“Walk the Path of Enlightenment – Buddha Circuit, India”
$1299 per person
This enriching itinerary embarks from Delhi, guiding you through the life of Buddha with visits to significant pilgrimage sites in India and Nepal. Begin your journey at Bodh Gaya, the site of Buddha’s enlightenment under the sacred Bodhi Tree, then proceed to Nalanda, an ancient seat of Buddhist learning and wisdom. Continue to Sarnath in Varanasi, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, marking the foundation of the Buddhist Sangha. The pilgrimage then takes you across the border to Lumbini in Nepal, the revered birthplace of Buddha. Finally, conclude your spiritual journey in McLeodganj, a hub of Tibetan culture and home to the Dalai Lama. This itinerary not only traces the footsteps of Buddha but also offers a profound spiritual and cultural immersion, encapsulating the essence of Buddhist heritage.
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Day 1: Arrival in Delhi
Arrival: Land at Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi.
Activities:
- Rest and acclimatize after your journey.
- Visit the National Museum (if time permits) to see Buddhist artifacts and relics.
- Explore local markets like Connaught Place or Dilli Haat.
Overnight Stay: Delhi.
Day 2: Delhi to Bodh Gaya
Arrival: Land at Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi.
Activities:
- Rest and acclimatize after your journey.
- Visit the National Museum (if time permits) to see Buddhist artifacts and relics.
- Explore local markets like Connaught Place or Dilli Haat.
Overnight Stay: Delhi.
Day 3: Bodh Gaya to Nalanda and Rajgir
Travel: Drive to Nalanda (approx. 2 hours).
Activities:
- Visit the ruins of Nalanda University, an ancient center of Buddhist learning.
- Explore the Nalanda Archaeological Museum.
- Proceed to Rajgir (30 minutes from Nalanda).
- Visit the Gridhakuta Hill (Vulture’s Peak), where Buddha delivered many teachings.
- Take the ropeway to the Peace Pagoda (Vishwa Shanti Stupa).
Overnight Stay: Rajgir.
Day 4: Rajgir to Varanasi (Sarnath)
Travel: Drive to Gaya (2 hours) and take a train or flight to Varanasi.
- Activities:
- Visit Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment.
- Explore the Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, and Mulagandha Kuti Vihar.
- Visit the Sarnath Archaeological Museum to see the iconic Lion Capital of Ashoka.
Overnight Stay: Varanasi.
Day 5: Varanasi to Lumbini (Nepal)
Travel: Drive to the India-Nepal border (Sunauli, approx. 4-5 hours). Cross the border and proceed to Lumbini (1 hour).
- Activities:
- Visit the Sacred Garden, the birthplace of Buddha.
- Explore the Mayadevi Temple and the Ashoka Pillar.
- Visit the Lumbini Monastic Zone with monasteries from various countries.
Overnight Stay: Lumbini.
Day 6: Lumbini to Mcleodganj
Travel: Return to India via Sunauli and take a flight or train to Pathankot. From Pathankot, drive to Mcleodganj (approx. 3 hours).
- Activities:
- Rest and explore the local Tibetan culture.
- Visit the Tsuglagkhang Complex, the residence of the Dalai Lama.
- Explore the Bhagsu Nag Temple and Bhagsu Waterfall.
Overnight Stay: Mcleodganj.
Day 7: Mcleodganj
- Activities:
- Visit the Namgyal Monastery and Tibetan Museum.
- Take a short trek to Triund (if time and energy permit).
- Explore the local markets for Tibetan handicrafts and souvenirs.
Overnight Stay: Mcleodganj.
Day 8: Mcleodganj to Delhi
TTravel: Drive to Pathankot (3 hours) and take an overnight train or flight to Delhi.
- Activities:
- Arrive in Delhi and spend the day exploring (if time permits).
- Visit Akshardham Temple or Lotus Temple for a peaceful end to your journey.
Overnight Stay: Delhi.
Day 9: Departure from Delhi
- Activities:
- Depending on your flight schedule, you can do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
- Depart from Indira Gandhi International Airport.
Overnight Stay: Delhi.
Tips for the Trip
- Transport: Use a mix of flights, trains, and private taxis for convenience.
- Permits: Carry valid ID proofs for border crossings (India-Nepal).
- Clothing: Dress modestly, especially at religious sites.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather