On arrival at the New Delhi airport, Alkof Holidays representative will meet you and transfer you to the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the city's bustling streets or wander its wide tree-lined boulevards to get your first taste of India. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Itinerary
- Experience Delhi, the National Capital of India, in existence since the 6th century BC.
- Experience the profound serenity of Bodhgaya, the sacred site where Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree.
- Explore Nalanda's ancient university ruins, a global center of learning and Buddhist heritage.
- Experience Rajgir’s serene landscapes, sacred sites, and rich historical legacy.
- Explore Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, and visit the historic Dhamekha Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, and the Archaeological Museum.
Tour program
Arrive in New Delhi
Start point
Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, New Delhi, Delhi, India
New Delhi - Bodhgaya (By flight)
After breakfast at the hotel, our representative will transfer you to New Delhi airport to board a flight to Bodhgaya. Upon arrival at Bodhgaya airport, our driver will meet you and transfer you to the hotel. Rest and relax at the hotel, later in the evening visit Mahabodhi temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bodhgaya, marks the sacred location where Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. Overnight stay at the hotel at Bodhgaya.
Exploring Bodhgaya
After an early morning breakfast, begin your day with a visit to the Mahabodhi Temple, where you'll see Muchalinda Lake, the Bodhi Tree, and the Vajrasana (Diamond Throne), the exact spot where Buddha meditated. Continue your tour with a visit to the Great Buddha Statue, an impressive 80-foot tall depiction of Buddha in a meditative pose. Explore the various monasteries and temples in the area, each built by different Buddhist nations and reflecting their unique architectural styles and cultural traditions. Notable ones include the Thai Monastery, the Japanese Temple, and the Tibetan Monastery. In the afternoon, visit Sujata Kuti, the house of Sujata, who offered Buddha rice pudding, ending his years of asceticism and guiding him toward enlightenment. If time permits, proceed to the Dungeshwari Cave Temples, where Buddha meditated before coming to Bodhgaya. After a day filled with spiritual discovery and historical insights, return to your hotel for a relaxing overnight stay in Bodhgaya.
Bodhgaya - Nalanda - Rajgir (100 kms/3 hrs drive)
After breakfast at the hotel, leave for Rajgir. En route, take a fascinating detour to visit the Ruins of Ancient Nalanda University, a renowned institution and one of the world's oldest centers of learning. Immerse yourself in the morning exploring its magnificent architecture and delving into its pivotal role in Buddhist studies. Once your exploration concludes, continue your journey to Ragir, upon arrival visit to Vulture's Peak (Griddhakuta Parvat), a sacred site where the Buddha gave many important teachings. Take your time to absorb the spiritual atmosphere and enjoy the panoramic views. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Rajgir.
Ragir Sightseeing - Bodhgaya (75 kms/1.30 hrs drive)
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, begin your day with a visit to Bimbisara's Prison, a historically significant site where King Bimbisara was imprisoned by his son, Ajatashatru. Reflect on the poignant history before continuing to Venu Vana, a tranquil bamboo grove gifted to Buddha by King Bimbisara, where you can stroll amidst its serene ambiance. Next, admire the Cyclopean Wall, an ancient architectural marvel from the Mauryan Empire, constructed with massive limestone blocks fitted without mortar. Proceed to the Rajgir Glass Bridge, a modern wonder offering breathtaking panoramic views of the verdant surroundings, perfect for capturing memorable moments. Conclude your exploration at Ghora Katora Lake, a picturesque spot ideal for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty. As the day ends, return to Bodhgaya for an overnight stay.
Bodhgaya - Sarnath / Varanasi (260 kms/5.30 hrs drive)
After breakfast, leave for Sarnath, a place of immense significance among the Buddhists. Here, around 528 BCE, Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, laying the foundation for this major world religion. Sarnath brims with historical treasures.
First, visit the Sarnath Archaeological Site, home to the Dhamek Stupa and the legendary Ashoka Pillar. Later visit Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, a modern temple with beautiful murals depicting the life of Buddha. Then visit the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, housing artifacts from the archaeological site. After that visit the Chaukhandi Stupa, which marks the place where Lord Buddha first met his disciples. In the evening, head to the banks of the Sacred Ganges River to partake in the Aarti ceremony for a truly unforgettable experience. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Varanasi.
