| PACKAGE INCLUDES |
Hotel
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Meal
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Entrance Pass
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Domestic Flight
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100% Private Tour
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| TRIP OVERVIEW |
Embark on a deeply meaningful 13-day Buddhist pilgrimage through India and Nepal, tracing the sacred footsteps of Lord Buddha from Sarnath, Bodh Gaya and Rajgir to Kushinagar, Lumbini, Kapilavastu and Sravasti. Along the way, experience ancient monasteries, revered temples, historic learning centres and timeless spiritual sites before concluding your journey with the architectural splendour of Agra’s Taj Mahal and the vibrant heritage of Delhi.
This thoughtfully planned journey combines faith, history, culture and iconic sightseeing, creating an enriching pilgrimage filled with reflection, discovery and memorable experiences. |
| HIGHTLIGHTS |
✔ Follow the Sacred Footsteps of Lord Buddha – Journey through the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage sites across India and Nepal
✔ Varanasi – Spiritual Heart of India – Experience sacred prayers, temple visits and the captivating atmosphere along the River Ganges
✔ Sarnath – Where the Dharma Began – Visit the sacred place where Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment
✔ Bodh Gaya – The Land of Enlightenment – Visit the magnificent Mahabodhi Temple and sacred Bodhi Tree, one of Buddhism’s holiest sites
✔ Rajgir & Nalanda – Centres of Ancient Wisdom – Discover important Buddhist landmarks and the historic ruins of the renowned Nalanda University
✔ Vaishali & Kesariya – Timeless Buddhist Heritage – Explore ancient stupas and sacred sites connected with important chapters in Buddha’s life
✔ Kushinagar – The Sacred Mahaparinirvana Site – Visit the revered place associated with Buddha’s final journey and passing into Mahaparinirvana
✔ Lumbini – Birthplace of Lord Buddha – Cross into Nepal to visit the tranquil sacred gardens and Maya Devi Temple
✔ Kapilavastu & Sravasti – Walk Through Buddha’s Early Journey – Explore ancient ruins, monasteries and important sites associated with his teachings
✔ Experience Two Countries in One Pilgrimage – Discover the Buddhist heritage of both India and Nepal on one carefully planned journey
✔ Lucknow – A Touch of Royal Heritage – Admire the impressive architecture of Bara Imambara, Rumi Darwaza and the historic old city
✔ Witness the Magnificent Taj Mahal – Conclude the pilgrimage with one of the world’s most celebrated monuments and the impressive Agra Fort
✔ Discover Delhi’s Heritage & Shopping – Explore iconic landmarks, colourful bazaars and the vibrant atmosphere of India’s capital
✔ A Journey of Faith, History & Reflection – More than a holiday, this is an inspiring journey through sacred places that have shaped Buddhist history for centuries
✔ Travel Comfortably with DHESU Travel – Carefully arranged accommodation, transportation, sightseeing and support throughout your pilgrimage
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| SKETCH ITINERARY |
D01: Arrive New Delhi
D02: Delhi - Varanasi (by Flight) (B,D)
D03: Full Day Varanasi Prayers | Temple Tours (B,D)
D04: Varanasi - Bodhgaya By Surface (B,D)
D05: Tour Bodhgaya (B,D)
D06: Bodhgaya - Rajgit - Nalanda - Patna By Surface (B,D)
D07: Patna - Vaishali - Kesariya Stupa - Kushinagar By Surface (B,D)
D08: Kushinagar - Lumbini By Surface (B,D)
D09: Lumbini - Sravasti Via Kapilavastu By Surface (B,D)
D10: Saravasti - Lucknow By Surface (B,D)
D11: Lucknow - Agra By Surface (B,D)
D12: Agra - Delhi By Surface (B,D)
D13: Tour Delhi - Depart (B)
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| DETAILED ITINERARY |
| DAY 01: ARRIVE NEW DELHI
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Visiting India for the first time? Looking to explore the country’s most iconic destinations? |
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Namaste & welcome to New Delhi, the capital of India. Just over a century ago, the British shifted the seat of their empire from Kolkata to Delhi, and it has remained the nation’s capital ever since. With a history stretching back thousands of years, Delhi is a city where ancient culture meets modern life. As the seat of powerful empires, the city proudly showcases carefully preserved monuments, majestic forts, and historical tombs. Legend has it that Delhi is as old as the epic Mahabharata, once known as Indraprastha, the city of the Pandavas. |
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Upon arrival, our representative will greet you with a traditional Indian welcome and assist you through a brief orientation. You will then be transferred to your hotel of choice for a comfortable overnight stay. |
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| DAY 02: DELHI - VARANASI (BY FLIGHT) (B, D)
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Welcome to Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and the spiritual capital of India. Located on the sacred banks of the River Ganges, Varanasi is an important pilgrimage destination for Hindus and is renowned for its ancient temples, spiritual traditions, and vibrant cultural heritage. |
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Upon arrival at Varanasi Airport, our representative will greet you and assist with your transfer to Sarnath, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in India. It was here that Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, introducing his teachings of Dharma and the Four Noble Truths to his first disciples. |
