Lord Buddha, revered as the greatest sage and mystic of the East, stands as a paramount spiritual teacher globally, earning titles like the 'Awakened One' and the 'Enlightened One.' Given that Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, spent a considerable part of his life in India, the country boasts beautiful Buddhist pilgrimage sites. These locations, imbued with religious significance and a sense of divinity, attract pilgrims and historians worldwide, offering a profound exploration of ancient Buddhist heritage.
Embark on a journey into the spiritual legacy of Buddhist Tourism in India, where serene monasteries and sacred sites await discovery, providing a profound encounter with ancient wisdom. Tailored Buddhist tour packages cater to pilgrims and travelers keen on exploring Buddhist monasteries and pilgrimage spots. These tours serve as an ideal way to traverse significant Buddhist itineraries and visit religious sites associated with the life of Lord Buddha. Additionally, the itineraries encompass other sites and centers that gained prominence post Lord Buddha's era, creating a comprehensive exploration of Buddhist heritage.
Mahaparinirvan Express
Named after the Mahaparinirvana Sutra, which encompasses the Buddha's final teachings, this train embarks on a sacred journey, visiting key Buddhist pilgrimage sites such as Lumbini (the birthplace of Buddha), Bodhgaya (where he attained enlightenment), Varanasi (where he delivered his first sermon), and Kushinagar (where he achieved nirvana). The Buddha Tour Plan facilitated by this Buddhist Tourist Train, guides pilgrims through destinations pivotal to the flourishing of Buddhism in the early 19th century. The circuit commences in New Delhi, encompassing Gaya, Rajgir, Nalanda, Varanasi, Sarnath, Lumbini, Kushinagar, Sravasti, and Agra.
Accommodation Type
2nd AC Sleeper - Each cabin accommodating four passengers on the inner side is equipped with curtains for restricted privacy. On the outer side, there is one lower and one upper sleeping berth.
1st AC Sleeper Cabin (4 sharing) - Every cabin features two lower and two upper berths, along with a sliding door that can be securely locked from the inside.
1st AC Sleeper Exclusive Cabin - A few cabins offer a single lower and upper berth, accompanied by a sliding door that can be securely locked from the inside.
Detailed itinerary of Mahaparinirvana Express
Day 1 - Departure from Delhi
Arrive at Safdarjung railway station for Mahaparinirvana Express Buddhist train tour check-in procedures by 1:30 p.m. Following a traditional welcome, you will be guided to your designated Passenger Carriage, and the train sets off by 2:30 p.m.
Day 2 - Arrival at Bodhgaya Town
Upon early morning arrival at Gaya Railway Station, the day's itinerary includes a visit to the Mahabodhi Temple and Niranjana River. Subsequently, check into a hotel in Bodhgaya for an overnight stay. After lunch and a brief rest at the hotel, explore the Thai Temple, Japanese Temple, and Buddha statue. Return to the hotel in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay in Bodhgaya.
Day 3 - Arrival at Rajgir and Nalanda
Following an early morning breakfast, depart from the hotel in Bodhgaya and board buses for a two-hour drive to Rajgir. Explore Bimbimsara Jail, Gridhakut Hill, and Venuvan. After lunch at the hotel, continue the journey to visit the ancient ruins of one of the world's oldest universities at Nalanda, along with the nearby museum. Depart from Nalanda by bus to reach Gaya railway station to board the train.
Day 4 - Arrival at Varanasi and Sarnath
Disembark the train for an excursion to Sarnath, exploring Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath Museum, Ashokan Pillar, and Mulgandha Kuti Vihar. Check into a hotel for lunch and refresh. In the evening, visit the ancient Ghats of the holy River Ganges to witness the evening lamp immersion ceremony. Return to Varanasi railway station to reboard the train.
Day 5 - Arrival at Lumbini
Travel to Lumbini, Nepal. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel at Lumbini. Explore Lumbini, visiting landmarks such as the Maya Devi Temple and Ashokan Pillar. Conclude the day with dinner, followed by an overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 6 - Arrival at Kushinagar
Depart from the hotel and travel to Kushinagar by coach. Upon arrival, have lunch at the hotel and explore sites such as the Mahaparinirvana Temple. Depart for Gorakhpur by the coach and arrive at Gorakhpur Railway Station. Board the Buddhist Train to Balrampur, where dinner will be served onboard.
Day 7 - Arrival at Balrmapur and Sravasti
In the early morning, leave for Sravasti by coach. Explore Jetvana Vihar, Pakki Kuti, and Sehat Mahet Thai temple in the morning. After lunch at the hotel, enjoy leisure time. Return to Balrampur Railway Station to board the train.
Day 8 - Arrival at Agra for Taj Mahal visit
Upon reaching Agra railway station in the morning, enjoy on-board breakfast and a wash/change. Visit the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Return to the train by 12:30 noon, and the train departs for Delhi at 2:15 p.m.
