India: A Journey Through Hindu And Buddhist Pilgrimage

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 a soul-enriching journey through the heart of India with our "A Journey Through Hindu And Buddhist Pilgrimage" itinerary. Begin your spiritual sojourn in Kolkata, where the colonial charm meets bustling city life. Explore iconic landmarks such as Fort William and the Victoria Memorial, immersing yourself in the city's historical tapestry. The next leg takes you to the sacred town of Deoghar, home to the revered Baba Baidyanath Temple. Journey further to the ancient sites of Nalanda and Rajgir, tracing the footsteps of Buddha, and arrive in Bodhgaya, the place of enlightenment. Traverse to Varanasi, the spiritual epicenter, and partake in the mystical Ganga Aarti at Dasashwamedh Ghat. Conclude your pilgrimage in Varanasi, carrying the spiritual essence of India as you bid farewell to this sacred land.

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 5 star hotels

Stay in 5 & 4 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

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

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
Tain ticket Kolkata - Deoghar
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 your arrival at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, our representative will warmly welcome you with traditional greetings and assist you with your luggage.
You'll then be transferred to your chosen hotel in Kolkata's city center.
Kolkata (Calcutta)
Pass by

After checking in and freshening up, take some time to explore the nearby areas.
Experience the vibrant streets of Kolkata, perhaps starting with a stroll along Park Street or exploring the bustling New Market.
Kolkata, known as the 'City of Joy', with its blend of colonial architecture, cultural festivals, and mouth-watering cuisine, offers a fascinating introduction to India.

Day 2: Kolkata

Kolkata (Calcutta)
Pass by

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel's dining area.
Head out for a full-day city tour to explore Kolkata's iconic landmarks and historical sites.
Fort William
1h 30m · Admission ticket included

Visit Fort William, a symbol of British colonial rule in India. Explore its exterior and surrounding grounds.
Victoria Memorial Hall
2h · Admission ticket included

Marvel at the majestic Victoria Memorial, a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Visit the museum inside to delve into Kolkata's colonial history.
Netaji Bhawan
45m · Admission ticket included

Discover Netaji Bhawan, a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Subhas Chandra Bose, a prominent figure in India's struggle for independence.
Howrah Bridge
Pass by

Witness the iconic Howrah Bridge, one of the busiest cantilever bridges in the world, connecting Kolkata to Howrah.
Dakshineswar Kali Temple
2h

Conclude your sightseeing with a visit to the serene Dakshineswar Kali Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kali. Take a leisurely stroll along the temple complex and admire its architectural beauty.

Day 3: Kolkata - Deoghar (Train No. 12023, JANSHATABDI EXP, HWH 1405 / JSME 1817hrs

Kolkata (Calcutta)
Pass by

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Kolkata before heading to Howrah railway station.
Board the JANSHATABDI EXP (Train No. 12023) departing at 13:10 to Deoghar (Jasidih Jn), with an arrival time of 19:10.
Relax and enjoy the scenic train journey through the Indian countryside.
As you traverse through picturesque landscapes and rural settlements, immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the journey.
Deoghar
Pass by

On reaching Deoghar, our friendly driver will greet you at the station and transfer you to your hotel.
After checking in and resting for a bit, take a leisurely walk around the hotel to soak in the local ambiance or try some regional delicacies for dinner.

Day 4: Deoghar - Nalanda - Rajgir - Bodhgaya (268kms/ 5hrs approx)

Deoghar
Pass by

After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, embark on a spiritual and historical exploration of Deoghar.
Baba Baidyanath Temple
1h 30m

Visit the revered Baba Baidyanath Dham, one of the twelve jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Experience the spiritual rituals and immerse yourself in the divine atmosphere of the temple complex.
Nalanda University Ruins
1h 30m · Admission ticket included

Post lunch, begin your journey to Nalanda, an ancient center of learning and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore the archaeological ruins of Nalanda University, one of the world's first residential universities, and gain insights into ancient India's intellectual and cultural heritage.
Rajgir
2h · Admission ticket included

Continue your drive to Bodhgaya, the place where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment.
En route, stop at the Vishwa Shanti Stupa in Rajgir, a magnificent peace pagoda atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Bodh Gaya
Pass by

Upon reaching Bodhgaya, check-in at your hotel and unwind after a day of exploration.

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

Mahabodhi Temple
3h

Begin your day with a visit to the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the place where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Explore the intricately carved temple complex, the ancient Bodhi Tree, Vajrasana (the diamond throne), and the tranquil Tibetan Monastery nearby. Reflect upon the teachings of Buddha and soak in the spiritual atmosphere of this sacred place.
Varanasi
Pass by

Journey onward to Varanasi, one of the holiest cities in India and a major pilgrimage site for Hindus.
On arrival, check-in at your chosen hotel and freshen up.
Ganga Aarti & Holy Water - Kashi
2h · Admission ticket included

In the evening, head to the ghats (riverfront steps) of the River Ganges to witness the mesmerizing Holy Ganga Aarti. The rhythmic chants, the glow of the lamps, and the spiritual fervor create an enchanting ambiance that is quintessentially Varanasi.

Day 6: Varanasi

Dasaswamedh Ghat
3h · Admission ticket included

Rise early to experience the ethereal beauty of Varanasi during a boat ride on the Ganges at sunrise. Glide past the ancient ghats, observe the morning rituals, and witness devotees offering prayers and taking holy dips in the sacred river.
Varanasi
Pass by

After breakfast, embark on a comprehensive sightseeing tour of Varanasi:
Banaras Hindu University
1h

Explore this sprawling Banaras Hindu university campus, one of Asia's largest residential universities. Discover its lush green surroundings, iconic clock tower, and the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, showcasing a vast collection of Indian art and artifacts.
Bharat Mata Temple
30m

Visit this unique temple dedicated to Mother India, housing a large relief map of India carved out of marble. It symbolizes national unity and diversity.
Tulsi Manas Temple
30m

Pay homage to Lord Rama at Tulsi Manas temple constructed at the place where the great Indian epic Ramcharitmanas was written by Goswami Tulsidas.
Sarnath
3h · Admission ticket included

Take a short drive from Varanasi to Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, the Mulagandha Kuti Vihara, and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, housing ancient artifacts and sculptures.
2h · Admission ticket included

If time permits, visit the Ram Nagar Fort & Museum to delve deeper into Varanasi's royal heritage and history.
Return to your hotel in the evening for a restful overnight stay.

Day 7: Varanasi - Departure

Varanasi
Pass by

After a relaxed morning and a sumptuous breakfast, our representative will transfer you to Varanasi Airport for your onward journey.
Varanasi
Pass by

As you board your flight to Kolkata/Delhi/Mumbai, take a moment to reminisce about the enriching experiences, spiritual insights, and cherished memories from your journey through the sacred sites of India.

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

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
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.