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Special Buddhist Tour in Nepal - 7 Days

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Trip Facts
Duration
7 Days
Trip Grade
Easy
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
1750 meters
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Tour, Sightseeing
Best Time
Spring and Autumn

Special Buddhist Tour in Nepal is an enchanting journey of a lifetime that takes you on a tranquil and spiritual exploration of this serene country nestled in the heart of the Himalayas. Not only this spiritual country is a phenomenon for its unparalleled natural beauty, but it also a cradle of the ancient Buddhist traditions that have spread all around the world over the centuries.

This week-long trip aims to immerse you in the ambiance of Buddhist spirituality exploring the world-renowned landmarks that share the true essence of the religion and tell the origin stories about this fascinating religion. The Buddhist pilgrimage tour in Nepal is a wonderful opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of the Buddhist culture , as every single on of the sites you visit holds a profound significance in the spiritual path of the religion.

This tour also offers you the opportunity to witness the interfaith harmony in the country; you will see the magnificent coexistence of Buddhism, Hinduism, and other belief systems during this special Buddhist Tour in Nepal. Your journey will take you across the majestic landscapes of the country as you unravel the hidden spiritual treasures in the folds of the charming mountains and lush green valleys.

Highlights of Special Buddhist Tour in Nepal

  • Exploration of the birthplace of Gautama Buddha- Lumbini
  • Visit to the popular religious landmarks that share the story of the Kathmandu Valley origin: Swoyambhu Temple and Lashapako
  • Visit to the popular Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Kathmandu, like Mahabihar Temple, Mahabouddha Temple, Golden Temple, Anandadi Lokeshor, Vajrayogini Temple, Aryaavolokoteshor Temple, etc
  • Exploring the popular sites in the birthplace of Buddha, like Maya Devi temple, Devdaha, World Peace Pagoda, Kudan Stupa, Ashokan Pillar, Niglihawa, Gotihawa, and Sagarhawa
  • Opportunity to participate in mediation, prayers, and rituals
  • An authentic cultural experience of the country from where Buddhism originated
  • Rich culture, traditions, and diversity of the country, unity in diversity
  • Stunning natural beauty of the country, from the lush deep valleys and high hills to the pristine alpine regions

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Special Buddhist Tour in Nepal - 7 Days Outline Itinerary

Special Buddhist Tour in Nepal - 7 Days Itinerary: Day‑by‑Day Details

Day 1

Visit to Swoyambhu Temple and Vijayaswori

After breakfast, you will visit some of the major religious Buddhist sites in Kathmandu. During the first part, you will visit one of the oldest stupas in Nepal, Swoyambhu, which is located atop a hill in the Kathmandu Valley.

‘Swoyambhu’ in Sanskrit can be translated to self-manifested. It is believed that the Kathmandu Valley once was a deep lake, and the Swoyambhu Hill existed as an island before the creation of the valley. After exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site , Swoyambhu Temple, you will then head toward the Vijayaswari Temple, which is located near Swoyambhu.

Then, after having lunch, you will continue with the second part of this day’s adventure and head to the core area of the Newar Buddhism community, Patan. During your excursion to Patan, you will visit some of the most significant religious sites in the area, like Rudravarna Mahabihar Temple , Mahabouddha Temple , and Golden Temple , Yempi Bihar , which is related to Padmasambhava.

The Rudravarna Mahabihar Temple is another significant exploration in th second part of the day’s excursion. This temple site was built in the 11th century and is one of the finest bihar in the Kathmandu valley in terms of architecture. The Mahabouddha Temple is also an incredible marvel and was built in the 17th century.

Similarly, the Yempi Bihar is a major Buddhist site where the ‘ terma ’ was discovered, a Buddhist sculpture that was hidden by Guru Rinpoche. Then, after completing your exploration of the significant Buddhist sites in Patan, you will return back to your hotel for a rest.

Day 2

Exploring Chovar and Pharping

Like yesterday’s exploration, you will explore some other incredible religious landmarks in Kathmandu after breakfast. The first stop on this day’s excursion is Chovar, where Anandadi Lokeshor is located; this is one of the four major Lokeshor Temples in the Kathmandu Valley. Then, from here, you will head toward Pharping, the place where Guru Rinpoche got his enlightenment.