Varanasi Sightseeing - New Delhi (Vande Bharat Train)
Start your day with a serene boat ride on the River Ganges, basking in the peaceful morning ambiance. Following the boat ride, choose to visit the revered Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple or take a contemplative walk through the various sacred Ghats of Varanasi, each offering a unique glimpse into the spiritual heart of the city. In the afternoon, your driver will escort you to the Varanasi Railway Station, ensuring you have a smooth and comfortable boarding process for your train journey to New Delhi. Upon arrival at the New Delhi Railway Station, our local representative will be there to greet you and provide a seamless transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Delhi Sightseeing & Departure
After breakfast at the hotel, visit Humayun's Tomb, an architectural gem built in 1562, followed by a stop at the vibrant Tibetan Market in North Delhi for unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Drive through Lutyens' Delhi, passing landmarks like the Presidential House and India Gate, pausing for photos. Conclude your sightseeing with a visit to Qutab Minar, an iconic minaret and historical marvel, before transferring to IGI Airport for your onward journey.
End point
Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, New Delhi, Delhi, India
Cancellation Policy
Terms and Conditions - Alkof Holidays
All correspondence(s) in respect of Tours / Travel Service bookings should be addressed to M/s. Alkof Holidays (Last Updated: April 1, 2023)
Payments:
For all the services contracted, certain advance payment should be made to hold the booking, on confirmed basis & the balance amount can be paid either before your departure from your country or upon arrival in INDIA but definitely before the commencement of the services. Management personnel's hold the right to decide upon the amount to be paid as advance payment, based on the nature of the service & the time left for the commencement of the service.
Apart from above in some cases like Special Train Journeys, hotels or resorts bookings during the peak season (X-Mas, New Year), full payment is required to be sent in advance.
Mode of Payment: Overseas advance payment can be made through Wire Transfer to our bank.
Cancellation Policy - Alkof Holidays
Effective April 1, 2023, the following cancellation terms apply to all bookings made on our website:
Cancellation Notification:
In the event of canceling tour/travel services for any avoidable/unavoidable reasons, please notify us in writing. The cancellation policy is applicable to new tour bookings made on or after April 1, 2023. Charges will be applied from the date we receive written advice.
Cancellation Charges:
Cancellation Terms Policy (i):
- If you cancel at least 16 days in advance of the scheduled departure, no cancellation fee applies.
- Up to 15 days prior to arrival or No Show: No Refund
- Please Note: Policy (i) applies to tours with 3-star & 3-star deluxe accommodations only, excluding tours with flights/trains/wildlife safari/tours featuring 4-star, 5-star, or 5-star deluxe hotels or customized itineraries.
Cancellation Terms Policy (ii) for Christmas and New Year Tours (20 December to 5 January):
- If you cancel at least 31 days in advance of the scheduled departure, no cancellation fee applies.
- Up to 30 days prior to arrival or No Show: No Refund
- Please Note: Policy (ii) applies to tours with 3-star, 3-star deluxe, & 4-star accommodations only, excluding tours with flights/trains/wildlife safari/tours featuring 5-star or 5-star deluxe hotels or customized itineraries.
Cancellation Terms Policy (iii) for Tours with Flights/Trains/Wildlife Safari's/Ayurveda Tours, Special Festival Tours, or Customized Itineraries:
- If you cancel at least 60 days in advance of the scheduled departure, a 10% cancellation fee applies to the total tour cost + Total cost of Jeep Safaris (Because the moment you book safari tours, we book the safaris to avoid last minute rush.) - Making it total to 25% of the total tour cost.
- If you cancel between 45 to 60 days in advance, a 50% cancellation fee applies to the total tour cost.
- Up to 45 days prior to arrival or No Show: No Refund.
- Please Note: Policy (iii) applies to tours with 3-star, and 4-star hotels/accommodation only. This policy does not includes tour packages with 5-star or 5-star deluxe hotels (Oberoi Hotels & Taj Group of Hotels).
Cancellation Terms Policy (iv) for Tours with 5 Star Accommodation and 5 Star Deluxe Hotels (Oberoi & Taj Group) including Flights/Trains/Wildlife Safari, Special Festival Tours, or Customized Itineraries:
- If you cancel at least 60 days in advance, a 10% cancellation fee applies to the total tour cost for the tours with all 5 star hotels other than 5 star hotels from Taj/Oberoi/Leela Group.