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Explore the historic and spiritual sites of Sarnath, including the Deer Park, where Buddha gave his first teachings, and visit Mulagandhakuti Vihar, where you can take part in the Dhammachakka Suttra. Continue with visits to the Dhammika Stupa, Dhammarajika Stupa, Sarnath Temple, and the surrounding archaeological remains that reflect the region’s rich Buddhist heritage. |
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After sightseeing, proceed to your hotel in Varanasi and check in. Enjoy dinner at the hotel before settling in for a comfortable overnight stay at Varanasi. |
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| DAY 03: FULL DAY VARANASI PRAYERS | TEMPLE TOURS (B, D)
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Experience the spiritual heart of Varanasi on a full-day prayers and temple tour, discovering the city’s ancient Hindu traditions along the sacred River Ganges. Varanasi is renowned for its holy ghats, centuries-old temples, and spiritual rituals that continue to form an important part of daily life. |
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Wake up before sunrise and proceed to Dashashwamedh Ghat, one of the most prominent and sacred ghats in Varanasi. Witness the early morning prayers and observe the traditional rituals performed by Hindu devotees along the banks of the Ganges. Continue to Manikarnika Ghat, one of the holiest cremation ghats along the riverfront, which holds deep spiritual significance in Hindu tradition. |
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Later, visit the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines, making it one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in India. Drive past the prestigious Banaras Hindu University (BHU) before returning to the hotel for breakfast. |
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In the evening, before sunset, return to the banks of the River Ganges to witness the spectacular Ganga Aarti, a deeply spiritual ceremony featuring prayers and illuminated oil lamps. Subject to availability and operational status, enjoy a short boat ride on the Ganges and experience the beautiful sight of thousands of oil lamps illuminating the river during the ceremony. |
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After the Aarti, transfer back to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay at Varanasi. |
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| DAY 04: VARANASI - BODHGAYA BY SURFACE (B, D)
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Welcome to Bodhgaya, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage destinations in the world and the sacred place where Gautama Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment. It is one of the four major Buddhist sites associated with the life of Buddha and attracts pilgrims and visitors from around the world. |
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After breakfast, drive to Bodhgaya, covering approximately 260 km in around 5½ hours. Upon arrival, explore this spiritually significant destination, home to the revered Mahabodhi Temple Complex and the sacred Bodhi Tree, beneath which Buddha is traditionally believed to have meditated and attained enlightenment. |
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Visit the impressive Mahabodhi Temple, a magnificent 50-metre-high temple with origins dating back to the 3rd century BC during the reign of Emperor Ashoka, an important patron of Buddhism. Explore the sacred complex, including the Bodhi Tree, six sacred sites, and the numerous stupas surrounding the temple. |
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After the visit, proceed to your hotel and check in. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at Bodhgaya. |
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| DAY 05: TOUR BODHGAYA (B, D)
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Discover the spiritual heritage of Bodhgaya, one of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage destinations in the world. Begin your day early with a visit to the Mahabodhi Temple Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the revered location where Gautama Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment. |
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The present Mahabodhi Temple dates back to the 5th–6th centuries, while the first temple at the site was built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC. Explore the sacred temple complex and visit the impressive 80-foot Great Buddha Statue, an important landmark and spiritual attraction in Bodhgaya. |
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Return to the hotel for breakfast. In the afternoon, continue with a Bodhgaya city tour, including a drive past the Niranjana and Falgu Rivers. Proceed to Sujatha Village and visit the Sujatha Temple, associated with the traditional story of Sujata, who is believed to have offered food to Buddha before his enlightenment. |
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Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay at Bodhgaya |
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| DAY 06: BODHGAYA - RAJGIT - NALANDA - PATNA BY SURFACE (B, D)
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After breakfast, drive to Patna, covering approximately 210 km in 5–6 hours. Originally known as Pataliputra, Patna is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, with a history dating back to 490 BCE. The city is an important regional centre for trade, education, and administration, and also holds great religious significance as the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh. |
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En route, stop at Rajgir, an important destination associated with Buddhist history. Visit Gridhrakuta Hill, also known as Vulture’s Peak, followed by Bimbisara Jail and the Son Bhadar Caves (Treasury Cave), known for their historical and religious significance. |
