Trip Facts
Summary
A journey through Nepal and India retracing the life of Siddhartha Gautama—the Buddha—is more than travel; it is a spiritual and cultural pilgrimage. From his birthplace in Lumbini, to the site of his Enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, his first teachings in Sarnath, and his final passing in Kushinagar, each location holds profound significance for Buddhists and seekers alike. This two-week itinerary is designed to connect travellers not only with the sacred sites themselves, but also with the living traditions that continue to flourish around them. Monasteries, stupas, ancient ruins, and vibrant pilgrim communities bring the story of the Buddha to life, offering both reflection and discovery. Guided tours, comfortable transfers, and opportunities for meditation ensure that the journey is both meaningful and accessible.
Itinerary
Day 1-2: Arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal
- Arrive in Kathmandu, settle into your hotel.
- Visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) and Boudhanath Stupa, both major Buddhist centers with Tibetan influence.
- Explore Patan with its monasteries and courtyards.
- Evening cultural dinner and trip briefing.
Day 3: Fly or Drive to Lumbini
- Travel to Lumbini, the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha).
- Visit the Maya Devi Temple, the exact spot of the Buddha’s birth.
- Explore monastic zones with temples built by different Buddhist nations (Thai, Burmese, Chinese, etc.).
- Overnight in Lumbini.
Day 4: Lumbini Exploration
- Meditation at the sacred garden and Ashokan Pillar.
- Visit the Lumbini Museum and World Peace Pagoda.
- Evening reflection walk through the tranquil monastery zones.
Day 5: Cross into India – Kushinagar
- Drive to Kushinagar, the place where the Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana (final passing).
- Visit the Mahaparinirvana Temple and reclining Buddha statue.
- Explore Ramabhar Stupa, where his cremation took place.
- Overnight in Kushinagar.
Day 6: Kushinagar to Vaishali
- Drive to Vaishali, where Buddha gave his last sermon.
- Visit the Relic Stupa, Ashokan Pillar, and monastery ruins.
- Learn about Vaishali’s importance in Buddhist councils.
- Overnight in Vaishali.
Day 7–8: Nalanda & Rajgir
- Proceed to Nalanda, home of the ancient Nalanda University—once a great Buddhist learning center.
- Visit the ruins, museum, and monasteries.
- Continue to Rajgir, where Buddha meditated and delivered important teachings.
- Ride the cable car to Vulture’s Peak and visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda.
- Overnight in Rajgir.
Day 9-11: Bodh Gaya
- Arrive in Bodh Gaya, the most sacred site of Buddhism.
- Visit the Mahabodhi Temple, where Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree.
- Spend time in meditation at the temple grounds and with international Buddhist communities.
- Day trips to nearby caves where Buddha meditated, such as Dungeshwari Cave.
- Free time for reflection, prayer, and interaction with monks
Day 12: Bodh Gaya to Sarnath (Varanasi)
- Travel to Sarnath, near Varanasi, where Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment.
- Visit the Dhamek Stupa, Ashokan Pillar, and Sarnath Museum.
- Overnight in Varanasi.
Day 13: Varanasi
- Early morning boat ride on the Ganges River, witnessing sunrise rituals.
- Return to Sarnath for further exploration or meditation.
- Evening cultural program in Varanasi.
Day 14: Departure from Varanasi
- Final reflections at Sarnath or free time in Varanasi.
- Departure flight home.
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About the company
Travel Himalaya is a Travel Operator registered in Switzerland. We are a family-owned, female-led travel agency with strong ties to the countries in the Himalayas. We are known for quality, good value, fairness and for offering unique experiences that we enjoy as travellers ourselves. All our tours are tailored to your individual interests and travel preferences.
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