On arrival at Mumbai airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Mumbai, a vibrant metropolis, is known for its bustling streets, historic landmarks, and cosmopolitan lifestyle. With its blend of traditional Indian culture and modernity, the city offers a wealth of experiences, from famous landmarks to diverse cuisine and vibrant nightlife. The rest of the day is free for you to explore local markets, enjoy a leisurely stroll along Marine Drive, or simply relax at the hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive along Marine Drive, a scenic boulevard offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea and the city skyline, famously known as the "Queen's Necklace" for its string of streetlights that resemble a necklace at night. Arrive at the Gateway of India, an iconic archway built in 1924 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. It overlooks Mumbai Harbor and is a popular gathering spot and tourist attraction. Board a ferry to Elephanta Caves, a network of rock-cut caves on Elephanta Island, known for their intricate sculptures and carvings dedicated to Hindu deities, particularly Lord Shiva. The main cave features a massive 20-foot Trimurti sculpture of a three-headed Shiva. The site offers panoramic views of the Mumbai skyline and harbor from the hilltop. Cruise back to the Gateway of India and continue your city tour. Drive past CST (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus), a historic railway station with Victorian Gothic architecture, known for its elaborate design and bustling atmosphere. Visit Parliament House, recognized for its impressive circular design and the site where key legislative sessions take place. Explore Dhobhi Ghat, an open-air laundry where clothes are washed by hand in communal washing pits, offering a glimpse into Mumbai's traditional laundry practices. Overnight at hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for a flight to Aurangabad. Arrival transfer to your hotel. Visit Bibi ka Maqbara, a mausoleum built in 1678 by Emperor Aurangzeb in memory of his wife. Often referred to as the "Taj of the Deccan" due to its resemblance to the Taj Mahal, it features a beautiful marble façade and intricate design. Explore Panchakki, an ancient water mill that used water from an underground aqueduct to power a flour mill for pilgrims. The site includes a mosque, a tomb, and a garden, providing insights into historical hydraulic engineering. Visit Aurangabad Caves, a group of 12 Buddhist caves carved into a hillside, featuring rock-cut temples and monasteries with intricate carvings and sculptures dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries. Overnight at hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel. Excursion to Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of 30 rock-cut Buddhist caves dating from about 200 BC to 650 AD. The caves are renowned for their exquisite frescoes and sculptures depicting Buddha’s life and previous incarnations. The site includes Chaityas (worship halls) and Viharas (monasteries) with detailed murals providing insight into ancient Indian art and culture. Return to Aurangabad for an overnight stay.

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 34 monasteries and temples carved into volcanic rock between the 6th and 10th centuries. The site includes a harmonious blend of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain monuments, with the Kailasa Temple being the most impressive example of monolithic rock-cut architecture. Explore Grishneshwar Temple, a 12th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, renowned for its sculptural artwork and intricate carvings. Visit Daulatabad Fort, a formidable medieval fortress known for its strategic location and advanced defensive architecture, featuring intricate gateways, moats, and steep staircases. Transfer to the airport for a flight to Delhi. Arrival transfer to your hotel in Delhi. Overnight at hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel. In Old Delhi, visit the Red Fort, a massive Mughal fortification and former royal residence built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, known for its red sandstone walls and lush gardens. Explore Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, with grand courtyards and striking architecture. The mosque's main prayer hall can accommodate thousands of worshippers. Enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk, a bustling market area with narrow lanes, vibrant shops, and traditional street food, offering a glimpse into Old Delhi's lively street life. Visit Khari Baoli Spice Market, one of India's largest spice markets, known for its vibrant array of spices, dried fruits, and traditional sweets, providing an aromatic experience. Explore Raj Gath, the memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, marking the site of his cremation with a simple black marble platform and serene garden. In New Delhi, visit Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an early example of Mughal architecture, set amidst a large garden with a distinct double-domed structure. Explore Qutab Minar, a 73-meter-tall minaret part of the Qutb Complex, showcasing Afghan architectural style with intricate carvings and inscriptions in Arabic. Visit Lotus Temple, a Bahai House of Worship with a lotus-flower shape, surrounded by lush gardens, open to people of all faiths for meditation and prayer. Drive past President House, Parliament House, and India Gate, iconic landmarks of New Delhi showcasing the city’s grandeur and historical significance. Overnight at hotel

