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Sacred Paths of India: Kolkata, Bodhgaya & Varanasi Pilgrimage

0/5
Duration

6 Nights / 7 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English

Overview

Embark on a profound spiritual journey through India’s sacred landscapes with our “Sacred Paths of India” tour. Begin in Kolkata, where you’ll explore historical and spiritual landmarks like the Victoria Memorial, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the vibrant ghats of the Hooghly River. Continue to Deoghar, visiting the revered Baidyanath Temple and savoring local culture. In Bodhgaya, stand in awe at the Mahabodhi Temple, the site of Buddha’s enlightenment, and visit significant Buddhist monuments. Conclude in Varanasi, immersing yourself in the ancient rituals along the Ganges River, visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and witnessing the mystical Ganga Aarti. This pilgrimage offers a deep dive into the spiritual heritage of India’s revered cities.

Highlights

  • This is a private tour/activity only for your group.
  • Enhanced cleaning/ traveler safety.
  • In-depth cultural experience.
  • Flexible sightseeing & stopover.
  • Most travelers can participate.

Bulk discount (by Percent)

Bulk discount adult
# Discount group From adult To adult Value
1 Discount on 2-person group 2 2 45.2%
2 Discount on 3-person group 3 3 45.5%
3 Discount on 4-person group 4 4 53.9%
4 Discount on 5-person group 5 5 54.8%
5 Discount on 6-person group 6 6 58.1%
6 Discount on 7-person group 7 7 58.1%
7 Discount on 8-person group 8 8 62.1%

Itinerary

Day 1: Kolkata

Arrival transfer from the airport to the hotel. Walk through the Indian Museum, the largest and oldest museum in India, featuring extensive exhibits on art, archaeology, and natural history. Highlights include ancient Egyptian mummies and an impressive collection of Indian sculptures. Discover the vibrant atmosphere of New Market, a bustling shopping area with a variety of shops and eateries. Explore the labyrinth of stalls selling everything from textiles to spices. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Hooghly River at Princep Ghat, a picturesque riverside promenade. The area offers scenic views of the river and colonial-era architecture.

Day 2: Kolkata

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel. Visit Victoria Memorial, a majestic white marble building housing a museum with a rich collection of historical artifacts. The grand monument is surrounded by lush gardens and reflects a blend of British and Mughal architecture. Explore St. Paul's Cathedral, an Anglican cathedral known for its Gothic architecture and serene ambiance. Admire the stained glass windows and the intricate detailing of the interior. Visit Dakshineswar Kali Temple, a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, situated on the banks of the Hooghly River. The temple complex includes 12 shrines and a beautiful courtyard. Explore Belur Math, the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, known for its beautiful temple architecture and peaceful surroundings. The site offers a panoramic view of the Hooghly River and showcases a harmonious blend of Hindu, Christian, and Islamic architectural styles. Tour the Marble Palace, a 19th-century mansion featuring a stunning collection of sculptures, paintings, and antiques. The palace's opulent interiors and lush gardens are a testament to Kolkata's colonial grandeur. Experience the lively atmosphere of Park Street, a major thoroughfare known for its restaurants, bars, and shops. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and sample some of Kolkata's famous street food. Enjoy a traditional Bengali dinner at a local restaurant, savoring regional specialties such as macher jhol (fish curry) and rasgulla (sweet dessert).

Day 3: Kolkata - Deoghar (Train No. 12023, JANSHATABDI EXP, HWH 1405hr / JSME 1817hr)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel. Morning at leisure to relax or explore more of Kolkata’s attractions before departure. Options include visiting the Kalighat Temple, an important pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Kali. Board the JANSHATABDI EXP train from Howrah Station to Jasidih, enjoying scenic views of the rural countryside and small towns along the way. Arrive in Jasidih and transfer to Deoghar, known for its spiritual significance and serene environment. The town is famous for its temples and vibrant local culture. Evening visit to Baidyanath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus and is known for its historical and religious significance. Explore local markets and savor traditional snacks and sweets unique to Deoghar. Try local delicacies like thekua (sweet fried cookies) and peda (sweetmeat).

