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India Nepal Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour from Bodhgaya
Duration
9 Days
Start and Ends In
Bodhgaya (India) / Varanasi
(India)
Buddhist Pilgrimages
Destination Covered
All Inclusive
Start From
USD 1,500
/Per Person on Twin Sharing Basis
Best Price Guaranteed
Trusted local specialists
Established in 2011 with traveler-first planning and on-ground support.
Fast quote and trip advice
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India Nepal Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour from Bodhgaya
Buddhist Pilgrimages
Destination Covered
No Hidden Charges
Clear pricing with no hidden charges.
Travel Your Way
This itinerary can be customized to match your preferences.
24 x 7 Travel Assistance
Reliable support throughout your journey.
Overview & Highlights
Embark on an unforgettable journey with our expertly crafted 9-days India Nepal Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour from Bodhgaya, tracing the sacred footsteps of Lord Buddha from enlightenment to Mahaparinirvana. This carefully curated journey covers the most revered Buddhist sites, including Bodh Gaya, Rajgir, Nalanda, Vaishali, Kushinagar, Lumbini, Sravasti, Sarnath, and Varanasi. Guided by an experienced escort, you’ll explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient monasteries, meditation caves, and serene temples, while learning the profound stories that shaped Buddhism. With comfortable transfers, quality accommodation, and insightful guidance, this all-Inclusive tour offers spiritual seekers, history lovers, and cultural explorers a once-in-a-lifetime experience into the life and legacy of the Buddha. Experience unforgettable adventures, and the freedom to customize your dream tour. Book now for an incredible holiday!
Key highlights of India Nepal Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour from Bodhgaya:
- Experience the profound serenity of Bodhgaya, the sacred site where Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree.
- Explore Kushinagar, the revered site where Buddha attained Parinirvana and visit the Mahaparinirvana Temple and Rambhar Stupa.
- Experience Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, featuring the sacred Maya Devi Temple and the historic Ashoka Pillar.
- Discover Sravasti, where Buddha spent many years teaching and meditate at the sacred Jetavana Monastery and the revered Ananda Bodhi Tree.
- Experience Varanasi, among the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, dating to 11th century B.C.
- Explore Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, and visit the historic Dhamekha Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, and the Archaeological Museum.
Follow a 9 Days route covering 8 destinations from Bodhgaya, India to Varanasi, India.
Customize hotels, pace, room category and special interests before you confirm the trip.
Stay in 7 hotel options selected to match comfort, location and travel flow.
Book with trusted local experts, fast response times and ongoing trip assistance before and during travel.
Guiding and trip support available in English, German.
Itinerary
Explore the day-to-day Itinerary for a detailed schedule of the India Nepal Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour from Bodhgaya to understand your daily activities and travel plans. The tour is fully customizable. Please contact us to tailor the itinerary to your preferences.
On arrival at Bodhgaya Airport, our escort guide will warmly welcome you and assist with your transfer to Niranjana Hotel or similar, Bodhgaya. After check-in, enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel. The evening will be at leisure to rest and prepare for the start of your pilgrimage journey.
After breakfast, set out to explore Bodh Gaya, one of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. Visit the Mahabodhi Temple, the Bodhi Tree where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment, and walk through the Seven Weeks of Enlightenment sites. Continue to see the towering 80-ft Buddha Statue and the peaceful Myanmar Monastery. Later, visit Sujata Garh and Sujata Kuti, followed by an excursion to the Dungeshwari Caves, where Buddha meditated before enlightenment. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Bodh Gaya.
After breakfast, check out and depart for Rajgir, arriving by late morning. Enjoy a scenic ropeway ride to the Vishwa Shanti Stupa (Peace Pagoda) and its landscaped gardens. Visit Griddhakuta Peak (Vulture’s Peak), Jivaka’s Mango Garden, and Venuvan (Bamboo Grove Monastery). Continue to see Bimbisara’s Prison, King Ajatashatru’s Fort, and the Brahmakund hot springs. End the day with a walk along the Glass Bridge. Later, check in at your hotel in Rajgir for dinner and overnight stay.
After breakfast, depart for Nalanda to explore the ancient Nalanda University, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s oldest centres of learning. Proceed to Vaishali to see the Ashokan Pillar, Relic Stupa (Ananda Stupa), and Kutagarasala Vihara. Later, check in at your hotel in Vaishali for dinner and overnight stay.
After breakfast, drive to Kushinagar, the site of Lord Buddha’s Mahaparinirvana. Visit the Parinirvana Temple, Mahaparinirvana Stupa, and Ramabhar Stupa, the cremation site of Buddha. In the evening, check in at your Kushinagar hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
Start early in the morning around 6:00 AM for the Indo–Nepal border (Sonauli Border). Immigration formalities can take anywhere from 1 hour to 5–6 hours, depending on the rush at the immigration centre. Please note that after 5:00 PM, vehicles are not permitted to enter Nepal, making early departure essential. After clearing immigration, proceed to Lumbini and begin sightseeing with visits to the Maya Devi Temple (birthplace of Buddha), the Sacred Garden, and the Ashoka Pillar. Also visit the Myanmar Monastery and, if time permits, explore other monasteries. Later, check in at your hotel in Lumbini for dinner and overnight stay.