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for a flight to Gaya. Arrival transfer to your hotel in Bodhgaya. Visit Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site marking the location where Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. The temple features a towering central spire and is surrounded by a peaceful complex of stupas and meditation areas. Explore the Bodhi Tree, an ancient sacred tree believed to be a direct descendant of the original tree under which Buddha meditated. Visit Vajrasana, the sacred site where Buddha meditated and where the temple complex is situated, reflecting its significance in Buddhist history. Explore the Great Buddha Statue, a massive 80-foot statue of Buddha in a meditative pose, and various monasteries, including Tibetan, Burmese, Chinese, Bhutanese, and Thai temples, each showcasing unique architectural styles and religious practices. Overnight at hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Patna, stopping en route to visit Rajgir, a serene spiritual town known for its historical and religious significance in Buddhism. Visit Vulture’s Peak (Gijjhakuta), a site where Buddha meditated and delivered teachings, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Explore Sattapanni Cave, an ancient cave where the First Council was held after Buddha’s passing, significant for preserving Buddhist teachings. Continue to Nalanda, an ancient university renowned for its contributions to Buddhist learning. The ruins of Nalanda Mahavihara include monasteries, classrooms, and libraries that attracted scholars from across Asia. Continue to Patna, check-in, and overnight at your hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Kushinagar, with a stop at Vaishali, an important Buddhist site where Buddha gave his last sermon. Vaishali is known for its Ashokan Pillar, a historical monument erected by Emperor Ashoka to commemorate Buddha’s teachings. Explore the brick stupa at Vaishali and Ramkund, a sacred pond where Buddha’s relics are believed to have been placed. Visit Vishwa Shanti Stupa, a peace pagoda built by the Buddh Vihar Society in collaboration with Japan, symbolizing global peace and harmony. Explore Kesariya Stupa, an ancient Buddhist stupa with a towering structure and historical significance related to Buddha’s life and teachings. Continue to Kushinagar and check in at your hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel. Begin your day by visiting Kushinagar's sacred sites, including the Mahaparinirvana Temple, where the Buddha is said to have attained final nirvana. The temple houses a large, reclining statue of Buddha, symbolizing his peaceful departure from the earthly realm. Explore the nearby Nirvana Stupa and other important monasteries, which are pivotal in the Buddhist pilgrimage route. After a reflective morning, embark on a drive to the Sonauli border. The journey takes you through scenic landscapes and rural areas, offering a glimpse of the local life and natural beauty of the region. Upon reaching the Sonauli border, you'll transfer to a Nepalese vehicle for the onward journey to Lumbini. This transition is a moment of cultural exchange as you move from India to Nepal, crossing into a land deeply intertwined with Buddhist heritage. Arrive in Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, and check in at your hotel. Lumbini, with its serene environment and spiritual significance, offers a tranquil setting for reflection and exploration. Overnight at hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Maya Devi Temple, marking the exact location of Buddha’s birth with an ancient stone slab revered by Buddhists. The temple is situated within a sacred garden surrounded by monasteries and other important Buddhist sites. Explore the Sacred Garden, featuring the Ashoka Pillar, which commemorates Buddha’s birth, and the ancient ruins of the Lumbini Monastery. Visit the Lumbini Museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to Buddha’s life and the history of the site. Drive to Kapilavastu, the ancient city where Buddha spent his early years. Explore the ruins and archaeological sites offering insight into Buddha’s life before he left for enlightenment. Continue to Sravasti, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site where Buddha performed miracles and spent significant time. Check-in at your hotel in Sravasti for an overnight stay. Overnight at hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel. Begin your exploration with the ruins of Jetavana Monastery, a significant Buddhist site where Buddha spent a considerable amount of time. The monastery includes ancient remains of meditation halls and monastic cells, offering a glimpse into the historical monastic life. Visit the Anathapindika Stupa, which is an important site related to the Buddha’s teachings. The stupa is known for its historical significance and tranquil atmosphere. After your visit, drive to Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Varanasi is a major spiritual center in Hinduism, famed for its ancient temples, narrow alleys, and vibrant cultural life. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the unique spiritual experience of the ghats of Varanasi. Explore Dashashwamedh Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat, where you can witness the ritualistic activities and cremation ceremonies performed by pilgrims on the banks of the Ganges River. The ghats offer a profound insight into the religious practices and local traditions. Overnight at hotel.