Day 4: Deoghar - Bodhgaya (268kms)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel. Morning visit to Naulakha Mandir, a beautiful temple dedicated to Radha-Krishna, known for its unique architecture and intricate carvings. The temple's design is inspired by traditional Hindu architectural elements. Explore Tapovan Caves, ancient rock caves with religious significance, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The caves are believed to have been used by sages for meditation. Visit Satsang Ashram, the spiritual center established by Sri Sri Thakur Anukulchandra. The ashram attracts devotees from around the world with its serene atmosphere and spiritual teachings. Depart for Bodhgaya, the sacred place where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. Bodhgaya is a key Buddhist pilgrimage site, known for its spiritual significance and historical monuments. Evening at leisure to relax or explore Bodhgaya's local attractions and markets. Visit local shops for traditional Buddhist souvenirs and artifacts.

Day 5: Bodhgaya - Varanasi (250kms)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel. Visit Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage centers. The temple complex features the sacred Bodhi tree, where Buddha attained enlightenment. Explore the Great Buddha Statue, an impressive 80-feet tall statue symbolizing peace and spirituality. The statue is set in a tranquil garden, providing a serene environment for meditation. Visit Sujata Kuti, the village where Sujata offered kheer to Buddha before his enlightenment. The site includes a stupa and a memorial marking this significant event in Buddhist history. Depart for Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world and a major center for Hindu spirituality. The city's rich cultural heritage is reflected in its ancient temples and vibrant street life. Evening at leisure to relax or explore the ghats and narrow lanes of Varanasi. Wander through the winding streets and experience the city's unique atmosphere.

Day 6: Varanasi

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel. Early morning boat ride on the Ganges River, witnessing the mesmerizing rituals and ceremonies at the ghats. Experience the spiritual atmosphere of Dashashwamedh Ghat, where daily aarti (ritual) takes place. Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is an important pilgrimage site, known for its architectural beauty and religious significance. Explore Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Visit Dhamek Stupa, an ancient Buddhist monument, and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, which houses important artifacts from the site. Stroll through the narrow lanes of Varanasi, discovering hidden temples, vibrant markets, and traditional crafts. Explore local bazaars and shop for souvenirs like Banarasi silk saris. Attend the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony, a spectacular ritual of worship with lamps and chants. The ceremony creates a magical atmosphere along the riverbanks, accompanied by devotional music and vibrant fire displays. Visit Bharat Mata Temple, a unique temple dedicated to Mother India. The temple features a relief map of India carved in marble, symbolizing national pride. Explore Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum within the campus, showcasing Indian art and artifacts. Morning visit to Tulsi Manas Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and inscriptions from the Ramcharitmanas, an epic Hindu scripture.

Day 7: Varanasi - Departure

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, explore more of Varanasi's attractions or enjoy some last-minute shopping for souvenirs. Options include visiting the Ramnagar Fort or the Jagatganj Temple. Transfer to the airport or railway station for your onward journey, carrying memories of a spiritually enriching pilgrimage tour.

Included/Excluded

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.
  • 6 Night's accommodation in 4-star hotels.
  • Daily breakfast and meal as per day plane.
  • Private air-conditioned deluxe car for airport transfer, sightseeing and excursion as per program.
  • English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program.
  • Monuments entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
  • AC Train ticket Kolkata - Deoghar.
  • Bottled drinking water in car.
  • Government taxes.
  • Any flight tickets.
  • Camera charges at monuments.
  • Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc.
  • Gratuities & optional activities.
  • Anything not mentioned in inclusions.

Tour's Location

FAQs

What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

Hotels used or similar for 6 nights accommodation

4 Star Hotels
Kolkata x 2 nights: The Elgin Fairlawn/ ZONE By The Park
Deoghar x 1 night: Hotel Imperial Heights/ GenX Rameshwaram By 1589/ Amrapali Clarks Inn
Bodhgaya x 1 night: Marasa Sarovar Premiere/ The Royal Residency
Varanasi x 2 nights: Rivatas by Ideal/ The Amayaa

Can travelers upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels?

Yes, travelers can upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels by paying the supplement. Please send inquiry for same from the booking page to get the price quote.

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from $ 2,125.00

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