THE LAND OF BUDDHA: VARANASI, GAYA AND NALANDA 4 NIGHT PRE TOUR

Visit the places where Buddha was born, attained enlightenment and taught his disciples on this 4 night spiritual adventure. Explore the ancient city of Varanasi, the pilgrimage site of Bodh Gaya and the Buddist monastic centre of learning at Nalanda during this new per or post cruise tour combined with your Pandaw expedition on the Ganges.

DAY 1

ARRIVE VARANASI

Our driver will meet you at Varanasi airport and transfer you to your hotel. Rest of day at leisure.

DAY 2

VARANASI

Take rowing boats for sunrise over the bathing ghats along the Ganges. After breakfast, visit the old city and explore the labyrinth of narrow streets, visiting Kashi Vishwanath temple and witnessing local weavers in action. After lunch, visit Sarnath where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon at the Deer Park. Finish the day with a walk along the Ghats to witness the Aarti rituals before dinner in a local restaurant.

DAY 3

VARANASI TO GAYA

After breakfast in your hotel, take a train to Bodh Gaya, one of the most sacred and important Buddhist pilgrimage centres in the world. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for check and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure.

DAY 4

BODH GAYA

Today we visit the UNESCO world heritage site of Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, one of earliest Buddhist temples built in brick that still survives today. See the famous Bodhi tree where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment and explore the many temples and monasteries. Return to your hotel for the evening.

DAY 5

NALANDA

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and travel overland to Nalanda. Dating back to the 5th century CE, this ancient university and Buddhist monastic centre was noted as among the greatest centres of learning in the ancient world. Continue onwards Patna for embarkation of your Pandaw expedition.

Taj Ganges

The ancient temple city of Varanasi has yet another landmark in The Taj Ganges Hotel Varanasi. Featured among the top 5 star hotels in the city, The Taj Ganges Hotel Varanasi is nestled amidst 40 acres of lush gardens at a convenient distance (about 45 minutes drive) from the airport. It is also located just 6 km from the commercial hub of Vanarasi, also known as The Chowk. The spacious rooms complemented by efficient service makes it one of the best hotels for business and leisure.

Nadesar Palace Ground, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh - 221002 INDIA

Tel: +91 542 6660001

Visit Hotel Website

Hyatt Place Bodh Gaya

Nestled 20 minutes away from Gaya airport, within the lush landscapes of this sacred city, the hotel is conveniently located near the UNESCO World Heritage site, Mahabodhi temple, and the Bodhi tree. The minimalist design of our hotel fosters a sense of calm for Buddhist followers and those seeking a break from the city chaos.

Katorwa Road, Bodh Gaya - 824231, Bihar

Tel: +91 631 352 1234

Visit Hotel Website

Rates include

4 nights accommodation, 1 one-way train ticket between Varanasi and Gaya per person, English speaking guide, excursions and entry fees as noted in the itinerary and all applicable taxes.

Meals included

Land tour includes meals as follows; Day 1: None, Day 2: Breakfast lunch & Dinner, Day 3: Breakfast lunch & Dinner, Day 4: Breakfast lunch & Dinner, Day 5: Breakfast.

Price per traveller in USD

Accommodation Type	Price per Traveller
Sharing (2 Pax)	US$1,360.30
Single (1 Pax)	US$1,952.61

Extension Code: LTID-VAR-4-PRE-1

Supplements

Taj Ganges
Taj Ganges - Compulsory meal: Christmas Eve Gala Dinner - 24DEC USD125.00 per person
Taj Ganges - Compulsory meal: New Year's Eve Dinner - 31DEC USD200.00 per person
Taj Ganges - Festival Supplement - 14 Jan 2025 - 26 Feb 2025 USD42.00 per room per night