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Continue to Nalanda and visit the ruins of Nalanda University, one of the ancient world’s renowned centres of learning. The historic university attracted students and scholars from across Asia and was known for studies in Buddhist philosophy, medicine, mathematics, and other fields. Explore the archaeological remains and learn about Nalanda’s important contribution to education and Buddhist scholarship. |
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Continue the drive to Patna. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax. |
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Enjoy dinner and overnight stay at The Royal Bihar, Patna. |
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| DAY 07: PATNA - VAISHALI - KESARIYA STUPA - KUSHINAGAR BY SURFACE (B, D)
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After breakfast, drive to Kushinagar, covering approximately 255 km in 6–7 hours. Kushinagar is one of the most important pilgrimage destinations for Buddhists, traditionally regarded as the place where Gautama Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana. |
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En route, make the first stop at Vaishali, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. Visit the Relic Stupa of Buddha, believed to have been built by the King of Lichchavi, followed by the historic Ashokan Pillar, Vishwa Shanti Stupa, and Monkey Pond, associated with the Buddhist traditions of Vaishali. |
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Continue towards Kushinagar with a photo stop at Kesariya Buddha Stupa, an impressive ancient Buddhist monument traditionally associated with Buddha’s final sermon. The construction of the stupa is believed to have begun in the 3rd century BCE, and it is notable for its massive size and historical significance. |
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Continue the journey to Kushinagar. Upon arrival, check in at The Royal Residency and proceed for sightseeing. |
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Visit the Mahaparinirvana Temple, one of the most important Buddhist sites in Kushinagar and traditionally associated with the place where Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana. Continue to the Ramabhar Stupa, believed to mark the site where Buddha’s cremation took place, followed by a visit to Mathakuhara. |
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Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay at The Royal Residency, Kushinagar. |
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| DAY 08: KUSHINAGAR - LUMBINI BY SURFACE (B, D)
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After breakfast, drive to Lumbini, covering approximately 190 km in 5–6 hours. Lumbini is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage destinations in the world and is traditionally regarded as the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, who later became Gautama Buddha. The sacred site is surrounded by beautifully preserved archaeological remains, Buddhist temples, monasteries, pagodas, and shrines dating back to ancient times. |
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During the journey, stop at the India–Nepal border for the required immigration and emigration clearance. After completing the border formalities, continue the drive towards Lumbini. |
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Upon arrival in Lumbini, check in at Buddha Maya Gardens Hotel. Later, proceed to visit the Mayadevi Garden and Temples, the sacred area traditionally identified as the birthplace of Prince Siddhartha. Explore the peaceful surroundings and important religious monuments associated with Buddha’s early life. |
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Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay at Buddha Maya Gardens Hotel, Lumbini. |
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| DAY 09: LUMBINI - SRAVASTI VIA KAPILAVASTU BY SURFACE (B, D)
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After breakfast, drive to Sravasti, covering approximately 180 km in 5 hours. Sravasti is an ancient city considered sacred by both Buddhists and Jains. Today, the remains of the ancient city are found around the archaeological sites of Sahet and Mahet, which offer an insight into the region’s rich religious and historical heritage. |
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En route, visit Kapilavastu, an important site associated with the early life of Gautama Buddha. Explore Nigrodarama and the ruins of the ancient palaces before continuing the journey towards Sravasti. |
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During the journey, stop at the Nepal–India border for the required immigration and emigration clearance. Continue the drive to Sravasti. |
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Upon arrival, check in at the hotel. Later, proceed to explore Sahet–Mahet, the archaeological remains of ancient Sravasti. Visit Jethawana Monastery, one of the most important Buddhist sites in the area, including Gandakuti and the sacred Ananda Bodhi Tree. |
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Continue sightseeing with visits to the Palace of Siddhartha and Angulimala Stupa / Pakki Kuti, exploring the historic remains and sacred sites associated with Buddhist traditions. |
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Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay at Sravasti. |
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| DAY 10: SARAVASTI - LUCKNOW BY SURFACE (B, D)
