15 Days - Golden Triangle Tour with Buddhist Circuit

Day 1: Arrive Delhi

1. Pass by
   Traditional welcome by our representative at New Delhi International airport. Meet our representative & get transferred to hotel by air-conditioned vehicle. Check-in & rest of the day is free for leisure.

Day 2: In Delhi (Guided Sightseeing Tour)

1. Red Fort
   3h
   One of the historic monuments located in Delhi and gets its name from the red colour sandstone used for construction by the Mughals. This fort was used as a ceremonial spot for the royals and is used for political and national ceremonies even today. Constructed in 1639 by the fifth Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as the palace of his fortified capital Shahjahanabad, the Red Fort is named for its massive enclosing walls of red sandstone and is adjacent to the older Salimgarh Fort, built by Islam Shah Suri in 1546 AD. The imperial apartments consist of a row of pavilions, connected by a water channel known as the Stream of Paradise.
2. Pasar Chandni Chowk
   1h 30m
   The Chandni Chowk (Moonlight Square) is one of the oldest and busiest markets in Old Delhi, India. Chandni Chowk is located close to Old Delhi Railway Station. The Red Fort monument is located within the market. It was built in the 17th century by Mughal Emperor of India Shah Jahan and designed by his daughter Jahanara. The market was once divided by canals (now closed) to reflect moonlight and remains one of India's largest wholesale markets. The market's history dates to the founding of the capital city of Shahjahanabad when Emperor Shah Jahan established the Red Fort on the banks of the Yamuna River beside his new capital. Chandni Chowk also famous for foodies. if you want to taste local food of delhi, have to visit Chandani Chowk. Delicacy food is Babu Ram Paranthe wala, Old Famous Jalebi wala, Kuremal ki Kulfi, Natraj Dahi Bhalla and many more....
3. Humayun's Tomb
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   This magnificent garden tomb is the first substantial example of Mughal architecture in India. Humayun's Tomb It was built in 1565 A.D. nine years after the death of Humayun, by his senior widow Bega Begam. Inside the walled enclosure the most notable features are the garden squares (chaharbagh) with pathways water channels, centrally located well proportional mausoleum topped by double dome. There are several graves of Mughal rulers located inside the walled enclosure and from here in 1857 A.D; Lieutenant Hudson had captured the last Mughal emperor Bahadur Shah II.
4. Rashtrapati Bhavan
   Pass by
   Home to the President of the world’s largest democracy, epitomizing India’s strength, its democratic traditions and secular character. It was Sir Lutyens who conceptualized the H shaped building, covering an area of 5 acres on a 330 acre estate. This mansion has a total of 340 rooms spread over four floors, 2.5 kilometres of corridors and 190 acres of garden area. Painstaking efforts of thousands of labourers including masons, carpenters, artists, carvers, and cutters saw the completion of this masterwork in the year 1929.
5. India Gate
   Pass by
   Right opposite the Rashtrapati Bhavan, at the centre of New Delhi stands the 42 m high India Gate, an "Arc-de-Triomphe" like archway in the middle of a crossroad. Almost similar to its French counterpart, it commemorates the 70,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British Army during the World War I. The memorial bears the names of more than 13,516 British and Indian soldiers killed in the North western Frontier in the Afghan war of 1919.
6. Qutub Minar
   1h 30m · Admission ticket not included
   A soaring, 73 m-high tower of victory, built in 1193 by Qutab-ud-din Aibak immediately after the defeat of Delhi's last Hindu kingdom. The tower has five distinct storeys, each marked by a projecting balcony and tapers from a 15 m diameter at the base to just 2.5 m at the top. The first three storeys are made of red sandstone; the fourth and fifth storeys are of marble and sandstone. At the foot of the tower is the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, the first mosque to be built in India. An inscription over its eastern gate provocatively informs that it was built with material obtained from demolishing '27 Hindu temples'. A 7 m-high iron pillar stands in the courtyard of the mosque. It is said that if you can encircle it with your hands while standing with your back to it your wish will be fulfilled.

