Sacred Buddhist Pilgrimage
Embark on a transformative journey through the most sacred sites of Buddhism, tracing the life of Lord Buddha from his birth to enlightenment and Mahaparinirvana. Our carefully curated Buddhist pilgrimage tours take you to the four main pilgrimage sites - Lumbini (birthplace), Bodh Gaya (enlightenment), Sarnath (first sermon), and Kushinagar (passing) - along with other important Buddhist centers across India and Nepal.
Bodh Gaya
The site of Buddha's enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree
Sarnath
Where Buddha delivered his first sermon
Lumbini
Birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama in Nepal
Kushinagar
Site of Buddha's Mahaparinirvana
Tour Highlights
- Meditation under the sacred Bodhi Tree
- Visit Maya Devi Temple in Lumbini
- Explore ancient monasteries in Sarnath
- Attend evening prayers with monks
- Visit Ramabhar Stupa in Kushinagar
- Optional extension to Dharamshala
Sacred Sites Overview
Bodh Gaya
The most sacred Buddhist site where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. The magnificent Mahabodhi Temple complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Bihar, India
- 6th century BCE
Sarnath
Where Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment. The Dhamek Stupa marks the spot of this pivotal event in Buddhist history.
- Uttar Pradesh, India
- 528 BCE
Lumbini
Birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha) in 623 BCE. The sacred garden and Maya Devi Temple mark the exact location of his birth.
- Rupandehi, Nepal
- 623 BCE
Kushinagar
Where Lord Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana (final nirvana) at age 80. The reclining Buddha statue in the Nirvana Temple is profoundly moving.
- Uttar Pradesh, India
- 543 BCE
Detailed Itinerary (8 Days/7 Nights)
- Day 1: Arrival in Delhi, orientation meeting with guide
- Day 2: Morning flight to Gaya, transfer to Bodh Gaya
- Visit Mahabodhi Temple Complex (UNESCO site)
- Meditation under the Bodhi Tree
- Explore Great Buddha Statue and monasteries
- Evening prayers with monks
- Day 3: Drive to Varanasi (6-7 hours)
- Evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Day 4: Morning boat ride on Ganges
- Full day in Sarnath - Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandhakuti Vihara
- Visit Archaeological Museum and Deer Park
- Evening meditation session
- Day 5: Drive to Lumbini via Gorakhpur (6 hours)
- Visit Maya Devi Temple and sacred garden
- Day 6: Explore international monasteries
- Visit World Peace Pagoda and Lumbini Museum
- Optional: Kapilavastu excursion (additional cost)
- Day 7: Drive to Kushinagar (3 hours)
- Visit Mahaparinirvana Temple and Ramabhar Stupa
- Evening reflection session
- Day 8: Fly back to Delhi from Gorakhpur
- Departure transfers or optional Delhi sightseeing
Inclusions
- Accommodation in 3-star Buddhist-themed hotels
- Daily vegetarian breakfast and dinner
- All transfers and sightseeing by private AC vehicle
- Domestic flights (Delhi-Gaya, Gorakhpur-Delhi)
- English-speaking Buddhist guide
- All entrance fees and monastery donations
Exclusions
- International airfare
- Nepal visa fees (if applicable)
- Lunch and any meals not mentioned
- Personal expenses and tips
- Travel insurance
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time for Buddhist pilgrimage tours?
The ideal time is October to March when temperatures are pleasant (15-25°C). Avoid peak summer (April-June) when temperatures can exceed 40°C in Bodh Gaya, and monsoon season (July-September) due to heavy rains.
Do I need special clothing for the pilgrimage?
Modest clothing is recommended - shoulders and knees should be covered when entering temples. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. In winter (Dec-Jan), carry light woolens as mornings/evenings can be chilly.
Is the tour suitable for elderly pilgrims?
Yes, we customize the pace for elderly pilgrims. Most sites have wheelchair access, and we can arrange mobility assistance. Optional rest days can be added to the itinerary.
Can we participate in meditation sessions?
Absolutely! We arrange guided meditation sessions at key sites. At Bodh Gaya, you can join the daily group meditation under the Bodhi Tree. Private sessions with monks can also be arranged.
Can we extend to other Buddhist sites?
Yes, popular extensions include Rajgir/Nalanda (ancient Buddhist universities), Dharamshala (Dalai Lama's residence), or Ladakh (Tibetan Buddhist monasteries). We can customize your itinerary.
Package Options
Comprehensive Circuit
Luxury Spiritual Journey
Group Discounts Available
Need Help?
Call us anytime
+91 7500434305
Email us
info@journeazy.com
Special Features
- Guided meditation sessions at sacred sites
- Dharma talks by resident monks
- Authentic Buddhist vegetarian meals
- Opportunity for Dana (offerings) at monasteries
- Specialized Buddhist guides
- Spiritual counseling sessions available
Pilgrimage Tips
Sacred Etiquette
Remove shoes before entering temples, walk clockwise around stupas, and maintain silence in meditation areas.
Offerings
Carry small change for donations. White scarves (khatas) make respectful offerings to monks.
Photography
Always ask permission before photographing monks or rituals. Some temples prohibit photography.