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10-Day Buddhist Circuit Tour in India

9 Nights/10 Days Group Tour Fixed Departures
Starting Price USD 661* per person on twin sharing basis
Why Travel With TraEminent?
India-based Travel ExpertsLocal destination knowledge
Private & Custom ToursDesigned around your journey
24x7 Support on TravelAssistance while you are travelling
Handpicked ExperiencesHotels, guides & experiences carefully selected
OVERVIEW

A journey through the Buddhist Circuit is one of the most peaceful and meaningful travel experiences you can have in India. Our 10-day Buddhist circuit tours take you across the important places connected to the life of Lord Buddha. It helps you understand his teachings, visit sacred sites and experience the calm & spiritual atmosphere that surrounds these destinations. Whether you are a solo traveler or with family or partner, our tour promises an amazing and memorable 10-day journey.

 

Brief Overview of Buddhist Circuit Tour

Our Buddhist Circuit tour takes you to all the important places connected to the life of Lord Buddha. These include Lumbini - where he was born, Bodh Gaya - where he found enlightenment, Sarnath - where he gave his teachings and Kushinagar - where he attained Mahaparinirvana. You will visit historic sites like Rajgir, Nalanda and Shravasti. All these destinations are part of the famous Buddhist Circuit in India, visited by pilgrims and travelers across the globe.

In this journey, you will explore peaceful monasteries, ancient stupas, meditation areas and cultural landmarks that share the story of Buddha. You will see the sacred Bodhi Tree, walk through the ruins of ancient Buddhist universities, visit temples built by different countries, each with its own unique style. Our tour is calm, meaningful and full of inspiring experiences. Our team ensures your travel is smooth and comfortable, offering you ample time at every site to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

 

Popular Spots Covered in Buddhist Circuit

Below is the list of destinations covered in our Buddhist Circuit tour:

Shravasti

It is a peaceful town where Buddha spent many rainy seasons and performed miracles. Travelers can explore Jetavana monastery, Ananda Bodhi Tree and ancient temples. The quiet atmosphere makes it a meaningful place for reflection and understanding Buddhist history.

Lumbini

Lumbini in Nepal is the birthplace of Lord Buddha. The Maya Devi Temple, sacred pond and Ashoka Pillar mark this holy site. Surrounded by international monasteries and peaceful gardens, it offers a calm space for meditation and spiritual connection.

Kushinagar

Kushinagar is where Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana. Its main highlights include the Mahaparinirvana Temple and the reclining Buddha statue. The quiet surroundings, monasteries and ancient stupas offer a peaceful place for reflection on the final journey and teachings of Buddha.

Patna

Patna, once called Pataliputra, is an important historical city related to Buddhism. The Patna Museum preserves sacred Buddhist relics. This city also serves as a convenient base for visiting nearby attractions while offering a blend of culture and heritage.

Nalanda

Nalanda is known for the ancient Nalanda University which is one of the world’s earliest learning centers. Travelers can explore its ruins, stupas and museums. Walking through Nalanda provides a glimpse into the rich academic and spiritual reflections of early Buddhist education.

Rajgir

Rajgir is a serene town where Buddha meditated and shared teaching. It is surrounded by hills and features Vulture’s Peak, hot springs and ancient monasteries. Its natural beauty and spiritual history make it an important stop in the Buddhist Circuit tourism.

Gaya

Gaya is a major religious place but nearby Bodh Gaya is the key site where Buddha achieved enlightenment. The Mahabodhi Temple and Bodhi Tree attract pilgrims worldwide. The peaceful environment is perfect for meditation and spiritual growth.

Sarnath

Sarnath is where Buddha gave his first sermon. This site includes the Dhamek Stupa, Ashoka Pillar and ancient monastery ruins. It offers a quiet and spiritual atmosphere that helps travelers understand the beginnings of Buddhist teachings and history.

Varanasi

Varanasi is one of India’s oldest spiritual cities which is located close to Sarnath. It is known for Ganga ghats, temples and vibrant culture which adds a rich spiritual experience to the tour. The evening Ganga Aarti is a must-see.

 

What Makes Our Buddhist Journey Special?

