Visit Buddha Circuit: Lumbini, Bodhgaya, Sarnath & Kusinara Tour

12 Days 11 Nights

Explore Lumbini, Bodhgaya, Sarnath, and Kusinara—key sites in Buddha’s life—on a sacred Buddha Circuit tour. Book your spiritual journey now!

Trip Info

Want to read it later ?
Download this tour's PDF brochure and start your planning offline.

Overview

The Buddha Circuit Tour is a profound spiritual journey that takes pilgrims and enthusiasts through the most significant sites associated with the life of Siddhartha Gautama, who later became known as the Buddha, the “Enlightened One.” This pilgrimage is not just a travel experience but a transformative journey into the heart of Buddhism, offering insights into the life, teachings, and legacy of one of history’s most influential spiritual leaders.

Introduction: The Life and Legacy of Buddha

Buddhism, the fourth-largest religion in the world, is rooted in the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, who lived in the 6th century BCE. Born as a prince in the ancient kingdom of Kapilvastu (modern-day Nepal), Siddhartha’s early life was one of luxury and privilege. However, his encounter with the harsh realities of life—old age, sickness, death, and the ascetic life—led him to renounce his royal heritage in search of a deeper understanding of human suffering and the path to liberation.

After years of rigorous ascetic practices and deep meditation, Siddhartha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodhgaya, India. From that moment, he became the Buddha, the “Awakened One,” and spent the rest of his life teaching the Dharma (the universal truth) to help others achieve the same state of enlightenment. His teachings, which emphasize the Middle Way, compassion, and mindfulness, have inspired millions around the world.

The Buddha himself identified four key locations that hold immense significance for his followers: Lumbini (his birthplace), Bodhgaya (the site of his enlightenment), Sarnath (where he delivered his first sermon), and Kushinagar (where he attained Mahaparinirvana, or final liberation). These four sites form the cornerstone of the Buddha Circuit Tour, offering pilgrims a chance to walk in the footsteps of the Buddha and connect with his profound teachings.

The Four Sacred Sites of the Buddha Circuit Tour

Lumbini: The Birthplace of the Buddha

Located in modern-day Nepal, Lumbini is the sacred site where Queen Mayadevi gave birth to Prince Siddhartha in the lush gardens of Lumbini Upavan. The site is marked by the Mayadevi Temple, which houses ancient ruins and a stone pillar erected by Emperor Ashoka to commemorate the Buddha’s birth. The tranquil atmosphere of Lumbini, with its monasteries, meditation centers, and the sacred pond, offers visitors a chance to reflect on the beginnings of the Buddha’s journey.

Bodhgaya: The Site of Enlightenment

Bodhgaya, in the Indian state of Bihar, is where Siddhartha attained enlightenment after meditating under the Bodhi tree. The Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to this transformative event. Pilgrims can meditate under the descendant of the original Bodhi tree and experience the profound energy of the place where the Buddha realized the nature of existence and the path to liberation.

Sarnath: The First Turning of the Wheel of Dharma

After attaining enlightenment, the Buddha traveled to Sarnath, near Varanasi, where he delivered his first sermon to his five former companions. This event, known as the “First Turning of the Wheel of Dharma,” marked the beginning of the Buddha’s teaching ministry. The Dhamek Stupa and the Ashoka Pillar are key landmarks in Sarnath, where visitors can explore the ancient ruins and gain insight into the Buddha’s teachings on the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.

Kushinagar: The Place of Mahaparinirvana

Kushinagar, in Uttar Pradesh, India, is where the Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana, or final liberation, at the age of 80. The Mahaparinirvana Temple houses a reclining statue of the Buddha, symbolizing his passing into Nirvana. This site serves as a reminder of the impermanence of life and the ultimate goal of spiritual practice—liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

The Transformative Power of the Buddha Circuit Tour

The Buddha Circuit Tour is more than just a visit to historical sites; it is an opportunity to immerse oneself in the teachings and philosophy of the Buddha. For Buddhists, this pilgrimage is a deeply spiritual experience that strengthens their connection to the Dharma. For others, it offers a chance to explore a different approach to life—one that emphasizes inner peace, compassion, and mindfulness.

The tour is enriched by archaeological and monumental evidence, as well as Buddhist scriptures, which bring the stories of the Buddha’s life to life. Whether you are a devout Buddhist, a spiritual seeker, or simply a curious traveler, the Buddha Circuit Tour promises to be a journey of self-discovery and transformation.

