The Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train, operated by IRCTC, offers a unique spiritual journey through some of the most significant Buddhist sites in India. This week-long itinerary provides an immersive experience into the life and teachings of Lord Buddha. Here’s a day-by-day breakdown:
Buddhist Tourist Train Itinerary: An Eight-Day Spiritual Journey through India and Nepal
Day 1: Delhi – Gaya (990 kms)
Begin your spiritual journey by assembling at Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station at 13:00 hrs. Board the Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train and depart for Gaya at 14:30 hrs. Enjoy dinner on board as you travel through the night.
Day 2: Gaya – Bodhgaya (16 kms)
Wake up to early morning tea and breakfast on board. Upon arrival in Gaya, transfer by coach to Bodhgaya. Check into your hotel, enjoy lunch, and relax. Explore Bodhgaya’s sacred sites, including the Mahabodhi Temple and nearby temples. Conclude your day with dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 3: Bodhgaya – Nalanda – Rajgir – Gaya – Varanasi
After breakfast, check out and head to Rajgir for sightseeing, including Bimbimsara Jail and Gridhakut Hill. After lunch, visit the ruins of Nalanda University and its museum. Board the train at Gaya Railway Station and enjoy dinner as you proceed to Varanasi.
Day 4: Varanasi – Sarnath – Nautanwa
Arrive in Varanasi early morning, have breakfast on board, then visit Sarnath to see Dhamekh Stupa and other historical sites. After lunch, witness the evening Aarti at the River Ganges Ghat. Return to the train for dinner and travel to Nautanwa.
Day 5: Nautanwa – Lumbini
Enjoy breakfast on board before heading to Lumbini, Nepal. Ensure your passport and visa are ready. Check into your hotel for lunch and explore Lumbini’s sacred sites, including the Maya Devi Temple. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 6: Lumbini – Kushinagar – Gorakhpur
After breakfast, proceed to Kushinagar, where you’ll visit Mahaparinirvan Temple and other significant sites. Travel to Gorakhpur, board the train, and enjoy dinner on your way to Balrampur.
Day 7: Balrampur – Sravasti – Balrampur – Agra
Arrive early at Balrampur and proceed to Sravasti for breakfast and sightseeing at Jetvana Vihara. After lunch, return to Balrampur and board the train to Agra, enjoying dinner on board.
Day 8: Agra – Delhi
Arrive in Agra early morning, have breakfast on board, and visit the iconic Taj Mahal. After sightseeing, depart for New Delhi. Enjoy lunch and evening tea on board before arriving at Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station, concluding your enriching journey.