How to Plan Your 7-Day Varanasi to Lumbini Buddhist Excursion

Are you looking for a spiritual journey to cleanse your soul? The 7-day Varanasi to Lumbini Buddhist Excursion is a perfect way to explore the roots of Buddhism and experience the holy cities of India and Nepal. The tour is operated by yattri and will provide you with a professional English-speaking guide and an air-conditioned vehicle for all the destinations. All monument and museum entrance fees, lunch, and dinner are also included in the tour. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan your 7-day Varanasi to Lumbini Buddhist Excursion.

Overview

The tour starts from Varanasi, India, and takes you to several sacred Buddhist sites in India and Nepal. You will explore the birthplace of Buddha in Lumbini, Nepal and visit Bodhgaya, Rajgir, Nalanda, Patna, Vaishali, Kushinagar, Kapilavastu, and Shravasti in India.

What’s Included

The following things are included in the tour:

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Professional English-speaking guide
• All monument and museum entrance fees
• Lunch and dinner

Meeting and Pickup

The tour will start at 11:30 AM and you will be picked up from Varanasi Airport or any hotel in Varanasi. The tour will end at Lucknow Airport with a drop off.

Day 1: Varanasi – Sarnath – Ganga Aarti

Your first day will start with a visit to the holy city of Varanasi, situated on the banks of the river Ganges. Afterward, you will visit Sarnath, which is the place where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. In the evening, you will witness the grand Ganga Aarti at the Dasaswamedh Ghat.

Day 2: Varanasi – Bodhgaya

Your second day will be spent in the spiritual city of Bodhgaya, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bodhgaya is known for its Mahabodhi temple, which is a sacred site where Gautama Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment.

Day 3: Bodhgaya – Rajgir – Nalanda – Patna

On your third day, you will travel to Rajgir, which is a city located in a valley of lush green forests. You will also visit Nalanda, which was a prominent Buddhist university in ancient India. Later in the day, you will reach the capital city of Patna.

Day 4: Patna – Vaishali – Kushinagar

On your fourth day, you will visit Vaishali, which is the birthplace of Lord Mahavira, the founder of Jainism. You will also visit the Mahaparinirvana temple in Kushinagar, where Lord Buddha is said to have attained Parinirvana.

Day 5: Kushinagar – Lumbini

On your fifth day, you will visit Lumbini, which is the birthplace of Lord Buddha. You will visit the sacred Maya Devi temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 6: Lumbini – Kapilavastu – Shravasti

On your sixth day, you will visit the ancient city of Kapilavastu, which is the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Later in the day, you will visit the archaeological site of Sravasti.

Day 7: Shravasti – Lucknow Departure

On your last day, you will reach Lucknow and end the tour with a drop off at Lucknow Airport.

Additional Info

• Confirmation will be received at the time of booking.
• Not wheelchair accessible.
• Near public transportation.
• Most travelers can participate.
• Fully covered clothes at maximum religious spots.
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel the tour up to 24 hours before the departure time.

Book the Tour Here

If you are interested in booking this tour, please visit this link. In conclusion, we hope that this guide has given you a clear understanding of how to plan your 7-day Varanasi to Lumbini Buddhist Excursion. This tour is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the birthplace of Buddha and experience the richness of the Buddhist culture in India and Nepal.

Most Frequently Asked Questions About Varanasi

Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is a city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and is considered the spiritual capital of India. Varanasi attracts thousands of tourists and pilgrims every year, who come to experience its rich cultural heritage and spiritual charm. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Varanasi.

1. What is the significance of Varanasi?

Varanasi is known for its rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance. It is considered one of the holiest cities in Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism. It is believed that a dip in the holy river Ganges in Varanasi can wash away one’s sins and free them from the cycle of rebirth. Varanasi is also home to many temples, including the famous Kashi Vishwanath temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

2. What is the best time to visit Varanasi?

The best time to visit Varanasi is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and mild. Summers are hot and humid, and monsoons bring heavy rainfall, which can interrupt travel plans. During the winter months, the temperature can drop to around 5°C, so make sure to carry warm clothes.

3. How to reach Varanasi?

Varanasi is well-connected to all major cities in India by air, road, and rail. The Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is around 18 km from the city center and has regular flights to major cities in India. Varanasi Junction railway station is well-connected to all major cities in India, and several trains run daily from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other major cities.

4. What are the top tourist attractions in Varanasi?

Varanasi has many tourist attractions that are worth visiting. Some of the top tourist attractions in Varanasi are:

(i) The Ghats

Varanasi is famous for its ghats, which are steps leading to the river Ganges. There are around 80 ghats in Varanasi, each with its own significance. The ghats are a popular spot for boating, bathing, and religious ceremonies. Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, and Assi Ghat are some of the most famous ghats in Varanasi.

(ii) Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most famous temples in Varanasi. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its intricate architecture and religious significance. It is believed that a visit to the temple can cleanse one’s soul and lead to spiritual enlightenment.

(iii) Sarnath

Sarnath is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site, located around 10 km from Varanasi. It is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The site has many Buddhist temples, stupas, and monasteries, and is a peaceful and serene place to visit.

(iv) Ramnagar Fort

Ramnagar Fort is a 17th-century fort, located on the banks of the river Ganges. It is a popular tourist attraction and is known for its beautiful architecture, museum, and collection of vintage cars and weapons.

5. What are the best places to shop in Varanasi?

Varanasi is known for its silk sarees, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Some of the best places to shop in Varanasi are:

(i) Vishwanath Lane

Vishwanath Lane is a popular shopping destination in Varanasi. It is known for its narrow lanes and shops selling silk sarees, jewelry, and souvenirs.

