Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour - 8 Days
8 Days
Kathmandu
Hotel/Lodge
Spring and Autumn
Guided Tour
1,740 m,
BLD
Private/Public Vehicle
- A group of skilled professionals
- Partial Payment Option Available
- We assure you the best prices Booking
- Without any complications
The Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour in Nepal takes you on a captivating journey to the peaceful spiritual ambiance. The tour unveils and explores several important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Nepal within the magnificent natural setting. This profound and spiritually enriching tour marks the understanding of the sacred sites associated with the life and teachings of the Lord Buddha. Nepal is the origin of the ancient Buddhist religion and traditions that have spread worldwide over the centuries. The week-long tour lets you witness and explore the spiritual and cultural richness of the Buddhist religion in Nepal.
Not only this, while on the journey, several Temples, Gumbas, and Churches are crossed, offering insights into the religious harmony of the country. The unbelievable coexistence of Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, etc. enchant your journey. While traveling, you traverse the diverse, serene, and enchanting landscapes of the country, including cities, hills, valleys, rivers, and mountains, with insights into the natural beauty. Moreover, the journey through ancient cave complexes marks a symbol mirroring the spiritual path of enlightenment, a path to awakening.
The Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour in Nepal fascinates and satisfies travelers with utmost peace and history. Nepal is a popular destination for Buddhists all around as the birthplace of Lord Buddha. The land of Lord Buddha undoubtedly has many popular sites and stupas offering amazing Buddhist Pilgrimage Tours. The famous sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites include Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa, Namo Buddha, and the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini.
To set out on a Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour in Nepal is an informative journey with the importance of pilgrimage sites in connecting the rich tapestry of Buddhism. It provides an opportunity to delve into the practices and paths of the enlightened Siddhartha Gautam, who became Buddha and founded Buddhism in the late 6th century. The tour unfolds the spiritual odyssey, indulging pilgrims in the immersive and serene ambiance of the sacred pilgrimages. You can experience the enhanced moments amid the splendid, peaceful surroundings with a quiet contemplation contributing to inner reflection and tranquility.
During the tour, the encounter with practitioners and devoted monks enables you to immerse in the profound Buddhism philosophy. The conversation and interaction foster cultural exchange with an in-depth understanding of the pilgrimage sites. Likewise, you get to know the unwavering dedication of followers to the Buddhist way of life. You can experience the transformative power of spiritual practices by participating in meditation and prayers. Sensory exploration of colors, sounds, and scents resonates with the essence of Buddhist teachings.
The Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour in Nepal is more than a visit to the spiritual and historical sites but an immersive reach to the core of Buddhism. It makes you feel like the importance of a tour is more than an external exploration of the holy sites. It is the internal journey of self-discovery and realization that counts more. The tour is threaded with the teachings of love, compassion, mindfulness, and enlightenment that reflects as a pilgrimage and remain in the memory of the visitors who undertake the journey.
Highlights of the Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour in Nepal
- Visit the birthplace of Lord Gautama Buddha, Lumbini.
- Explore valuable historical sites in Lumbini, like Maya Devi temple, Kudan Stupa, Ashokan Pillar, Pusakarini (sacred rectangular pond), Rummindei Pillar, Niglihawa, Gotihawa, and Sagarhawa.
- The Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour in Nepal is a satisfying journey for a Buddhist or Buddhism admirer while on a historical visit to Lord Buddha’s birthplace, Lumbini, and understanding the cultural and spiritual prospects of the religion.
- Visit the famous monkey temple, Swoyambhunath, and the biggest stupa, Bouddhanath.
- Tour the important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the valley, including Vijayaswori Temple, Rudravarna Mahabihar, Mahabouddha Temple, Golden Temple, Thahabil Bihar, Vajrayogini Temple, Yampi Bihar, White Tara, Aryaavolokoteshor Temple, etc.
- Visit and explore Kashi Shimbhu and the oldest Vajra Yogini Temple.
- At the Buddhist pilgrimage sites, you can get a chance to engage in meditation, prayers, ceremonies, and rituals of the unique and peaceful Buddhist religion.
- Embrace authentic spirituality while experiencing the religious and cultural practices of the country with the origin history of the religion.
- This spiritual journey takes you across the mesmerizing natural beauty of the country while having a tour drive.
