In Buddha’s Footsteps

Our  Tour features the following locations

DELHI: The largest mosque, the biggest temple, honky auto-rickshaws; it’s easy to distinguish Delhi. The city has been at the centre of the Indian civilisation for centuries and a major seat of power ever since the Mughals built their capital here. Modern Delhi presents a mix of colonial-era architecture, Mughal forts, and mausoleums, ancient bazaars, glitzy malls and world class restaurants. It often feels overwhelming, but given a chance, it always grows onto you. Be sure to visit Humayun’s Tomb, a 16th-century Mughal wonder inspired by the iconic Taj Mahal and Lodi Gardens, the best spot for sunsets in Delhi. There’s also the Hauz Khas Village, a throbbing hub that gained popularity with its Open Nights when those narrow alleys are transformed into cultural wonders, adorned with lights and decorated with streamers. There really is no better place to discover Delhi’s rich culture and mingle with its locals.

VARANASI: Varanasi, formerly known as Benaras, is considered to be one of the most sacred cities in India, for it is revered among the Hindus, Buddhists as well as the Jains. Located on the banks of the Ganges, this incredible journey brings you closer to an entirely unique side of India’s culture, a spiritual journey towards ash-covered sadhus, yogis, temples, and devotees. Many come to this ancient city to wash away sins of a lifetime; some come here for a dip in the holy river, and yet others visit the place for its fantastic food and unique culture. It’s mysterious, magical and chaotic, probably all at once. It is one of the oldest continually inhabited destinations on the planet and a historical centre of silk weaving. The markets here tend to be chaotic, yet; you’re sure to find hidden souvenirs that are so unique to this place. This is surely a journey unlike any other.

SARNATH: Located at a distance of just 10 kms from Varanasi, Sarnath is one of the top four destinations in the Buddhist circuit and it attracts followers from all over the planet. Emperor Ashoka was responsible for many of the structures you see in Sarnath. His glistening lion pillar, now the National Emblem of India, is located here. Sarnath also found a place in Buddha’s journeys as he came to town to deliver his first truly famous sermon after achieving enlightenment. Other key attractions include the iconic Dhamkesh Stupa, the Chaukhandi Stupa and a Bodhi tree that was grown from cuttings of the Bodhi tree at Bodh Gaya. The best time to visit Sarnath is the months of April or May, on Buddha’s birthday, when the entire town celebrates stores and re-enacts tales from his life, enlightenment and death.

BODHGAYA: Bodhgaya is a place of immense beauty, both natural and spiritual. It witnessed an ordinary prince transform into a Buddhist god 2600 years ago, and still managed to maintain its chic small-town atmosphere and tranquil ambience for centuries. Think of this city as the Mecca of Buddhists. The most revered spot in town is the UNESCO listed Bodhi Tree, the very spot where Buddha meditated for weeks and gained enlightenment. Just being around this tree makes you feel peace and serenity like you’ve never felt before. The temple in which this tree is located is equally impressive, known for its stunning architecture, ancient railings and carvings dating back to the first century BC. The countless monasteries that dot the city also deserve exploration.

VAISHALI: A very special place to Buddhists as The Lord delivered his last sermon & announced his impending “Nirvana”. Here see the majesty of Ashoka’s Pillar, Lotus Tank and Chaumukhi.

KUSHINAGAR: 50 km east of Gorakhpur, is celebrated as the place where the Buddha died and was cremated. Originally called Kushinara, it is one of the four major Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Buddhist monasteries flourished here till the 13th century. Sights include the Rambahar stupa built to house Buddha’s relics after cremation, the Mahaparinirvana temple with its reclining Buddha figure, the modern Indo-Japan Sri Lanka Buddhist centre and numerous monasteries

SRAVASTI: A city of ancient India and one of the six largest cities in India during Gautama Buddha’s lifetime. Located near the West Rapti River and is closely associated with the life of Gautama Buddha, who is believed to have spent 24 Chaturmases here. Age-old stupas, majestic viharas, and several temples near the village of “Sahet-Mahet” establish Buddha’s association with Shravasti. It is said that the Vedic period king, Shravasta, founded this town.

LUMBINI: the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautam. The Shakya prince and the ultimate Buddha, the Enlightened One, is the pilgrimage destination of the world’s millions of people faithful to all schools of Buddhism. UNESCO lists this nativity site, identified by Indian Emperor Ashoka’s commemorative pillar as a World Heritage Site. The main attraction of Lumbini remains the Sacred Garden which spread over 8sq km, possessing all the treasures of the historic area. The Mayadevi temple is the main attraction for pilgrims and archaeologists alike. Here we find a bas relief of Mayadevi, Lord Buddha’s mother giving birth to him.

KATHMANDU: The capital of the ancient mountain kingdom of Nepal, Kathmandu has the air of a medieval city including a labyrinth of narrow streets, wooden temples and beautifully decorated palaces. In the background, there is often a gentle sound of cymbals and the markets are a rich blend of colours and aromas. Only in the 1950s was Nepal opened up to visitors and today there is a thorough mixture of modern technology and traditional lifestyles making the city a fascinating place to visit. Nepal needs tourist numbers to increase to levels before the fatal earthquake, so support Nepal, contact us to advise a bespoke tour for you.