Kolkata, Bodhgaya & Varanasi: Pilgrimage Journey

Duration7 days

TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted

LanguagesEnglish

Private tourOnly your group will participate

Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

Embark on the "Kolkata, Bodhgaya & Varanasi: Pilgrimage Journey," a 7-day exploration into the spiritual heart of India. Commence your pilgrimage in Kolkata, discovering historic sites like Fort William, Victoria Memorial, and Netaji Bhawan. Continue to Bodhgaya, the sacred place where Buddha attained enlightenment, visiting Mahabodhi Temple and exploring Rajgir and Nalanda. In Varanasi, experience the mystical aura of Ghats, attend the enchanting Ganga Aarti, and explore Sarnath's significant Buddhist monuments. Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of these three cities, culminating your journey with a flight back to Kolkata, Delhi, or Mumbai. Join us on this profound pilgrimage, delving into the spiritual tapestry of Kolkata, Bodhgaya, and Varanasi.

Options

Price with 3 star hotels

Stay in 3 star hotels: + Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
Pickup included

Price with 4 star hotels

Stay in 4 star hotels: + Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
Pickup included

Price with 5 star hotels

Stay in 5 star hotels: + Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
Pickup included

Tour Price Without Hotels

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.

Pickup included

What's included

Private AC car/van for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program.
6 Nights' accommodation (if option selected) in selected price category hotels.
Government taxes.
Bottled drinking water in the car.
Breakfast
Monument entrances and activity charges mentioned in the itinerary.
English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per the program
Assistance on arrival at the airport.

Any flight ticket.
Camera charges at monuments if any.
Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet, etc.
Gratuities and optional activities.

What to expect

Day 1: Kolkata

Kolkata (Calcutta)
Pass by

Upon arrival at Kolkata airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and assist you with the transition to your hotel, ensuring a smooth start to your journey.
Transfer to your hotel in Kolkata, where you'll be greeted with refreshing beverages and a traditional Indian welcome, setting the tone for your stay in the City of Joy.
Kolkata (Calcutta)
Pass by

Take some time to freshen up and relax after your journey, soaking in the ambiance of this vibrant metropolis, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality.

Day 2: Kolkata

Kolkata (Calcutta)
Pass by

Begin your day with a delectable breakfast at the hotel before setting out to explore the iconic landmarks of Kolkata.
Victoria Memorial Hall
2h · Admission ticket included

Marvel at the majestic Victoria Memorial, an architectural masterpiece that offers insights into the city's colonial past through its exhibits and sprawling gardens.
Howrah Bridge
Pass by

Experience the hustle and bustle of the Howrah Bridge, one of Kolkata's most famous landmarks, connecting the bustling neighborhoods of Howrah and Kolkata.
Indian Museum (Jadu Ghar)
2h · Admission ticket included

Delve into the city's cultural heritage at the Indian Museum, home to a vast collection of artifacts, including sculptures, paintings, and archaeological finds.
30m

Discover the serene beauty of St. Paul's Cathedral, a tranquil oasis amidst the urban landscape, with its magnificent architecture and serene ambiance.
Marble Palace Kolkata
1h · Admission ticket included

Immerse yourself in the opulence of Marble Palace, a stunning mansion adorned with marble sculptures, rare artifacts, and lush gardens.
Kolkata (Calcutta)
Pass by

Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through New Market, a shopper's paradise offering a plethora of goods, from clothing and accessories to souvenirs and handicrafts.

Day 3: Kolkata - Bodhgaya (flight)

Patna
Pass by

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and proceed to the airport for your flight to Patna, the capital city of Bihar.
Nalanda University Ruins
1h 30m · Admission ticket included

Upon arrival in Patna, embark on a scenic drive to Bodhgaya, a journey that takes you through picturesque landscapes and rural villages.
En route, explore the ancient ruins of Nalanda, once a renowned center of learning and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stupas, monasteries, and ancient libraries.
Rajgir
2h

Continue your journey to Rajgir, a historical city nestled in the verdant hills of Bihar, where you'll visit sacred sites like the Gridhakuta Hill and Vulture Peak.
Bodh Gaya
Pass by

Arrive in Bodhgaya, the holiest Buddhist pilgrimage site, and check in to your hotel, where you can relax and unwind amidst the serene surroundings.

