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.
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 VaranasiAfter 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 BodhgayaDrive 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 PatnaAfter 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 KushinagarCross 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 LumbiniDrive 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 ShravastiAfter 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 stationAssistance on arrival and departure
Licensed English-speaking local guide
Private AC car with driver (tolls and parking included)
6 Nights in 3-star AC hotel rooms with breakfast
All transfers and sightseeing as per itinerary
Bottled mineral water (daily)
Government taxes and service charges
Entry tickets (like Sarnath monument fee, about $5–7 per person)
Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, etc.)
Flights (international or domestic)
Travel insurance
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)
Upgrade to 4 or 5-star hotels at extra cost
Guides available in German, French, Spanish, and more
Customizations based on dietary or cultural preferences
Solo travelers are welcome and we guarantee departures
Light walking and steps are involved, so wear comfy shoes
Respecting local culture is important; we’ll guide you on etiquette along the way
The tour includes border crossing into Nepal (passport required)
This tour involves long but scenic road travel
Vegetarian food options are widely available
We accommodate solo travelers and small groups
Flexible pickup/drop between 6:00 AM and 11:00 PM (IST) based on your schedule
4.8 / 5
Based on 26K+ reviews
Thameshwarie
From India
19 Aug 2025
Eason
From United States
20 Aug 2025
Thameshwarie
From India
19 Aug 2025
Eason
From United States
20 Aug 2025
Tuesday
15 Sep, 2024
Wednesday
24 Sep, 2024
Total price
$1,049
Monday
22 Sep, 2024
Wednesday
31 Sep, 2024
Total price
$1,049
From
$1,049
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