Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, you will be greeted by us and transferred to the hotel. After checking in and settling down, the rest of the day is at your leisure. You can relax and recover from your flight, or perhaps take a short stroll around the local area. In the evening, enjoy a warm welcome dinner at a traditional Nepalese restaurant, where you’ll get a taste of Nepal’s traditional cuisine. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Following a delicious breakfast, embark on a guided city tour of Kathmandu. Begin with a visit to the Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most significant Hindu temples in the world, located on the banks of the Bagmati River. This sacred site is a place of intense religious activity, with pilgrims performing rituals throughout the day. From here, head to Boudhanath Stupa, an iconic Buddhist monument that stands as a beacon of peace and enlightenment. Its immense dome and surrounding prayer wheels create a serene atmosphere, perfect for reflection. Continue your tour with a visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square, a historical site that showcases the architectural brilliance of the Malla kings. The square is dotted with temples, courtyards, and the former royal palace. Overnight in Kathmandu.

You begin your journey early in the morning, with the first light of day casting a soft glow over the landscape. As you drive out of the Kathmandu Valley, the towering peaks gradually fade into the distance, and the road opens up to the expansive Terai plains. Here, the temperature rises noticeably, and the air becomes warm and humid, especially during the warmer months, as you descend into the fertile, flat plains of southern Nepal.

After several hours of travel, you arrive in Lumbini, the legendary birthplace of Siddhartha Gautam, known to the world as Buddha. This tranquil, sacred site is surrounded by lush greenery and serene walking paths, offering a sense of peace that befits such a historically significant place. You can stroll through the local market, where the vibrant colors of handmade crafts, local produce, and traditional wares come together in a lively yet peaceful display. Overnight in Lumbini.

Lumbini, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a sacred destination of immense archaeological and religious significance. In the morning, you will visit the renowned Maya Devi Temple, the spiritual heart of Lumbini, which marks the exact spot where Queen Maya Devi gave birth to Siddhartha Gautam, the Buddha. You’ll stand before the sacred Bodhi Tree, under which Siddhartha is said to have meditated. The nearby Ashoka Pillar, erected by Emperor Ashoka in 249 BC, commemorates the birthplace of Buddha and features the oldest inscription in Nepal. You will also explore the ancient Bathing Pond, where pilgrims have bathed for centuries as part of their spiritual practice. Alongside these historical sites, you will visit the Lumbini Museum, which displays artifacts that trace the history of the area, and the Peace Pagoda, offering a serene space for reflection. As you walk through the peaceful grounds, you will experience the tranquil atmosphere created by pilgrims chanting and meditating from dawn to dusk.

In the afternoon, you will drive approximately 29km west to Tilaurakot, the historical site of Kapilavastu, where Siddhartha Gautam spent the first 29 years of his life. As you explore the site, you’ll see the remains of ancient structures, and wander through the peaceful meadow that sits alongside the Banganga River. You will visit the striking shrine dedicated to Maya Devi, adorned with intricate carvings of elephants. A small museum at the site showcases significant artifacts uncovered during excavations, offering deeper insight into the area’s rich history. After immersing yourself in the historical and spiritual significance of Kapilavastu, you will return to Lumbini for the evening, reflecting on the powerful experiences of the day. Overnight in Lumbini.

After an early breakfast, travel from Lumbini to Sunauli, the border town between Nepal and India. Cross into Uttar Pradesh, India, where your journey continues to Kushinagar, one of the most important sites for Buddhist pilgrims. Kushinagar is where Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana or the final nirvana after his death. Visit the Mahaparinirvana Temple, which houses the iconic reclining Buddha statue, symbolizing the peaceful passing of Buddha. Spend time in the tranquil surroundings of this sacred site, reflecting on its deep spiritual significance. Stay overnight in Kushinagar.

After breakfast, set off for a drive to Patna, the capital city of Bihar. The journey will take several hours, but the scenic route offers glimpses into rural India and the Ganges River. Upon arrival in Patna, check in to your hotel and enjoy the evening at your leisure. You may choose to explore the local markets or simply relax at your hotel.

