Set out on a transformative 9-day journey through the footsteps of Buddha. This enriching tour from Delhi explores the significant sites tied to the life and teachings of Gautama Buddha. From the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya to the serene Lumbini, Buddha’s birthplace, this pilgrimage immerses you in the profound cultural and historical heritage of Buddhism. Experience the tranquility of Kushinagar, where Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana, and witness the spiritual atmosphere of Sarnath, where he delivered his first sermon. With comfortable accommodations, guided tours, and breakfast throughout, this tour promises to transform your understanding of the Buddha’s legacy.
Good To Know
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9-day tour from Delhi exploring sacred sites linked to Gautama Buddha, including Mahabodhi Temple, Nalanda University, Kushinagar, Lumbini, and Sarnath.
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Opportunity to immerse in the cultural and historical heritage associated with Buddha’s life and teachings.
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Visit Bodhgaya, the site of Buddha’s enlightenment, and explore the Mahabodhi Temple, the sacred Bodhi Tree, and diverse Buddhist monasteries.
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Discover the ancient ruins of Nalanda University, a renowned learning center from the 5th century BC, and gain insights into the evolution of Buddhism.
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Experience the spiritual significance of Kushinagar, the site of Buddha’s Mahaparinirvana, and Lumbini, recognized as his birthplace.
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Tour Highlights
This 9-day Buddha tour from Delhi offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of the sacred sites associated with the life and teachings of Gautama Buddha.
The itinerary includes visits to the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya, where Buddha attained enlightenment, as well as Nalanda University, one of the world’s great centers of learning in ancient times.
Travelers will also journey to Kushinagar, the site of Buddha’s Mahaparinirvana, and Lumbini, his birthplace.
Plus, the tour includes a stop in Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon.
Throughout the journey, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the rich cultural and historical heritage of these revered Buddhist destinations.
Bodhgaya Experience
Situated in the heart of Bihar, Bodhgaya is the revered site where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment.
Travelers will visit the iconic Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which houses the sacred Bodhi Tree under which Buddha meditated.
Nearby, the Neranchara River flows serenely, where Buddha is said to have bathed.
Visitors can explore the tranquil monasteries and temples that dot the landscape, each reflecting a unique Buddhist tradition.
From the ornate Japanese Temple to the simple Burmese Monastery, the diversity of Buddhist architecture and practice is on full display in this spiritual epicenter.
Bodhgaya offers a profound connection to the life and teachings of the Buddha.
Exploring Rajgir and Nalanda
From Bodhgaya, the tour journeys to the historic cities of Rajgir and Nalanda.
In Rajgir, visitors explore the Griddhakuta Peak, where Buddha is said to have meditated. They also visit the Bimbisara Jail, an ancient prison site.
The highlight of this leg is the UNESCO-listed Nalanda University, a renowned center of learning dating back to the 5th century BC. Travelers discover the site’s extensive ruins, including the remains of monasteries, classrooms, and the famous library.
This immersion in Buddhist history and culture deepens the understanding of the religion’s evolution and its lasting impact on the region.
- Griddhakuta Peak in Rajgir, where Buddha meditated
- Bimbisara Jail, an ancient prison site in Rajgir
- Nalanda University, a renowned center of learning from the 5th century BC
Journey to Kushinagar
Continuing the Buddha tour, the group journeys to the sacred site of Kushinagar, where Buddha is believed to have attained Mahaparinirvana, or final salvation. Kushinagar is a town in the Kushinagar district of Uttar Pradesh, India, and is one of the four major pilgrimage sites for Buddhists.
Site Visited | Significance |
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Kushinagar | Location of Buddha’s Mahaparinirvana |
Parinirvana Temple | Houses a recumbent statue of the Buddha |
Ramabhar Stupa | Marks the site of Buddha’s cremation |
Matha Kuar Shrine | Shrine dedicated to Buddha’s last sermon |
Nirvana Lake | Associated with Buddha’s final days |
The group will explore these important Buddhist sites and learn about the significance of Kushinagar in the life and teachings of the Buddha.
Visit to Lumbini
Next, the group makes its way to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. This sacred site is where Queen Mahamaya gave birth to the future Buddha in 623 BC.
Visitors can explore the Maya Devi Temple, which houses the exact spot of Buddha’s birth, marked by a stone carving. The Lumbini Garden, with its beautiful landscaping and ponds, provides a serene atmosphere for reflection.
Plus, the group will visit the Lumbini Museum, which showcases artifacts and relics from the site’s excavation.
- Maya Devi Temple: Houses the exact spot of Buddha’s birth
- Lumbini Garden: Serene landscaped gardens and ponds
- Lumbini Museum: Displays artifacts and relics from the site
Exploring Varanasi
After visiting Lumbini, the group travels to the holy city of Varanasi.
On day 7, they drive to Varanasi and witness the Ganga Arati ritual in the evening.
The next day, they explore Sarnath, the site of Buddha’s first teaching, and visit the Dhamek Stupa and Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
On the final day, the group takes a morning boat ride on the Ganges River before departing Varanasi.
Varanasi offers a unique spiritual experience, with its ancient temples, riverside ghats, and deep connections to Hindu and Buddhist traditions.
The tour provides an immersive look into these sacred sites and rituals, enhancing the overall Buddhist pilgrimage.
Sarnath and Kashi Vishwanath
On the penultimate day of the tour, visitors explore the important Buddhist site of Sarnath, located just 13 kilometers northeast of Varanasi.
Here, they visit the Dhamek Stupa, a massive stone monument marking the site where Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.
Nearby, they also explore the ruins of the ancient Nalanda University, once a renowned center of learning and Buddhist thought.
Afterward, the group travels to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu sites in Varanasi, known for its intricately carved spires and ritual worship of the deity Shiva.
- Sarnath: Site of Buddha’s first sermon after enlightenment
- Dhamek Stupa: Massive stone monument marking the historic site
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple: One of Varanasi’s most sacred Hindu shrines
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Inclusions and Exclusions
The Buddha Tour from Delhi includes several key amenities to ensure a comfortable and enriching experience.
Breakfast is included at each location, and air-conditioned private transportation with toll, parking, and fuel costs covered is provided.
Accommodation at 3-star hotels in each city is also included. A tour guide service is available at every site to share insights and historical context.
The tour package even covers the Nepal visa charge.
However, entrance fees to the various sites, flights, lunches, dinners, drinks, and laundry services aren’t included in the tour price.
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The Sum Up
This 9-day Complete Buddha Tour from Delhi offers an enriching journey through the significant sites associated with Gautama Buddha’s life and teachings. Travelers will enjoy the profound cultural and historical heritage of Buddhism, exploring the Mahabodhi Temple, Nalanda University, Lumbini, Kushinagar, Sarnath, and more. With comfortable accommodations, guided tours, and breakfast, this pilgrimage provides a transformative experience for those seeking to deepen their understanding of the Buddhist faith.