Choosing the right tour can make your Buddhist journey smoother and enjoyable. Here’s why choosing our tour is a great choice:

  • Convenience: We will take care of everything from hotel bookings, transfers, guides, meals to sightseeing so that you can enjoy this spiritual journey.
  • Cost-effective: Our tours suit different budgets. You get comfortable hotels, smooth transfers and guided visits at a reasonable price without compromising on quality.
  • Local guides: Our expert local guides will explain each Buddhist site in simple language. Their stories and insights help you understand the importance of every place.
  • Customizable itineraries: We can customize the tour based on your needs, whether you want more meditation, sightseeing or a slower pace.
  • Meaningful experiences: Along with sightseeing, we include meditation time, monk interactions, local market visits and cultural moments to give you a deeper connection with Buddhist traditions.

 

Inclusions

  • Accommodations
  • Transfers
  • Expert guides
  • Daily breakfast
  • All applicable taxes

 

Best Time to Explore Buddhist Circuit

The best time to experience Buddhist tours India is from October to November. During these months, the weather remains cool, clear and comfortable which makes it easier to explore monasteries, temples and outdoor sites. Many monks and pilgrims also visit during this season which creates a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere. You can travel any time of the year but summers are very hot and monsoons bring heavy rain which can make sightseeing difficult.

 

Why Book with Us?

  • Reliable and experienced tour operator
  • Transparent pricing with no hidden charges
  • Flexible booking process
  • Guided tours
  • Thousands of happy travelers
  • 24/7 support throughout the tour

 

Contact us to get a free quote today.

Day by Day

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1 Lucknow – Arrival +
Arrive at the airport and meet our guide who will transfer you to the booked hotel. On arrival, check into the hotel and rest of the day is for leisure. Overnight stay at hotel in Lucknow.
DAY 2 Lucknow – Shravasti (By Road: 4 Hours Drive) +
Post breakfast, check out from the hotel. Drive to Shravasti city. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel. After some relaxation, visit the major attractions of Saravasti covering the ruins and relics of Jain and Buddhist temples, forts and stupas. Also, visit the famous Ananda Bodhi Tree and the Jetavana Monastery. Overnight stay at hotel in Shravasti.
DAY 3 Shravasti – Lumbini (By Road: 4 Hours Drive) +

Wake up and enjoy breakfast in morning. Check out from the hotel and drive to Lumbini – the birthplace of Lord. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel. Evening visit to the birth Place of Lord Buddha and the Maya Devi temple. Overnight stay at hotel in Lumbini.

DAY 4 Lumbini – Kushinagar (By Road: 4 Hours Drive) +
Relish morning breakfast at the hotel. Check out from the hotel and drive to Kushinagar. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel. After taking some rest, visit the Mukutbandhan Stupa, the Mahaparinirvana Temple and a beautiful statue of the reclining Buddha. In the afternoon, pay a visit to Nirvana Temple and Ramabhar Stupa which is the cremation site of Lord Buddha. Overnight stay at hotel in Kushinagar.
DAY 5 Kushinagar – Patna (By Road: 5 Hours Drive) +
After breakfast at the hotel, check out from the hotel. Drive to Patna. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel. Rest of the day kept free for leisure. Evening visit to the Patna Sahib and Patna Museum. Overnight stay at hotel in Patna.
DAY 6 Patna – Nalanda – Rajgir – Gaya (By Road: 4 Hours Drive) +

After breakfast, check out from the hotel. Drive to Bodhgaya and enroute, visit Nalanda & Rajgir. Continue drive to Bodhgaya. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and after some relaxation, afternoon visit to the Sujata village. Overnight stay at hotel in Gaya.

DAY 7 Gaya – Sightseeing +
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Embark on sightseeing tour of Gaya covering visits to the famous Mahabodhi temple, the Vishnupad Mandir and the Bodhi tree. In the evening, relax and unwind at the banks of Niranjana River. Overnight stay will be at Gaya
DAY 8 Bodhgaya – Sarnath – Varanasi (By Road: 7 Hours Drive) +

After breakfast in morning, check out from the hotel. Continue your tour by heading to Sarnath which is a popular Buddhist site in India. You will be visiting some of the popular places like Ashoka Pillar, Dhamekha Stupa, Chaukhandi, Digambar Jain Temple and the monasteries that depict the Buddhist life. Later, head to Varanasi for overnight stay

DAY 9 Varanasi – Sightseeing +
Wake up and get ready for early morning boat ride at the holy river Ganges. Return to hotel and settle for a hearty breakfast. Later, enjoy a City tour of Varanasi covering the Bharat Mata Temple, Durga Temple, Tulsi Manas Mandir, and Banaras Hindu University. Be a part of the evening Ganga Aarti rituals performed at the bank of the Ganges. Overnight stay will be at Varanasi.
DAY 10 Varanasi - Departure +
Enjoy breakfast at leisure. Check out from the hotel. Transfer to Airport to board flight back home.
Plan Your India Journey

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Tell our travel experts your preferred dates, hotel category and interests. We’ll tailor the journey and send you a personalised quote.

