A JOURNEY WORTH TAKING
Buddhist Circuit travel package
Designed thoughtfully for inbound pilgrims and spiritual travelers from across the globe, this profound 10- day journey traces the monumental life of Siddhartha Gautama. Journey through ancient kingdoms, sacred groves, and UNESCO World Heritage sites, visiting the four holiest Buddhist destinations: where He was born, where He attained enlightenment, where He first taught, and where He reached Mahaparinirvana.
The First Teaching: Walk the hallowed grounds of the Deer Park in Sarnath, site of the Buddha's first sermon.
Seat of Enlightenment: Experience the profound tranquility of meditating beneath the sacred Bodhi Tree at the Mahabodhi Temple.
Ancient Knowledge: Explore the vast, red-brick ruins of Nalanda University, once the greatest center of Buddhist learning.
Final Liberation: Pay homage at the serene Mahaparinirvana Temple and Ramabhar Stupa in Kushinagar.
THE JOURNEY, DAY BY DAY
10-day Buddhist Circuit itinerary
Explore each day below. Your advisor can adapt the pace and experiences to you.
01DAY 1 · DELHIArrival in the Capital
Upon your arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by a BlingoTrips representative and escorted to your premium hotel in New Delhi. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to rest and mentally prepare for the spiritual journey ahead.
02DAY 2 · DELHI TO VARANASIThe Sacred River
After breakfast, board a morning flight to the ancient city of Varanasi. Check into your hotel upon arrival. In the evening, step onto a private boat on the Ganges River to witness the hypnotic Ganga Aarti ceremony —a stunning display of fire and devotion that honors the sacred waters, offering a glimpse into India’s deep spiritual tapestry.
03DAY 3 · VARANASI & SARNATHSetting the Wheel in Motion
Begin your pilgrimage with a short drive to Sarnath, where the Buddha delivered his first sermon, setting the "Wheel of Dharma" in motion. Marvel at the imposing Dhamek Stupa and explore the Sarnath Museum, housing the magnificent Ashoka Pillar capital. In the afternoon, embark on an overland journey or take a train to Bodh Gaya, the epicenter of Buddhist devotion.
04DAY 4 · BODH GAYAThe Seat of Enlightenment
Dedicate this day to Bodh Gaya. Visit the UNESCO-listed Mahabodhi Temple complex, a soaring architectural masterpiece. Find a quiet corner to meditate under the sacred Bodhi Tree, a direct descendant of the tree under which Prince Siddhartha attained supreme enlightenment. Spend the afternoon visiting the serene international monasteries built by Buddhist communities from around the world.
05DAY 5 · EXCURSION TO RAJGIR & NALANDAScholars and Vultures
Take a day trip to Rajgir, the ancient capital of the Magadha kingdom. Ascend Gridhakuta (Vulture's Peak), where the Buddha delivered many significant sutras. Continue to the sprawling, red-brick ruins of Nalanda University, one of the ancient world's greatest centers of learning which drew Buddhist scholars from across Asia. Return to Bodh Gaya for the evening.
06DAY 6 · BODH GAYA TO KUSHINAGARThe Journey North
After a final morning meditation in Bodh Gaya, begin the scenic overland drive through the rural heartlands of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, heading north toward Kushinagar. Check into your pilgrimage- category hotel upon arrival, enjoying a quiet evening to rest after the long journey.
07DAY 7 · KUSHINAGAR TO LUMBINI (NEPAL BORDER)The Great Passing
Pay your respects at the Mahaparinirvana Temple, home to the striking 6-meter-long reclining Buddha statue marking the site of his final liberation. Visit the nearby Ramabhar Stupa, the site of his cremation. In the afternoon, cross the international border into Nepal, arriving at Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha.
08DAY 8 · LUMBINIThe Sacred Garden
Explore the tranquil Sacred Garden of Lumbini. Visit the Maya Devi Temple, marking the exact spot where Queen Maya Devi gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama. View the ancient Ashoka Pillar, erected by the great emperor in 249 BC to commemorate the birthplace. Spend the afternoon wandering the peaceful monastic zones representing various global Buddhist traditions.
09DAY 9 · LUMBINI TO GORAKHPUR TO DELHIReturn to the Capital
After breakfast, cross back into India and drive to Gorakhpur airport for your domestic flight to New Delhi. Upon arrival, a BlingoTrips representative will transfer you to your luxury hotel. Enjoy a final evening of reflection and rest, concluding the sacred circuit.
10DAY 10 · DELHI OUTBOUNDDeparture
Depending on your international flight schedule, you may have time for some last-minute sightseeing or quiet contemplation. You will be provided with a private transfer to Indira Gandhi International Airport for your onward journey homeward.
REST BEAUTIFULLY
Stays with a sense of place.
Suggested properties from the itinerary. Final hotels and the night-by-night schedule are confirmed with your quote.
| Destination | Nights* | Suggested stays |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 1 + 1 | The Imperial, New Delhi / Taj Mahal Hotel |
| Varanasi | 1 | Taj Ganges / BrijRama Palace |
| Bodh Gaya | 3 | The Marigold Hotel / Bodhgaya Regency |
| Kushinagar | 1 | The Imperial Kushinagar |
| Lumbini (Nepal) | 2 | Kasai Hotel / Tiger Palace Resort |
What's included
- 9 nights in premium and leading pilgrimage-category hotels.
- Domestic flights (Delhi to Varanasi, Gorakhpur to Delhi).
- Private air-conditioned luxury vehicle for all transfers and long-distance overland drives.
- Expert, English-speaking specialist guides at all sacred sites.
- All monument and temple entrance fees as per itinerary.
Plan separately
- International airfare and Visa fees (Indian and Nepalese visas).
- Comprehensive travel and medical insurance.
- Lunches and dinners (unless specified).
- Camera or video fees at temples and monuments.
- Gratuities for guides, temple staff, and drivers.
Before you travel
Best Time to Visit: October to March provides the most pleasant climate for this overland journey. Visa Requirements: As this itinerary crosses into Lumbini, travelers require a multiple-entry Indian visa and a Nepalese visa (which can often be obtained on arrival at the land border).
Itinerary guidance is indicative. Your advisor will confirm current access requirements, schedules and booking terms.Places to discover on your Buddhist Circuit journey
