Highlights:

• Bodhgaya - Mahabodhi Temple Complex - UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bodhgaya Archaeological Museum (Small collection of Buddhist sculpture from the 1st century B.C, to the 11th century A.D) and Sujata House (Temple dedicated to an Uruvela tribeswoman)
• Rajgir & Nalanda – Ancient Buddhist University, Vishwa Shanti Stupa (Marble structure with niches bearing golden images of the Buddha), Griddhakuta, Venuvana Vihara
• Enroute visit Vaishali (Emperor Ashoka, in the third century B.C. erected one of his famous lion pillars here)
Kushinagar - Rambhar Stupa (Marks Buddha’s cremation ground), Mukutabandha Vihara (Funeral pyre)& Mahaparinirvana Temple
• Lumbini - Maya-Devi Temple (Temple dedicated to Buddha’s mother)& Ashoka Pillar (Built by King Ashok in the year 259BC)
• Sravasti - Jetavana monastery, Anand Bodhi Tree, Sahet Mahet and Angulimal caves
• Varanasi - Ganges and Ghats in Varanasi & Sarnath city, Boat ride on river Ganges
• Visit World heritage Sites – Ajanta and Ellora caves
• City Tour in Mumbai, Optional – Tour of Elephanta Caves
• Services of English-speaking guide during sightseeing tours
• Assistance at airport and sightseeing tours by private air-conditioned vehicle
• Startin Bodhgaya and End in Mumbai

Day 1 : Arrival in Bodhgaya

Arrival at Gaya International Airport and transfer to hotel at Bodhgaya. Bodhgaya - situated near the river Niranjana, is one of the holiest Buddhist pilgrimage centers since it was here that Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, which stands strong till date. Check-in at the hotel upon arrival and spend rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay in Bodhgaya.

Day 2 : Bodhgaya

After breakfast, proceed to explore this ancient city, covering Mahabodhi Temple Complex- The temple stands in the east to the Bodhi Tree. Inside the temple, in the main sanctum, there is a colossal image of the Buddha in sitting posture touching the earth by his right hand. Temple also showcases the various aspects of Buddha’s life and his journey to attain enlightenment. This place in also popularly listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Later visit, Bodhgaya Archaeological Museum which houses a small collection of Buddhist sculpture from the 1st century B.C, to the 11th century A.D. And, Sujata House - temple dedicated to an Uruvela tribeswoman, who offered food to the starving Siddhartha. Overnight in Bodhgaya.

Day 3 : Bodhgaya – Rajgir – Nalanda – Patna(190 kms / approx. 5.5 hours)

After breakfast, drive to Rajgir and enroute visit Nalanda, the ancient Buddhist university, one of the world’s oldest university founded in the 5th century. Also visit monasteries and temples with impressive Buddhist & Hindu images. The Institute for research in Buddhism and Pali literature which houses rare manuscripts is also worth visiting for the enthusiasts. After Nalanda, drive further to Rajgir. During the lifetime of the Buddha, Rajgir was the capital of the powerful Magadh kingdom, ruled by the virtuous king Bimbisara. Visit the Vishwa Shanti Stupa. It is a marble structure with niches bearing golden images of the Buddha, built by the Nipponza Myohoji sect of Japan. Also, cover Griddhakuta - a rock protrusion resembling a vulture’s beak, probably gave the hill its name. In the rock cut caves here the Buddha spent many rainy seasons, meditating and preaching. VenuvanaVihara- Site of the monastery Venuvana Vihar built by king Bimbisara for Lord Buddha to reside. This was the king’s first offering to Lord Buddha.Jivakameavan Gardens: Seat of the Royal Physician’s dispensary where Lord Buddha was once brought to have wound dressed by Jivaka, the royal physician during the reign of Ajatshatru and Bimbisara. Continue your drive and arrive in Patna. Check-in at the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 4 : Patna – Vaishali – Kushinagar (235 kms / approx. 6 hours)

After breakfast, drive to Kushinagar and enroute visit Vaishali. Lord Buddha visited Vaishali frequently and at Kolhua, close by, preached his last sermon. To commemorate the event, Emperor Ashoka, in the third century B.C. erected one of his famous lion pillars here. A hundred years after the Mahaparinirvana of the Buddha – Vaishali hosted the second great Buddhist council. Two stupas were erected to commemorate this event. Late arrival and overnight stay in Kushinagar.

