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Celestial Pilgrimage: Monastic and Sacred Sites of Bodhgaya and Varanasi

0/5
Duration

4 Nights / 5 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English

Overview

Experience a profound spiritual journey with the Celestial Pilgrimage: Monastic and Sacred Sites of Bodhgaya and Varanasi tour. Begin in Bodhgaya, where the ancient Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to Buddha’s enlightenment. Explore the Bodhi Tree and surrounding monasteries, each offering a unique glimpse into Buddhist traditions. Journey to Varanasi, the holiest of cities, to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti and explore sacred ghats along the Ganges. Discover the historical and spiritual significance of Banaras Hindu University, Sarnath, and the enchanting temples of Varanasi. This tour offers a deep dive into India’s spiritual heritage, combining historical landmarks with spiritual practices.

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 45.9%
2 Discount on 3-person group 3 3 45.6%
4 Discount on 4-person group 4 4 55.1%
5 Discount on 5-person group 5 5 55.4%
6 Discount on 6-person group 6 6 59.2%
7 Discount on 7-person group 7 7 58.9%
8 Discount on 8-person group 8 8 63.0%

Itinerary

Itenirary
Day 1: Patna - Bodhgaya (175kms)

On arrival at Patna airport, assistance and drive to Bodhgaya, with a stop at Nalanda. Nalanda was a prestigious ancient Mahavihara, renowned for its advanced learning and academic excellence, attracting scholars from across Asia, including Tibet and China. Continue to Rajgir, a spiritual town surrounded by lush forests and hills. Visit Vulture's Peak (Gijjhakuta), where Buddha meditated, and the Sattapanni Cave, the site of the First Council of Buddhism after Buddha's death. Rajgir is also known for its hot springs and ancient ruins. Arrive in Bodhgaya, check in at the hotel. Overnight stay.

Itenirary
Day 2: Bodhgaya

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Mahabodhi Temple, an iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple, standing at 54 meters tall, enshrines a large golden Buddha and is surrounded by a railing from 100 BC. The Bodhi Tree, under which Buddha attained enlightenment, and the Vajrasana or throne where Buddha sat, are key highlights. Explore the Tibetan Monastery, which houses a large statue of the Maitreya Buddha. Visit the Burmese Temple with its vibrant murals, the Chinese Temple with its unique architecture, and the Monastery of Bhutan, showcasing traditional Bhutanese art. Also, visit the Thai Temple and Monastery, known for its intricate woodwork and serene ambiance. Rest time to relax. In the evening, attend the temple aarti, a traditional ritual with devotional chants and offerings. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Itenirary
Day 3: Bodhgaya - Varanasi (250kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Check in at the hotel. In the evening, attend the Holy Ganga Aarti on the ghats of the River Ganges. This spectacular ritual involves large brass lamps lit with oil and the recitation of sacred mantras, creating a divine atmosphere as the ghats are illuminated by the lights and reflected in the river. Overnight at the hotel.

Itenirary
Day 4: Varanasi

Breakfast at the hotel. Begin with an early morning boat ride along the Ganges, witnessing the sacred rituals performed by devotees on the ghats. The ghats are bustling with activities, including bathing, prayers, and meditation. Visit Banaras Hindu University, a sprawling campus known for its historical significance and academic prowess. The university houses a large collection of artifacts and a significant library. Explore Bharat Mata Temple, which features a relief map of undivided India, carved in marble and depicting the country's topography. Visit Tulsi Manas Mandir, renowned for its beautiful verses from the Ramcharitmanas inscribed on its walls, depicting scenes from the Ramayana. Continue to Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon. The site includes the Dhamekh Stupa, an imposing brick structure, and the Ashoka Pillar, an ancient emblem of Buddhism. If time permits, visit Ram Nagar Fort on the eastern bank of the Ganges. The fort houses a museum with a fascinating collection of royal artifacts, vintage cars, swords, and a unique astrological clock. Overnight at the hotel.

Itenirary
Day 5: Varanasi - Departure

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule for onward destination.

Included/Excluded

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.
  • 4 Nights' accommodation in 4-star hotels.
  • Meal as per day plan (B- Breakfast, L- Lunch, D- Dinner)
  • 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.
  • Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
  • 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 4 nights accommodation

4 Star Hotels
Bodhgaya x 2 nights: 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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