One of the great Buddhist gurus, Phantimpha , is believed to have stayed here and built the Vajrayogini Temple in the 11th Century. Then, after lunch, you will set out on the excursion of the Bouddha (Khasti) and Sakhu , which houses the largest Buddhist stupa in the country.

Sakhu is one of the oldest settlements in the Kathmandu Valley, and the Buddhist stupa in this city is related to the Padmasambhava. Sakhu also consists of one of the oldest Vajrayogini Temples, and it is believed that the prominent Tibetan master Marepa meditated here for some time. After concluding your exploration here, you will then head back to your hotel for rest.

Day 3

Visit to Mahakal Temple and Chandamaharoshan Temple

After breakfast, you will head to some other major Buddhist landmarks in the Kathmandu Valley. During the first of the excursion, you will visit th Mahakal Temple and Chandamaharoshan Temple. These temples are referred to dharmapal and bodhisattva, respectively, and signify reaching the higher level. People who are going through hardships visit these temples, and it is believed that prayer here will eliminate any kind of hardship in life.

Then, after having lunch, during the second part of this day’s excursion, you will visit Namoubouddha and Lashapako. Namobouddha is a significant landmark in the Buddhist religion where it is believed that Bodhisattva sacrificed his body to feed a tigress and her five hungry cubs during his previous life.

Similarly, Lashapako, relatable to Swoyambhu, is a major landmark that is believed to share a story with the origin of the Kathmandu Valley. Manjushree Bodhisattva , the founder of the Kathmandu Valley , who came from China, stayed at Lashapako for the first time. It is believed that the Buddhist guru Milarepa also briefly meditated here for some time. You will conclude this day’s exploration here at Lashapako and return back to your hotel for rest.

Day 4

Kathmandu to Lumbini drive

This day’s exploration is slightly different from the previous day’s excursion. Today, after breakfast, you will drive to Lumbini, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha. Along the way, you will also visit the Ramgram Stupa in the Parsai district. This is the only remaining stupa among the 8 stupas that contain Buddha relics.

The driving distance from Kathmandu to Lumbini is about 300 km (186 miles) , and it will take about 7-9 hours for you to reach your destination on this day. After arriving at your destination, you will check in your hotels and rest for the night. The exploration of the birthplace of Buddha will begin tomorrow.

Day 5

Exploration of Lumbini

After breakfast, you will start your sightseeing at Lumbini and explore some of the significant landmarks of this birthplace of Buddha. During the first part of this day’s exploration, you will visit the Kudan Stupa , the place where Buddha visited his father and mother after achieving enlightenment. Then, the exploration up ahead in your schedule will take you to Kapilvastu ; here, Buddha spent 29 years of his early life.

Moving further with this spiritual exploration, you will then explore other highlights of the region, like Niglihawa , Gotihawa , and Sagarhawa. In Niglihawa, there is an Ashokan Pillar, which states that this is the birthplace of the Kanakmuni Buddha. Similarly, Gotihawa also has an Ashokan Pillar that states the birth of the Krakuchchhanda Buddha. On the other hand, Sagarhawa shared a tragic history, and this is where the massacre of Shakyas took place during the lifetime of Buddha.

Then, after completing the sightseeing at Lumbini, you will return to your hotel for resting.

Day 6

Drive back to Kathmandu

This day’s adventure in your special Buddhist tour in Nepal will include mostly driving. After breakfast, you will drive back to Kathmandu across the charming forested trails, crusading rivers- waterfalls and beautiful settlements along the way.

After arriving in Kathmandu, you will then be swiftly transferred back to your hotel. You can spend the rest of the day strolling around the beautiful city before returning back to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 7

Visiting Kashi Shimbhu, Aryaavalokiteshor Temple, and Thahabil Bihar

On this final sightseeing and exploration of your package, you will visit some of the remaining Buddhist religious sites in the Kathmandu Valley. After breakfast, you will head toward Kashi Shimbhu, which natives also refer to as ‘ Shreegha.’ This stupa was built by one of the four prominent Vajracharya of the Newar Buddhism.

You will also visit White Tara Temple and Aryaavolokiteshor Temple on this day’s exploration. These two temples are famous temples in the Newari Buddhism and are referred to as talking Tara and Bodhisattva. Then, after having lunch, you will continue with further sightseeing destinations in the valley and head toward Thahabil Bihar.

At the Thahabil Bihar, you will have a brief introduction to the Pragyaparamita and will also have the opportunity to witness the 400-year-old handwritten book with golden ink. This is also the same Bihar where guru Atisha Dipankar Shreegyan stayed for about a year during the 10th century.