Day 5 : Kushinagar – Lumbini(140 kms / approx. 3.5 hours)

Explore Kushinagar - the place that the Buddha chose for his Mahaparinirvana or final exit from this earth. There are several new monasteries and temples. Visit the Rambhar Stupa that marks Buddha’s cremation ground. Mahakashyapa lit the funeral pyre at Mukutabandha Vihara (Rambhar Stupa) in Kushinagar. Today not much remains of this stupa expect a large brick mound rising to a height of almost 15 meters set within a well-kept park. Also Visit Mahaparinirvana Temple. Post lunch, leave Kushinagar for Lumbini. Enroute obtain visa and permits and check-in at hotel in Lumbini upon arrival, for overnight stay.

Day 6 : Lumbini – Sravasti(170 kms / approx. 4 hours)

Lumbini is the place where Lord Buddha was born. Visit the Maya-Devi Temple–This temple is dedicated to Maya Devi, who was Buddha’s mother. The temple was built during the 2nd century. Next to the temple there is a pool where Maya Devi used to bath. Ashoka Pillar: built in the year 259BC, this pillar was built by King Ashok, who was great Buddhist disciple, when he constructed this pillar, the King exempted the villagers from paying tax and gave out 100 golden coins to the people. In the seventh century, the pillar was struck by lightning and split in at two parts. The site was lost for six centuries and covered with dense forest before being re found in 1895. The place was cleared and the pillar reconstructed and the sacred pond which are associated to the roots of Buddhism. After lunch proceed for Sravasti and check-in at the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 7 : Sravasti – Varanasi(320 kms / approx. 6.5 hours)

After breakfast, proceed for sightseeing of Sravasti,where Buddha preached most of his sermons. Here he is said to have performed many miracles, and levitated. Explore Jetavana monastery where during the monsoons Buddha took shelter, there is also famous Anand Bodhi Tree. Later visit Sahet Mahet and Angulimal caves. Continue your drive and arrive in Varanasi. Check-in at the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 8 : Varanasi

Early morning, enjoy a sublime boat ride on the Ganges River. View the numerous ghats along the bank of the Ganges, presenting a varied scene from dawn to dusk. Later, proceed to Sarnath, located eight km from Varanasi. It is famous as the place where the Buddha first preached his message after attaining nirvana. And, visit the Dhamek Stupa… it marks the spot where the Buddha proclaimed his faith in front of his first five followers. The earliest and most important relic is found here is the Ashoka pillar, erected in 250 BC. Rest of the day leisure at the hotel. Overnight stay in Varanasi.

Day 9 : Varanasi – Aurangabad(via. flight)

Early morning, proceed for the airport to board your flight to Aurangabad.Upon arrival in Aurangabad, you will meet and be assisted by our representative. Proceed to hotel for check-in at the hotel. Enjoy your visit to Ajanta caves - UNESCO World Heritage Site, exemplifying finest Indian Art, particularly Buddhist painting from Jataka tales.Most of the paintings in Ajanta are right from 2nd century BC-AD and some of them about the fifth century AD. Return to hotel for overnight stay.

Day 10 : Visit to Ellora

After breakfast, visit Ellora Caves- another World heritage Site, popular for magnificent cave temple suggesting Indian rock-cut architecture, with huge sculptural reliefs heightening the overall symbolism of the temple as cosmic mountain and as the home of Shiva. Rest of the day leisure at the hotel. Overnight stay in Aurangabad.

Day 11 : Aurangabad – Mumbai(via. flight)

After breakfast, proceed to the airport to board the flight to Mumbai. Here, you will be assisted by our representative and transferred to your designated hotel for check-in and overnight stay in hotel.

Day 12 : Sightseeing in Mumbai

After breakfast, enjoy full day city tour covering Gateway of India, Victoria Terminus, Prince of Wale museum, Juhu beach and Chowpatty. Return to hotel for overnight stay.

Day 13 :Departure from Mumbai

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Mumbai airport for return flight back home. End of Services.