- The Buddhist pilgrimage sites are situated in the serene settings of alluring surroundings, heightening the tour experience.
- This exploration of important Buddhist landmarks in pilgrimage sites excels in your understanding of religious values and practices.
Useful Info
Photography Conditions at the Buddhist Pilgrimage Sites
Photographing the Buddhist pilgrimage sites is a wonderful way of capturing the architectural beauty, cultural significance, and spiritual essence. However, be mindful of the rules and regulations mentioned at the photography sites. Some religious landmarks may have a photography prohibition to which you should adhere. Here are the guidelines and considerations for taking pictures during the tour so as not to violate the rules.
Be attentive to signboards: Before capturing the religious sites, first check for the signboards, indicating the photography prohibition. You can ask the counter officials whether or not photography is allowed. In some cases, you are allowed to capture the sites in addition to payment of entrance costs. This extra payment comes as your responsibility if you wish to capture the pilgrimage sites.
Respect for local customs: Prior to capturing the premises, inquire about and understand the local rules and customs for photography. Some sections of the pilgrimage sites are considered sacred/private, with restrictions on photography.
Dressing culture: Dress respectfully and modestly. Some of the pilgrimage sites may require a specific dress code that you need to adhere to.
Permission first: Be mindful and photograph only after getting permission. Don’t click random pictures of people, worshippers, and Buddhist monks. It is important to pay respect to personal privacy and pilgrimage privacy. Avoid disturbing religious practices and maintain peace as much as possible.
Mindful of noise: Buddhist pilgrimage sites mainly encourage a tranquil, quiet, and contemplative environment. So, dont talk in a loud rage and also set the camera in silent mode while capturing the photographs.
No flash: Avoid using flash, as many pilgrimage sites discourage the use of flash photography. Such actions can be disruptive to the worshippers.
Capture the highlights: If permitted to capture, photograph the highlight parts like architectural details, sculptures, and unique artwork that showcase the uniqueness of the pilgrimage sites. Religious symbols, statues, and intricate carvings are important aspects of photography.
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Best Time for Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour in Nepal
The spiritual Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour in Nepal is possible at any time of the year. However, the best experience is always gained at the best time of visit. For a comfortable tour, skipping monsoon can be the best option. The time from June to August leads to heavy downpours, which affects the travel plan. Slippery paths, limited visibility, floods, and landslides dull the tour experience. With a need for sheltering from rain, you cannot have a thorough exploration of the sites, making the journey unpleasing.
Due to chilly weather and temperatures, also the winter tour of pilgrimage sites can be troublesome. You need to wear heavy clothes and cannot open up for the journey. However, the November to February tour is still good and gratifying if you can maintain warmth or enjoy the cold climates. Lumbini, being in the lowland Terai region, can be extremely hot during the peak summertime. If you love hot days, this time favors you, but if you cannot tolerate heat, you can plan your tour during the cooler months. It all depends on your personal preferences on what time you enjoy traveling.
To suggest, the springtime from March to May and autumn from September to November offer promising environments with stable weather and moderate temperature conditions for favorable outdoor exploration. In the natural cycle, these seasons come with pleasant surroundings of enchanting beauties and are best for any kind of travel.
Spring is a blooming season with lush vegetation and vibrant flowers throughout the country. Pilgrimage sites are decorated with colorful flowers this time. Nature regenerates during springtime with new sprouts of leaves and petals. The greenery makes perfect contrast against the color splashes of enchanting blooms. The freshness and lushness of the environment enchant and exhilarate the spiritual journey. May (day 5) is the right time to witness the birthday celebration of the Lord Buddha at his birthplace, Lumbini. Popularly known as the Buddha Jayanti and Buddha Purnima, the celebration of this special day has several other names, such as Vaisakh Purnima, Vesak, etc.
Likewise, autumn coincides with festivities, and the vibrancy adds excitement to the tour of peaceful pilgrimage sites. The festive atmosphere does not let, dull the charm of the magnificent Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour in Nepal, in spite adds up the spirit. Autumn and spring, being the popular traveling seasons, the flow of pilgrims in the pilgrimage sites creates a vibrant atmosphere in the tour. If you wish for quiet exploration, plan a tour during shoulder seasons.
Tips for the Best Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour in Nepal
Setting on the Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour in Nepal is an enriching spiritual experience. Here are some of the best tips to enhance the tour experience.
