10 Days trip Buddhism India
A Buddhist Odyssey- A Pilgrimage to Sacred Places
Embark on a deep journey of spirituality and enlightenment as you discover some of the most revered Buddhist sites in India and Nepal. This 800-word tour will take you through the iconic sites of Varanasi, Sarnath, Bodhgaya, Vaishali, Sravasti, Kushinagar, Rajgir, Nalanda and Lumbini, each of which holds a significant place in the life and teachings of Lord Buddha.
Day 1: Arrival in Varanasi
Welcome to Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India! Upon arrival at Varanasi Airport, you will be greeted by the divine atmosphere of this ancient city. Varanasi, also known as Kashi, occupies a sacred place in Hinduism and is also closely related to Buddhism. Check into your hotel and get ready for an inspiring journey.
Day 2: Sarnath – where Buddhism began
Morning-After a hearty breakfast, set out to explore Sarnath, just a short drive from Varanasi. Sarnath is the place where Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, a large structure marking the place where Buddha preached his teachings. The peaceful surroundings of Sarnath will leave you with a feeling of peace and reverence.
Afternoon-In the afternoon, visit the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, home to an impressive collection of Buddhist artifacts, including ancient sculptures, inscriptions, and relics. The museum gives an insight into the rich history of Buddhism and the influence of its teachings on art and culture.
Day 3: Bodhgaya – the place of enlightenment
Morning-Depart Varanasi and travel to Bodhgaya, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Bodhgaya is where Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree and became Buddha. Upon reaching Bodhgaya, visit the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the sacred Bodhi Tree and the diamond throne (Vajrasana) where the Buddha is said to have meditated.
Afternoon-Explore other attractions in Bodhgaya, such as the Big Buddha statue and various monasteries representing different Buddhist countries. The peaceful atmosphere of Bodhgaya is ideal for meditation and self-reflection.
Day 4: Vaishali – Land of Ambapali
Morning-Head to Vaishali, an ancient city with deep ties to the life of Buddha. Vaishali was the birthplace of Ambapala, a famous courtesan who later became a disciple of the Buddha. Visit the Ananda Stupa, which houses the relics of Ananda, one of the Buddha’s most devoted disciples.
Afternoon-Explore other important sites in Vaishala, such as the Pillar of Ashoka and the Buddha Stupa. These historical monuments are of great cultural and archaeological value.
Day 5: Sravasti – among the monasteries
Morning-Continue to Sravasti, where the Buddha spent much of his monastic life. Explore Jetavana Monastery, one of the most famous monastic residences given to Buddha by the wealthy merchant Anathapindika.
Afternoon-Visit the Ananda Bodhi tree, which has religious significance as it is believed to have been planted by Ananda himself. Experience the serenity of Sravasti and Buddha’s teachings as you wander through ancient ruins and monastic sites.
Day 6: Kushinagar – the place of Mahaparinirvana
Morning-Go to Kushinagar, the place where the Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana, his final enlightenment. Visit the Mahaparinirvana Temple, which features a reclining Buddha statue representing his descent into nirvana.
Afternoon-Visit the Ramabhar Stupa, where the last remains of the Buddha were cremated, and the Mathakuar Temple, a sacred place of meditation. Kushinagar exudes a sense of reverence and serenity, inviting you to contemplate the impermanence of life.
Day 7: Rajgir – Vulture Peak
Morning-Depart Kushinagar and travel to Rajgir, a place that has witnessed several important events in Buddha’s life. Rajgir is home to Vulture’s Peak where Buddha gave many profound discourses.
Afternoon-Visit Ajatshatru Fort, a historic site associated with the Buddha, and discover Griddhakuta Hill, also known as Vulture’s Peak, where Buddha preached the Heart Sutra.
Day 8: Nalanda – Ancient Seat of Science
Morning-Head to Nalanda, an ancient center of learning and one of the earliest universities in the world. Explore the Nalanda Archaeological Museum, home to an extraordinary collection of artifacts discovered in the ruins.
Afternoon-Visit Nalanda Mahavihara, the ruins of a vast monastic complex where scholars and monks once sought out knowledge and spiritual growth.
Day 9: Lumbini – Buddha’s birthplace
Morning-Cross the border into Nepal and head to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Visit the sacred Maya Devi Temple which marks the birthplace of Buddha. Explore the Sacred Garden of Lumbini, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to monasteries representing various Buddhist traditions.
Afternoon-Spend time meditating under the Bodhi Tree in Lumbini, finding inner peace and connecting with the deep spirituality that this place embodies.
Day 10: Departure
After a spiritually satisfying journey through these revered Buddhist sites, it’s time to say goodbye to this sacred land. Depart Lumbini with a heart filled with enlightenment and precious memories, bringing with you the wisdom and teachings of Lord Buddha.
This 10-day pilgrimage to Varanasi, Sarnath, Bodhgaya, Vaishali, Sravasti, Kushinagar, Rajgir, Nalanda and Lumbini will not only deepen your understanding of Buddhism but also provide a transformative experience that will stay with you for life. Embrace the spiritual essence of these places and let their timeless aura lead you to inner peace and enlightenment.