Day 3: Delhi - Jaipur (By Road)

1. Jaipur
   1h
   After breakfast checkout from hotel & drive towards Jaipur. Upon arrival in Jaipur check-in to pre booked hotel

Day 4: In Jaipur (Guided Sightseeing Tour)

1. Amber Palace
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   A fascinating blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture, this fort was built by Raja Man singh on the hill side in the 16th century. The construction was started by Raja Mansingh I in 1592 and was completed by his descendant Jai singh I. While the exterior of the fort are rugged, equally bewitching are the interiors where the fusions of Hindu and Muslim architectural styles find ultimate refinement. Painted scenes of hunting and war adorn the wall with precious stones and mirrors set in to the plaster. In the foreground is the Maota Lake giving a magnificent reflection of the Fort.
2. Jal Mahal
   10m
   Possibly the most serene sight amidst the chaos of Jaipur is the beautiful JalMahal Jaipur, the Water Palace. This low-rise symmetrical palace, that once was a shooting lodge for the Maharajah, appears to float in the centre of Sagar Lake. The light sand coloured stone walls of the JalMahal Jaipur are at a stark contrast to the deep blue of the waters of the lake, while from the innards of the palace lush foliage sprouts.
3. Hawa Mahal - The Palace of Breeze
   10m · Admission ticket not included
   Located at a stone throw away from the commercial center of Pink City, HawaMahal is considered as the landmark of Jaipur. Known as the 'Palace of winds", this five story building was built in 1799 by Maharaja SawaiPratap Singh. This palace is decorated with 953 windows or 'Jharokhas' which are adorned with intricate designs. There's a small museum within the complex of HawaMahal, which houses famous items like miniature paintings and ceremonial armor.
4. The City Palace
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   A palace with beautiful architecture and cultural artwork was once the seat of the Kings during their reign. City Palace is a complex of courtyards, gardens, and buildings situated right at the centre of the Old city. One of the ideal places for the tourists and a must visit because of its impressive history, architecture, gardens, an array of courtyards, and houses several other buildings in it. Blessed with the beauty of urban layout, City Palace is more than just a tourist destination; it is an excellent example of design, art, and creativity that can be elaborated as an exquisite symbol.
5. Jantar Mantar - Jaipur
   1h · Admission ticket not included
   Jantar Mantar is a collection of nineteen architectural astronomical instruments built by the Rajput king Sawai Jai Singh II, and completed in 1734. It features the world's largest stone sundial, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is located near City Palace and HawaMahal.The instruments allow the observation of astronomical positions with the naked eye. The monument expresses architectural innovations, as well as the coming together of ideas from different religious and social beliefs in 18th-century India.The observatory is an example of the Ptolemaic positional astronomy which was shared by many civilizations.

Day 5: Jaipur - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra (By Road)

1. Fatehpur Sikri
   2h
   After breakfast checkout from hotel & drive towards Agra. Upon arrival in Agra, check-in to pre booked hotel.
   
   En-route visit Fatehpur Sikri (Visit – 120 minutes)
   Old deserted town of Mughal Dynasty –Fatehpur Sikri built in red sandstone in honor of Saint Salim Chisti who foretold the birth of 3 sons to Emperor Akbar, is an example of robust stability combined with originality. This magnificent fortified ancient city, was the short-lived capital of the Mughal empire between 1572 and 1585, during the reign of Emperor Akbar. Earlier, Akbar had visited the village of Sikri to consult the Sufi saint Shaikh Salim Chishti, who predicted the birth of an heir to the Mughal throne.
   
   Later proceed towards Agra. Upon arrival in Agra check-in to pre booked hotel.

Day 6: Explore Agra & Transfer from Agra to Delhi (By Road)

1. Taj Mahal
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   Morning after breakfast proceed for local sightseeing of Agra. Visit.
   
