses. - Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple Besides the Assi river stream, on the way of Durga Temple to Banaras Hindu Temple this well known temple of Lord Hanuman is situated. This temple is founded by Goswami Tulsidas. This temple is also known as "Monkey" temple, as lot of monkeys are there inside the premises. Uniqueness of temple one can notice themselves once entered to temple. There is abundance of monkeys. On Hanuman Jayanti which comes in month of April one big procession is taken out. Devotees in disguise of Lord Hanuman perform all the acts related to legends of Lord Hanuman. - Ganga Aarti Out of the all spiritual places in Varanasi, you must visit Dashashwamedh Ghat for Ganga Aarti and Assi Ghat for Subah-E-Banaras. At Dashashwamedh ghat, one moment there's hustle-bustle about finding the perfect place to watch the aarti, and the other moment the entire city falls silent when a shankh (conch) is blown. The shankh heralds that the aarti is beginning and it draws everyone's attention. Since the Ganga aarti of Banaras is for the River Ganga, a statue of Goddess Ganga is placed in the centre at one of the many raised platforms.

   Overnight: Varanasi

4. Day 4 — Sacred Exploration & Rituals in Bodhgaya

   Embark on the long journey as you travel from Varanasi to Gaya. This day offers a transition from the spiritual depths of Varanasi to the revered grounds of Gaya. Known for its significance in both Hinduism and Buddhism, Gaya is a city of profound religious importance. Upon arrival, you'll have the opportunity to explore its sacred sites, including the iconic Bodh Gaya, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. As you settle in for the night, reflect on the spiritual journey that has brought you from the ghats of the Ganges to the hallowed grounds of Gaya. Night stay in Gaya. - Vishnupad Temple Vishnupad Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is located in Gaya, on the bank of the river Phalgu, marked by a footprint of Lord Vishnu known as Dharmasila, incised into a block of basalt. - Sita Kund It is located on the opposite side of the Vishnu pad temple, on the other banks of the Falgu River. It is believed to be the spot where Sita Devi performed the ritual of pinda-daan for king Dashratha, her father-in law and a small temple stands there now. This is also the spot where the goddess took a bath before going into exile for 14 years with her husband, Lord Rama, and brother-in-law, Lord Lakshmana. Tourists can also visit nearby shrines dedicated to Lord Rama, Lord Hanuman, Goddess Sita and Goddess Durga and pay obeisance to the deities. - Bodh Gaya It is situated west of the Phalgu River, in southwest Bihar. One of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is the location where Gautama Buddha (Prince Siddharth) attained enlightenment and became the Buddha. Main attractions include the Bodhi tree, also called Bo tree, under which the Buddha sat when he attained Enlightenment (Bodhi). Mahabodhi Temple, one of the holiest sites of Buddhism, marks the spot of the Buddha's Enlightenment. A shrine inside the temple holds a yellow sandstone statue of the Buddha encased in glass.

   Overnight: Bodhgaya

5. Day 5 — Sacred Exploration & Rituals in Bodhgaya

   Spend the day exploring the serene and sacred sites of Bodh Gaya, one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in the world. Begin your spiritual journey at the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the sacred Bodhi Tree & visit other sites. Conclude your day with quiet reflection or evening prayers before returning to your hotel in Gaya for the night. - Vishnupad Temple Vishnupad Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is located in Gaya, on the bank of the river Phalgu, marked by a footprint of Lord Vishnu known as Dharmasila, incised into a block of basalt. - Sita Kund It is located on the opposite side of the Vishnu pad temple, on the other banks of the Falgu River. It is believed to be the spot where Sita Devi performed the ritual of pinda-daan for king Dashratha, her father-in law and a small temple stands there now. This is also the spot where the goddess took a bath before going into exile for 14 years with her husband, Lord Rama, and brother-in-law, Lord Lakshmana. Tourists can also visit nearby shrines dedicated to Lord Rama, Lord Hanuman, Goddess Sita and Goddess Durga and pay obeisance to the deities. - Bodh Gaya It is situated west of the Phalgu River, in southwest Bihar. One of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is the location where Gautama Buddha (Prince Siddharth) attained enlightenment and became the Buddha. Main attractions include the Bodhi tree, also called Bo tree, under which the Buddha sat when he attained Enlightenment (Bodhi). Mahabodhi Temple, one of the holiest sites of Buddhism, marks the spot of the Buddha's Enlightenment. A shrine inside the temple holds a yellow sandstone statue of the Buddha encased in glass.

   Overnight: Bodhgaya

6. Day 6 — Sacred Exploration & Rituals in Rajgir

   Breakfast at the hotel/ashram, then drive out of Bodhgaya through open Bihar farmland to Rajgir. On arrival, check in. The full day is dedicated to holy darshans, participation in sacred rituals, holy dips where applicable at the warm springs, and guided tours of the historical and spiritual monuments of Rajgir, including Griddhakuta Hill, Venuvana and the Vishwa Shanti Stupa. The evening is kept free for a spiritual discourse or a stroll through the local bazaar. Overnight stay in Rajgir.

   Overnight: Rajgir

7. Day 7 — Sacred Exploration & Rituals in Nalanda

   Breakfast at the hotel/ashram, followed by the short drive from Rajgir to Nalanda. Check in on arrival. The full day is given to holy darshans, sacred ritual participation, holy dips where applicable, and guided historical and spiritual monument tours in Nalanda, covering the excavated ruins of the ancient university, the Great Stupa of Sariputta, the archaeological museum and the Xuanzang Memorial Hall. Evening free for a spiritual discourse or a walk through the local bazaar. Overnight stay in Nalanda.

