India-Nepal Complete Buddhist Tour

  • Duration 15
  • Destination Nepal
  • Trip Grade Easy
  • Starts at New Delhi
  • Ends at Kathmandu, Nepal
  • Meals Full Board
  • Accommodation 3-Star Hotel
  • Max. Altitude 1400
  • Activity Tours
  • Group Type Private
  • Group Size 2+
  • Best Season Spring & Autumn
Highlights
  • Delhi – Spiritual Beginnings: Start your pilgrimage in the vibrant city of Delhi, visiting historic landmarks like India Gate and Humayun’s Tomb, before immersing in the bustling markets of Chandni Chowk, a perfect prelude to your spiritual journey.
  • Vaishali – Buddha’s Last Sermon: Pay homage to the ancient Buddha Stupas and Ashoka’s pillar in Vaishali, where the Buddha delivered his final teachings on impermanence.
  • Rajgir – The Sacred Footsteps of the Buddha: Explore Nalanda’s ancient Mahavihara, and visit Gridhakuta Hill and Venuvana in Rajgir, where the Buddha shared his profound wisdom.
  • Bodhgaya – The Path to Enlightenment: Stand before the Mahabodhi Temple, the site of Buddha’s enlightenment, and reflect at the sacred Bodhi Tree, a spiritual highlight of the journey.
  • Varanasi & Sarnath – Embracing the Dharma: Witness the ethereal Ganga Aarti and explore the birthplace of Buddha’s first sermon at Sarnath, where he set the Wheel of Dharma in motion.
  • Kushinagar – Parinirvana: Visit the peaceful temples of Kushinagar, including the Indo-Japanese Temple, where Buddha entered Mahāparinirvāṇa, reflecting on the transient nature of life.
  • Shravasti – The Buddha’s Discourses: Walk through the sacred Jetavana Monastery ruins in Shravasti, where Buddha spent many years teaching profound truths and performing miracles.
  • Lumbini – The Sacred Birthplace: Visit the Māyādevī Temple at Lumbini, marking the birth of Siddhartha Gautama, and explore the peaceful Sacred Garden surrounded by global Buddhist monuments.
  • Kapilavastu – The Prince’s Early Life: Reflect at the ancient Shakya palace ruins in Kapilavastu, where Siddhartha spent his royal youth before renouncing everything in search of truth.
  • Ramagrama – Buddha’s Untouched Relics: Visit the Ramagrama Stupa, which holds one of the last untouched relics of the Buddha, preserving his sacred remains.
  • Kathmandu – Vibrant Spiritual Hub: Explore iconic sites like Bouddhanath and Swayambhunath stupas, and learn from ancient teachings at Pharping and Kopan Monastery in Kathmandu.
  • Personal Reflection & Meditation: Dedicate a day to personal reflection and meditation, revisiting sacred sites and deepening your spiritual journey.
  • Pilgrimage Completion – Carrying the Dharma Forward: Conclude your transformative journey with a final reflection on the teachings of the Buddha, embracing wisdom and inner peace.

India-Nepal Complete Buddhist Tour Overview

This India-Nepal Buddhist pilgrimage offers an unparalleled spiritual journey, guiding you through the sacred sites that shaped the life and teachings of the Buddha. From the bustling streets of Delhi, where ancient history intertwines with modern life, your journey will lead you through places of profound significance to the Buddhist faith. Each step is a reflection of the Buddha’s teachings on impermanence, suffering, and the path to enlightenment.

In Vaishali, you’ll stand where the Buddha delivered his last sermon, contemplating the impermanent nature of all things. As you travel to Rajgir, you’ll walk the grounds where Buddha shared his wisdom at the Gridhakuta Hill, immersing yourself in the peaceful energy of the land. Bodhgaya, where the Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, invites you to pause and meditate, deepening your connection to the Middle Path and the transformative power of insight.

The journey then brings you to Varanasi and Sarnath, where the Buddha first turned the Wheel of Dharma. The serenity of Kushinagar, where the Buddha entered Mahāparinirvāṇa, and the sacred ruins of Shravasti, echo with the Buddha’s teachings on detachment and the interconnectedness of all life.