HOTELS OFFERED:

City	Nights	Category A	Category B	Meal Plan
Bodhgaya	2	Lotus Nikko	Hotel Heritage	Bed & Breakfast
Patna	1	Patliputra Ashok	Vijaya Clarks Inn	Bed & Breakfast
Kushinagar	1	Lotus Nikko	Hotel Royal Residency	Bed & Breakfast
Lumbini	1	Lotus Nikko	Hotel Nirvana	Bed & Breakfast
Sravasti	1	Lotus Nikko	Lotus Nikko	Bed & Breakfast
Varanasi	2	Hindustan International	Surya	Bed & Breakfast
Aurangabad	2	Lemon Tree	07 Apple Aurangabad	Bed & Breakfast
Mumbai	2	Shalimar	Kings International	Bed & Breakfast

PACKAGE INCLUSIONS:

• 12 night accommodation in well-appointed rooms as mentioned above hotels or equivalent
• Assistance at the airport
• Entry Fee at the Monuments in Mumbai, Aurangabad & Varanasi
• Boat Ride in river Ganges
• Services of English-speaking guide during sightseeing tours in Mumbai, Aurangabad & Varanasi
• Sightseeing as per itinerary by private tourist vehicle
• Drivers allowances, toll taxes and Govt. Service Tax

PACKAGE EXCLUSIONS:

• Air tickets and airport taxes
• Visa Fees in Nepal (Lumbini)
• Items of personal nature like laundry, phone calls, tips to guides / drivers etc.
• Camera / Video camera fees applicable at monuments

Highlights:

• Bodhgaya - Mahabodhi Temple Complex - UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bodhgaya Archaeological Museum (Small collection of Buddhist sculpture from the 1st century B.C, to the 11th century A.D) and Sujata House (Temple dedicated to an Uruvela tribeswoman)
• Rajgir & Nalanda – Ancient Buddhist University, Vishwa Shanti Stupa (Marble structure with niches bearing golden images of the Buddha), Griddhakuta, Venuvana Vihara
• Enroute visit Vaishali (Emperor Ashoka, in the third century B.C. erected one of his famous lion pillars here)
• Kushinagar - Rambhar Stupa (Marks Buddha’s cremation ground), Mukutabandha Vihara (Funeral pyre)& Mahaparinirvana Temple
• Lumbini - Maya-Devi Temple (Temple dedicated to Buddha’s mother)& Ashoka Pillar (Built by King Ashok in the year 259BC)
• Sravasti - Jetavana monastery, Anand Bodhi Tree, Sahet Mahet and Angulimal caves
• Varanasi - Ganges and Ghats in Varanasi & Sarnath city, Boat ride on river Ganges
• Visit in Agra – Taj Mahal, Agra Fort & Fateh-pur Sikri
• Visit in Jaipur – Amber Fort, Jantar Mantar Observatory& Hawa Mahal
• Elephant ride at Amber Fort
• Visit in Delhi – Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar, Humayun Tomb
• Drive past in Delhi - Red Fort, Rajghat, President House & India Gate
• Rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk
• Services of English-speaking guide during sightseeing tours
• Assistance at airport and sightseeing tours by private air-conditioned vehicle
• tartin Bodhgaya and End in Delhi

Day 1 : Arrival in Bodhgaya

Arrival at Gaya International Airport and transfer to hotel at Bodhgaya. Bodhgaya - situated near the river Niranjana, is one of the holiest Buddhist pilgrimage centers since it was here that Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, which stands strong till date. Check-in at the hotel upon arrival and spend rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay in Bodhgaya.

Day 2 : Bodhgaya

After breakfast, proceed to explore this ancient city, covering Mahabodhi Temple Complex- The temple stands in the east to the Bodhi Tree. Inside the temple, in the main sanctum, there is a colossal image of the Buddha in sitting posture touching the earth by his right hand. Temple also showcases the various aspects of Buddha’s life and his journey to attain enlightenment. This place in also popularly listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Later visit, Bodhgaya Archaeological Museum which houses a small collection of Buddhist sculpture from the 1st century B.C, to the 11th century A.D. And, Sujata House - temple dedicated to an Uruvela tribeswoman, who offered food to the starving Siddhartha. Overnight in Bodhgaya.