Overnight in Patna.

Today, after breakfast, drive to Bodhgaya, a place of immense spiritual importance. Bodhgaya is where Lord Buddha achieved enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. Visit the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to the very tree where Buddha meditated. The temple is a peaceful haven for reflection and meditation, attracting pilgrims from around the world. Take some time to absorb the serene atmosphere and gain spiritual insight in this sacred location. Overnight in Bodhgaya.

After breakfast, embark on a full day of spiritual and cultural exploration in Bodhgaya, one of the holiest sites in Buddhism. Begin your journey at the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the Buddha attained enlightenment. Admire its stunning architecture and the revered Bodhi Tree, under which Siddhartha Gautama meditated and found enlightenment. The sacred grounds invite deep reflection, and you’ll have time to meditate or simply absorb the peaceful ambiance.

Next, visit the towering Great Buddha Statue, an awe-inspiring monument that stands at 80 feet tall. Take in the serenity and the impressive views surrounding the statue, which holds great significance for Buddhists worldwide.

Stroll over to the nearby Thai Temple, an architectural gem reflecting Thai Buddhist traditions. The temple offers a tranquil space for quiet contemplation. As you wander around the area, you’ll discover a variety of monasteries and temples representing different Buddhist countries, including the Japanese Temple, the Tibetan Monastery, and the Vietnamese Temple, each showcasing unique styles and spiritual practices.

Take time to immerse yourself in the beautiful gardens surrounding these sacred sites, where you can enjoy moments of peaceful solitude or engage in quiet meditation. The atmosphere in Bodhgaya is deeply spiritual, offering a unique opportunity for personal reflection and rejuvenation on Buddha’s path to enlightenment. After an enriching day, return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Take a day trip to Nalanda, the ancient center of learning that once attracted students from all over Asia. Explore the ruins of the university, which housed thousands of monks and scholars. Visit the Nalanda Archaeological Museum, which displays artifacts from the time when Nalanda was at the height of its glory. After a full day of exploration, return to Bodhgaya for a relaxing evening. Overnight in Bodhgaya.

After breakfast, drive to Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world and a key destination for Hindu pilgrims. Upon arrival, check-in at your hotel, and in the evening, witness the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where devotees gather to offer prayers and light lamps in the holy Ganges River. The sight of the ritual being performed at sunset is an unforgettable experience. Overnight in Varanasi.

After breakfast, enjoy a short drive to Sarnath, one of the most sacred sites for Buddhists. It was here that Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, known as the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta—the “Turning of the Wheel of Dharma.” Begin your visit at the Dhamek Stupa, an impressive monument that marks the site where Buddha preached to his first five disciples. The stupa, standing at 43 meters tall, is an architectural marvel, adorned with intricate carvings depicting scenes from Buddha’s life and teachings.

Next, head to the Archaeological Museum, home to an invaluable collection of relics from ancient Buddhist sites, including sculptures, inscriptions, and Buddhist art that offer insights into the region’s rich history. The museum’s artifacts are a fascinating testament to the ancient civilization that flourished here.

Explore the Sarnath Monastery, a peaceful and serene place where you can sit in quiet reflection or prayer. The monastery complex, with its beautiful gardens and tranquil atmosphere, is a perfect spot to experience the spiritual significance of Sarnath.

Take some time to wander the lush grounds and meditate under the shade of trees, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. Sarnath is not only a significant historical site but also a place of profound spiritual meaning for Buddhists worldwide. Return to Varanasi in the evening. Stay overnight at Varanasi.

After breakfast, enjoy some free time in Varanasi for last-minute sightseeing, shopping, or personal exploration. Later in the afternoon, take a flight from Varanasi to Delhi, India’s bustling capital. Upon arrival in Delhi, transfer to your hotel and settle in for the evening.

Overnight in Delhi.

On the final day of your journey, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight, concluding this spiritual and cultural tour through some of the most important Buddhist sites in the world.