(ii) Godowlia Market

Godowlia Market is a bustling market in Varanasi, known for its street food, clothes, and handicrafts.

(iii) Chowk

Chowk is an old market in Varanasi, known for its traditional handicrafts, textile, and jewelry.

6. What are the best things to eat in Varanasi?

Varanasi is known for its street food and local delicacies. Some of the best things to eat in Varanasi are:

(i) Kachori Sabzi

Kachori Sabzi is a popular breakfast dish in Varanasi. It is made with deep-fried flour bread and is served with a spicy potato curry.

(ii) Lassi

Lassi is a refreshing drink made with yogurt, sugar, and a variety of flavors. Varanasi is known for its traditional Lassi, which is thick and creamy.

(iii) Paan

Paan is a popular after-meal digestive in India. It is made with betel leaves and a variety of fillings, including tobacco, sweets, and spices.

7. Is Varanasi safe for tourists?

Varanasi is a relatively safe city for tourists, but it is always advisable to take basic precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas. Also, be careful while boating on the river Ganges and make sure to wear life jackets.In conclusion, Varanasi is a fascinating city with a rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance. It is a popular tourist destination that attracts thousands of visitors every year. By following basic safety precautions and planning your trip well, you can have a wonderful and unforgettable experience in Varanasi.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Varanasi

Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Benaras, is one of India’s oldest and holiest cities. Located on the banks of the Ganges River, Varanasi is a spiritual hub for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains alike. Tourists flock to Varanasi for its ancient temples, colorful ghats, and unique culture. In this guide, we will explore what to do, where to stay, and what to eat while spending your time as a tourist in Varanasi.

Where to Stay in Varanasi

Varanasi has a range of accommodation options for tourists, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. For budget travelers, the popular area to stay is around the Dasaswamedh Ghat. It is convenient and at the heart of the city. There are many hostels and guesthouses in the area, including Zostel Varanasi, Stops Hostel Varanasi, and Kedar Guest House.Luxury travelers will find their upscale hotels along the river Ganges. The hotels provide a stunning view of the ghats, and the rooms are spacious and comfortable. Some of the well-known hotels in this area are BrijRama Palace, Taj Nadesar Palace, and The Gateway Hotel Ganges.

Things to Do in Varanasi

There are plenty of things to do in Varanasi for tourists. Here are a few of the top tourist spots in Varanasi.

Visit the Ghats

Varanasi’s ghats are a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major attraction for tourists. The ghats are a series of steps leading down to the Ganges River, where locals and tourists alike come to bathe in the river’s holy waters.

Assi Ghat

and

Dasaswamedh Ghat

are two of the most famous ghats in Varanasi, where you can take a boat ride to witness the sunrise or sunset. There are also other ghats like

Manikarnika Ghat

, where Hindu cremations take place, so it might not be comfortable for everyone.

Explore Temples in Varanasi

Varanasi is home to hundreds of ancient temples, each with its unique history and architecture. The

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most famous temples in Varanasi. The temple has an intricate design and is made of gold. The

Durga Temple

and the

Tulsi Manas Temple

are other prominent temples in Varanasi, worth visiting.

Take a Street Food Tour

Varanasi is known for its delicious street food, and no trip to Varanasi is complete without a food tour. You can find lip-smacking Chaats and Lassis on the streets of Varanasi. Don’t miss out on trying the famous ‘Gol-Gappas’ and ‘Aloo-Tikki.’

Deena Chaat Bhandar

near Godowlia Crossing or

Kashi Chaat Bhandar

in the busy streets of Vishwanath Gali are some great places to try out some street food.

Watch Aarti Ceremony

The Aarti ceremony is a Hindu ritual that takes place daily on the banks of the Ganges, where priests perform a prayer ritual to worship the river. It is a grand event at Dasaswamedh Ghat and looks magnificent from the riverbank. It usually takes place between 6:45 PM- 7:30 PM. Get there early, though, to grab a good spot.

Best Food in Varanasi

As mentioned earlier, street food is a prominent aspect of Varanasi’s culture. However, you must find the right place to try it. Here are a few recommendations for the best food experiences in Varanasi.

Kachori Sabzi

Kachori Sabzi is a famous breakfast dish in Varanasi, which is a combination of Kachori and Potato Curry.

Ram Bhandar

, an almost century-old eatery, serves the best Kachori Sabzi.

Litti Chokha

Litti Chokha is an authentic Bihari dish and is widely available on the streets of Varanasi. It is a combination of whole wheat balls filled with a spicy mixture of gram flour and eaten with potato curry, baingan bharta, or chokha (spicy mash of roasted vegetables).

Baati Chokha

near Godowlia Crossing serves one of the best Litti Chokhas.

Bhang Lassi

Bhang is an intoxicant beverage made with cannabis paste, poppy seeds, and other ingredients. Bhang Lassi is a refreshing drink that’s chilled with ice cubes, and delicate flavors like rose, cocoa, and alphonso mangoes. You can try out the Bhang Lassi at any authorized shop.

Blue Lassi Shop

is one of the best places to try out Bhang Lassi in Varanasi.

Closing Thoughts

Varanasi is a unique and culturally rich city, and there’s no shortage of things to do and see. With its ancient temples, colorful ghats, and delicious street food, you will never get bored here. So plan your visit to Varanasi and relish the cultural and religious flavors this city has to offer.