Covering nine renowned destinations across India and Nepal, the IRCTC’s Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train’s tour offers a divine experience spread over eight days and seven nights. While most tourists think that the Buddhist circuit map includes only places of religious import, it goes beyond religion and spirituality when undertaken aboard The Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train. Although this train was initiated to cater to the needs of pilgrims, it is a unique tourist train that captures the essence of each destination beautifully. Giving tourists a chance to undertake a soothing vacation, this single tour combines the best of religion and leisure. Here’s a look at all the destinations covered by The Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train and the enriching experience it offers.
Bodhgaya – Rajgir – Nalanda – Sarnath – Varanasi – Lumbini – Kushinagar – Sravasti – Agra
- Religion: Religion is undoubtedly a prominent aspect of this journey and the itinerary is filled with famous Buddhist temples and sacred monasteries. Some of the religious places included in the Buddhist circuit tour package that are revered by Buddhists include Dhamekh Stupa and Mulgandha Kuti Vihar in Sarnath, Maya Devi Temple in Lumbini, Mahaparinirvan Temple, Rambhar Stupa and Mata Kutir Temple in Kushinagar, Jetvana Vihara, Pakki Kuti and Sehat Mahet in Sravasti among others.
- History: The history of Buddhism dates back to the 6th century BCE as Lord Buddha’s teachings became the foundation of this new faith. While walking in the footsteps of Lord Buddha, travellers get a chance to unravel the fascinating history of this religion that is 2500 years old by visiting its significant sites. While some of these destinations are now in ruins, others have well-preserved remains that are sure to pique the interest of every historian. Destinations like the Nalanda University, Nalanda Museum and Ashokan Pillar highlight the historic aspect of this holistic journey.
- Culture: Buddhism arose in ancient Northeastern India during a period of great social change and intense religious fervour.. As Buddhism slowly expanded, its cultural elements manifested in various forms such as Buddhist art, architecture, music, traditions etc. While Buddhist thought focuses less on rituals and ancient practices and more on basic principles that are a guide to live a more balanced life, there are cultural motifs, symbols and imagery that can be observed at these Buddhist sites. Several structures such as the Mahabodhi Temple complex in Bodhgaya, the Dhamek Stupa in Sarnath, the Nalanda University, the Mahaparinirvana Temple in Kushinagar and Sahet Mahet in Sravasti are considered to be classic examples of Buddhist architecture in India.
- Heritage: The Buddhist circuit in India and Nepal is peppered with several UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Mahabodhi Temple complex in Bodhgaya, the archaeological site of Nalanda Mahavihara at Nalanda, Lumbini and the brilliant Taj Mahal in Agra among others. These destinations are places of historic import and are truly remarkable. hence, must be preserved and appreciated.
Special Promo Offer for Select Journeys
Trail the Buddhist Circuit in India in style at a never before price! Book a journey for any of these seven departure dates and avail an exciting offer.
Buddhist circuit tour package price & offer when you book directly/online:
PAY FOR ONE AND YOUR COMPANION PAYS 50%* ONLY
| 24th October’2020 | 16th January’2021 |
| 21st November’2020 | 13th February’2021 |
| 19th December’2020 | 27th February’2021 |
| 13th March’2021 |
Please note that this offer is available exclusively for Indian Nationals including NRI, PIO and OCI and is subject to availability of births. Don’t let this opportunity slide and enjoy a serene vacation while traversing the Buddhist Circuit in India. You can complete the booking for this unsurpassed journey in the footsteps of Lord Buddha by clicking here.