- If you cancel at least 90 days in advance, a 15% cancellation fee applies to the total tour cost for the tours with 5 star hotels from Taj/Oberoi/Leela Group.
- Up to 60 days prior to arrival or No Show: No Refund
- Please Note: Refunds for cancellations after commencement are limited and depend on recoverable amounts from hoteliers/contractors. Date change requests during the cancellation period are considered cancellations, with fees applied as mentioned above. We do not refund for unused hotel accommodation, chartered transportation, missed meals, etc.
Our Liabilities & Limitations:
- Please note that after the finalization of the Tour/ service Cost, if there are any Hike in entrance fees of monuments / museums, Taxes, fuel cost or guide charges – by Govt of India, the same would be charged as extra.
- Alkof Holidays act only in the capacity of agent for the hotels, airlines, transporters, railways & contractors providing other services & all exchange orders, receipts, contracts & tickets issued by us are issued subject to terms & conditions under which these services are provided by them.
- All itineraries are sample itineraries, intended to give you a general idea of the likely trip schedule. Numerous factors such as weather, road conditions, the physical ability of the participants etc. may dictate itinerary changes either before the tour or while on the trail. We reserve the right to change any schedule in the interest of the trip participants' safety, comfort & general well being.
- Our rates are based on the prevailing rates as negotiated by us with the hotels, airlines etc. Hotels and Airlines retain the right to modify the rates without any notice. In case of such changes the rates quoted before the modification, can be changed by us according to the modifications by hotels or airlines. All hotel bookings are based on usual check in and check out time of the hotels until unless indicated in the itinerary.
- We shall not be responsible for any delays & alterations in the programme or expenses incurred – directly or indirectly – due to natural hazards, flight cancellations, accident, breakdown of machinery or equipment's, breakdown of transport, weather, sickness, landslides, political closures or any untoward incidents.
- We shall not be responsible for any loss, injury or damage to person, property, or otherwise in connection with any accommodation, transportation or other services, resulting – directly or indirectly – from any act of GOD, dangers, fire, accident, breakdown in machinery or equipment, breakdown of transport, wars, civil disturbances, strikes, riots, thefts, pilferage's, epidemics, medical or custom department regulations, defaults, or any other causes beyond our control.
- We do not have any insurance policy covering the expenses for accident, sickness, loss due to theft, or any other reasons. Visitors are advised to seek such insurance arrangements in their home country. All baggage's & personal property/s at all times are at the client's risk.
Please Note: We will not be responsible for any costs arising out of unforeseen circumstances like landslides, road blocks, bad weather, etc.
Tour Details
Accommodation
- 7 nights accommodation in 3 star deluxe hotels on twin or double sharing basis (Please Note: Accommodations can be upgraded to 4 star/5 star/Luxury boutique hotels or your choice of hotels on request basis at an additional cost).
- Check-in time is 1400 hrs.
- Check-out time is 1200 hrs.
- Early check-in is subject to availability.
Transport
- Ground Transport: Airport pickup / drop-off, all sightseeing and transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle as per the itinerary.
- 1-2 persons - Air-conditioned sedan car such as Etios/Dezire or similar.
- 3-4 persons - Air-conditioned MUV car such as Toyota Innova or similar.
- 5 or more persons - Air-conditioned mini-van such as Tempo Traveler or Tourist Bus.
- Train Tickets: One-way Express train ticket from Varanasi to New Delhi (Vande Bharat Express).
Insurance
Flights
- One-way domestic flight from New Delhi to Bodhgaya (Economy Class).
Additional Services
- Personal assistance during arrival and departure.
- 1 rickshaw ride in old Delhi.
- 1 boat ride on river ganges in Varanasi.
- 1 mineral water bottle per person per day.
- All applicable taxes.
Additional Services
- Please Note: Tour guides for specific languages, Italian, German, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Chinese, and Dutch, are also available on request basis at an additional cost.
- Any International flights are not included.
- Visa fee (if applicable).
- Any personal expenses, laundry, telephone charges.
- Any monument entrance fee, camera fee.
- Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.
Meals
- Daily breakfast at the hotels.
Guide
- An English speaking Buddhist guide will escort you throughout the tour.
Good to know
Currency
Indian Rupee
India