Day 3 : Bodhgaya – Rajgir – Nalanda – Patna(190 kms / approx. 5.5 hours)

After breakfast, drive to Rajgir and enroute visit Nalanda, the ancient Buddhist university, one of the world’s oldest university founded in the 5th century. Also visit monasteries and temples with impressive Buddhist & Hindu images. The Institute for research in Buddhism and Pali literature which houses rare manuscripts is also worth visiting for the enthusiasts. After Nalanda, drive further to Rajgir. During the lifetime of the Buddha, Rajgir was the capital of the powerful Magadh kingdom, ruled by the virtuous king Bimbisara. Visit the Vishwa Shanti Stupa. It is a marble structure with niches bearing golden images of the Buddha, built by the Nipponza Myohoji sect of Japan. Also, cover Griddhakuta - a rock protrusion resembling a vulture’s beak, probably gave the hill its name. In the rock cut caves here the Buddha spent many rainy seasons, meditating and preaching. VenuvanaVihara- Site of the monastery Venuvana Vihar built by king Bimbisara for Lord Buddha to reside. This was the king’s first offering to Lord Buddha.Jivakameavan Gardens: Seat of the Royal Physician’s dispensary where Lord Buddha was once brought to have wound dressed by Jivaka, the royal physician during the reign of Ajatshatru and Bimbisara. Continue your drive and arrive in Patna. Check-in at the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 4 : Vaishali – Kushinagar (235 kms / approx. 6 hours)

After breakfast, drive to Kushinagar and enroute visit Vaishali. Lord Buddha visited Vaishali frequently and at Kolhua, close by, preached his last sermon. To commemorate the event, Emperor Ashoka, in the third century B.C. erected one of his famous lion pillars here. A hundred years after the Mahaparinirvana of the Buddha – Vaishali hosted the second great Buddhist council. Two stupas were erected to commemorate this event. Late arrival and overnight stay in Kushinagar.

Day 5 : Kushinagar – Lumbini(140 kms / approx. 3.5 hours)

Explore Kushinagar - the place that the Buddha chose for his Mahaparinirvana or final exit from this earth. There are several new monasteries and temples. Visit the Rambhar Stupa that marks Buddha’s cremation ground. Mahakashyapa lit the funeral pyre at Mukutabandha Vihara (Rambhar Stupa) in Kushinagar. Today not much remains of this stupa expect a large brick mound rising to a height of almost 15 meters set within a well-kept park. Also Visit Mahaparinirvana Temple. Post lunch, leave Kushinagar for Lumbini. Enroute obtain visa and permits and check-in at hotel in Lumbini upon arrival, for overnight stay.

Day 6 : Lumbini – Sravasti(170 kms / approx. 4 hours)

Lumbini is the place where Lord Buddha was born. Visit the Maya-Devi Temple–This temple is dedicated to Maya Devi, who was Buddha’s mother. The temple was built during the 2nd century. Next to the temple there is a pool where Maya Devi used to bath. Ashoka Pillar: built in the year 259BC, this pillar was built by King Ashok, who was great Buddhist disciple, when he constructed this pillar, the King exempted the villagers from paying tax and gave out 100 golden coins to the people. In the seventh century, the pillar was struck by lightning and split in at two parts. The site was lost for six centuries and covered with dense forest before being re found in 1895. The place was cleared and the pillar reconstructed and the sacred pond which are associated to the roots of Buddhism. After lunch proceed for Sravasti and check-in at the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 7 : Sravasti – Varanasi(320 kms / approx. 6.5 hours)

After breakfast, proceed for sightseeing of Sravasti,where Buddha preached most of his sermons. Here he is said to have performed many miracles, and levitated. Explore Jetavana monastery where during the monsoons Buddha took shelter, there is also famous Anand Bodhi Tree. Later visit Sahet Mahet and Angulimal caves. Continue your drive and arrive in Varanasi. Check-in at the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 8 : VaranasiSightseeing Overnight Train to Agra

Early morning, enjoy a sublime boat ride on the Ganges River. View the numerous ghats along the bank of the Ganges, presenting a varied scene from dawn to dusk. Later, proceed to Sarnath, located eight km from Varanasi. It is famous as the place where the Buddha first preached his message after attaining nirvana. And, visit the Dhamek Stupa… it marks the spot where the Buddha proclaimed his faith in front of his first five followers. The earliest and most important relic is found here is the Ashoka pillar, erected in 250 BC. Rest of the day leisure at the hotel. Evening Board your train for overnight journey to Agra. Dinner & Overnight on board.

Day 9 : Arrive Agra & Sightseeing of Agra

On arrival in Agra, check-in into your Hotel. Later proceed for Half Day City Tour of Agra. Visit the Red Fort, which was commissioned in 1565 by Akbar. The beautiful yet forbidding structure is a handsome example of Mughal architecture. Later, visit the Taj Mahal … a mausoleum built as a symbol of Emperor Shah Jehan’s devotion to his beloved queen Mumtaz Mahal. Considered an architectural marvel, its construction took thousands of workers over 21 years to complete. Overnight in Agra.