In Lumbinī, you will walk in the footsteps of the Buddha at the very place of his birth, surrounded by monasteries from around the world, reminding us of the universality of the Buddha’s message. From Kapilavastu, where the young prince Siddhartha’s journey began, to Ramagrama, where the Buddha’s relics remain untouched, each site offers an opportunity to reflect on the sacredness of life and the pursuit of wisdom.

The pilgrimage concludes with a deeply moving experience in Kathmandu, where the vibrant energy of the Bouddhanath and Swayambhunath stupas, and the wisdom of ancient monasteries, provide the perfect space for reflection and spiritual renewal.

Through this sacred journey, you will gain not only a deeper understanding of the Buddha’s life and teachings but also a sense of inner peace and clarity to carry forward into your life. May this transformative pilgrimage awaken your heart and mind to the timeless wisdom of the Dharma, enriching your path toward enlightenment.

Day to Day Itinerary
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Your transformative Buddhist pilgrimage begins as you arrive in Delhi, a city where ancient wisdom meets modern vibrancy. Absorb the spiritual energy as you explore its historical marvels like India Gate and Humayun’s Tomb. The bustling markets of Chandni Chowk offer a sensory delight, with fragrant spices and colorful textiles immersing you in India’s rich cultural tapestry. Take a moment to reflect on the impermanence of life, a core teaching of the Buddha, as you prepare for an enlightening journey ahead. Rest for the night in the heart of the capital.

A morning flight takes you to Patna, followed by a sacred excursion to Vaishali—one of the holiest Buddhist sites. Here, the great Emperor Ashoka erected a magnificent pillar to honor Lord Buddha. Visit the ancient Buddha Stupas, where the Blessed One delivered his final sermon before attaining Parinirvana. Engage in quiet meditation, contemplating the transient nature of existence as taught in the Dharma. Spend the night in Patna, surrounded by the echoes of Buddhist heritage.

Today, embark on a serene drive to Rajgir, passing through Nalanda—the legendary Mahavihara (monastic university) where monks and scholars once gathered to study the Dharma. Walk amidst the ruins of this great learning center, soaking in the wisdom that shaped Buddhist philosophy. Arriving in Rajgir, explore its tranquil monasteries, Venuvana, and the Gridhakuta Hill, where the Buddha expounded profound teachings on the Lotus Sutra. As you sit in silent contemplation, absorb the profound peace of this sacred site. Spend the night in the sacred town of Rajgir.

Journey onward to Bodhgaya, the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage site, stopping at the Mahakala Caves, where the Buddha meditated before enlightenment. In Bodhgaya, stand before the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site marking the very place where Siddhartha attained Nirvana under the sacred Bodhi Tree. Pay homage at the Great Buddha Statue and explore monasteries representing various Buddhist traditions. Visit the Dungeshwari Cave Temples, where the Buddha practiced asceticism before realizing the Middle Path. Let the serene atmosphere of Bodhgaya inspire deep introspection over two soul-stirring days.

Travel to Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest cities, where Hinduism and Buddhism converge. Experience the ethereal Ganga Aarti at the ghats, witnessing thousands of lamps floating in devotion. Visit the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the Manikarnika Ghat, where the cycle of life and death unfolds before your eyes. A short drive takes you to Sarnath, where the Buddha delivered his first sermon at the Dhamek Stupa. Explore the Sarnath Museum, housing ancient Buddhist relics, before returning to Varanasi to soak in its mystical aura.

Leaving behind the sacred ghats of Varanasi, we journey towards Kushinagar, the hallowed site where the Buddha entered Mahāparinirvāṇa. Upon arrival, we will explore the Indo-Japanese Temple, a serene sanctuary built by Japanese Buddhists, where a magnificent golden statue of the reclining Buddha inspires deep reflection on impermanence. Visit the Burmese Temple and the Thai Temple, where tranquil meditation halls invite inner peace. As dusk settles, we reflect on the Buddha’s final teachings, embracing the essence of detachment and peace. Overnight stay in Kushinagar.