Overall, The Buddha Circuit Tour is a unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the Buddha and experience the places that shaped his journey from prince to enlightened teacher. From the serene gardens of Lumbini to the sacred Bodhi tree in Bodhgaya, the ancient stupas of Sarnath, and the tranquil surroundings of Kushinagar, each site offers a window into the life and teachings of the Buddha.

This pilgrimage is not just about visiting historical landmarks; it is about connecting with the timeless wisdom of the Buddha and reflecting on the deeper questions of life. Whether you seek spiritual growth, historical knowledge, or simply a deeper understanding of Buddhism, the Buddha Circuit Tour is a journey that will leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind.

Itinerary Overview

The Buddha Circuit Tour begins in Kathmandu, Nepal, a city rich in Buddhist heritage and home to some of the most sacred and iconic Buddhist sites. Your journey starts with visits to Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the “Monkey Temple,” perched atop a hill with panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. This ancient stupa, adorned with the all-seeing eyes of the Buddha, is a symbol of wisdom and peace. Next, you’ll explore Patan, a city renowned for its exquisite Newari architecture and the Golden Temple, a Buddhist monastery that reflects the deep spiritual and artistic traditions of the region. The tour then takes you to Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This spiritual hub, with its massive mandala design and vibrant prayer flags, is a center of Tibetan Buddhism and offers a serene atmosphere for meditation and reflection. From there, you’ll visit Namo Buddha, a sacred pilgrimage site where the Buddha, in a previous life, is said to have offered his body to a starving tigress and her cubs. This poignant story of compassion and self-sacrifice adds a profound dimension to your journey.

After immersing yourself in the spiritual energy of Kathmandu and its surroundings, you’ll fly to Lumbini, the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha. Here, you’ll explore the Mayadevi Temple, the sacred garden, and the Ashoka Pillar, which marks the exact spot of the Buddha’s birth. The tranquil ambiance of Lumbini, with its monasteries and meditation centers, provides a perfect setting for reflection and connection to the Buddha’s origins.

From Lumbini, the journey continues with a drive to Bodhgaya, the site of the Buddha’s enlightenment. At the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll meditate under the Bodhi tree, where the Buddha attained enlightenment, and absorb the powerful spiritual energy of this sacred place. Next, you’ll travel to Sarnath, where the Buddha delivered his first sermon, setting in motion the Wheel of Dharma. The Dhamek Stupa and the ancient ruins of Sarnath offer a glimpse into the early days of Buddhist teachings and monastic life.

The tour then proceeds to Kushinagar, the place where the Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana, or final liberation. The Mahaparinirvana Temple, with its reclining Buddha statue, serves as a reminder of the impermanence of life and the ultimate goal of spiritual practice. After paying homage at Kushinagar, you’ll return to Kathmandu via Lumbini by flight, bringing your pilgrimage full circle.

This comprehensive itinerary not only takes you through the four key sites associated with the Buddha’s life—Lumbini, Bodhgaya, Sarnath, and Kushinagar—but also introduces you to the rich Buddhist heritage of Kathmandu. From ancient stupas and monasteries to sacred pilgrimage sites, the Buddha Circuit Tour offers a transformative journey through the life, teachings, and legacy of the Buddha, leaving you with a deeper understanding of Buddhism and its timeless wisdom.

Why Should You Embark on the Buddha Circuit Tour?

The Buddha Circuit Tour is not just a journey to historical and sacred sites; it is a transformative experience that offers profound insights into life, spirituality, and the human condition. Here are compelling reasons why anyone, regardless of their background or beliefs, should consider undertaking this pilgrimage:

1. A Journey of Self-Discovery and Inner Peace

The Buddha’s teachings revolve around understanding the nature of suffering and finding a path to inner peace and liberation. By visiting the places where he was born, enlightened, taught, and attained Mahaparinirvana, you immerse yourself in an environment that encourages introspection and self-reflection. The serene and spiritual ambiance of these sites provides a unique opportunity to disconnect from the chaos of daily life and reconnect with your inner self.

2. A Deeper Understanding of Buddhism

For those curious about Buddhism, the Buddha Circuit Tour offers a firsthand experience of its origins and core teachings. Walking through Lumbini, Bodhgaya, Sarnath, and Kushinagar allows you to witness the historical and spiritual context of the Buddha’s life. The stories, scriptures, and archaeological evidence associated with these sites bring the Buddha’s journey to life, offering a deeper understanding of the Dharma and its relevance to modern life.

