BUDDHIST CIRCUIT TOURIST TRAIN

Tour details

The Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train offers a profound spiritual journey to some of the holiest destinations associated with Lord Buddha’s life. This 8-day pilgrimage, covering key sites such as Bodhgaya, Sarnath, Kushinagar, and Lumbini, allows travelers to immerse themselves in the sacred landscape where the Buddha was born, attained enlightenment, preached his first sermon, and ultimately achieved Nirvana. The tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the profound history and philosophy of Buddhism while enjoying modern comforts aboard one of India’s most unique and culturally rich trains.

As the birthplace of Buddhism, India holds the rich legacy of Lord Buddha’s life, with each destination on this Buddhist circuit representing a significant milestone in his journey to enlightenment. The Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train ensures that every pilgrim and traveler is able to visit these sacred sites with ease and comfort. From the serenity of Bodhgaya, where Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, to the spiritual ambiance of Sarnath, where he delivered his first sermon, this well-curated itinerary encapsulates the essence of Buddha’s teachings and their impact on the world.

The Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train offers a luxurious and comfortable ride, with modern amenities designed to complement the spiritual aspect of the journey. With multiple accommodation options, including First AC and AC 2-tier cabins, the train ensures a comfortable and rejuvenating journey. Enjoy sumptuous meals onboard, well-maintained facilities, and insightful cultural and religious experiences as you travel through the spiritual heartland of India. Whether you're a Buddhist pilgrim or a traveler seeking spiritual enlightenment, this immersive experience promises to be life-changing and memorable.

Destinations covered

• Delhi – Delhi, the vibrant capital of India, is a fusion of historical significance and modern splendor. As the gateway to the Buddhist Circuit, Delhi is a city that offers rich historical landmarks, including India Gate, Qutub Minar, and Lotus Temple. For Buddhist pilgrims, Delhi holds special importance as the starting point of the Mahaparinirvan Express, leading travelers on a spiritual journey to sacred destinations like Bodhgaya, Lumbini, and more. With its blend of ancient history and modern-day energy, Delhi offers a dynamic beginning to this sacred pilgrimage.
• Gaya – Located in the eastern state of Bihar, Gaya is one of the most revered cities in Buddhist history. It is home to Bodhgaya, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. Gaya is not only significant for Buddhist pilgrims but also boasts of rich Hindu traditions, being one of the major sites for Pind Daan rituals. The city offers a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and spiritual rejuvenation, making it a must-visit destination on the Buddhist Circuit Tour.
• Bodhgaya – Bodhgaya is the epicenter of Buddhism, where Lord Buddha achieved enlightenment. Revered as one of the holiest Buddhist pilgrimage sites, the Mahabodhi Temple stands at the spot where Buddha meditated under the Bodhi Tree. This UNESCO World Heritage site draws thousands of pilgrims from around the globe, seeking spiritual solace and wisdom. A visit to Bodhgaya offers an immersive experience into Buddhist culture, history, and spiritual practices, making it a pivotal stop on the Buddhist Circuit Tour.
• Nalanda – A UNESCO World Heritage site, Nalanda was once one of the greatest ancient centers of learning in the world. Home to the renowned Nalanda University, which attracted scholars from across Asia, Nalanda represents the zenith of ancient Buddhist education. The ruins of the university, along with the Nalanda Museum, provide an insightful look into the intellectual vibrancy that once thrived in this region. As part of the Buddhist Circuit, Nalanda offers a glimpse into Buddhism’s rich academic legacy.
• Rajgir – Located in the scenic hills of Bihar, Rajgir is a key site in the Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu traditions. This tranquil town was a favorite retreat for Lord Buddha, who spent a considerable amount of time here meditating and delivering sermons. Key highlights include the Bimbisara Jail, Venuvana, and the Gridhakuta Hill, where Buddha delivered the famous Lotus Sutra. The serene surroundings make Rajgir an ideal place for spiritual introspection.
• Varanasi – Known as the spiritual capital of India, Varanasi is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It is an iconic pilgrimage destination for Hindus and Buddhists alike. Varanasi is renowned for its Ghats along the Ganges River, where pilgrims perform sacred rituals. In addition to its spiritual significance, Varanasi is a place of profound learning and culture. The Buddhist Circuit journey takes you to Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon, linking Varanasi to both ancient and modern Buddhist traditions.
• Sarnath – Just a short distance from Varanasi, Sarnath is one of the most important Buddhist sites in India. It was here that Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment at Bodhgaya. The site features the Dhamekh Stupa, Mulgandha Kuti Vihar, and the Sarnath Museum, where relics of ancient Buddhist art and sculptures can be found. Sarnath serves as a reminder of the Buddha’s teachings on the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, offering a profound experience for those on the Buddhist pilgrimage.
• Nautanwa – Nautanwa is a significant border town, situated close to Lumbini in Nepal, where Buddha was born. The town serves as the entry point to Nepal for pilgrims traveling on the Buddhist Circuit. Its proximity to Lumbini makes it an essential stop for those wishing to visit the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Nautanwa reflects the region's spiritual and cultural importance and serves as a transition from India to Nepal for the continuing Buddhist pilgrimage.
• Lumbini – Lumbini, located in Nepal, is the birthplace of Lord Buddha and one of the most sacred sites in Buddhism. Visitors can explore the Maya Devi Temple, where the Buddha was born, along with the Ashoka Pillar and the peaceful Lumbini Garden. As part of the Buddhist Circuit, Lumbini offers pilgrims a profound connection to the origins of Buddhism and a chance to meditate in the serene surroundings where the Buddha began his journey towards enlightenment.
• Kushinagar – Kushinagar is the site where Lord Buddha attained Parinirvana, the final stage of nirvana after his death. It is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in India. The Mahaparinirvana Temple and Rambhar Stupa mark the spot where the Buddha passed away, and pilgrims often visit to pay their respects. The tranquil atmosphere in Kushinagar makes it a fitting destination for those seeking a deeper understanding of Buddha’s life and teachings.
• Gorakhpur – Situated in the heart of Uttar Pradesh, Gorakhpur is the gateway to Kushinagar. While the city is more famous for its historical and religious significance in Hinduism, it serves as an important transit hub for Buddhist pilgrims traveling to Kushinagar. It is a major center for travelers, providing essential services and accommodations for those on their way to Kushinagar or other Buddhist destinations.
• Balrampur – Balrampur, a quaint town in Uttar Pradesh, lies close to Sravasti, one of the Buddha's prominent places of residence during his life. Sravasti was the site where Buddha performed several miracles and spent 24 rainy seasons. Balrampur serves as the base for travelers heading to Sravasti, making it a significant point on the Buddhist Circuit. It offers pilgrims a peaceful setting to reflect on Buddha’s teachings before heading to Sravasti to witness its historical and spiritual sites.
• Sravasti – Located in Uttar Pradesh, Sravasti is one of the holiest cities in Buddhism. It was here that Buddha performed numerous miracles and preached extensively to his disciples. Notable sites include the Jetavana Vihara, Pakki Kuti, and Sehat Mahet, which mark places where Buddha spent a significant portion of his life. As part of the Buddhist Circuit, Sravasti provides an enriching experience for pilgrims seeking to walk in the footsteps of Buddha.
• Agra – Agra, home to the Taj Mahal, is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through India. While Agra is primarily famous for its Mughal architecture, especially the Taj Mahal, the city is also an important cultural center for pilgrims exploring Buddhist sites. The stunning beauty of the Taj Mahal adds an extra layer of awe to the final leg of the Buddhist Circuit Tour, offering travelers a glimpse of India’s rich history and cultural heritage.