After a peaceful morning in Kushinagar, we drive to Shravasti, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites. This was where the Buddha spent 24 rainy seasons at the Jetavana Monastery, delivering profound discourses and performing miracles. Walking through the ancient ruins of Jetavana, we stand where the Buddha once meditated beneath the Anandabodhi tree, planted by Anathapindika. The remnants of stupas and viharas echo with stories of great Buddhist masters who once lived here. Overnight stay in Shravasti.

Today, we leave India and cross the border into Nepal, heading towards Lumbinī, the sacred birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama. At the heart of Lumbinī, we visit the Māyādevī Temple, which enshrines the exact spot of the Buddha’s birth. We walk through the Lumbinī Sacred Garden, home to the Ashokan Pillar, erected by Emperor Ashoka in reverence of the Buddha’s birthplace. The serenity of the monastic zone, filled with stupas and temples from various Buddhist nations, fills us with spiritual inspiration. Overnight stay in Lumbinī.

A short drive takes us to Kapilavastu, the ancient Shakya capital, where Prince Siddhartha spent his early years in royal luxury before embarking on his path to enlightenment. We explore the ruins of the Shakya palace, imagining the very halls where young Siddhartha pondered the realities of suffering. The remains of stupas and monasteries remind us of the Great Renunciation, the night when he left behind his princely life to seek ultimate truth. Overnight stay in Lumbinī.

Today’s journey takes us towards Kathmandu, but first, we visit Ramagrama Stupa, one of the most sacred sites in Buddhist history. This stupa holds a portion of the Buddha’s relics, uniquely preserved and untouched for over two millennia. Continuing our journey, we drive through scenic Nepalese landscapes, arriving in the vibrant city of Kathmandu, the spiritual and cultural heart of Nepal. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Kathmandu is home to some of the world’s most sacred Buddhist sites. We begin our day at Bouddhanath Stupa, one of the largest and most revered stupas in the world. As we circumambulate the stupa with Tibetan pilgrims, the air vibrates with the chanting of mantras. Next, we visit Swayambhunath Stupa, known as the Monkey Temple, perched atop a hill with panoramic views of Kathmandu. Our journey continues to Pharping, an ancient Buddhist retreat where Guru Padmasambhava attained enlightenment. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Today is a day of relaxation and personal reflection in Kathmandu. You may choose to revisit sacred sites, engage in Vipassana meditation, or simply wander through the vibrant streets of Thamel. A visit to Kopan Monastery offers an opportunity to learn about Tibetan Buddhist philosophy. As the sun sets, we gather for a final spiritual discussion, reflecting on the dharma lessons from our transformative journey. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

As we prepare for our departure, we take a moment to dedicate the merits of this journey to all sentient beings. The memories of walking in the footsteps of the Buddha will forever remain in our hearts. With renewed wisdom and inner peace, we bid farewell to Kathmandu, carrying the teachings of the Buddha into our daily lives. Wishing you a safe and happy journey ahead.

Our team guides, porters and accompanying staff are locals with a broad knowledge about each and every location that we travel through.

Cost Includes
  • Accommodation: 14 nights at 3-4 star hotels or similar accommodations throughout the tour, including all meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
  • Transportation: All internal flights, road transport in air-conditioned vehicles, and travel between cities as per the itinerary.
  • Tour Guide: Experienced, knowledgeable English-speaking guide throughout the tour.
  • Meals: Full board (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) provided during the entire tour.
  • Entry Fees: All entry and pilgrimage fees for the Buddhist sites, temples, monasteries, and museums mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Bottled Water: Bottled water during sightseeing and travel.
  • Pilgrimage Ceremonies: Participation in any traditional or Buddhist ceremonies conducted at various pilgrimage sites.
  • Medical Assistance: Basic travel insurance covering health emergencies.
  • Airport Transfers: Arrival and departure transfers from airports in Delhi and Kathmandu.
  • Visa Assistance: Support with Indian and Nepalese visa processing.
  • Farewell Ceremony: A traditional closing ceremony in Kathmandu to honor the completion of the pilgrimage.
Cost Excludes
  • International Flights: Flights to and from India/Nepal are not included.
  • Personal Expenses: Extra charges for personal items, such as laundry, shopping, or meals not included in the itinerary.
  • Travel Insurance: Personal travel insurance covering lost luggage, flight cancellations, or other personal emergencies.
  • Optional Activities: Any activities or excursions not listed in the itinerary.
  • Tips and Gratuities: Tips for local guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
  • Visas: International visa fees, if applicable, to enter India or Nepal (e.g., Indian eVisa, Nepal Visa on Arrival).
  • Drinks: Any drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) outside of regular meals.
  • Additional Meals: Meals not listed in the itinerary or those taken at optional stops.
  • Photography Fees: Any charges for professional photography or video recording at specific sites (where applicable).
Departure Dates
  • We have daily departures for this trip from March to May and from mid-September to mid-December. You can type in the number of passengers to book a reservation and select a date that is convenient for you. Due to group size, we never cancel a trip once you’ve made a reservation. If you would rather join the group, we will add more travelers on the selected date. You can let us know once you make a reservation or earlier.
What our travelers says Client Reviews Write a review
  • TripAdvisor