- Make a list of the pilgrimage sites that you wish to visit and plan your tour accordingly
- Be respectful and adhere to the norms, rules, and regulations of the pilgrimage sites
- Show respect by dressing modestly and removing shoes wherever required
- Buddhist pilgrimage sites hold serenity, so do not let the peace get disturbed
- Be wary of the boards displaying symbols like ‘Do not touch’ or ‘No photography.’
- Seek permission before taking the photographs
- Smoking cigarettes, alcohol consumption, and chewing tobacco during your visit is a disrespectful practice
- Try engaging in the ceremonies and rituals for a deeper understanding of the local Buddhist practices and enhance the spiritual experiences
- Interacting with the local monks offers a glimpse into the historical and spiritual importance of the pilgrimage sites
- Explore thoroughly with serene reflection and contemplation at each site
Outline Itinerary - 8 Days Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour in Nepal
Day 1: Visit the Syombhunath Stupa, Vijayaswori Temple, and Patan [Breakfast]
Day 2: Visit Kathe Swayangu (Kathi Swayambhu), White Tara Temple, and Aryaavolokiteshor Temple. [Breakfast]
Day 3: Visiting Chovar and Pharping [Breakfast]
Day 4: Visit the Halesi at Khotang [Breakfast]
Day 5: Drive Back to Kathmandu [Breakfast]
Day 6: Drive to the Lumbini and Visit Ramgram on the Way [Breakfast]
Day 7: Explore the Lumbini, the Birthplace of Buddha. [Breakfast]
Day 8: Return Back to Kathmandu [Breakfast]
Itinerary
Day 1: Visit the Syombhunath Stupa, Vijayaswori Temple, and Patan
We initiate the Pilgrimage Tour by visiting the major sites of Kathmandu Valley. After having breakfast at the hotel, we head out for the initial exploration of one of the oldest stupas in Nepal, Swoyambhu. Amidst the Kathmandu Valley , Swoyambhu, also known as the Monkey Temple, sits on the top of a small hill. Swyombhunath stupa is the center of Newar Buddhism and carries the exciting tale of the origination of Kathmandu.
Unfolding the story, we find the belief of Swoyambhu Hill being an island to the deep lake of the Kathmandu Valley. This amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nepal is a fascinating start to the Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour in Nepal.
Next, we will move towards the Vijayaswori Temple , which is near to Swoyambhunath stupa. This temple is related to one of the four yogini temples of Kathmandu, where the yoginis are taken as a symbol of Buddhahood. After a delicious lunch, the excursion continues to explore the ancient Newar Buddhism area, Patan. Here, we will visit Rudravarna Mahabihar, Mahabouddha temple, Golden Temple, and Yempi Bihar related to Padmasambhava.
Rudravarna Mahabihar is one of the finest and oldest Bihar of Kathmandu. Built around the 11th century, it displays exceptional art and architecture. Nearby this Bihar is the temple of a thousand Buddha statues named Mahabouddha Temple , built in the 17th century. Another worth visiting in Bihar is the Golden Temple , one of the significant exploration of religious sites. Nearby the Golden Temple, there is Yempi Bihar , a Buddhist site where “terma” was discovered. Terma is Buddhist scripture hidden by Guru Rinpoche. After a fruitful visit to the important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Patan, return to your hotel, enjoy dinner, and take a nice rest.
Day 2: Visit Kashi Shimbhu, White Tara Temple, and Aryaavolokiteshor Temple.
The second day of the tour takes you to significant Buddhist pilgrimage sites like Kashi Shimbhu, White Tara Temple, and Aryaavolokiteshor Temples of the Valley. In the morning, have a nice breakfast and visit Kashi Shimbhu, which is called Shreegha in the local language. Shreegha was built by Vakvajra Vajracharya, one of the four prominent Vajracharya of Newar Buddhism.
After exploring Kashi Shibhu, we go for the next visit to White Tara and Arya Avolokiteshor Temples. These famous Newari Buddhist temples are taken as talking Tara and Bodhisattva. After a lunch break, we continue our further visit to Bouddha Khasti, where you get to explore the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal, Boudhanath Stupa, related to Padmasambhava.
