Sacred Footsteps
Trace the enlightened path of Siddhartha Gautama from his birthplace in Lumbini to his enlightenment in Bodh Gaya and his Mahaparinirvana in Kushinagar.
Vihaanga Journeys was founded with a clear vision—to present India in its most authentic, comfortable, and meaningful way for global travelers.
Embark on a remarkable journey through the sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites of India and Nepal, following the life and teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha. Visit the places where he attained Enlightenment, delivered his first sermon, inspired generations of followers, and attained Mahaparinirvana.
This thoughtfully curated itinerary blends spirituality, history, archaeology, and cultural discovery. Explore magnificent monasteries, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient universities, and vibrant living Buddhist traditions while experiencing the diverse landscapes and warm hospitality of the Indian subcontinent. Travel in comfort with domestic flights, private air-conditioned transportation, carefully selected hotels, and experienced English-speaking guides, ensuring a seamless and enriching journey throughout.
Duration: 09 Nights / 10 Days
Routing: Delhi → Varanasi → Sarnath → Bodh Gaya → Rajgir → Nalanda → Patna → Vaishali → Kushinagar → Lumbini (Nepal) → Shravasti → Lucknow → Delhi
October to March provides the most pleasant weather for exploring the pilgrimage sites across the plains of India and Nepal.
Journey Highlights
Trace the enlightened path of Siddhartha Gautama from his birthplace in Lumbini to his enlightenment in Bodh Gaya and his Mahaparinirvana in Kushinagar.
Explore the ruins of Nalanda University, once the greatest center of learning in the ancient world, and stand in awe of the sacred Mahabodhi Temple.
Day 01: Arrival in Delhi
Arrive at Delhi International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Overnight stay at Hotel – Delhi
Day 02: Delhi – Varanasi (Flight)
Morning flight to Varanasi. Evening witness the spectacular Ganga Aarti on the banks of the River Ganges. Overnight stay at Hotel – Varanasi
Day 03: Varanasi – Sarnath – Bodh Gaya (Distance: Approx. 270 km | 6–7 Hours)
Visit Sarnath, where the Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandha Kuti Vihara, and the Archaeological Museum before driving to Bodh Gaya. Overnight stay at Hotel – Bodh Gaya
Day 04: Bodh Gaya
Full-day exploration of Mahabodhi Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Bodhi Tree, Great Buddha Statue, and international monasteries. Overnight stay at Hotel – Bodh Gaya
Day 05: Bodh Gaya – Rajgir – Nalanda – Patna (Distance: Approx. 180 km | 5–6 Hours)
Drive to Rajgir, visit Vulture Peak and the World Peace Pagoda, continue to Nalanda University (UNESCO World Heritage Site), and proceed to Patna. Overnight stay at Hotel – Patna
Day 06: Patna – Vaishali – Kushinagar (Distance: Approx. 290 km | 7–8 Hours)
Visit Vaishali, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site, before continuing to Kushinagar, where the Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana. Overnight stay at Hotel – Kushinagar
Day 07: Kushinagar – Lumbini (Nepal) (Distance: Approx. 170 km | 4–5 Hours)
Visit the Mahaparinirvana Temple and Ramabhar Stupa before crossing the India–Nepal border to Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha. Overnight stay at Hotel – Lumbini
Day 08: Lumbini – Shravasti (Distance: Approx. 220 km | 5–6 Hours)
Drive to Shravasti, where the Buddha spent many monsoon retreats. Visit Jetavana Monastery and other important Buddhist sites. Overnight stay at Hotel – Shravasti
Day 09: Shravasti – Lucknow Airport – Delhi (Distance: Approx. 170 km | 4 Hours)
Drive to Lucknow Airport and board your flight to Delhi. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Overnight stay at Hotel – Delhi
Day 10: Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Delhi International Airport for your onward flight.
Tour Ends