Day 10 : Agra – Jaipur (230 km/approx. 5 hours)

After breakfast, drive to Jaipur and enroute Visit Fatehpur Sikri, which was built by Emperor Akbar and is home to many historical buildings. Akbar wanted to make Fatehpur Sikri his headquarters; however, he had to abandon it due to shortage of water. The Tomb of Sheikh Salim Chishti enshrines the burial place of the Sufi saint who lived a religious life here. Today, Fatehpur Sikri is a UNESCO World heritage site. Further drive to Jaipur and check into your Hotel. Jaipur is the gateway to the magnificent and vibrant state of Rajasthan. Evening take a stroll in the markets of Jaipur for the traditional dresses and shoes, curio shops, blue pottery etc. Overnight in Jaipur.

Day 11 : Half Day Jaipur Sightseeing I Drive to Delhi (250 km/approx. 5 hours)

Proceed for half-day sightseeing trip of Jaipur, also known as the ‘Pink City’. The city of Jaipur is capital to the state of Rajasthan, famous for its colorful culture, forts, palaces, and lakes. Jaipur owes its name to the founder of the city, warrior king Sawai Jai Singh II. Visit the Amber Fort. The best way to explore the fort is to ride up to it on Elephant back. Prominent structures inside the fort are the Diwan-i-Aam, adorned with latticed galleries, the Ganesh Pol, with a beautiful painted image of Lord Ganesh, and the stunning Sheesh Mahal, a hall decorated with thousands of tiny mirrors. Later, stop to photograph the beautiful Hawa Mahal, also known as the “Palace of the Winds.” Post lunch drive to Delhi. Arrive and check-in at your hotel.Overnight in Delhi.

Day 12 : Sightseeing in Delhi

This morning after breakfast proceed for a full day combined city tour of Old and New Delhi. This fascinating city has been in existence since the 6th century BC and has seen ups and downs from the rule of the Pandavas right up to the British Raj. Visit Jama Masjid, which is the largest mosque in India, commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan. The courtyard of the mosque can hold about 25,000 worshippers. Enjoy a rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk, the busiest market in Old Delhi…noisy, chaotic and uniquely Indian. Drive past Red Fort, President House, India Gate and several other government buildings in Edwin Lutyen’s modern Delhi before you head to Rajghat, the memorial to Mahatma Gandhi that marks the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated in 1948. Thereafter, visit Humayun’s Tomb, commissioned by Humayun’s wife Hamida Banu Begum in 1562. It was the first garden tomb built in the Indian sub-continent where the Persian architect used red sandstone on a large scale. Later in the evening visit the Qutab Minar, which is the tallest brick minaret in the world; it was commissioned by Qutbuddin Aibak, the first Muslim ruler of Delhi. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 13 : Departure from Delhi

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Delhi airport for return flight back home.

HOTELS OFFERED:

City	Nights	Category A	Category B	Meal Plan
Bodhgaya	2	Lotus Nikko	Hotel Heritage	Bed & Breakfast
Patna	1	Patliputra Ashok	Vijaya Clarks Inn	Bed & Breakfast
Kushinagar	1	Lotus Nikko	Hotel Royal Residency	Bed & Breakfast
Lumbini	1	Lotus Nikko	Hotel Nirvana	Bed & Breakfast
Sravasti	1	Lotus Nikko	Lotus Nikko	Bed & Breakfast
Varanasi	1	Hindustan International	Surya	Bed & Breakfast
Agra	1	The Fern	Taj Vilas	Bed & Breakfast
Jaipur	1	Four points by Sheraton	Leisure Grand Inn	Bed & Breakfast
Delhi	2	The Hans	Surya International	Bed & Breakfast

PACKAGE INCLUSIONS:

• 11 night accommodation in well-appointed rooms as mentioned above hotels or equivalent
• Assistance at the airport &railway station at Agra
• Rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk
• Elephant ride at Amber Fort
• Entry Fee at the Monuments Varanasi, Agra, Jaipur & Delhi
• Boat Ride in river Ganges
• Services of English-speaking guide during sightseeing tours in Varanasi, Agra, Jaipur & Delhi
• Sightseeing as per itinerary by private tourist vehicle
• Overnight Train ticket for travel between Varanasi to Agra in 2AC
• Drivers allowances, toll taxes and Govt. Service Tax

PACKAGE EXCLUSIONS:

• Air tickets and airport taxes
• Optional activities are subject to availability. Charges additional.
• Items of personal nature like laundry, phone calls, tips to guides / drivers etc.
• Camera / Video camera fees applicable at monuments

Day 1 : Arrival at Lucknow – Sravasti (170 Kms / approx. 3.5 Hours)

On arrival at Lucknow, you will met, assisted and drive to Sravasti - city of ancient India, was one of the six largest cities in India during Gautama Buddha's lifetime. The city is located in the fertile Gangetic plains in the present-day district of the same name. On arrival check-in at the hotel and relax. Later you will be visiting Jetavana Monastry - one of the most famous of the Buddhist monasteries in India. It was the second monastery donated to Gautama Buddha, after the Veluvana in Rajagaha. Jetavana was the place where the Buddha gave the majority of his teachings and discourses, having passed at Jetavana 19 (out of 45) rainy seasons,more than in any other monastery. Back to hotel. Overnight stay in Sravasti.

Day 2 : Sravasti – Kushinagar (240 Kms / approx. 4.5 Hours)

Breakfast at the hotel. Post breakfast check-out from the hotel and drive to Kushinagar. On arrival check-in at the hotel. Kushinagar - known for its cultural heritage all over the world. It is one of the four holiest places for the Buddhists. At Kushinagar, Great Lord Buddha, founder of Buddhism, delivered his last sermon. Proceed for half-day local sightseeing tour visiting Nirvana Stupa and temple, Mahaparinirvana Temple and Ramabhar Stupa. Back to hotel by evening. Overnight stay in Kushinagar.

Day 3 : Kushinagar - Excursion to Lumbini (130 Kms / approx. 03 Hours / One way)

Early morning excursion to Lumbini - Nepal with packed breakfast. Immensely overwhelmed by the roadmap of Lord Buddha's life, the believers have an undying urge for pilgrimage to the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Back to hotel by evening. Overnight stay in Kushinagar.

Day 4 : Kushinagar – Varanasi (230 Kms / approx. 05 Hours)

Breakfast at the hotel. Post breakfast check-out from the hotel and drive to Varanasi. On arrival check-in at the hotel and relax. Standing on the western bank of India's holiest river Ganges, Varanasi, or Benaras, (also known as Kashi) is the oldest surviving city of the world and the cultural capital of India. According to the historians, the city was founded some ten centuries before the birth of Christ. The relationship between the sacred river and the city is the essence of Varanasi - 'the land of sacred light'. Varanasi’s associations with Lord Shiva extend to the beginning of time: legends relate how, after his marriage to Devi Parvati, Lord Shiva left his Himalayan abode and came to reside in Kashi with all the gods in attendance. Along the water's edge of Ganga, there are the burning ghats. The most sacred one is Manikarnika, associated with Goddess Parvati; it is in the heart of this city that there stands in its fullest majesty the Vishwanath Temple devoted to Shiva, the Lord of the Universe. Evening free to explore the ghats of Varanasi along with the Ganga Aarti Ceremony. Overnight stay in Varanasi.

Day 5 : Varanasi – Excursion to Sarnath - Bodhgaya (250 Kms / approx. 05 Hours)

Breakfast at the hotel. Post breakfast excursion to Sarnath - the place where more than 2,500 years ago Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The five disciples who followed him there were surprised to see the mesmerising, glowing countenance of Buddha, who was now ready to address his disciples. This moment in history is known as Dharamachakra Pravartan, which set the Sangha tradition. An imposing conical structure, 34 meters in height, called Dhamek stupa signifies the "seat of the holy Buddha." There are also the ruins of Dharmarajika Stupa, besides the original Mulgandhakuti Temple, which according to Hieun Tsang was about 61 meter high. That's the place where Buddha rested and meditated in Sarnath. A journey to Sarnath would be incomplete without a visit to the library at Mugandh Kuti Vihara, which houses some amazing frescoes done by Koset Nosu. Back to hotel and check-out and drive to Bodhgaya – Enlightenment place of Lord Buddha. On arrival check-in at the hotel and relax.Overnight stay in Bodhgaya.

Day 6 : Bodhgaya

Breakfast at the hotel. Post breakfast visit to Mahabodhi Temple - covers an area of nearly 4.8 hectares and 55 m in height. The sanctum carries a lofty pancharatha sikhara of a straight-edged pyramidal design, demarcated into seven storeys by bhumi-amalakas (amalakas occurring at the corners of the sikhara to denote storeys).The sacred Bodhi tree stands to the west of the above temple. It is known as the pipal tree (Ficus religiosa) in India. It is believed that this tree is the direct descendant of the original tree under which Lord Buddha meditated. Overnight stay in Bodhgaya.

