
The Buddhist Circuit Tour by Cholan Tours is a deeply spiritual and culturally immersive journey tracing the life, teachings, and enlightenment of Lord Buddha across India and Nepal. Carefully curated for pilgrims, scholars, and spiritually inclined travellers, this 12-day itinerary connects the most revered Buddhist destinations with India’s historical and cultural landmarks.
Beginning in Delhi, the journey gradually unfolds toward the sacred city of Varanasi, where timeless rituals on the Ganges resonate with profound spiritual significance.
From Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, the route continues to Bodhgaya, the place of enlightenment, offering moments of reflection beneath the sacred Bodhi Tree. Excursions to Rajgir and Nalanda reveal ancient monastic traditions and one of the world’s earliest residential universities.
The journey then moves to Kushinagar, where Lord Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana, followed by a cross-border pilgrimage to Lumbini, his birthplace in Nepal. The final stretch introduces Balrampur, Lucknow, and Agra, seamlessly blending Buddhist heritage with India’s architectural and cultural treasures.
With balanced travel days, expert guidance, and thoughtfully paced sightseeing, this itinerary offers more than a tour; it is a transformative pilgrimage. Whether undertaken for faith, learning, or inner exploration, this journey provides meaningful connections to Buddhism’s timeless philosophy while ensuring comfort and smooth logistics throughout.
Delhi, Varanasi, Sarnath, Bodhgaya, Rajgir, Nalanda, Kushinagar, Lumbini, Lucknow, and Agra come together in a sacred circuit covering enlightenment sites, ancient monasteries, living rituals, Mughal architecture, and India’s most iconic spiritual landmarks.
Arrive in Delhi, where you are received by a Cholan Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. The day is kept free to rest after your journey. You may relax at the hotel or take a short walk nearby to prepare yourself for the spiritually enriching journey ahead.
Overnight Stay: Delhi
After breakfast, transfer to the airport or railway station for your onward journey to Varanasi. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and take time to relax. In the evening, experience the mesmerising Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where chants, lamps, and rituals create a powerful spiritual atmosphere along the sacred river.
Overnight Stay: Varanasi
Begin the day with sightseeing in Varanasi, visiting the revered Vishwanath Temple and witnessing daily life along the ghats of the Ganges. Later, proceed to Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, and the Sarnath Museum, deepening your understanding of early Buddhism.
Overnight Stay: Varanasi
After breakfast, drive to Bodhgaya, one of the most sacred Buddhist destinations in the world. On arrival, check in at your hotel and spend the evening in quiet contemplation. The serene atmosphere of Bodhgaya offers the perfect setting for reflection and meditation.
Overnight Stay: Bodhgaya
Today is dedicated to exploring Bodhgaya and its surroundings. Visit the Mahabodhi Temple, the Bodhi Tree, and various international monasteries. Later, proceed to Rajgir, where Buddha spent many years teaching, followed by Nalanda, home to the ruins of the ancient Buddhist university. Return to Bodhgaya by evening.
Overnight Stay: Bodhgaya
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Kushinagar. Upon arrival, visit the Mahaparinirvana Temple and Ramabhar Stupa, marking the place where Lord Buddha attained final liberation. The peaceful surroundings make this a deeply moving experience for pilgrims.
Overnight Stay: Kushinagar
After breakfast, drive to Lumbini in Nepal, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Complete border formalities and proceed to your hotel. Later, visit the Maya Devi Temple and the sacred garden area, surrounded by monasteries built by Buddhist nations from across the world.
Overnight Stay: Lumbini
Spend the morning exploring additional monasteries in Lumbini before driving to Balrampur in Uttar Pradesh. On arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening, reflecting on the sacred sites experienced so far.
Overnight Stay: Balrampur
After breakfast, depart for Lucknow, the city of Nawabs. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. Later, enjoy a guided visit to Bara Imambara and the surrounding heritage areas, experiencing Lucknow’s refined cultural and architectural legacy.
Overnight Stay: Lucknow
Following breakfast, drive to Agra. On arrival, check in at your hotel before visiting the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site reflecting Mughal grandeur. The evening is free for rest or exploring local handicraft markets.
Overnight Stay: Agra
Begin the day with a visit to the Taj Mahal, one of the world’s most celebrated monuments. After sightseeing, drive back to Delhi. On arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy a relaxed final evening.
Overnight Stay: Delhi
After breakfast, transfer to the airport or railway station for your onward journey, bringing this spiritually enriching Buddhist Circuit Tour to a meaningful close.
End of Tour