Early in the morning, get a packed breakfast and leave for the Indo-Nepal Border (Sonauli Border) for the immigration process to re-enter India from Nepal. The process may take from 1 hour to 5–6 hours, depending on the number of visitors at the immigration department. After completing the immigration process, proceed to Sravasti, the ancient city where Buddha spent many rainy seasons delivering important sermons. Visit Jetavana Gardens, a historic site where Anathapindika's generosity enabled the creation of a monastery. Here, the Buddha delivered many profound teachings and resided for 24 rainy seasons, making it a significant pilgrimage site. Inside the Jetavana Gardens, visit the sacred Ananda Bodhi Tree, a site of immense importance for Buddhists. Later, visit the Angulimala Stupa and the Anathapindika Stupa. Next, visit Orajhar, where Buddha performed two miracles. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Shravasti.
After breakfast, drive to Sarnath, the sacred site where Buddha delivered his first sermon. Visit Chaukhandi Stupa, Dhamek Stupa, and Mulagandhakuti Vihara. Continue to Varanasi and check in at your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Ganges at Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Varanasi.
Start your day with a serene boat ride on the River Ganges, basking in the peaceful morning ambiance. Following the boat ride, choose to visit the revered Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple or take a contemplative walk through the various sacred Ghats of Varanasi, each offering a unique glimpse into the spiritual heart of the city. Later get back to the hotel for breakfast.
After breakfast, our driver and escort guide will transfer to the Varanasi airport or Varanasi railway station (as per your flight or train time) for onward journey, marking the end of your memorable escorted Buddhist pilgrimage tour.
Personalize Your Itinerary
Share your preferred dates, hotel level, and travel interests. Our experts will refine your itinerary and create the right plan for your trip.
What is Included in This Tour
Review the Inclusions/Exclusions section to see what's covered in the tour package and what's not, ensuring complete transparency and helping you plan accordingly.
Accommodation changes or upgrades are available upon request and subject to availability. Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities.
- 8 nights accommodation in 3 star deluxe hotels on twin or double sharing basis.
- Daily breakfast and dinner at the hotels (Buffet / Fixed Menu).
- Daily Lunch at good local restaurants.
- An English Speaking Guide will escort you throughout the tour.
Entrance Fee to below mentioned specified Monuments.
- Monument Entrance fee at Shravasti, Lumbini, Kushinagar, Vaishali, Nalanda, Rajgir, and Sarnath as per the itinerary.
The tour cost includes all transportation expenses, including tolls, parking, driver allowances, and applicable charges.
- Airport pick-up / drop-off, all sightseeing and transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle as per the itinerary.
- 1-2 persons - by comfortable sedan car such as Toyota Etios or Suzuki Dzire or similar.
- 3 persons - by comfortable MUV car such as Toyota Innova Crysta or similar.
- 4 or more persons - by comfortable mini-van such as Tempo Traveller / Tourist Bus or similar.
These thoughtfully included experiences add extra comfort and convenience to your journey, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience.
- Personal assistance during arrival and departure.
- Ropeway (Cable Car Ride) to reach Vultures Peak at Rajgir.
- Rickshaw ride in Lumbini.
- Boat ride at river Ganges in Varanasi.
- River Ganga Aarti at the banks of River Ganges.
- 1 mineral water bottle per person per day.
- All applicable taxes.
- Any International or domestic flights are not included.
- It is advisable that you buy a comprehensive medical/travel insurance in advance from your country before traveling to India and Nepal.
The following items are not included in the tour cost, giving you the flexibility to customize your journey based on your preferences.
- Please Note: Tour guides for specific languages, Italian, German, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Chinese, and Dutch, are also available on request basis at an additional cost.
- Any VISA fee (if applicable).
- Any monument entrance fee not specified in inclusions, camera fee.
- Any kind of tips, personal expenses, laundry, or telephone charges.
- Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.
Accommodation
Hotels are subject to availability. In case any hotel is not available we will provide alternative hotel of similar category. Upgrades to 4-star, 5-star luxury, or your preferred choice of hotels are available upon request. Pre-night and post-night accommodations are also available at an additional cost.
Premium Hotel
Bodhgaya, India
Deluxe Hotel
Rajgir, India
Deluxe Hotel
Vaishali, India
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Premium Hotel
Bodhgaya, India
Deluxe Hotel
Rajgir, India
Deluxe Hotel
Vaishali, India
Kushinagar, India
Deluxe Hotel
Lumbini, Nepal
Shravasti, India
Deluxe Hotel
Varanasi, India
Frequently Asked Questions
At Alkof Holidays, we ensure smooth travel planning. Our FAQ covers everything from booking procedures and payment methods to travel itineraries, best times to visit, hotel upgrades, and more. For more assistance, contact us anytime.