Day 7 : Bodhgaya – Patna – Departure (110 Kms / approx. 2.5 Hours)

Breakfast at the hotel. Post breakfast check-out from the hotel and drive to Patna. On arrival you will be transferred to Patna Airport to connect your flight for the onward journey.

Hotels envisaged as per details: 03 Star

City	Hotel	Meal Plan
Sravasti	Lotus Nikko Hotel	Bed & Breakfast
Kushinagar	Lotus Nikko Hotel	Bed & Breakfast
Varanasi	Hotel Vaibhav	Bed & Breakfast
Bodhgaya	Lotus Nikko Hotel	Bed & Breakfast

PACKAGE INCLUSIONS:

• 06 Nights/ 07 Days accommodation in well-appointed base category rooms.
• Meals as per above details.
• Transport services as per itinerary by 01 Air-conditioned Medium / Innova Car.
• All taxes including driver allowance, state tax, toll parking etc.
• Fuel Charges.
• Government Service Tax.

PACKAGE EXCLUSIONS:

• International/ Domestic Airfare
• Items of personal nature like laundry, phone calls, tips etc.
• Guide Charges.
• Entrance to the Monuments.
• Anything which is not mentioned in the Inclusions.

Day 1 : Arrival at Lucknow

On arrival at Lucknow, you will met, assisted and check-in at the hotel. Lucknow – Popularly known as ‘City of Nawabs & Kebabs’ is famous for its hospitality and glorious history. Proceed for full day local sightseeing tour visiting Bara Imambara - built in the year 1784 by the fourth Nawab of Awadh known as Asaf-ud-Daula. It was built as a part of a relief project for a major famine that took place in the year 1784. British Residency - famous historical landmark of this place. It is now in ruins and has been declared a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India.

You will also be visiting Rumi Darwaza,Moti Mahal, Clock Tower, etc. In the evening you can visit the local markets of City to enjoy the famous cuisines. Overnight stay in Lucknow.

Day 2 : Lucknow – Sravasti (170 Kms / approx. 3.5 Hours)

Breakfast at the hotel. Post breakfast check-out from the hotel and drive to Sravasti - city of ancient India, was one of the six largest cities in India during Gautama Buddha's lifetime. The city is located in the fertile Gangetic plains in the present-day district of the same name. On arrival check-in at the hotel and relax. Later you will be visiting JetavanaMonastry - one of the most famous of the Buddhist monasteries in India. It was the second monastery donated to Gautama Buddha, after the Veluvana in Rajagaha. Jetavana was the place where the Buddha gave the majority of his teachings and discourses, having passed at Jetavana 19 (out of 45) rainy seasons,more than in any other monastery. Back to hotel. Overnight stay in Sravasti.

Day 3 : Sravasti – Kushinagar (240 Kms / approx. 4.5 Hours)

Breakfast at the hotel. Post breakfast check-out from the hotel and drive to Kushinagar. On arrival check-in at the hotel. Kushinagar - known for its cultural heritage all over the world. It is one of the four holiest places for the Buddhists. At Kushinagar, Great Lord Buddha, founder of Buddhism, delivered his last sermon. Proceed for half-day local sightseeing tour visiting Nirvana Stupa and temple, Mahaparinirvana Temple and Ramabhar Stupa. Back to hotel by evening. Overnight stay in Kushinagar.

Day 4 : Kushinagar- Excursion to Lumbini (130 Kms / approx. 03 Hours / One way)

Early morning excursion to Lumbini - Nepal with packed breakfast. Immensely overwhelmed by the roadmap of Lord Buddha's life, the believers have an undying urge for pilgrimage to the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Back to hotel by evening. Overnight stay in Kushinagar.