INCLUSIONS

  • 9 nights’ accommodation on 1 Double Room occupancy at above mentioned Hotels. 
  • Only Breakfast included at all the hotels.
  • All transfers, excursions, and sightseeing tours will be by Private A/C Sedan Car as per the program.
  • 01 bottle of packed drinking water (1 Liter) per person per day.
  • Morning Boat ride in Varanasi. 
  • All expenses related to the vehicle like, Permit, Toll tax, etc.
  • Fuel charge, Parking, Driver expenses.
  • All currently applicable taxes including GST.
     

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Bodhgaya tour- Mahabodhi Temple, Sujata Village, Niranjana River.
  • Discover the Mahaparinirvana Temple & Stupas of Lumbini.
  • Walk around the jaw-dropping, ancient ruins of Nalanda and Rajgir.
  • Kushinagar tour- Mahaparinirvana Temple, Rambhar Stupa and Nirvana Temple.
  • Visit the famous Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath Museum and Buddhist temple at Sarnath.
  • Varanasi Tour - harat Mata Temple, Durga Temple, Tulsi Manas Mandir, and Banaras Hindu University/
  • Enjoy the early morning Ganga Aarti at the Dashashwamedh Ghat
Traveller Experiences

What Our Travellers Say

View All Reviews

Buddhist pilgrimage tour in India and Nepal with Taj Mahal. It was a wonderful travel experience in India with TraEminent India Tours. We explored the major Buddhist pilgrimage sites including Lumbini, Bodh Gaya, Sarnath, Vaishali, Kushinagar, Rajgir, Nalanda, Sravasti and Tirupathi in Chennai, and finally the Taj Mahal and other monuments in Agra. We were impressed about our 11-days travel package in India and Nepal at the itinerary planning, budget-friendly cost, private car services with friendly and knowledgeable drivers, tour guide services, choice of 4-star hotel bookings, air/railway bookings and the promptly responded TraEminent India Tours staff. Thanks to Shivani and her team. January, 2024.  

Mr. Don Lanka Chaminda
Mr. Don Lanka Chaminda Australia Travelled: January 2024

The trip was very enjoyable, high-class hotels, the transportation with a large and spacious car. We are two couples and today we finished a 14-day trip in Kashmir, which was organized by Shivani Sharma, from Tra-Eminent India Tour, which is located in New Delhi, India. We would like to praise the organization and the choice of sites and hotels for this trip, which was perfectly suited to us personally, we recommend to all Those coming for a trip to Kashmir, make the trip with the Tra-Eminent India tour company, the pleasure is guaranteed.   Date of Experience: May 2023

Mr Yosef Kalakar & Group from Israel
Mr Yosef Kalakar & Group from Israel Israel Travelled: May 2023

Discovery. Excellent time! We went between seasons, so missed the views of flowers, apples, snow,... but concentrated the cultural aspect. The country side is beautiful, as are the towns, the Mosques , and the people.Our guide and driver, (Faisel, & Hussein), (sorry fellas, if the spelling is wrong), were ideal for the situation. Both passionate and knowledgeable about their country, their culture, and faith.We got to visit villages, towns, mountains, parks, Mosques, and felt we were the only tourists around. (Big advantage for travelling this time of year.) In all places, including the lovely hotels, everyone made us most welcome. I have no hesitation in recommending TraEminent for travel plans here. Full stars. November, 2024.

