A journey aboard IRCTC’s Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train is a unique travel experience that offers a chance to explore the spiritual and cultural roots of Buddhism in India. The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has designed this train and package to provide an immersive and enlightening journey for all those seeking to discover the legacy of the great sage, Buddha.
The tour starts from the national capital, New Delhi, where travellers are greeted by the friendly team of the Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train before boarding the train at Safdarjung Railway Station. The train journey is an adventure in itself, as passengers travel in comfort and style to the various destinations that form part of the itinerary.
The first destination on the Buddha Tour is Bodhgaya, which is located in the state of Bihar. This is where the Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. The Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the main attraction in Bodhgaya. It is believed that the temple was built on the spot where the Buddha meditated and attained enlightenment.
After Bodhgaya, the tour proceeds to Rajnir and Nalanda, both places that are associated with the life and times of Lord Buddha. After that, the next stop is Varanasi, which is one of the oldest cities in the world and is located on the banks of the holy river Ganges. Varanasi is known for its spiritual significance, and it is believed that taking a dip in the Ganges can wash away one’s sins.
The next destination on the Buddha Tour and travels are Sarnath, which is located near Varanasi. Sarnath is where the Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The site houses several stupas and temples, including the Dhamek Stupa, which is one of the oldest and most significant stupas in the world. Other places of interest included in the itinerary are Sarnath Museum, Ashokan Pillar and Mulgandha Kuti Vihar.
After this, the train travels to Lumbini, all the way in Nepal which was the birthplace of Gautam Buddha. Here, guests can pay their homage at the illustrious Maya Devi Temple and then enjoy sightseeing at the famous Ashokan Pillar. After Lumbini, the next stop along the way is Kushinagar, which is located in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Kushinagar is where the Buddha passed away and attained Parinirvana. The Mahaparinirvana Temple, which houses the reclining statue of the Buddha, is the main attraction in Kushinagar.
Next, the train arrives at Gorakhpur railway station and proceeds to Balrampur for a visit to Sravasti. Here, the major tourist attractions are Jetvana Vihara, Pakki Kuti & Sehat Mahet. The final stop of this beautiful tour is the Taj Mahal in Agra. Throughout the tour, passengers are accompanied by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the history and significance of each destination. The tour operators also take care of all the logistical details, including transportation, accommodation, and meals, so that passengers can focus on their spiritual journey.
The Buddha Tour and Travels with IRCTC is a well-planned and well-executed travel experience that provides a unique opportunity to explore the spiritual and cultural heritage of Buddhism in India. The tour is suitable for all types of travellers, including solo travellers, families, and groups, and can be customized to meet specific requirements. If you want to attain peace of mind and rejuvenate your mind, body and soul, then simply book your Buddha tour and travel with IRCTC, traverse the Buddha tourism circuit and visit all the famous places of Buddha in India. To know more about this journey, visit the official website at www.irctcbuddhisttrain.com.