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After breakfast, drive to Lucknow, covering approximately 180 km in 4–5 hours. Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is renowned for its rich history, impressive architecture, and cultural heritage, reflecting a blend of Mughal and colonial influences. |
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Upon arrival, explore the city’s famous landmarks. Visit the magnificent Rumi Darwaza, an impressive Mughal-era gateway and one of Lucknow’s most iconic architectural monuments. |
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Continue to the historic Bara Imambara, an 18th-century shrine known for its enormous arched hall. Explore the fascinating Bhool Bhulaiya, a maze of narrow passages and tunnels located within the upper levels of the complex, offering views over the city from its balconies. |
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Visit the grand Husainabad Clock Tower, a prominent Victorian-era landmark built in 1881 as a victory column. |
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Upon completion of the sightseeing, check in at The Aviyaan Hotel, Lucknow. |
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Enjoy dinner and overnight stay at The Aviyaan Hotel, Lucknow. |
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| DAY 11: LUCKNOW - AGRA BY SURFACE (B, D)
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After breakfast, drive to Agra, covering approximately 210 km in 4 hours. Agra is home to the world-famous Taj Mahal, one of India’s most iconic monuments and a magnificent symbol of the grandeur of the Mughal Empire. |
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Known around the world as an enduring expression of love, the Taj Mahal attracts visitors with its magnificent architecture, intricate craftsmanship, and timeless beauty. Upon arrival in Agra, proceed to your hotel and check in at The Retreat Hotel. |
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Enjoy dinner and overnight stay at Agra. |
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| DAY 12: AGRA - DELHI BY SURFACE (B, D)
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Begin the day early with a pre-sunrise visit to the world-famous Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Admire this magnificent monument, widely regarded as one of the most extraordinary expressions of love ever created. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal took thousands of craftsmen and many years to complete. |
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Return to the hotel for breakfast. Later, proceed for an Agra city sightseeing tour and visit the magnificent Agra Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This impressive red sandstone fortress features extensive enclosure walls and once served as the principal residence of the Mughal emperors. |
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After sightseeing, enjoy free time for shopping in Agra, with opportunities to explore local shops and traditional handicrafts. |
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Later, drive back to New Delhi, covering approximately 210 km in 4 hours. Upon arrival, check in at New Delhi Hotel. |
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Enjoy dinner and overnight stay at New Delhi. |
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| DAY 13: TOUR DELHI - DEPART (B)
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Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, with the room booked until 11:00 hours. Later, proceed for a Delhi city sightseeing tour with a vehicle available for up to 8 hours / 80 km within the city limits. |
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Begin your Discovery Tour of Delhi with a visit to Raj Ghat, the memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Continue to India Gate, one of Delhi’s most prominent landmarks, followed by a drive past the impressive Parliament House and Secretariat Buildings. |
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Visit the beautiful Lotus Temple, also known as the Baha’i House of Worship, renowned for its distinctive lotus-shaped architecture (closed on Mondays). Continue with a photo stop at Qutub Minar Tower from outside, one of Delhi’s most iconic historical landmarks and the tallest stone tower in India. |
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Later, proceed for bazaar shopping. Explore Delhi’s vibrant markets, offering a wide variety of handicrafts, textiles, clothing, carpets, jewellery, and colourful saris. Enjoy some free time to browse the local shops and experience the lively atmosphere of Delhi’s traditional bazaars. |
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At the appropriate time, transfer to Delhi International Airport for your return flight. |
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| TRIP GALLERY |
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| Walk in the Footsteps of Lord Buddha...
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| 13 DAYS BUDDHIST PILIGRIMAGE TOUR + TAJ MAHAL...
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| WHY BOOK NOW? |
- 20% Savings for Online Products
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| INCLUSION |
- All meals inclusive as specified
- All entrances inclusive as specified
- Fully guided tours as specified
- Hotel accommodation as specified
- Domestic flight Inclusive
- All transfers inclusive as specified
- English speaking local guide
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| EXCLUSION |
- Flight Ticket & Taxes
- 30 Days India Visa Processing Fee
- Nepal Visa Fees(15days)
- Optional Travel Insurance
- Any applicable increase in airfare
- Any item not mentioned under inclusions
- Currency surcharge applicable based on current ROE
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