This 7-day private Buddhist circuit tour traces the footsteps of Buddha across India and Nepal. From Varanasi to Lumbini to Sarnath and Kushinagar, you’ll explore the places where he was born, attained enlightenment, preached, and entered Mahaparinirvana.
Whether you’re on a personal spiritual journey or a seeker of culture and history, this thoughtfully curated experience blends mythology, philosophy, and heritage into a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
Tour Highlights
☸️ Visit Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon
🛕 Explore Mahabodhi Temple and Bodhi Tree in Bodhgaya
📚 Stop by Nalanda and Rajgir, ancient centers of Buddhist learning
🪷 See the Mahaparinirvana Temple in Kushinagar
🏞️ Step into the birthplace of Buddha at Lumbini
🏯 Visit Kapilavastu and Jetavana Monastery in Shravasti
🗣️ Comfortable hotels and a knowledgeable tour escort throughout
Day 1: Arrival in Varanasi & Visit to Sarnath
Arrive in Varanasi and check in to your hotel. In the afternoon, visit Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment. Explore important sites like the Dhamekh Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, the Lion Capital of Ashoka, and the Archaeological Museum. Learn how Sarnath became one of the holiest Buddhist sites, and walk through its peaceful gardens and remains of ancient monasteries. In the evening, immerse yourself in the glowing lamps and chants of the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
🛏 Overnight stay in Varanasi
Day 2: Varanasi to Bodhgaya
After breakfast, enjoy a peaceful boat ride down the Ganges with the rising sun. Post this we’ll head to Bodhgaya by road (about 6 hours). Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and have lunch. In the afternoon, explore the Mahabodhi Temple complex and meditate under the Bodhi Tree. Visit Sujata Temple and the Niranjana River, where legend says Sujata offered kheer to Buddha. Also visit the Great Buddha Statue and the international monasteries, including Thai, Japanese, and Chinese temples.
🛌 Overnight stay in Bodhgaya
Day 3: Bodhgaya to Patna via Rajgir and Nalanda
Drive to Patna with stops at Rajgir and Nalanda. In Rajgir, ride a cable car or walk to Gridhakuta Hill, where Buddha preached many discourses. Visit Bimbisara Jail and Venuvana, his royal park. At Nalanda, explore the ruins of one of the world’s oldest universities and its influence on Buddhist education. Learn about the scholars and teachings that once made this place world-renowned.
🛌 Overnight stay in Patna
Day 4: Patna to Kushinagar via Vaishali
After breakfast, drive to Kushinagar (approx. 7 hours) with a stop at Vaishali, where Buddha announced his approaching Mahaparinirvana. Visit the Ashokan Pillar and Ananda Stupa. In Kushinagar, visit the Mahaparinirvana Temple and the Rambhar Stupa, the cremation site of the Buddha. The peaceful ambiance here invites quiet reflection.
🛌 Overnight stay in Kushinagar
Day 5: Kushinagar to Lumbini
Cross the border into Nepal and head to Lumbini (approx. 5 hours). After hotel check-in, visit the sacred Mayadevi Temple, which marks the exact spot where Buddha was born. Walk around the serene monastic zone filled with temples from different countries, and take time to reflect in the peaceful gardens.
🛌 Overnight stay in Lumbini
Day 6: Lumbini to Shravasti via Kapilavastu
Drive to Shravasti (approx. 5.5 hours), with a stop at Kapilavastu, the place where Siddhartha spent his early years. On arrival in Shravasti, visit Jetavana Monastery, where Buddha spent many rainy seasons and delivered many teachings. Explore the Sahet Mahet ruins and Angulimala’s cave, with stories that still echo through time.
🛌 Overnight stay in Shravasti
Day 7: Shravasti to Lucknow and Departure
After breakfast, drive to Lucknow (approx. 4.5 hours). Depending on your flight or train timing, explore key city sites such as the Bara Imambara and Rumi Darwaza. We will drop you at the airport or rail station for your onward journey, closing your trip with memories of a path well-traveled.
✈️ Drop-off at Lucknow Airport or rail station
What’s Included
✅ Assistance on arrival and departure
✅ Government-licensed guide in Varanasi + tour escort for the full trip
✅ Private AC vehicle with driver, tolls, and parking
✅ 6 nights in 3-star AC hotel rooms with breakfast
✅ All transfers and sightseeing as per itinerary
✅ Mineral water during travel (daily)
✅ Government taxes and service charges
Transport
🚗 1–2 travelers: AC medium car (like Swift or similar)
🚙 3–6 travelers: AC large car (like Toyota Innova or similar)
🚐 7–10 travelers: AC mini-van (like Tempo Traveler or similar)
Optional Add-Ons
💡 Hotel upgrades to 4 or 5-star stays at extra cost
💡 Language guides available (German, French, Spanish, and more)
💡 Customizations based on dietary or cultural preferences
What’s Not Included
❌ Entry fees at monuments (like Sarnath monument fee, about $5–7 per person)
❌ Personal expenses (like laundry, tips, or phone bills)
❌ Any flights, domestic or international (you’ll need to book flights separately)
❌ Travel insurance
Good to Know
ℹ️ The tour includes border crossing into Nepal (passport required)
ℹ️ This tour involves long but scenic road travel
ℹ️ Vegetarian food options are widely available
ℹ️ We accommodate solo travelers and small groups
ℹ️ Solo travelers are welcome and we guarantee departures
ℹ️ Light walking and steps are involved, so wear comfy shoes
ℹ️ Respecting local culture is important; we’ll guide you on etiquette along the way
ℹ️ Airport/station pickup and drop-off available between 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM (IST)
