India and Nepal - Walking in the footsteps of Buddha

Enjoy a full-day tour of Old and New Delhi, exploring the city’s fascinating blend of history and modernity. Begin with the Jama Masjid and a walk through the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk, where you will sample Delhi’s famous snacks of Delhi from a hygienic eatery on a guided food walk (closed on Sundays). Drive past India Gate and the Presidential Palace. Later in the day, visit Humayun’s Tomb and the towering Qutub Minar, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Overnight stay in Delhi.

Leave by road for Agra and embark on a half-day guided tour to the serene Moonlight Garden (Mehtab Bagh), where you can enjoy picturesque views of the Taj Mahal from across the Yamuna River, offering a perfect blend of history, architecture, and nature. Overnight stay in Agra.

After breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of Agra, beginning with a visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, symbolizing eternal love in white marble. Continue to explore the Agra Fort, an imposing red sandstone fortress showcasing the grandeur of the Mughal era, followed by a visit to the elegant Itmad-ud-Daulah, often referred to as the “Baby Taj.”

In the evening, transfer to Tundla Railway Station to board the Poorva Express departing at 2020 hrs for Mughal Sarai (Varanasi). Enjoy an overnight journey on board the train. Overnight on board the train.

Arrive at Mughal Sarai Railway Station and transfer to Varanasi city. After washing and changing, proceed for a day excursion to Sarnath, the sacred site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon; visit the Sarnath Museum (closed on Fridays) showcasing remarkable Buddhist artifacts.

In the afternoon, enjoy a city tour of Varanasi, visiting the Alamgir Mosque (Beni Madhav Ka Darera), a fusion of Hindu and Mughal architecture; the lively Dasaswamedh Ghat, renowned for its spiritual energy and rituals; and the Bharat Mata Temple, dedicated to Mother India. In the evening, experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony on the banks of the Ganges, a breathtaking spectacle of devotion and light. Overnight stay in Varanasi.

Early morning, enjoy a serene boat ride on the sacred Ganges, witnessing the golden sunrise over the ghats — a spiritual experience unique to Varanasi. Glide past ancient temples and observe the rhythmic rituals of Hindu life unfolding along the riverbanks.

Later, stroll through the narrow, bustling lanes of Old Varanasi, soaking in its timeless charm, and visit the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Golden Temple), dedicated to Lord Shiva.

After visits, leave for Bodhgaya by surface, a journey of about 8 hours. Arrive and check in at the hotel. Overnight stay in Gaya

After a leisurely breakfast, embark on a spiritual journey with a visit to the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can admire its stunning architecture and serene ambiance. Spend time in meditation and reflection under the sacred Bodhi Tree, where Lord Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment. Later, take a stroll through the town, exploring local monasteries, vibrant markets, and quaint cafes at your own pace. Overnight stay in Bodhgaya

After breakfast, depart for Patna by road, enjoying a scenic journey of approximately 8 hours. En-route, visit Rajgir, an ancient city known for its hot springs, the famous Vishwa Shanti Stupa atop Ratnagiri Hill, and historical Buddhist and Jain sites. Continue to Nalanda, the site of the world-renowned ancient Nalanda University, where you can explore the ruins of this ancient center of learning and marvel at its archaeological significance. After this enriching day of history and culture, arrive in Patna, check in at your hotel, and spend the evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Bodhgaya

After breakfast, embark on a road journey to Kushinagar, covering approximately 8 hours of scenic landscapes. En route, visit Vaishali, an ancient city of great historical and spiritual significance, where you can explore the Ashokan Pillar, sacred stupas, and the serene Buddha memorials. Continue your journey to Kushinagar, the revered site where Lord Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax after the day’s journey. Overnight stay in Kushinagar

Start the day with an early breakfast before visiting the Mahaparinirvana Temple in Kushinagar, where you can see the serene reclining Buddha statue, and explore the stupa located behind the temple, a site of deep spiritual significance. After this enlightening visit, depart for Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, enjoying a scenic 4-hour drive through the countryside. Upon arrival in Lumbini, check in at your hotel. Evening at leisure to soak in the peaceful ambiance of this sacred town. Overnight stay in Lumbini

After an early breakfast, spend the morning exploring Lumbini, the sacred birthplace of Lord Buddha. Visit the Maya Devi Temple, monastic zones, and serene gardens that mark this UNESCO World Heritage site, immersing yourself in the tranquil spiritual atmosphere. After your visit, depart for Balrampur, enjoying a scenic 3-hour drive through the countryside. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. Overnight stay in Balrampur.

After breakfast, explore the former hunting lodge of the Maharaja of Balrampur, witnessing its royal architecture and historical charm. Continue with a visit to a local tribal village, where you can experience the traditional lifestyle, culture, and crafts of the indigenous people. After these enriching visits, depart for Lucknow, enjoying a scenic 4-hour drive through the heart of Uttar Pradesh. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and spend the evening at leisure.

Overnight stay in Lucknow.

After breakfast, embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Lucknow, the city of Nawabs, blending royal history with architectural splendor. Begin with the elegant La Martiniere College and the historical Sadaat Ali and Begum Tombs, showcasing Mughal-era artistry. Visit The Residency, a poignant reminder of the 1857 revolt, followed by the grand Asafi Imambara (Bara Imambara), an architectural marvel. Continue to the iconic Rumi Darwaza, the bustling Clock Tower, and the ornate Chota Imambara, admiring intricate craftsmanship at every stop. Overnight stay in Lucknow.

Morning is at leisure. In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the railway station to board your train to Delhi departing at 15:35 hrs and arriving at 22:15 hrs. Upon arrival in Delhi, you will be met and transferred to the international airport for your onward flight home, concluding your enriching journey across India’s spiritual, cultural, and historical treasures.