Trip Cost Details

Includes

  • Pickup from the airport and drop off at the hotel.
  • Accommodation at Kathmandu 3 3-star level hotel.
  • An experienced licensed Tour Guide.
  • Private transport for the Kathmandu tour
  • All monument fees.
  • Kathmandu to Bhairawa flight tickets. (30 min )
  • Pickup from Bhairawa airport and drive to Lumbini (30 min )
  • Accommodation in Lumbini with breakfast.
  • Lumbini, Tilaurakot, and Kudan private tour.
  • Lumbini Hotel to the airport drop
  • Lumbini to Kathmandu flight ticket
  • Services as per itinerary.
  • All local and government taxes.
  • Airport departure

Excludes

  • Lunch and dinner
  • Soft and hard drinks
  • Your travel insurance
  • International flight and visa cost.
  • Any expense of personal nature
  • Tips for guides or other staffs.

Private Trip

Essential Information

Best Time for Tour

The special Buddhist Tour in Nepal is a spiritual journey that you can take during any month throughout the year. But to enjoy a comfortable experience, it would be best to avoid the monsoon season (June to August). It can be slightly chilly during the winter season (November to February), but if you wear proper layers, the exploration still can be gratifying.

On the other hand, both spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) have overall pleasing weather conditions. Both of these seasons are known for their warm and stable weather conditions and the beautiful phase in the circle of nature.

Spring welcomes lush greenery and blooming flowers all over the country. So, during your spiritual exploration, the lushness of the surrounding region will certainly make the journey content and enthralling. As for the autumn, the festive vibrance makes the exploration even more tranquil and serene.

If you want to set the tour to experience how the birthplace of Buddha celebrates his birthday, you can visit Nepal during May. This spiritual country celebrates the birthday of Buddha on 5th May. This special day is also known by many names like Buddha Purnima, Buddha Jayanti, Vaisakh Purnima, Vesak, and Saga Dawa.

What Can You Expect From a Special Buddhist Tour in Nepal?

Doing the special Buddhist tour in Nepal is an excellent way to understand the foundation of Buddhism, its teachings, and its authentic culture to a deeper extent. This exploration of significant Buddhist sites in the birthplace of the Buddha heightens the understanding and significance of the religion as you have first-hand experience with the landmarks that tell the tales from the very beginning.

  • Significant Buddhist Sites: As the birthplace of Buddha, there is no doubt that Nepal houses some of the major Buddhist sites in the world. This exciting spiritual journey will take you across all of these magnificent sites in the country. Some of the most prominent landmarks this tour will explore are the birthplace of Buddha- Lumbini, Swoyambhu Temple ‘Monkey Temple’, Mahabouddha Temple, Anandadi Lokeshor, Namoubouddha, Lashapako, Kudan Stupa etc
  • Authentic Buddhist Practices and Teachings: Buddhism is the second-largest religion in Nepal; about 2% of the people follow this religion. During the tour, you will explore landmarks with authentic historical significance that showcase the practices and teachings that led to the development of Buddhist religion all over the world. This trip will also provide you with a glimpse into the history of Buddhism and the codes of the religion from the exploration of the authentic ancient caves, artifacts, and sculptures in the country.
  • Unique Diversity: What makes this tour special is the way spiritual diversity in the country has found a way to co-exist together. Nepal is the only country where you will find significant religious landmarks of different religions existing together. You will find Hindu temples and Buddhist Monasteries in a single site in this country. The majority of the population in Nepal is Hindu, which, according to demographic data, is about 19%. As Buddha is considered the Ninth Avatar of Vishnu in the Hindu religion, the Buddhist sites also have great significance in Hinduism. So, you will see worshippers of both religions as well as temples and monasteries at a single during your exploration.
  • Spiritual retreats: During your special Buddhist tour in Nepal, you will also have the opportunity to take part in meditation and prayers at the religious sites. The visitors are also given the opportunity to embrace the true spirituality of this peaceful religion and run different meditation programs for the visitors. The lessons are designed for practitioners of all levels so nobody feels left out. You can engage yourself in these silent retreats, prayers, and meditation sessions to heighten the experience of your spiritual journey.
  • Cultural Experience: If you are a Buddhist or an enthusiast of the religion, you definitely want to understand the cultural prospects of this birthplace of Buddha and how it embraces the religion. During this trip, you will have tons of opportunities to partake in the local ceremonies, rituals, and festivals that show how significant it is in the day-to-day life of the populace. The fusion of the religion with Nepali customs makes the journey even more exciting.
  • Astonishing Natural Beauty: It is a known fact that the beauty of this Himalayan country is unparalleled thanks to its alluring diverse landscape that comprises flat lowlands, lush hills, and alpine Himalayas. During this spiritual journey, you will also come across the serene and astonishing natural beauty of the country, which will add tranquility to the experience. The Buddhist landmarks at the hilltops of the lush valleys, surrounded by lush forested trails and with picturesque views of the Himalayan vistas, will also give you a peek into the true essence of the magnificent mother nature during your journey.