   Taj mahal - Taj Mahal is located in the historical city of Agra. Called as the "symbol of love", it was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial for his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Every year visitors numbering more than the entire population of Agra passes through the magnificent gates to catch a glimpse of this breath taking monument. Described by Rabindranath Tagore as “a teardrop on the cheek of eternity”, the Taj Mahal is considered as the finest example of Mughal architecture and is now a UNESCO world heritage site. Covering a land over 60 bighas, the Taj Mahal was constructed using white marble obtained from Makrana in Rajasthan.
2. Agra Fort
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   Built by Emperor Akbar on the west bank of the river Yamuna, the Agra Fort dominates the centre of the city. The crescent-shaped fort has a 20-metre high and 2.4-km long outer wall that contains a maze of buildings that form a small city within a city. The Diwan-i-Aam (hall of public audience), the Diwan-i-Khas (hall of private audience), the octagonal tower known as Musamman Burj, Khas Mahal, Sheesh Mahal (the mirror palace) and the Anguri Bagh (the Grape Garden) are the other places to see within the fort. From the sight of it the magnificent structure in Red Sand Stone looks strong and invincible. The common belief goes that it was built by the Mughal emperor Akbar and further developed by his heirs. But in reality, the fort was actually a small fortress which a Hindu war lord had built long back around the 5th century viewing the strategic importance of Agra on the banks of River Yamuna.
3. New Delhi
   Pass by
   Later proceed towards New Delhi. Upon arrival get transferred to New Delhi railway station to board the overnight train towards Varanasi.

Day 7: Arrive Varanasi & Explore

1. Varanasi
   2h
   Meet our representative at Varanasi railway station & get transferred to Hotel. After breakfast proceed for an excursion to Sarnath.
2. Sarnath
   2h 30m · Admission ticket not included
   ‘One of the four holiest places to the Buddhists’. A quiet and spiritual town set amidst the otherwise densely populated state of Uttar Pradesh, Sarnath is a city of historical marvel with numerous Buddhist stupas, museums, excavated ancient sites and beautiful temples that prove to be a source of immense wonder and astonishment to tourists due to their mystical and serene setting. Being just 10 kms from Varanasi, Sarnath is often flocked with devotees is the perfect pilgrimage site for Buddhists, Jains and Hindus, alike. A pilgrimage place for Buddhists, Sarnath features a number of temples and completely serene surroundings with its various historically significant, architectural marvels. Being the place where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon, Sarnath has since been a popular tourist attraction and is well known for its cultural significance as well as the mystical setting. To name a few attractions contributing to the spiritual significance of Sarnath, we have, Ashoka's Pillar, Dharma Stupa built by Emperor Ashoka and many more.
3. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
   30m · Admission ticket not included
   Situated on the western bank of holy river Ganga in Varanasi, Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas or temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The main deity of Kashi Vishwanath Temple is Lord Shiva, also known as Vishwanatha or Vishweshwarar meaning 'the ruler of the universe'. The city of Varanasi, the cultural capital of India, is thus known as the city of Lord Shiva. The temple has 800 kg of gold plating on its tower.
4. Banaras Ghats
   1h · Admission ticket not included
   The long chain of ghats in Varanasi are one of the most frequently sites, where pilgrims bathe for spiritual purification. There are about hundred ghats in the city and each of them is marked by a lingam. Early-morning bathers, Brahmin priests offering puja and people practising meditation and yoga are common sites. The most famous Ghats are Dasaswamedh ghat, Assi Ghat.
5. Bharat Mata Temple
   20m · Admission ticket not included
   Bharat Mata Mandir is a unique shrine dedicated to our country, Mother India. The temple does not have any deity, but a relief map of the country carved in marble. The temple was the brainchild of Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta, a freedom fighter. It was built in 1936 and inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi and has ever since been the only one dedicated to a country in the World.
6. Alamgir Mosque
   20m · Admission ticket not included
   Alamgir Mosque is a 17th century structure built by Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb, on a land which once had a Shiva Temple and was demolished by him. The mosque is an architecturally stunning building built according to the Indo-Islamic style with beautiful minarets and high domes.