Buddhism is not just a religion in the conventional sense; it is a way of life and a method to attain Nirvana, a state of liberation from suffering. While many perceive Buddhism as a religion based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, it is much more than that. It is a path that leads to inevitable peace, though peace itself is not the ultimate goal. The Buddha Circuit Tour provides an opportunity to explore this path and understand how Buddhism emerged and evolved over centuries.

3. A Connection to Universal Wisdom

The Buddha’s teachings transcend religious boundaries and offer universal wisdom on compassion, mindfulness, and the pursuit of happiness. By visiting these sacred sites, you engage with a philosophy that has inspired millions for over 2,500 years. Whether you are a spiritual seeker or simply someone looking for a new perspective, the tour provides an opportunity to explore timeless truths that can enrich your life.

4. A Cultural and Historical Exploration

The Buddha Circuit Tour is also a journey through the rich cultural and historical heritage of South Asia. Each site is steeped in history, with ancient temples, stupas, and monasteries that showcase the architectural and artistic achievements of Buddhist civilizations. The tour offers a chance to learn about the spread of Buddhism and its influence on art, culture, and society across Asia.

Buddhism in the Himalayan region developed and evolved in a unique way, distinct from other regions. When you begin your journey in Nepal, you will explore centuries-old stupas in Kathmandu and nearby areas, gaining a broader background to understand the evolution of Buddhism. You will also discover fascinating stories and concepts, such as the belief in multiple Buddhas. Contrary to popular belief, Siddhartha Gautama was not the only Buddha; he was one in a series of many Buddhas. Buddhist scriptures mention the concept of four human Buddhas and a fifth one, Maitreya, who is yet to come. These stories add depth to your understanding of Buddhism and its rich tapestry of beliefs.

5. A Pilgrimage of Transformation

For Buddhists, visiting these four sacred sites is a deeply spiritual act that fulfills a lifelong aspiration. It is believed that paying homage at these places generates immense merit and strengthens one’s connection to the Buddha and his teachings. Even for non-Buddhists, the tour can be a transformative experience, offering a new perspective on life and inspiring positive change.

6. A Unique Travel Experience

The Buddha Circuit Tour is not just a spiritual journey but also a unique travel experience. The sites are located in some of the most picturesque and culturally vibrant regions of Nepal and India. From the tranquil gardens of Lumbini to the bustling streets of Varanasi near Sarnath, the tour offers a diverse and enriching travel experience that combines spirituality, history, and culture.

7. An Opportunity for Mindfulness and Meditation

Many of the sites on the Buddha Circuit Tour, such as Bodhgaya and Sarnath, are ideal places for meditation and mindfulness practices. The peaceful surroundings and spiritual energy of these places create an ideal environment for deepening your meditation practice and cultivating mindfulness in your daily life.

8. A Chance to Connect with a Global Community

The Buddha Circuit Tour attracts pilgrims and travelers from around the world, creating an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share a common interest in spirituality and personal growth. The sense of community and shared purpose adds a unique dimension to the journey.

A Journey That Transcends Time and Space

The Buddha Circuit Tour is more than a pilgrimage; it is a journey that transcends time and space, offering a profound connection to the life and teachings of the Buddha. Whether you are seeking spiritual growth, historical knowledge, or simply a unique travel experience, this tour has something to offer everyone. It is a chance to explore the roots of Buddhism, reflect on the deeper questions of life, and discover a path to inner peace and fulfillment.

By walking in the footsteps of the Buddha, you not only honor his legacy but also embark on a personal journey of transformation. The wisdom and compassion that emanate from these sacred sites have the power to inspire and guide you, no matter where you are on your life’s path. So, if you are ready to explore a new way of living and thinking, the Buddha Circuit Tour awaits you.

Key Highlights

  • Visit major Buddhist stupas of Kathmandu, centers of Buddhism, Swoyambhunath & Bouddha
  • Explore Patan durbar square, its historicity, amazing architecture & folklores
  • Visit four major must visit sacred place in Buddhism: Lumbini, Bodhgaya, Sarnath, Kushinagar
  • Visit Namobuddha, the place where Buddha had attained perfection in giving in his previous birth.
  • Cross border trip between Indian and Nepal
  • Monks, Monasteries, people and their culture

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Visit Buddha Circuit: Lumbini, Bodhgaya, Sarnath & Kusinara Tour
Group Discount Available 11% Off
From $1,750.00 $1,550.00
/ Adult
  • Group Discounts Available
  • Flexible Payment Options
  • Unbeatable Prices with Guaranteed Quality Service
  • Available Option: Basic, Premium, Luxury

Trip Starting Countdown

Days
Hours
Minutes
Seconds