Highlight
- Learn about the ancient myth about Namobuddha and enjoy the scenery form the monastery vicinity
- Explore two of the UNESCO world heritage sites in Kathmandu- Swayambhunath and Boudhanath
- Visit underrated Buddhist hubs at Kapan monastery and white Gomba of Ramkot
- Head to the birthplace of Lord Buddha- Lumbini
Overview
The Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour lets you enjoy and explore the different Buddhist-influenced sites in Nepal. As is known, Nepal is a multicultural country, with many different cultures and people of different religions and ethnicities living together in harmony. Among the many groups, there are many Buddhists who reside in the country as well, and many ethnic groups of the mountains also follow the religion. As such, Nepal has many locations and sites that are held sacred to the Buddhist people. After all, Nepal is the birthplace of Lord Buddha. And as such, his birthplace- Lumbini is one of the famous Buddhist pilgrimage sites of Nepal.
The Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour by Himalaya Land Treks takes you to sites like Namobuddha, Boudhanath, Kapan Monastery, white Gomba of Ramkot, Swayambhunath Stupa and, of course, Lumbini. Over several years, Buddhism has developed a variety of traditions, beliefs, and spiritual practices, with them being based on the original teachings of Lord Buddha. The monasteries and historical sites of Nepal, in turn, present a physical manifestation of those teachings on its holy sites. They present a peaceful environment that is so synonymous with the Buddhist culture.
Moreover, each of the sites is also built-in unique architecture. Specifically, the revered Buddhist sites mainly consist of three structures- monasteries, stupas, and shrines. The stupas also contain relics of Buddhism, while some also incorporate the Chaityas and Griha architectural style. The Buddhist pilgrimage tour is a great way to enjoy these aspects of the various locations. The Swayambhunath Stupa, for example, is located atop a hill overlooking the city and the panorama of the Kathmandu city from the temple area is quite gorgeous. Likewise, the history of Namo Buddha is also fascinating, as it includes a prince’s sacrifice to a starving tigress. The Buddhist pilgrimage tour is a leisurely exploration of the most revered Buddhist sites of the country. The tour is one of the best aspects of Nepal being comprised of many cultures and traditions.
While making sure every one of us enjoys the journey thoroughly, it is also necessary to make sure we do it safely which needs a planned itinerary and well-trained personnel. We, here at Himalaya Land Treks, have been doing so for over a decade and we assure you a lovely adventure through the Himalayas.
Itinerary of Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1300m/4265ft)
Overnight at 3 star Hotel
You may arrive at Kathmandu International Airport at any time. When you arrive, you will be greeted by a Himalaya Land Treks’ representatives who will help you get transferred to the Hotel. There aren't any activities for today, so you can check into the hotel and relax. Overnight stay at the Hotel.
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Namobuddha via Dhulikhel (1550m/5085ft)/ 1.5 Hrs
Hotel/Lodge
Breakfast
The drive to Namobuddha takes about an hour or so, as you will be driving there through Dhulikhel. From Dhulikhel, you can enjoy a panorama of the mountains in Ganesh Himal, Langtang, and Gaurishankar ranges. At Dhulikhel, you will then visit the Namo Buddha Monastery where the story of a king's sacrifice to feed a hungry tigress is etched in stone. After visiting the monastery, you will then be transferred to your Hotel. Overnight stay at the Hotel.
Day 3: Drive back to Kathmandu via Bhaktapur and visit Boudhanath, Kapan Monastery
Hotel
Breakfast
From Dhulikhel, you will then drive back to Kathmandu, visiting Bhaktapur. The city has Bhaktapur Durbar square where you can enjoy the many old and historic monuments, buildings, and temples built in Nepal's medieval time. Back at Kathmandu, you will then pay a visit to the famous Boudhanath shrine- one of the largest Buddhist Mandala in the country. After Boudhanath, you will then visit the Kapan monastery, another popular monastery perched on a hill north of Boudha. After the tour, you will be transferred back to your Hotel. Overnight stay at the Hotel.
Day 4: Visit Swayambhunath and White Gompa Ramkot
Hotel
Breakfast
Today, you will visit Swayambhunath- a site that is sacred to both the Hindu and Buddhist people of Nepal. It is perched on a hill west of the city and is built with a dome base with the eyes of Lord Buddha painted on the cubicle above it. After Swayambhunath, you will then visit the white Gomba of Ramkot, also known as "Seto Gumba" by the locals. It is built like the Dzongs of Tibet and is quite peaceful. After the tour, you will then be transferred back to your Hotel. Overnight stay at the Hotel.
Day 5: Drive to Lumbini (150m/492ft)/6-7 hrs
6-7 hrs
Hotel
Breakfast
Today, you will be driving to Lumbini, one of the most renowned Buddhist pilgrimage site in the world. The drive to Lumbini takes about 6 to 7 hours, and the drive presents fleeting glimpses of the many terrace farms and woodlands of Nepal. After arriving in Lumbini, you will be taken to your hotel for check-in. Overnight stay at the Hotel in Lumbini.
Day 6: Lumbini Sightseeing
Hotel
Breakfast
You will spend the day sightseeing in Lumbini. You will visit the holy Mayadevi temple in Lumbini, and near the temple also lies the excavated old palace remains where Lord Buddha grew up. Also, Lumbini has many monasteries, all built-in different architectural styles in a large vicinity. The Mayadevi Temple, Ashoka Pillar, Eternal Flame, Bodhi Tree, and the multi-national monasteries are few of the attractions on the tour on this day. You can visit each of the monasteries on a pleasant rickshaw ride. After the tour, you will be taken back to your Hotel. Overnight say at the Hotel.
Day 7: Drive back to Kathmandu/6-7 hrs | Farewell Dinner
6-7 hrs
Overnight at 3 star Hotel
Breakfast/Farewell Dinner
Today, you will say goodbye to the monasteries and dive back to Kathmandu. The drive retraces the East-West Highway and heads north along the hilly landscapes to return to Kathmandu. In Kathmandu, you can choose to explore the city and buy souvenirs before you head to your next destination. As the Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour comes to an end, you indulge in a farewell dinner hosted by the Himalaya Land Treks. Overnight stay at the hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 8: Departure
Approximately three hours before your flight, you will be dropped off at the airport for your departure. We hope you have had a memorable time with us.
Inclusion
- Airport picks up and drops off, upon arrival and departure.
- 3 Star hotel in Kathmandu and All Accommodation during the tour on a BB basis.
- Licensed, experienced and English speaking tour guides.
- Transportation in private vehicles.
- farewell dinner at one of the finest Nepalese Restaurant with traditional ethnic music and dance.
Exclusion
- Airfare for domestic and international flights.
- Lunch and dinner during the tour.
- Meals in the city except for breakfast and other mentioned special dinner.
- Cost for additional trips.
- All monument entrance fees.
- Nepal arrival visa.
- Personal expenses.
- Tipping to staffs (as an appreciation).
Fixed Departure Dates
We will easily organize this trip on the dates requested by you. Please contact us for your customized departure date