   Overnight: Nalanda

8. Day 8 — Sacred Exploration & Rituals in Vaishali

   Breakfast at the hotel/ashram, then drive from Nalanda to Vaishali, crossing the Ganga plains. Check in on arrival. The full day is dedicated to holy darshans, sacred ritual participation, holy dips where applicable, and guided historical and spiritual monument tours in Vaishali, including the Ashokan Pillar at Kolhua, the Relic Stupa, Abhishek Pushkarni tank and the Vishwa Shanti Stupa. The evening is free for a spiritual discourse or a stroll in the local bazaar. Overnight stay in Vaishali.

   Overnight: Vaishali

9. Day 9 — Sacred Exploration & Rituals in Kushinagar

   Breakfast at the hotel/ashram, then a long drive from Vaishali to Kushinagar via Muzaffarpur and Gorakhpur. Check in on arrival. The day is dedicated to holy darshans, sacred ritual participation, holy dips where applicable, and guided historical and spiritual monument tours in Kushinagar, including the Mahaparinirvana Temple with its reclining Buddha, Ramabhar Stupa and Matha Kuar Shrine. Evening free for a spiritual discourse or a walk through the local bazaar. Overnight stay in Kushinagar.

   Overnight: Kushinagar

10. Day 10 — Sacred Exploration & Rituals in Lumbini

    Breakfast at the hotel/ashram, then drive from Kushinagar across the Nepal border at Sonauli to Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha. Check in on arrival. The day is dedicated to holy darshans, sacred ritual participation, holy dips where applicable, and guided historical and spiritual monument tours in Lumbini, including the Maya Devi Temple, the Ashokan Pillar, the sacred pond and the monastic zone. Evening free for a spiritual discourse or a local bazaar stroll. Overnight stay in Lumbini.

    Overnight: Lumbini

11. Day 11 — Sacred Exploration & Rituals in Lumbini

    Arrive in Lumbini and check in at the hotel or ashram, followed by breakfast. The full day is dedicated to holy darshans, sacred ritual participation, holy dips where applicable, and guided historical and spiritual monument tours in Lumbini, covering the Maya Devi Temple, the Ashoka Pillar, the sacred pond and the monastic zone with its international temples. In the evening attend a spiritual discourse or stroll through the local bazaar. Overnight stay in Lumbini.

    Overnight: Lumbini

12. Day 12 — Sacred Exploration & Rituals in Kathmandu

    Breakfast at the hotel/ashram, then a long scenic drive from Lumbini to Kathmandu through the hills and river valleys of central Nepal. Check in on arrival. The day is dedicated to holy darshans, sacred ritual participation, holy dips where applicable, and guided historical and spiritual monument tours in Kathmandu, including Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath and Boudhanath Stupa. The evening is free for a spiritual discourse or a stroll through the Thamel bazaar. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

    Overnight: Kathmandu

13. Day 13 — Sacred Exploration & Rituals in Kathmandu

    Arrive in Kathmandu and check in at the hotel or ashram, followed by breakfast. The full day is dedicated to holy darshans, sacred ritual participation, holy dips where applicable, and guided historical and spiritual monument tours in Kathmandu, including Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath and Kathmandu Durbar Square. In the evening attend a spiritual discourse or stroll through the local bazaar at Thamel or Ason. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

    Overnight: Kathmandu

14. Day 14 — Kathmandu - Final Darshan & Onward Departure

    After morning prayers and breakfast, check out from the hotel in Kathmandu. Depending on your flight, there is time to complete any final souvenir or religious artifact shopping in Thamel or around Boudhanath, where thangkas, prayer wheels and singing bowls are sold. You then proceed on your return transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your journey home. Our representative assists with the transfer, and the pilgrimage concludes here.

Inclusions

• Accommodation in selected category pilgrimage hotels, ashrams, or heritage resorts on DBL/Twin sharing basis.
• Meal Plan as booked (CP: Breakfast / MAP: Daily Buffet Breakfast & Dinner / Veg Satvik meals where applicable).
• Private exclusive AC Vehicle (Sedan / SUV Innova / Tempo Traveller / Bus) for all airport/railway transfers and pilgrimage site transfers.
• Special temple darshan coordination, VIP entry passes, and ritual assistance at major shrines (Mahakal, Tirupati, Golden Temple, Bodhgaya, Palitana, etc.).
• All driver allowances, toll taxes, state tourist road taxes, parking charges, and fuel charges.
• 24x7 on-tour coordination and dedicated multi-state pilgrimage desk support.

Exclusions

• Airfare or Train tickets to/from starting and ending cities.
• Special pooja ticket costs, Abhishekam fees, holy dip boat charges, or camera fees inside sanctums.
• Helicopter tickets for Char Dham / Katra / Hemkund Sahib / Amarnath Yatra.
• Additional meals, room service, laundry, telephone calls, or personal incidentals.
• Mandatory Gala Dinner supplements during festival peaks or New Year's Eve.
• GST @ 5% applicable on overall billing invoice.
• Any expenses arising out of unforeseen circumstances like road blocks, strikes, or extreme weather conditions.