Day 5 : Kushinagar – Varanasi (230 Kms / approx. 05 Hours)

Breakfast at the hotel. Post breakfast check-out from the hotel and drive to Varanasi. On arrival check-in at the hotel and relax. Standing on the western bank of India's holiest river Ganges, Varanasi, or Benaras, (also known as Kashi) is the oldest surviving city of the world and the cultural capital of India. According to the historians, the city was founded some ten centuries before the birth of Christ. The relationship between the sacred river and the city is the essence of Varanasi - 'the land of sacred light'. Varanasi’s associations with Lord Shiva extend to the beginning of time: legends relate how, after his marriage to Devi Parvati, Lord Shiva left his Himalayan abode and came to reside in Kashi with all the gods in attendance. Along the water's edge of Ganga, there are the burning ghats. The most sacred one is Manikarnika, associated with Goddess Parvati; it is in the heart of this city that there stands in its fullest majesty the Vishwanath Temple devoted to Shiva, the Lord of the Universe. Evening free to explore the ghats of Varanasi along with the Ganga Aarti Ceremony. Overnight stay in Varanasi.

Day 6 : Varanasi – Excursion to Sarnath

Breakfast at the hotel. Post breakfast excursion to Sarnath - the place where more than 2,500 years ago Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The five disciples who followed him there were surprised to see the mesmerizing, glowing countenance of Buddha, who was now ready to address his disciples. This moment in history is known as DharamachakraPravartan, which set the Sangha tradition. An imposing conical structure, 34 meters in height, called Dhamek stupa signifies the "seat of the holy Buddha." There are also the ruins of Dharmarajika Stupa, besides the original Mulgandhakuti Temple, which according to Hieun Tsang was about 61 meter high. That's the place where Buddha rested and meditated in Sarnath. A journey to Sarnath would be incomplete without a visit to the library at MugandhKutiVihara, which houses some amazing frescoes done by KosetNosu. Back to hotel, overnight stay in Varanasi.

Day 7 : Varanasi – Bodhgaya (250 Kms / approx. 05 Hours)

Breakfast at the hotel. Post breakfast check-out from the hotel and drive to Bodhgaya – Enlightenment place of Lord Buddha. On arrival check-in at the hotel and relax. Evening visit to Mahabodhi Temple - covers an area of nearly 4.8 hectares and 55 m in height. The sanctum carries a lofty pancharathasikhara of a straight-edged pyramidal design, demarcated into seven storeys by bhumi-amalakas (amalakas occurring at the corners of the sikhara to denote storeys).The sacred Bodhi tree stands to the west of the above temple. It is known as the pipal tree (Ficusreligiosa) in India. It is believed that this tree is the direct descendant of the original tree under which Lord Buddha meditated. Back to hotel. Overnight stay in Bodhgaya.

Day 8 : Bodhgaya – Excursion to Rajgir (75 Kms / approx. 02 Hours / One way)

Breakfast at the hotel. Post breakfast Excursion to Rajgir. Rajgir or Rajgrih means the home of Royalty. This place has been associated with Lord Buddha and Buddhism. Buddha not only spent many years in Rajgir but also delivered sermons here and proselytized emperor Bimbisar at the Griddhakoota hill. The Jivekarmavan monastery was the favorite residence for Buddha. Even Bimbisar gave VenuvanVihar to Buddha for his residence. It is said that it was at Rajgir that physician treated Buddha, Jivak after he was injured by his cousin Devdatta.The teachings of Buddha was penned down at Rajgir and it was also the venue for the first Buddhist Council. Overnight stay in Bodhgaya.

Day 9 : Bodhgaya – Patna – Departure (110 Kms / approx. 2.5 Hours)

Breakfast at the hotel. Post breakfast check-out from the hotel and drive to Patna. On arrival you will be transferred to Patna Airport to connect your flight for the onward journey.

Hotels envisaged as per details: 03 Star

City	Hotel	Meal Plan
Lucknow	Golden Tulip	Bed & Breakfast
Sravasti	Lotus Nikko Hotel	Bed & Breakfast
Kushinagar	Lotus Nikko Hotel	Bed & Breakfast
Varanasi	Hotel Vaibhav	Bed & Breakfast
Bodhgaya	Lotus Nikko Hotel	Bed & Breakfast

PACKAGE INCLUSIONS:

• 08 Nights/ 09 Days accommodation in well-appointed base category rooms.
• Meals as per above details.
• Transport services as per itinerary by 01 Air-conditioned Medium / Innova Car.
• All taxes including driver allowance, state tax, toll parking etc.
• Fuel Charges.
• Govt. Service Tax.

PACKAGE EXCLUSIONS:

• International/ Domestic Airfare
• Items of personal nature like laundry, phone calls, tips etc.
• Guide Charges.
• Entrance to the Monuments.
• Anything which is not mentioned in the Inclusions.