Next, we will drive towards the final destination of the day, Sakhu , one of the oldest settlements of Kathmandu Valley. This place was once used by prominent Tibetan Masters like Milarepa for meditation retreats. Sakhu has one of the oldest Vajrayogini Temples , which is worth exploring. As such, the second day of the tour concludes, and in the evening, have a nice stay at the hotel, savoring the delicious dinner.
Day 3: Visiting Chovar and Pharping
Similar to the previous day’s travel, have breakfast and get ready to set out for this day’s exploration of the splendid spiritual and religious landmarks in the Valley. Initially, we will visit Chovar to explore the Anandadi Lokeshor. Anandadi Lokeshor is one of the four major Bodhisattvas/Lokeshor Temples in the Kathmandu Valley. Lokeshwars is a deity regarded as one of four Matsyendranaths. Constructed in the 15th century, this temple was again reconstructed around 1640. Worshippers visit the temple to hang utensils on behalf of their loved ones, wishing for well-being and prosperity.
The second visit on this day’s excursion is Pharping , where Guru Rinpoche got enlightenment. It is said that one of the great masters (Buddhist gurus), Phantimpha, stayed here around 11 th century and built the Vajrayogini Temple. Today, it is considered one of the major power places around Kathmandu Valley.
After enjoying the afternoon lunch, you will be visiting the Thahabil Bihar , where we will have a brief introduction to Pragyaparamita. You can have a golden opportunity to witness and explore the 400-year-old handwritten book with golden ink. During the 10th century, in the very place of Bihar, guru Atisha Dipankar Shreegyan stayed for about a year. The exploration of Thahabil Bihar concludes today’s day of the journey, so you can return back to your hotel to rest and relax.
Day 4: Visit the Halesi at Khotang
This day, have breakfast at the hotel and embark on a drive out of the Kathmandu Valley for an overland tour to Maratika. Heading east on the BP Highway, passing Dhulikhel and Bradibas, the road takes towards Maratika, Khotang. Covering a distance of around 360 kilometers/224 miles, it takes about 9-10 hours to reach Maratika (Locally, the place is called Halesi ).
Maratika Cave is a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists, associated with Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche). Guru here got the siddhi of Aparamitayus' longevity. This cave is also known as Halesi Mahadev Cave , with a diving quality that the pilgrims are blessed with the fulfillment of their wishes. Have a last-minute visit to this miraculous cave, and in the evening, have an enjoyable dinner time and rest in the hotel at Halesi.
Day 5: Drive Back to Kathmandu
After having breakfast at the hotel in Halesi, we will head back to Kathmandu with a scenic drive. You will enjoy a picturesque journey on this day of the Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour, traveling in a comfy vehicle. A day of driving is fulfilled by crossing the enchanted deep forested areas, passing several charming local villages, and navigating the magnificent rivers and rivulets. The marvelous journey on the winding roads of hills and valleys finally reaches you back in Kathmandu, a place from where you started.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. Time permitting, you can enjoy the rest of the day with quality time strolling around the city streets and busy markets of the Kathmandu Valley. Get back to the hotel for a peaceful evening and delectable dinner. Relish the hotel stay reflecting on a so far journey.
Day 6: Drive to the Lumbini and Visit Ramgram on the Way
On this day, you will visit the birthplace of the Lord Gautam Buddha, Lumbini. This day of your tour can provide you with a different journey experience of sheer wonder and excitement. After breakfast, we will embark on a glorious drive to Lumbini through the Siddhartha Highway (Mahendra Highway).
On the way, after driving approximately 200 kilometers , we make a quick stop to visit and witness the Ramgram Stupa. Ramgram, in Nawalparasi district, is the only remaining stupa containing Buddha relics among the total 8 stupas. Visiting the ancient Ramgram Stupa in a peaceful setting of the Jharahi River, with historical and cultural significance, can be an enriching experience for your journey.
After the Ramgram exploration, the drive resumes to reach Lumbini. After the 8-9 hours of long scenic drive, we will cover the significant distance of approximately 290 kilometers/180 miles to reach Lumbini from Kathmandu. On this day, we do not have any time left for the exploration of the Lumbini, so setting the excitement aside for tomorrow, it's time for the rest. Upon reaching the destination, with several accommodation options like guesthouses, hotels, and lodges, check in your place of stay, savor the dinner, and have a good nap overnight to start fresh on the next day’s tour.
Day 7: Explore the Lumbini, the Birthplace of Buddha.