Day 8: Boat Ride at River Ganges & Varanasi - Bodhgaya (By Road)

1. Bodh Gaya
   2h
   Today we start our day with a boat ride on the river Ganges. Rise before dawn & step gingerly in the boat as the boatman starts rowing the boat. Witness the daily miracle to unfold, as the Sun appears triumphantly over the horizon. The sound of conches & temple bells adds to the delicate pink fabric of dawn. The formerly hushed murmuring of ancient Sanskrit Shlokas (hymns) now rise, in one voice, to a crescendo of unparalleled piety & joy.
   Return to hotel & enjoy breakfast.
   
   After breakfast drive towards Bodhgaya by air-conditioned vehicle. Check-in & rest of the day is free for leisure.

Day 9: In Bodhgaya

1. Bodh Gaya
   2h
   After breakfast full day is to explore Bodhgaya and Gaya. We will be visiting The Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhi Tree, Great Buddha Statue, Niranjana River, and Sujata Temple and lots of other significant temples. The Mahabodhi temple built on the east of the sacred tree stands majestically 17 feet high on a base 5 feet square, and consists of a soaring pyramidal tower surmounted by a stupa. The Vajrasana or Diamond Throne lying between the Bodhi Tree and the temple marks the actual spot where Buddha sat in meditation and attained supreme knowledge. A gilded Buddha smiles upon the visitors from a niche in the wall of the temple, and his footsteps carved in stone hold flower offerings from the devout. Unbelievable peace pervades the atmosphere giving credence to legend Besides the Mahabodhi temple; we would visit several Buddhist temples built by the followers of Buddhism from all over the world.Highlights of the day:
   1) Guided tour of Bodhgaya.
   2) Excursion to Sujata Village, International Monasteries.

Day 10: Bodhgaya - Nalanda - Rajgir - Patna (By Road)

1. Patna
   2h
   Morning after breakfast proceed towards Patna. Enroute visit Nalanda & Rajgir. Seems like a long journey, but it is actually 200 kms covered within 6 hours.
2. Nalanda
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   The most popular Mahavihara of the ancient times, a significant Buddhist seat of academic excellence and a modest pilgrim center, all wrapped in a wisp of spirituality, Nalanda continues to be an equally enriching location in the present. It offers vibrant substance of spirituality, history, culture, architecture, and tourism. This city houses one of the world's oldest and finest residential universities which itself was an architectural masterpiece. Although in ruins, the entire complex presents a pretty picture and is flocked by tourist day in and day out. It has “viharas” or monasteries to the east and “chaiyas” or temples to the west. In addition to this, the complex houses a charming little museum, which has a collection of several of original Buddhist stupas, Hindu and Buddhist bronzes, coins, terracotta jars, a sample of burnt rice etc. The district is believed to be a cradle of religions. Apart from Buddhism, it is an important center for Jainism, Hinduism, and Sufism as well. Considering the rich heritage and the historical importance, it is a hot tourist destination. Nalanda University is the world’s oldest University that got established back in 5th century. The nearby historic temples and monasteries with stunning Hindu and Buddhist carvings are a must watch. History lovers can visit Institute for research in Buddhism and Pali literature that still preserves some of the rate manuscripts.
3. Rajgir
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   Rajgir is town where the air that surrounds its beautiful sceneries carries hints of spirituality and vibrant hues of history with links with both Buddhism and Jainism. Historically, Rajgir back in history during Lord Budhha’s lifetime enjoyed the status of being the capital of the famous Magadh Kingdom that was under the reign of king Bimbisara. The marble structure of Vishwa Shanti Stupa is a must visit that carried some of the finest images of Buddha, constructed by Nipponza Myohoji Japanese sect. Post this, you are taken to Griddhakuta, which happens to be a unique rock extension taking the shape of a vulture’s beak. Perhaps, that’s why it is named so. History states, that Gautama Buddha during rainy season used to preach and meditate within these rocky caves. Another important site to visit is the Venuvana Vihar constructed by King Bimbisara honouring Gautama Buddha, for him to reside. Hop over to the Jivakameavan Gardens a place of eminent physicians. This is the place where Gautama Buddha was taken to and his wounds were healed by a well known well-known physician named Jivaka, existing when king Bimbisara and Ajatshatru ruled.