Enjoy an early morning boat ride on the Ganges River. The serene boat ride provides a peaceful view of the ghats and the awakening city, offering a unique perspective on the daily rituals and spiritual ambiance of Varanasi. Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is renowned for its historical significance and its central role in Hindu worship. Admire the temple’s intricate architecture and the vibrant atmosphere as devotees come to offer their prayers. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Khajuraho. Arrival in Khajuraho, known for its exquisite temples adorned with intricate sculptures. Transfer to your hotel and check in. Overnight at hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel. Explore Khajuraho Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its intricate erotic sculptures and grand architecture. The temples, built between 950 and 1050 AD, are divided into three groups: Western, Eastern, and Southern, each featuring distinct artistic and architectural styles. Visit Kandariya Mahadev Temple, the largest and most ornate of the Khajuraho temples, renowned for its elaborate carvings and sculptural detail. Explore the Western Group of Temples, including Lakshmana Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and Devi Jagdambi Temple, featuring a plethora of erotic sculptures. Drive to Orchha, a historic town known for its well-preserved temples and palaces from the Bundela dynasty. Overnight at hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel. Explore Orchha Fort, including Jehangir Mahal, a grand palace built for Mughal Emperor Jahangir, and Raja Mahal, showcasing Bundela architectural heritage. Visit Ram Raja Temple, a unique temple dedicated to Lord Rama, where Rama is worshipped as a king. Explore Chaturbhuj Temple and Lakshmi Narayan Temple, known for their intricate carvings and historical significance. Drive to Gwalior, known for its imposing Gwalior Fort and rich history. Visit Gwalior Fort, featuring impressive walls, palaces, and temples, including Man Singh Palace with colorful murals and Saas Bahu Temples dedicated to Vishnu and Shiva. Explore Jain Rock Cut Temples with intricate carvings dedicated to Jain deities. Visit the Tomb of Tansen, the famous musician and composer of the Mughal court, and Gurudwara Data Bandi Chhod, commemorating Guru Hargobind's release from imprisonment. Overnight at hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Bhopal, with stops en route to visit Jain temples in Sagar known for their elaborate carvings. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sanchi, featuring stupas, monasteries, and temples from the 3rd century BC to the 12th century AD, renowned for its well-preserved stupas, Ashoka Pillar, and intricate carvings depicting Buddhist themes. Explore Udayagiri Caves, early Hindu ritual sites with impressive carvings depicting deities and mythological themes from the 4th-5th centuries. Arrive in Bhopal for check-in and overnight stay. Overnight at hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Bhimbetka rock shelters, known for Paleolithic cave paintings depicting early human life and animal figures. Explore Bhojpur, home to the Bhojeshwar Temple with an unfinished Shiva Linga, showcasing ancient architecture and engineering skills. Discover Bhopal’s Upper and Lower Lakes, offering scenic views and relaxation opportunities. The lakes are surrounded by lush gardens providing a serene escape from the city's hustle. Visit historic mosques including Taj-ul-Masajid, one of India’s largest mosques, and Moti Masjid, a smaller but beautifully designed mosque. Explore Bharat Bhawan, an arts center featuring traditional and contemporary art exhibitions, theater, and cultural performances. Overnight at hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for a flight to Mumbai or Delhi. From there, board a connecting flight for your onward destination.