Day 4: Bodhgaya

Mahabodhi Temple
2h · Admission ticket included

Start your day with a visit to the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the holiest shrine for Buddhists worldwide, marking the spot where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment.
Explore the Bodhi Tree, a sacred fig tree under which Buddha meditated and achieved enlightenment, radiating tranquility and spiritual energy.
Bodh Gaya
4h

Visit the Tibetan Monastery, a serene retreat that exudes peace and serenity, offering a glimpse into Tibetan Buddhist culture and traditions.
Admire the exquisite architecture of the Burmese Temple, a testament to Myanmar's rich cultural heritage, adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant colors.
Explore the Chinese Temple, reflecting the influence of Chinese architecture and culture in Bodhgaya, and marvel at its ornate design and tranquil ambiance.
Discover the Bhutanese Monastery, an architectural gem that combines traditional Bhutanese elements with Buddhist symbolism, offering a unique cultural experience.
Conclude your day with the mesmerizing evening temple aarti, a spiritual ceremony filled with chants and rituals, creating an atmosphere of reverence and devotion.

Day 5: Bodhgaya – Varanasi (250kms/ 5hrs approx.)

Varanasi
Pass by

After breakfast, bid farewell to Bodhgaya and embark on a scenic drive to Varanasi, one of the oldest and holiest cities in the world.
Arrive in Varanasi, where you'll check in to your hotel and have some time to relax and refresh before beginning your exploration of the city.
Ganga Aarti
3h · Admission ticket included

In the evening, head to the ghats of the sacred River Ganges to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a centuries-old ritual that celebrates the divine river and its spiritual significance.
Experience the ethereal beauty of the aarti ceremony as priests perform intricate rituals, accompanied by the sound of bells, chanting, and the glow of oil lamps, creating a magical ambiance.

Day 6: Varanasi

2h · Admission ticket included

Rise early for a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, where you'll witness the city come alive with the first light of day and observe the ancient rituals performed by devout pilgrims along the ghats.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
45m · Admission ticket included

Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, and marvel at its intricate architecture and spiritual significance.
Sarnath
2h · Admission ticket included

Explore Sarnath, the place where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, and visit the Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, and other Buddhist monuments that reflect the city's rich heritage.
Bharat Mata Temple
30m

Discover the Bharat Mata Temple, a unique shrine dedicated to Mother India, showcasing a relief map of the Indian subcontinent carved out of marble, symbolizing the unity of the nation.
Varanasi
Pass by

Spend the afternoon wandering through the bustling streets and vibrant markets of Varanasi, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts, silk sarees, and other souvenirs.
In the evening, attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at a different ghat, soaking in the spiritual atmosphere and witnessing the divine connection between the people and the river.

Day 7: Varanasi – Kolkata/ Delhi/ Mumbai (Flight)

Varanasi
Pass by

After breakfast, bid farewell to Varanasi as you transfer to the airport for your onward journey, carrying with you memories of a lifetime and the spiritual blessings of Kolkata, Bodhgaya, and Varanasi.

Meeting and pickup

Pickup details

As per your flight schedule, coordinated pickup will be arranged from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), Kolkata. A private chauffeur-driven air-conditioned vehicle will be provided for the entire tour. Pickup is also available from all hotels, residences, and other accommodations in Kolkata. Travelers arriving at the airport will be welcomed and assisted by our office executive. Please provide your hotel or flight details at least 3 days before the tour. Office executive and driver contact details will be shared one day prior to the tour.

Additional information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

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