Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is a holy city located on the banks of the Ganges river in Uttar Pradesh, India. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and is considered to be the spiritual capital of India. For those seeking a spiritual journey, Varanasi is the perfect destination, and what better way to explore this age-old city than on the beloved Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train by IRCTC.
The Buddhist tour in India offers a unique opportunity to explore India’s rich cultural heritage, ancient traditions and awe-inspiring culture while visiting all the places associated with Lord Buddha. The train takes devotees on a spiritual journey to some of the most important Buddhist sites in the region, including Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. This site is an essential pilgrimage destination for Buddhists from all over the world.
Beginning from Delhi, the train covers religious sites in Sarnath, Bodhgaya, Nalanda, Rajgir, and Nalanda, Kushinagar and Sravasti, before returning to Delhi. The package is designed to provide travellers with an immersive experience of Buddhist heritage and spirituality.
Undoubtedly, Sarnath is a significant destination of the Buddhist tour, where visitors can witness the Dhamek Stupa, which is believed to mark the spot where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. The stupa is surrounded by beautiful gardens, and visitors can explore the Sarnath Museum, which houses a collection of Buddhist artefacts dating back to the 3rd century BCE. Bodhgaya is another important site on this tour, where Lord Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. The Mahabodhi Temple, built at the site, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the holiest Buddhist shrines in the world. Visitors can also explore the various monasteries and temples built by different countries, including the Thai Temple, the Japanese Temple and the famous Buddha Statue
Nalanda and Rajgir are other important sites covered in this well-planned itinerary. Nalanda was an ancient centre of learning and is home to one of the world’s oldest universities. Rajgir was an important centre of Buddhist activity during the Buddha’s lifetime and is believed to be the site where he delivered several important teachings.
Lumbini is another important site and the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama in Nepal. The site is marked by a stupa and a pillar inside the Maya Devi Temple complex, and visitors can also explore the Ashokan Pillar, which is believed to have been erected by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka.
Varanasi: The Holy Heart of India
Apart from the Buddhist sites, the Varanasi Buddhist travel package also includes a visit to the sacred city of Varanasi, where visitors can witness the famous Ganga Aarti ceremony. The ceremony is a daily ritual performed by priests on the banks of the river, where they offer prayers and light lamps to the goddess Ganga. Sometimes also known as the ‘City of Lights’, Varanasi is located merely 12 km away from Sarnath and it holds religious significance for Hindus, Jains as well as Buddhists. Believed to date back to 1400 BC, the city finds mention in the Upanishads (holy Hindu scriptures) as Benaras as it was considered to be an important centre of trade and education. Visiting this vibrant city is an experience that just cannot be missed. From the culture to cuisine, from the heritage to the air of spirituality, Varanasi is truly a microcosm of India. And if you want to discover this gem in relative luxury, then IRCTC’s Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train is the place to be!
The Varanasi Buddhist tour packages include everything from a comfortable train journey, accommodation, and meals, to sightseeing activities. In conclusion, the Varanasi Buddhist tour is an excellent opportunity to experience the spirituality of Varanasi and explore the region’s rich cultural heritage. The tour offers a unique opportunity to witness some of the most important Buddhist sites in the region. So, if you’re seeking a spiritual journey, the Buddhist tour in Varanasi and other places is an excellent way to embark on one.