Mahaparinirvana Express

7 Nights / 8 Days
7 Nights Itinerary Covering: Delhi – Gaya – Bodhgaya – Nalanda - Rajgir – Gaya – Varanasi – Sarnath – Gorakhpur – Kushinagar – Lumbini – Gorakhpur – Gonda – Sravasti – Gonda – Agra – Delhi
First Slide
Price on request
Book this tour

Contact Us

Additional Information

Overview

The Mahaparinirvana Express is a unique spiritual journey that follows the footsteps of Lord Buddha, offering a transformative experience through the heart of India’s Buddhist heritage. Spanning 7 nights and 8 days, this tour takes travelers to some of the most revered Buddhist sites, where they can immerse themselves in the teachings and history of Buddhism. The journey begins in Bodh Gaya, where Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree, followed by visits to Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon. The tour also includes Kushinagar, the site of Buddha’s parinirvana (final nirvana), a place of great historical and spiritual significance. Along the way, travelers will explore ancient stupas, monasteries, and serene landscapes, each offering a deeper connection to Buddhist philosophy and practice. In addition to visiting these sacred sites, the itinerary includes opportunities for meditation, prayer, and reflection, providing a chance to experience the peacefulness and wisdom of Buddha’s teachings firsthand. Ideal for spiritual seekers, history enthusiasts, and those wishing to deepen their understanding of Buddhism, the Mahaparinirvana Express offers a perfect blend of spiritual exploration and cultural discovery. As you journey through India’s Buddhist heartland, you will not only witness the rich history of these sacred places but also reflect on the universal lessons of compassion, mindfulness, and enlightenment that Buddha imparted. This tour promises to be a deeply enriching and transformative experience.

Highlights

Bodh Gaya: Visit the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where Buddha attained enlightenment.

Sarnath: Explore the site of Buddha's first sermon and see the Dhamek Stupa and Sarnath Museum.

Kushinagar: Pay respects at the site of Buddha's parinirvana and visit the Nirvana Stupa.

Nalanda: Explore the ruins of the ancient Nalanda University, a renowned center of learning.

Rajgir: Visit Vulture Peak, where Buddha delivered many sermons, and the ancient ruins of Rajgir.

Cultural Insights: Experience the local culture, cuisine, and traditions of the regions visited.

Train Journey: Enjoy a comfortable train journey on the Mahaparinirvana Express with guided tours.

Meditation Opportunities: Participate in meditation sessions at serene locations throughout the journey.

Local Markets: Shop for traditional handicrafts, textiles, and religious artifacts at local markets.

Spiritual Experience: Immerse yourself in the spiritual teachings of Buddhism and its historical significance.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Delhi

Arrive in Delhi, India’s vibrant capital, and transfer to your hotel. After freshening up, enjoy a welcome dinner and receive a briefing on your spiritual journey. Spend the evening at leisure, perhaps taking a walk around the city to absorb its lively energy. Overnight stay in Delhi.

Day 2: Delhi to Gaya - Bodhgaya

After breakfast, board a flight or train to Gaya. Upon arrival, transfer to Bodhgaya, the place where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Visit the Mahabodhi Temple and meditate under the Bodhi Tree, where Buddha’s enlightenment took place. In the evening, attend a prayer session at the temple. Overnight stay in Bodhgaya.

Day 3: Bodhgaya to Nalanda and Rajgir

After breakfast, embark on a day trip to Rajgir, visiting Vulture Peak, where Buddha delivered important teachings. Then, head to Nalanda to explore the ruins of the ancient Nalanda University, a center of Buddhist learning. Return to Bodhgaya for dinner and an overnight stay, reflecting on the historical significance of the day.

Day 4: Bodhgaya to Varanasi

After breakfast, travel to Varanasi by train, one of the oldest cities in the world. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and rest. In the evening, experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony on the banks of the Ganges River. This is a deeply spiritual experience, offering a chance to connect with the river’s sacred energy. Overnight stay in Varanasi.

Day 5: Varanasi - Sarnath Excursion

Start your day with a serene boat ride on the Ganges. Then, visit Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, the Sarnath Museum, and the ruins of the ancient monastic complex. Return to Varanasi in the afternoon and relax before an overnight stay in the city.

Day 6: Varanasi to Kushinagar

After breakfast, board a train to Kushinagar, the site of Buddha’s parinirvana. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and visit the Nirvana Stupa and the reclining Buddha statue. Take part in a meditation session to reflect on the Buddha's passing and the lessons of his life. Overnight stay in Kushinagar.

Day 7: Kushinagar to Lumbini

After breakfast, travel to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, located in Nepal. Visit the Mayadevi Temple and the Lumbini Garden, and reflect on Buddha’s life and his teachings. Participate in a meditation session in the peaceful surroundings of this sacred place. Return to Gorakhpur in the evening for overnight stay.

Day 8: Gorakhpur to Gonda – Sravasti – Agra – Delhi

After breakfast, travel to Gonda and visit Sravasti, where Buddha spent a significant portion of his life and delivered many important sermons. Explore the ruins of the monastic complex and the Ananda Bodhi Tree. Afterward, travel to Agra to see the majestic Taj Mahal, a symbol of eternal love. In the evening, travel back to Delhi for your final night. Enjoy a farewell dinner and share your reflections on this transformative journey. Overnight stay in Delhi.