Sacred Buddhist Circuit Tour (10 Days)

After breakfast, we'll catch a morning flight to Varanasi, one of India's most sacred cities. Upon reaching Varanasi, we'll drive to Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon. You'll visit the impressive Dhamek Stupa and the Archaeological Museum, home to the famous Ashoka Lion Capital. Your guide will share fascinating stories about Buddha's life and teachings. In the evening, return to Varanasi to witness the mesmerising Ganga Aarti ceremony by the holy river Ganges.

Start your day with a peaceful boat ride on the Ganges at sunrise, watching the ancient rituals along the ghats. After breakfast, we'll drive to Bodhgaya (6-7 hours), where Buddha attained enlightenment. Upon arrival, visit the magnificent Mahabodhi Temple Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend time meditating under the sacred Bodhi Tree, joining other pilgrims in this serene setting. Your guide will arrange for you to participate in an evening meditation session at a local monastery.

Dedicate a full day to exploring Bodhgaya's spiritual treasures. Visit various international Buddhist temples, each showcasing unique architectural styles from countries like Thailand, Japan, and Tibet. Join a morning meditation session, visit the Giant Buddha statue, and explore the Bodhgaya Multimedia Museum. You'll have opportunities to interact with Buddhist monks and learn about their daily lives and practices.

After breakfast, drive to Rajgir, where Buddha spent several years teaching. Visit Vulture's Peak, where Buddha delivered many important sermons. Take a peaceful ropeway ride to the top for panoramic views. Continue to Nalanda, home to the ancient Buddhist university ruins. Your expert guide will bring these archaeological remains to life with stories of this once-great centre of Buddhist learning. Evening return to Bodhgaya for overnight stay.

Begin your journey to Kushinagar (7-8 hours drive), where Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana. Upon arrival, visit the Mahaparinirvana Temple to see the famous reclining Buddha statue. Explore the Ramabhar Stupa, marking Buddha's cremation site. Stay overnight in a peaceful monastery guest house, where you can join the evening chanting sessions.

Travel to Lumbini in Nepal (5-6 hours drive), Buddha's birthplace. After border crossing formalities, visit the Sacred Garden where Buddha was born. Explore the Maya Devi Temple and the Ashoka Pillar. See monasteries built by various Buddhist countries in the Monastic Zone. Your evening will include a special blessing ceremony at a local monastery.

Spend a full day exploring the Lumbini complex. Start with a morning meditation session, followed by visits to various international monasteries. Take a peaceful walk through the Sacred Garden, visit the World Peace Pagoda, and spend time at the Lumbini Museum. Optional cycling tour of the vast Lumbini complex available.

Take a morning flight to Kathmandu. Visit the famous Boudhanath Stupa, the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal. Explore Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) and join the evening butter lamp offering ceremony. Your final dinner will be a special Nepalese Buddhist vegetarian feast.

After breakfast, time for last-minute shopping for Buddhist artefacts and souvenirs. Transfer to Kathmandu International Airport for your flight back to London, carrying the peace and blessings of this sacred journey with you.