The best time to visit the Buddhist Circuit in India and Nepal is between October and March. During these months, the weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploring spiritual sites like Bodh Gaya, Sarnath, Kushinagar, and Lumbini. Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, perfect for walking meditation and site exploration. Early winter months also provide clear skies and pleasant temperatures. We recommend avoiding June to September due to monsoon season. Heavy rainfall and high humidity can disrupt travel plans across the circuit during these months.
Absolutely! We understand that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't suit everyone. That's why we offer the flexibility to customize this tour to your preferences. Whether you'd like to add or remove destinations, include specific activities, or select your desired level of accommodation, we're here to tailor your journey to match your interests. Contact our team to create your dream vacation today!
Yes, this tour is suitable for solo travelers. It is safe, well-organized, and operated on a private basis, with personalized support and assistance throughout the journey.
Yes, this tour can be arranged as a private journey exclusively for your family or group. We can customize the itinerary, travel dates, hotels, and experiences to match your preferences. Please contact us to plan your personalized trip.
Yes, you can upgrade to 4 star or 5 star hotels, or select your preferred properties. We will customize your accommodation to match your comfort and travel style. Please contact us to share your preferences.
Yes, we accept international credit cards. Your payments are highly secure, as we process them through trusted platforms such as CCAvenue and PayPal. This ensures your transaction details are protected with the highest level of security standards.
At Alkof Holidays, you get 24x7 personal assistance from your dedicated tour manager over phone, WhatsApp, or Email. Our local support team understands the unique aspects of Buddhist pilgrimage sites and can quickly resolve any issues that may arise during your spiritual journey.
Yes, your pickup is included in the tour. A representative will meet you at your specified location - whether at the airport, railway station, or your hotel - to ensure a smooth transfer, allowing you to begin your journey comfortably and stress-free. All internal airport pickups and drop-offs are also included in the tour.
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Know Before Your Go
Important Information
- If rooms are not available at the mentioned hotels, we will provide alternate hotels of a similar category. Early check-in or late check-out is subject to availability.
- Entry restriction to Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi: Non-Hindus are generally not permitted to enter the sanctum of Kashi Vishwanath Temple, also known as the Golden Temple. However, they may explore the temple complex and its surrounding areas, experiencing the spiritual ambiance from outside. Access to the inner sanctum remains traditionally reserved for Hindu devotees.
- For easy communication on the go, consider downloading WhatsApp, as it is widely used in India and Nepal.
- Transportation is provided according to the itinerary only and is not available on a disposal or point-to-point basis.
- Tipping in India and Nepal is optional but appreciated. A small gratuity is expected in some cases; tip generously for exceptional service. The amount can range from $2, $5, $10 per day, or more, depending on satisfaction and the quality of service received.
- Any costs arising from natural calamities such as road blockages, political disturbances (e.g., strikes), etc., are to be borne by the client. We will not be held liable for any refunds or compensation claims resulting from these circumstances.
- VISA Information: Citizens of Nepal and Bhutan do not need a visa to enter India. Likewise, Indian citizens do not require a visa to travel to Nepal. However, all other foreign nationals must obtain a visa to enter both India and Nepal. For detailed information, please check:
- For Indian Visa: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html
- For Nepal Visa: https://www.immigration.gov.np/
- Double-Entry Visa: When traveling from India to Nepal and returning to India, you must present your visa at the immigration centers of both countries. Our driver and guide will accompany you to the respective immigration offices and assist with the formalities if needed.
- Please Note: Depart early in the morning at around 6:00 AM to reach the Indo–Nepal border (Sonauli Border) on time. The drive from your hotel to the border takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, and immigration formalities may take anywhere from 1 to 5–6 hours depending on the rush. Tourist vehicles are not permitted to enter Nepal from India after 5:00 PM, so this early departure ensures you have ample time for border crossing and onward travel without rushing.
- Itinerary Modifications: Alkof Holidays reserves the right to modify the itinerary due to factors such as weather conditions, political developments, or hotel availability.
Payment Terms
A deposit of 10% is required to confirm this tour, and the remaining balance will be charged 60 days prior tour starting date. For any bookings within 60 days of departure, the full tour amount will be charged upon booking. This can be paid through bank transfer, credit/debit card, or cash.
Cancellation
If you cancel the tour at least 61 days before the scheduled departure date, there will be no cancellation fee. Kindly read complete details at Cancellation Policy.
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Why Book With Us
Why book this tour with Alkof Holidays?
Alkof Holidays creates private and customizable journeys for international travelers with local insight, responsive support, and carefully selected travel partners across India.
Trusted local specialists
Local experts design each itinerary with practical on-ground knowledge, not generic templates.
Tailor-made planning
We adapt the route, pace, stays, and experiences around your dates, style, and comfort preferences.
Carefully chosen stays and services
Hotels, transport, and guided experiences are selected for reliability, comfort, and consistent quality.
Fast human support
Our team stays available before departure and during the trip whenever you need quick help.
+91-9873003099
+91-9873003099