Begin your journey in New Delhi with a visit to the place where Mahatma Gandhi, the father of India, spent his last days. Gandhi’s commitment to peace and unity, the simplicity of his lifestyle, and his courage in the face of oppression offers an insight into those values which are also shared by Buddhists across the world.

Fly to Varanasi, known as the spiritual capital of India. Also called the “City of Light,” Varanasi is one of the most important destinations for Hindu pilgrims who come to the bathing ghats on the banks of the Ganges.

Experience a spiritual journey starting with a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges in Varanasi. Afterward, visit Sarnath’s Deer Park, the site of Buddha’s first sermon, and explore the Archaeological Museum to see historic treasures like the Ashokan Lion Capital.

Travel across the Gangetic plains to reach Bodhgaya, the sacred site of the Buddha’s enlightenment. Here, you will visit the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to experience its rich spiritual energy and see the Bodhi Tree where the Buddha reached liberation.

A second full day in Bodhgaya allows you the space to meditate, explore, and absorb the impact of this profound and magical place. You can also opt for a gentle gentle walk across fields to  the village where Sujata, a milkmaid, offered the Buddha rice pudding, his first nourishment after his ascetic period.

Depart Bodhgaya for Rajgir, the historic capital of King Bimbisara. The visit focuses on Vulture Peak, a sacred site decorated with prayer flags where the Buddha is said to have delivered some of his most profound teachings, including the Heart and Lotus Sutras.

Travel from Rajgir to Nalanda, home to one of history’s greatest monastic universities. You will explore the vast UNESCO-listed ruins and visit the museum to learn about its legacy as a global hub for scholars of philosophy, science, and the Buddhadharma.

Travel on across the bridge over the Ganges to peaceful Vaishali, an ancient city the Buddha visited many times and the site of the world’s first republic. Vaishali was a rich and prosperous city in the Buddha’s day, renowned for the beauty of both its lotus pools and its most famous courtesan, Amrapali, who renounced worldly life and became an arhat upon meeting the Buddha.

Continue to Kushinagar, the place of the Buddha’s death and final liberation. The visit includes the Mahaparinirvana Temple to see the iconic reclining statue, a tour of the peaceful surrounding gardens and stupas, and a stop at the historic cremation site.

Crossing the border into Nepal you’ll head to Lumbini, the Buddha’s birthplace, which is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. As was the custom, the Buddha’s mother Maya was returning to her maternal home to deliver her baby. She gave birth en route, at the grove in Lumbini. 

Visit the Ashokan pillar and the Maya Devi Temple marking the spot where the Buddha was born, and the sacred pool where mother and child were bathed. You will also have time to visit many of the monasteries and temples from diverse Buddhist traditions.   

Visit Kapilavastu, the site of the Buddha’s early life of luxury. You will explore the tranquil ruins where he encountered the sights of suffering that led him to choose the path of an ascetic, eventually departing for Sravasti. 

Explore Sravasti, once a major ancient city and the Buddha's primary residence for 24 rainy seasons. Today, it is a tranquil site of ruined stupas and meditation gardens, including the historic Jeta Grove. After soaking in the rural peace, you will continue to Lucknow, the multicultural capital of Uttar Pradesh.

We have a closing ceremony for the pilgrimage. We then fly to Delhi (unless opting for the Building Love - Agra extension).