Lumbini is the biggest and most significant attraction of the Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour in Nepal. The tour holds the spiritual and historical importance of the Buddhist origin and religion. On this day, the Lumbini excursion enables you to explore valuable landmarks of the Buddha’s birthplace. Here, you can also explore several temples and monasteries, which are named after different countries, like the Korean Temple, Myanmar Golden Temple, Sri Lankan Monastery, China Temple, Royal Thai Monastery, Vietnam Phat Quoc Tu Temple, etc.
After an initial breakfast, we will take you to visit Kudan. Kundan Stupa is the place where Siddhartha Gautam visited his parents after getting enlightenment or being Buddha. The tour then leads to Kapilvastu, where Siddhartha Gautam had spent the early 29 years of his life. Fascinated by this spiritual exploration, the journey moves forward to witness and understand the significance of Niglihawa, Gotihawa, and Sagarhawa. The Ashokan Pillar of the Niglihawa claims the place to be the birthplace of Kanakmuni Buddha. Likewise, the Ashokan Pillar at Gotihawa marks the birth of Krakuchchhanda Budhha. Then again, Sagarhawa is a place with a history of the terrible massacre of Shakyas during the lifetime of Buddha.
Visit the Maya Devi Temple, an important focal point of Lumbini. It is the exact spot where Queen Maya Devi is said to have given birth to the Lord Gautam Buddha. This day of the Lumbini tour comes to an end, and exhausted you, can rest in your hotel.
Day 8: Return Back to Kathmandu
After the final visit to Lumbini, we will take you back to Kathmandu on an exhilarating drive journey. Have breakfast at the hotel and join the drive that follows the same route back to Kathmandu. There’s a plan for rest stops along the way, so take time for refreshment and stretch your legs. Passing through the diverse landscapes and covering the same distance at maybe the same or different duration, we arrive at Kathmandu.
After your arrival, return to the hotel, have dinner and rest the rest of the time. You can reflect and evaluate the Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour experiences.
Cost Includes
- Accommodation in Kathmandu and Lumbini at 3 star level hotel and normal guest house in Halesi.
- An experienced licensed holder Tour Guide.
- Private vehicle during the tour.
- Kathmandu-Bhairahawa-Kathmandu flight ticket.
- Tour around Lumbini, Ramgram, Tilaurakot and Kudam.
- All monuments fees.
- Food, accommodation, salary and transportation for the guide and driver.
- Services as per itinerary.
- All local and government taxes.
Cost Excludes
- International flight, visa cost, personal travel insurance.
- Lunch, dinner, Drinks (soft and hard) during the tour, tips.
- Any expense of personal nature.
- Tips for guides or other staffs.
- Extra activities ( Mountain Flight, Helicopter tour)
- Cost raised because of weather, Natural disasters, political issues and traveler's personal reason.
Booking
Reviews
Good experience in Buthan tour
I joined the tour of Buthan for 3 nights. Although the price is high because I am in a solo trip, the quality is good! Buthan is the cleanest country in the world! You don’t need to worry about anything just be happy and excited to join the tour! I just went for 3nights-tour, but I did visit Paro, Thimpu, Punakha ! Although not every sighting sites that would visit, the important sites would not miss! This is my second time join the tour in this travel agency, and I was satiated with it every time ! They will handle everything well.
Amazing treking and very helpful s ta f f.
We finished 20 days ACt trekking it was amaging . The great adventure treks and expedition is really great. The owner is amazing ，He can speak Chinese very perfectly ， He is very kind and polite . First I want to thanks him for amaging this trekking. The guide and potter they are very kind helpful. In 20 days they care us like family member. I will definetly come here next time to finish EBC. I am really excited for that.
Amazing trips in Nepal 🤩
It was our first time in Nepal, and we spent 7 wonderful days visiting Kathmandu and Pokhara. Sudam was an excellent guide — professional, friendly, and very thoughtful. He introduced us to local restaurants and unique spots, making the trip more authentic. Thanks to him, we enjoyed not only the amazing scenery but also the local lifestyle. Unforgettable memories! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
it was fantastic trip in Nepal, we enjoyed ,thanks for all
Çok güzeldi. Yapabileceğimiz her şeyi yaptık. Bize çok yardımcı oldular. Kesinlikle öneririm.
Very nice 😍😍😍 The tour guide is very nice and considerate.