    A Truly Remarkable Experience with Everest Adventures Nepal

    As a Thai monk undertaking a Buddhist pilgrimage across India and Nepal, I had the honor of working with Mr. Dilip Singh Rai, the owner and experienced guide of Everest Adventures Nepal (P.) Ltd. I can confidently say that my journey was made infinitely more meaningful and smooth thanks to his incredible professionalism, kindness, and deep knowledge.

    From the outset, Mr. Rai demonstrated his commitment to ensuring that every detail of our pilgrimage was meticulously planned and executed. He went above and beyond to understand the needs of my upasak and upasika, providing personalized support every step of the way. His extensive knowledge of the sacred sites in both India and Nepal, along with his respectful understanding of Buddhist traditions, allowed us to experience these spiritual places in a deeply profound way.

    Mr. Rai’s guidance was exceptional, not only in terms of logistics but also in his ability to share insightful stories and historical context, enriching our journey. His passion for both the region and the people shines through, and his warmth and attention to our group’s needs made the pilgrimage a truly unforgettable experience.

    I highly recommend Everest Adventures Nepal (P.) Ltd. to anyone looking for a reliable, knowledgeable, and compassionate guide for their Buddhist pilgrimage or travel experience in Nepal. Mr. Rai and his team offer unparalleled service, and I am forever grateful for their support in making this pilgrimage one of the most transformative experiences of my life.

    A Truly Remarkable Experience with Everest Adventures Nepal
    Phra Thammawudh,March 14, 2025,Thailand
  • TripAdvisor

    A Truly Unforgettable Buddhist Pilgrimage

    I am Siriporn Wattanachai (สิริพร วัฒนชัย), and I had the incredible opportunity to embark on the India-Nepal Complete Buddhist Tour with Everest Adventures Nepal (P.) Ltd. just last year, along with my friend. It was a truly life-enriching journey that exceeded all our expectations.

    From the very beginning, everything was perfectly organized, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the spiritual and historical richness of the sacred Buddhist sites. We visited Lumbini (the birthplace of Buddha), Bodh Gaya (where he attained enlightenment), Sarnath (where he gave his first sermon), and Kushinagar (where he attained Mahaparinirvana), among other significant places. Each site was not only breathtaking but also deeply inspiring, bringing Buddhist teachings to life in a profound way.

    Our guide, Dilip Singh Rai, who is also the Managing Director of Everest Adventures Nepal (P.) Ltd., was exceptional. His deep knowledge of Buddhism, history, and local cultures made the experience even more meaningful. He explained every detail with great passion, ensuring we understood the significance of each place. Beyond his expertise, he was incredibly kind, patient, and always attentive to our needs, making sure we were comfortable throughout the trip.

    The entire journey was seamless, with comfortable accommodations, well-planned transportation, and delicious meals that allowed us to fully enjoy the experience without any worries. Everest Adventures Nepal truly went above and beyond to make this pilgrimage special.

    I highly recommend Everest Adventures Nepal (P.) Ltd. and especially Dilip Singh Rai to anyone looking for a well-organized, insightful, and deeply spiritual Buddhist pilgrimage. This journey will stay with me forever, and I am grateful for such an unforgettable experience!

    A Truly Unforgettable Buddhist Pilgrimage
    Siriporn Wattanachai (สิริพร วัฒนชัย),March 14, 2025,Thailand