Day 11: Patna - Vaishali - Kushinagar (By Road)

1. Vaishali
   2h
   Morning after breakfast drive towards Kushinagar. En route visit Vaishali.
   
   Vaishali (Visit – 2 Hours)
   Gautama Buddha used to visit Vaishali recurrently. It was in Kolhua he taught his last lesson. In order to celebrate this occasion, King Asoka created the legendary lion pillars in 3rd century B.C. After a century of Buddha’s Mahaparinirvana, Vaishali witnessed the hosting of the second grand Buddhist Council. In order to celebrate this occasion two stupas got constructed.
   
   Upon arrival at Kushinagar, check-in at the hotel & relax for rest of the day.

Day 12: Kushinagar - Lumbini (By Road)

1. Parinirvana Stupa
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   Morning after breakfast proceed to visit Kushinagar.
   
   Kushinagar (Visit – 2 Hours)
   Kushinagar is recognized as a significant spot for spiritual excursions, particularly under the faith of Buddhism. Several Buddhist temples are found in Kushinagar and visited by an international community, particularly from Asian countries. These worshippers consist of those who travel long distances to express their devotion at these sacred places. The city offers a view of fascinating ancient architectural expertise through the structures of strategically built monasteries and life-like sculptures of deities. Visit Parinirvana & Mahaparinirvana Temple (where Buddha took his last breath) and Rambhar Stupa (cremation site of lord Buddha), Also visit Japanese Temple.
   
   Later drive towards Vaishali. Upon arrival check-in at the hotel.

Day 13: Lumbini - Shravasti (By Road)

1. Maya Devi Temple
   3h · Admission ticket not included
   Morning after breakfast proceed to visit Lumbini.
   
   Lumbini (Visit – 3 Hrs)
   Lumbini- the birthplace of Lord Buddha. The birthplace of Lord Buddha where he known as Gautam in his childhood, Lumbini is situated in the southern Terai plains of Nepal. Lumbini is also a World Heritage Monument of UNESCO. Visit the Ashoka Pillar. It was built in the year 259BC, by King Ashoka of India. When he constructed this pillar, the King exempted the villagers from paying tax and gave out 100 golden coins to the people. In the 07th century, the pillar was struck by lightning and split into two parts. The site was lost for six centuries and covered with dense forest before being re-found in 1895. Later walk through different monasteries. Also visit Maya Devi Temple, dedicated to the mother of lord Buddha, Maya Devi. The temple was built during the 02nd century.
   
   Later proceed towards Sravasti. Upon arrival check-in at the hotel.

Day 14: Shravasti - Lucknow (By Road) & Lucknow - Delhi (By Flight)

1. Jetavana
   3h · Admission ticket not included
   Morning after breakfast proceed to visit Shravasti.
   
   Shravasti (Visit – 3 Hours)
   Sravasti (ancient Savatthi) was the capital of Kosala Mahajanapada and was the biggest town in the Gangetic plains during the Buddha's lifetime. Sravasti was host to the Master for 25 years during the annual vassavasa (rain retreat) when the Sangha congregated at one place. Sravasti, the capital of the ancient kingdom of Kosala, has the honour for sheltering Buddha for 24 rainy seasons in the Jetavana Gardens. It is sacred to Buddhists because it is here that Lord Buddha performed the Tirthika heretics. Visit Jetavana and Ananda Bodhi Tree.
   
   Later proceed towards Lucknow by road. Upon arrival get transferred to Lucknow airport to board the flight towards Delhi.
2. Lucknow
   Pass by
   Later proceed towards Lucknow by road. Upon arrival get transferred to Lucknow airport to board the flight towards Delhi.
3. New Delhi
   Pass by
   Meet our representative at New Delhi airport & get transferred to hotel. Check-in & rest of the day is free for leisure.

Day 15: Departure from Delhi

1. Pass by
   After breakfast get transferred to New Delhi international airport to board your flight for onward journey.

Pickup details

We pick up from Airport / Hotel

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Taj Mahal Remain Closed in Friday