Is the Special Buddhist Tour in Nepal Suitable for You?

This exciting and spiritual journey to the popular landmarks in the home of Buddha is an incredible opportunity to experience the core of Buddhism. At the same time, it is also a spiritual journey and cultural exploration if you are looking for a spiritual awakening or to deepen your understanding of this fascinating- peaceful religion.

It’s an easy-grade exploration where you will be transported to all the destinations via road transport. However, as you have to do some short hikes to reach the sites in your itinerary plan, you should consider the physical demands of the adventure as well. However, they are still nothing like demanding trekking trails, and you can take some short breaks along the route.

Special Buddhist Tour in Nepal is a week-long journey, so if you are considering this trip, it should check out with your time schedule as well. You also should have tolerance for different cultural practices as Nepal is the country where Buddhism originated; from the Newar community, the rituals, ceremonies, and practices may differ from other corners of the world. Lastly, you should be able to appreciate the interfaith perspective. During this trip, you will closely observe, the Buddhism religion coexisting with other religions in the country.Cultural Etiquette and Respectful Way to Travel

Cultural Etiquette and a Respectful Way to Travel

Taking part in this spiritual journey doesn’t only involve the exploration of the sacred sites of the region. You will also come across different practices, cultures, and traditions during your trip, so you should adhere to a respectful way of travel.

You should show respect to monks and nuns and try not to disrupt anyone’s meditation during your exploration. Clothing attire is also a crucial factor in this exploration; as you will visit sacred destinations that are all about peace and spirituality, you should dress appropriately.

Almost every religious site in the country requires shoe removal before entering due to their scarcity. So, follow all the local traditions and norms so you don’t offend anyone. Even while participating in the ritual prayers and ceremonies, follow the leads of the locals and other practitioners and try not to interrupt. And finally, embrace the difference rather than criticizing anything that you might come across that is different from the traditions in your home country.

Can You Take Pictures of the Buddhist Sites in Nepal?

When doing the special Buddhist tour in Nepal, you should be mindful of the rules and regulations at the sites for photography. Some religious landmarks in the country have prohibited sections for photography. Meanwhile, others allow guests to take pictures of the sites.

You can follow these guidelines to take pictures during the tour so that you don’t violate any rules or hurt anyone’s sentiments.

  • Look for Signboards: After reaching the religious sites, you should first check for any kind of signs that indicate the restriction of photography at the site. You can also visit the counter office or ask officials if it’s okay to take photographs or not. At some sites, you will have to pay extra for the photography; your package only covers the cost of entrance.
  • Respect Scared Sections and Rituals: At some of the religious landmarks, photography is off-limits during certain periods ( during rituals) and at the sacred sections. You should be mindful of these things and try not to offend anyone.
  • Be Considerate: The places you visit during your tour have significant religious values, so you will come across a large number of visitors. Avoid considering any kind of disturbance to them and practice non-intrusive photography.

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Some Helpful Tips for Tour

  • Do a thorough research about the sites that you are about to visit beforehand
  • Always respect local cultural traditions and norms
  • Refrain from any kind of loud conservation or disruptive behavior; Buddhist sites are all about serenity and reverence
  • Be aware of your surroundings and do not touch any prohibited item
  • Learn basic phrases in Nepali for positive interaction
  • While giving gifts and donations, do it with both hands or right hand
  • Follow responsible tourism practices
  • Don’t consume alcohol during your visit, and avoid drinking in front of shrines and temples; it is considered disrespectful
  • Avoid cigarettes and tobacco as well
  • Always stick to the rules and regulations mentioned at the sites before entry
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