Mr. Neil Shackleford
Mr. Neil Shackleford Australia Travelled: November 2024

Heartfelt Thanks from your 60+ couple - 110% stars for Tra-Eminent India Tours! Namaste Tra-Eminent India Tours Team, A big, heartfelt *THANK YOU* to everyone in the Tra-Eminent team! We have just completed an unforgettable journey across *5 countries* - from the magnificent *Great Wall of China*, to the beautiful beaches of *Phuket including the 5 Islands tour*, the wonders of *Singapore* and the beauty of *Sri Lanka*. It was a dream trip for us as a 60+ couple and we enjoyed *every single moment*. A special appreciation for your amazing *teamwork*: - Seamless *airport transfers* every time, always on time with smiling drivers waiting for us. - All *excursions and sightseeing perfectly organised* - no stress at all for us. - Your constant support, quick responses and personal care throughout the tour. You made everything so easy and comfortable for us. For us, age was never a barrier because of your excellent planning and support. *For all your teamwork and support, we give you 10/10 stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐* We will happily *recommend Tra-Eminent India Tours to everyone we know*, and we will definitely book our next trip with you only. Thank you once again for giving us memories of a lifetime. With sincere gratitude, Anita and Joseph Proud 60+ Travellers From United Kingdom October, 2026

Ms Anita Joseph
Ms Anita Joseph United Kingdom Travelled: October 2026

Delhi, Jaipur Agra. All of us enjoyed the trip very much. The trip was coordinated very well and Shivani was responsive and was there to offer good suggestion. She did not leave things to chance and ensured that things went according to plan. We want to say a big thank you to her for making it a memorable trip! Date of experience: November 2019

Mr Tamilarasu, Singapore
Mr Tamilarasu, Singapore Afghanistan Travelled: November 2019

Our India Tour. On this trip we visited Gujarat, Bengal, Odisha, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra. They organised everything for us Whenever we visit India or Sri Lanka, we have used TraEminent Indian tours for their guidance and recommendations and meticulous eye for detail. They had also arranged all internal flights for us. October, 2024.

Mrs. Daksha Jani
Mrs. Daksha Jani United Kingdom Travelled: October 2024

Rajasthan and Goa tour. TraEminent were excellent organisers. Our trip was planned to the last detail and went off pretty smoothly. We had good hotels, a great driver in Avtar Singh, and geneally good guides in each city. We enjoyed Udaipur and Goa the most, but appreciated the architectural marvels of the Golden Triangle too. After the stress (not least on the driver) of driving 700 and more kilometers, a few quiet days in Goa were welcomed. We would certainly recommend TraEminent to any group planning a trip to India. February, 2024.

Mr. Kevin Goddard
Mr. Kevin Goddard South Africa Travelled: February 2024

Memorable Hyderabad. Had a short but memorable trip to Hyderabad. As usual TraEminent did a great job in paying attention to all my needs. I will surely recommend this company to anyone who needs a reliable and meticulous tour agent. Thank you Shivani and Mukesh.' September 2024

Ms. Navina Navaratnam
Ms. Navina Navaratnam Malaysia Travelled: September 2024
Helpful Information

Frequently Asked Questions

Which places does this tour cover?+

The published travel route is: LUCKNOW – SHRAVASTI – LUMBINI – KUSHINAGAR – PATNA – NALANDA – RAJGIR – GAYA – SARNATH – VARANASI. See the day-by-day itinerary above for the planned stops and sightseeing.

How long is this itinerary?+

The published itinerary lasts 10 days / 9 nights. Please confirm the arrival and departure arrangements with our team when planning your journey.

What is included in this tour?+

The inclusions published for this itinerary are:

  • 9 nights’ accommodation on 1 Double Room occupancy at above mentioned Hotels. 
  • Only Breakfast included at all the hotels.
  • All transfers, excursions, and sightseeing tours will be by Private A/C Sedan Car as per the program.
  • 01 bottle of packed drinking water (1 Liter) per person per day.
  • Morning Boat ride in Varanasi. 
  • All expenses related to the vehicle like, Permit, Toll tax, etc.
  • Fuel charge, Parking, Driver expenses.
  • All currently applicable taxes including GST.
     

Please confirm the final inclusions and any optional costs in your quotation before booking.

How do I confirm travel dates and availability?+

Share your preferred travel dates and number of travellers with our team. They can confirm availability and the arrangements for those dates. For a festival itinerary, ask them to confirm the festival timing and celebration arrangements before booking.

How can I enquire about booking this tour?+

Complete the enquiry form on this page with your travel dates, number of travellers and any preferences. Our team can confirm the availability, quotation and booking arrangements for this itinerary.

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