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Sacred Sites of India: A Journey through Hindu and Buddhist Pilgrimage

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Product Code : AGORA341

Discover the profound spiritual heritage of India with the "Sacred Sites of India: A Journey through Hindu and Buddhist Pilgrimage." Begin in Kolkata, where you'll explore iconic sites such as Fort William, the Victoria Memorial, and the serene Dakshineswar Kali Temple. Journey to Deoghar to experience the revered Baba Baidyanath Dham, then proceed to Bodhgaya to visit the Mahabodhi Temple, the site of Buddha’s enlightenment. Continue to Varanasi for a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges and witness the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony. Conclude your pilgrimage with visits to Banaras Hindu University, Tulsi Manas Temple, and the sacred Sarnath Temple Complex, immersing yourself in India's rich spiritual legacy.
the ancient learning hub of Nalanda, and the enlightenment site of Bodhgaya. The tour culminates in the sacred city of Varanasi, where travelers can experience the ethereal beauty of the Ganges River and witness spiritual rituals dating back centuries. This meticulously planned itinerary promises a blend of history, spirituality, and cultural immersion, offering travelers an unforgettable journey through India's sacred heartlands.

 

Day 1: Kolkata Arrival

Upon landing at Kolkata's Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and assist with your transfer to the hotel.
After settling in, explore the vibrant streets of Kolkata, starting with a stroll along Park Street, known for its colonial architecture and lively cafes.
Discover New Market, a bustling area offering an array of goods, local snacks, and souvenirs.
Kolkata, known as the 'City of Joy,' with its blend of colonial heritage, cultural festivals, and mouth-watering cuisine, provides a fascinating introduction to India.

 

Day 2: Kolkata Sightseeing

Start your day with a visit to Fort William, a historic British-era fort with its imposing walls and strategic significance, although the fort itself is not open to the public.
Explore Victoria Memorial, a grand white marble structure commemorating Queen Victoria, featuring Indo-Saracenic architecture and housing a museum with British-era artifacts.
Tour Netaji Bhawan, the historic house turned museum dedicated to Subhas Chandra Bose, showcasing his contributions to India’s independence through photographs, letters, and personal memorabilia.
See Howrah Bridge, an iconic cantilever bridge connecting Kolkata to Howrah, bustling with traffic and offering views from Millennium Park or the nearby flower market.
Conclude your day with a visit to Dakshineswar Kali Temple, located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, known for its intricate architecture and spiritual ambiance dedicated to Goddess Kali.
Return to the hotel for a relaxing overnight stay.

 

Day 3: Kolkata to Deoghar (Train Journey)

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Kolkata before transferring to Howrah railway station for a train journey to Deoghar.
Board the JANSHATABDI EXPRESS (Train No. 12023) and experience the scenic beauty and rural life as you travel through the Indian countryside.
Upon arrival at Deoghar, our friendly driver will greet you and transfer you to your hotel.
After checking in, you may explore the area around your hotel or try some local delicacies for dinner, soaking in the regional flavors.

 

Day 4: Deoghar to Bodhgaya (via Nalanda)

Start your day with a visit to Baba Baidyanath Dham, one of the twelve jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its vibrant rituals and divine atmosphere.
After breakfast, embark on a drive to Nalanda, an ancient center of learning with ruins of one of the world’s earliest universities, the Nalanda Museum, and the archaeological site showcasing ancient intellectual achievements.
Stop at Vishwa Shanti Stupa in Rajgir, a peace pagoda situated atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and symbolizing global peace and unity.
Arrive in Bodhgaya, check into your hotel, and unwind after the day’s travels, preparing for the spiritual exploration ahead.

 

Day 5: Bodhgaya to Varanasi

Begin your exploration with a visit to Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment, featuring the ancient Bodhi Tree and Vajrasana (the diamond throne).
Afterwards, travel to Varanasi, a major pilgrimage city in Hinduism. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
In the evening, head to the ghats of the River Ganges to witness the Holy Ganga Aarti, a captivating spiritual ritual with rhythmic chants, glowing lamps, and an enchanting atmosphere.

 

Day 6: Varanasi Sightseeing

Start early with a boat ride on the Ganges River at sunrise, gliding past the ancient ghats, witnessing morning rituals, and observing devotees performing their sacred duties.
Visit Banaras Hindu University (BHU), one of Asia’s largest residential universities, exploring its lush campus, iconic clock tower, and the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum showcasing a vast collection of Indian art and artifacts.
Tour Bharat Mata Temple, dedicated to Mother India, featuring a large marble relief map symbolizing national unity and diversity.
Explore Tulsi Manas Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama and built on the site where the Ramcharitmanas was written by Goswami Tulsidas.
Drive to Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, visiting the Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandha Kuti Vihara, and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum with its ancient artifacts and sculptures.
If time permits, visit Ram Nagar Fort & Museum to delve deeper into Varanasi’s royal heritage and history.

 

Day 7: Varanasi Departure

After a relaxed morning and a sumptuous breakfast, our representative will transfer you to Varanasi Airport for your onward journey.
As you board your flight to Kolkata/Delhi/Mumbai, reflect on the enriching experiences, spiritual insights, and cherished memories from your journey through India’s sacred sites.

- Assistance on arrival at airport.

- 6 Nights' accommodation in selected price category hotels.

- Daily breakfast at hotels.

- Private AC car/van for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program.

- English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program.

- AC Train ticket Kolkata - Deoghar.

- Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.

- Bottled drinking water in car.

- Government taxes.


Hotels used or similar for 6 nights accommodation

Kolkata x 2 nights
3* - Regenta Orko's/ The Fern Residency
4* - The Peerless Inn/ The Fern Residency
5* - ITC Sonar, a Luxury Collection/ The Lalit Great Eastern

Deoghar  x 1 nights
3*/4*/5* - GenX Rameshwaram By 1589/ Amrapali Clarks Inn

Bodhgaya x 1 nights
3* - Hotel Taj Darbar/ Hotel Mahamaya
4* - The Royal  Residency/ Lotus Nikko Hotel
5* - The Royal  Residency/ Lotus Nikko Hotel

Varanasi x 2 nights
3* - Meraden Grand/ Amaya Hotel
4* - Rivatas by Ideal/ Palace On Ganges
5* - Ramada JHV/ Radisson Hotel

- Any flight tickets.

- Camera charges at monuments if any.

- Meals other than mentioned in the inclusions.

- Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc. 

- Gratuities and optional activities.

- Anything not mentioned in inclusions.