Experience the deep essence of a Buddhist pilgrimage in India. Walk through the places of Buddha's birth, enlightenment, first teaching, and Mahaparinirvana, this itinerary also covers some of India's most sacred Buddhist sites, UNESCO World Heritage caves, including India’s three great cultural cities—Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata.
Detailed Itineary
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Day 1 : Arrive in Mumbai
You’ll be met on arrival in Mumbai, one of the top tourist destinations in India, and assisted with the transfer to your hotel. There is no set program for the day, but Mumbai city sightseeing tours can be arranged. Overnight in Mumbai.
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Day 2 : Mumbai - Aurangabad
Transfer to Mumbai airport for a flight to Aurangabad, gateway to the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In the afternoon, explore the Ellora Caves, an architectural marvel featuring 34 rock-cut temples reflecting Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain heritage. Highlights include the Kailash Temple with its exquisite sculptures, including Ravana shaking Mount Kailash. Overnight in Aurangabad.
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Day 3 : Aurangabad
Enjoy a day excursion to the famous Ajanta Caves, dating back 2,000 years, showcasing ancient Buddhist paintings and sculptures. This site is a must for history lovers and UNESCO heritage enthusiasts. Your guide will explain the significance of these magnificent caves depicting stories from the life of Buddha. Overnight in Aurangabad.
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Day 4 : Aurangabad - Delhi
Morning visit to the Aurangabad Caves, followed by city sightseeing. Later, fly to Delhi, the vibrant capital of India. Overnight in Delhi.
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Day 5 : Delhi
Spend a full day on a Delhi sightseeing tour, exploring a mix of heritage and culture. Visit grand mosques, ancient temples, Mughal-era tombs, and colonial landmarks of New Delhi. Overnight in Delhi.
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Day 6 : Delhi - Varanasi
Fly to Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world and an iconic spiritual destination in India. In the evening, witness the famous Ganga Aarti on the ghats of the River Ganges—an unforgettable spiritual experience in Varanasi. Overnight in Varanasi.
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Day 7 : Varanasi & Sarnath
Experience an early morning boat ride on the Ganges to witness mesmerizing sunrise rituals and bathing ceremonies. Then proceed to Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his initial sermon. Explore the Dhamek Stupa and the Sarnath Museum, home to ancient Buddhist relics. Overnight in Varanasi.
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Day 8 : Varanasi- Bodhgaya
Drive to Bodhgaya, the most sacred site in the Buddhist circuit. Overnight in Bodhgaya.
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Day 9 : Bodhgaya
Explore the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the sacred Bodhi Tree, under which Buddha attained enlightenment. Visit monasteries built by global Buddhist communities. Overnight in Bodhgaya.
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Day 10 : Bodhgaya - Rajgir – Nalanda – Patna
Drive to Patna, stopping at Rajgir, where Buddha meditated, and Nalanda University ruins, one of the world’s oldest learning centers. Overnight in Patna.
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Day 11 : Patna - Vaishali – Kesaria – Kushinagar
Head to Kushinagar, visit Vaishali and the Kesaria Stupa, Asia’s highest stupa. Overnight in Kushinagar.
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Day 12 : Kushinagar
Explore the Mahaparinirvana Temple and Ramabhar Stupa, commemorating Buddha’s burial place. Overnight in Kushinagar.
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Day 13 : Kushinagar - Patna
Drive back to Patna. Overnight in Patna.
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Day 14 : Patna – Kolkata
Visit Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib and Pathar ki Masjid before flying to Kolkata, India’s cultural capital. Overnight in Kolkata.
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Day 15 and 16 : Kolkata
Explore colonial heritage, Jain temples, and river cruises on the Hooghly. Enjoy guided walking tours of Kolkata. Overnight in Kolkata.
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Day 17 : Kolkata
Free time for shopping or sightseeing before transfer to the airport.
FAQ
- Mumbai: A vibrant city with a mix of cultures.
- Aurangabad: Home to the historic Ellora and Ajanta Caves.
- Delhi: The capital city, rich in heritage.
- Varanasi: The oldest continuously inhabited city in India and an important Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site.
- Bodhgaya: The site where Buddha attained enlightenment.
- Sarnath: The place of Buddha’s first sermon.
- Patna, Vaishali, and Kushinagar: Important sites related to Buddha’s teachings and death.
- Bodhgaya: Site of Buddha's enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree.
- Sarnath: Location of his first sermon.
- Kushinagar: The place of his parinirvana (death).
- Rajgir and Nalanda: Early centers of Buddhist learning and devotion.
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