Boeddhistische pelgrimstocht door Noordoost –India

Bij aankomst op de luchthaven van New Delhi ontmoet een vertegenwoordiger van Alkof Holidays je en brengt je naar het hotel. De rest van de dag is ter vrije besteding om de bruisende straten van de stad te verkennen of over de brede, met bomen omzoomde boulevards te slenteren om je eerste voorproefje van India te krijgen. Overnachting in het hotel.

After breakfast at the hotel, our representative will transfer you to New Delhi airport to board a flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival at Varanasi airport, our representative will meet you and transfer you to the hotel in Varanasi. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay in Varanasi.

Start your day early around 5:00 AM with a peaceful boat ride on the River Ganges. Watch the beautiful sunrise and see the morning prayers and spiritual life along the famous ghats. After the boat ride, enjoy a guided walk through the old city of Varanasi, exploring the sacred ghats and lively local atmosphere. Return to the hotel for breakfast. After breakfast, drive to Sarnath, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. Visit the Dhamekha Stupa, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon, and explore the Archaeological Museum with ancient Buddhist relics. Continue to the Chaukhandi Stupa, an important historical monument. In the evening, attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti on the banks of the River Ganges. After the ceremony, return to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Bodhgaya. Bodh Gaya is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site where Buddha attained enlightenment. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax. In the evening, visit the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the Bodhi Tree, where Buddha attained enlightenment, the Muchalinda Lake, and the Vajrasana, marking the exact meditation spot. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Bodh Gaya.

After breakfast, visit Sujata Kuti, associated with Sujata who offered Buddha rice pudding, marking a turning point in his journey to enlightenment. Continue to Dungeshwari Cave Temples, where Buddha meditated before arriving in Bodh Gaya. In the afternoon, visit the Great Buddha Statue, an impressive 80-foot statue in a meditative pose. Later, explore international monasteries including the Thai Monastery, Japanese Temple, and Tibetan Monastery, each reflecting unique Buddhist traditions and architecture. In the evening, return to Mahabodhi Temple for meditation. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Bodh Gaya.

After breakfast at the hotel, leave for Rajgir. 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. Later in the morning, head to Bimbisara's Prison, the historical site where King Bimbisara was imprisoned by his son Ajatashatru. Reflect on its significance and the story behind it.

In the afternoon, visit Venu Vana (Bamboo Grove), a peaceful monastery gifted to Buddha by King Bimbisara. Stroll through the serene bamboo grove and feel the peaceful ambiance. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Cyclopean Wall, an ancient, massive limestone structure believed to be built by the Mauryan Empire in the 3rd century BCE. Admire the large, irregularly shaped stones without mortar. Next, head to the Rajgir Glass Bridge, a modern architectural marvel offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Conclude your day with a visit to Ghora Katora Lake, a tranquil spot perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature's beauty. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Rajgir.

Early morning, around 7:00 AM, depart for Vaishali. Along the way, enjoy a fascinating detour to explore the Ruins of Ancient Nalanda University, one of the world’s oldest and most renowned centers of learning. Discover its magnificent architecture and delve into its pivotal role in Buddhist studies.

Continue your journey to Vaishali and, upon arrival, visit the iconic Ashoka Pillar, erected by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE to commemorate Buddha's last sermon. Next, marvel at the Vishwa Shanti Stupa, also known as the World Peace Pagoda, built in collaboration with the Japanese government to promote global peace and harmony. Proceed to Buddha Stupas I and II, which house the sacred ashes of Lord Buddha, making them significant pilgrimage sites for Buddhists.

Stop by the Abhishek Pushkarini, an ancient tank believed to have been used for coronation rituals by the Licchavi rulers, adding to Vaishali's rich cultural tapestry. Conclude your sightseeing with a visit to the Vaishali Archaeological Museum, home to an impressive collection of ancient coins, artifacts, and figures. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel in Vaishali.

After breakfast, leave for Kushinagar. Upon arrival, first visit the Parinirvana Stupa, also known as the Mahaparinirvana Temple, believed to be the place where Gautama Buddha attained Nirvana. Later, visit the Matha Kaur Shrine, considered to be the site where Buddha delivered his last sermon before attaining Nirvana. After that, visit the Ramabhar Buddhist Stupa, a significant site believed to mark the place where Lord Buddha was cremated. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Kushinagar.

Early in the morning, get a packed breakfast and leave for the Sonauli Border for the immigration process to enter Nepal from India. The process may take 3 to 4 hours, depending on the number of visitors at the immigration department. After completing the immigration process, proceed to Lumbini. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel for overnight stay.

After breakfast at the hotel, visit the Mayadevi Temple, the exact spot where Queen Maya Devi gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama, who later became the Buddha. Inside the temple, visit the Birthplace of Buddha. Later, visit the sacred pond, Puskarini, where Queen Maya Devi is believed to have bathed before giving birth to Gautam Buddha. Finally, visit the Ashoka Pillar, erected by Emperor Ashoka during his pilgrimage to Lumbini in 249 BC.

Later, visit the World Peace Pagoda, a symbol of universal peace and harmony, offering serene surroundings for reflection and meditation. After that, hop on a rickshaw to visit several other temples and monasteries, including the Japanese Temple, the Korean Temple, the Chinese Temple, the Myanmar Golden Temple, the Vietnamese Temple, and more.

After sightseeing in Lumbini, proceed to Kapilvastu, 50 kilometers from Lumbini, inside Nepal. Upon arrival at Kapilvastu, first visit the Gotihawa Stupa and Pillar. Emperor Ashoka visited this site in 249 BC, erected a stone pillar, and built a large stupa dedicated to Krakuchhanda Buddha to mark his birthplace. Later, visit Tilaurakot, the ancient Shakya capital where Siddhartha Gautama spent his early years before becoming the Buddha. Here the Eastern Gate is significant as it marks the departure of the Buddha from Kapilvastu, beginning his journey to enlightenment, renouncing his family and royal lineage at the age of 21. Also, visit the Western Gate, built to control the flow of people in and out of the city and to defend against floods and enemies. After that, visit the Kapilvastu Museum. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Lumbini.

Early in the morning, depart with a packed breakfast for the Sonauli Border to complete immigration formalities, which may take a few hours. After crossing into India, drive towards Shravasti. En route, visit Kapilvastu on Indian side, an important Buddhist site associated with the Shakya clan and early life of Gautama Buddha, offering a peaceful and historic setting. Continue your journey to Shravasti, the ancient capital of the Kosala kingdom. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel. Dinner and overnight stay in Shravasti.

Today, embark on an unforgettable excursion to Changu Lake, also known as Tsomgo Lake. This stunning glacial lake, situated at an altitude of 12,400 feet, is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and pristine landscapes. The lake's crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding peaks, creating a picture-perfect scene. During the winter, the lake often freezes, adding to its ethereal beauty. After soaking in the serene atmosphere of Changu Lake, continue to Baba Mandir, a sacred shrine dedicated to Baba Harbhajan Singh, a revered Indian Army soldier. Located at an altitude of 13,200 feet, this temple is not only a place of worship but also a site of deep respect and reverence. Locals and soldiers alike believe that Baba's spirit protects the area and blesses those who visit. After the excursion, return to Gangtok for an overnight stay at your hotel.

After an early breakfast, our driver will transfer you to Kolkata airport to board a flight to Bagdogra. Upon arrival, your driver will receive you at the airport and take you on a picturesque drive to Kalimpong and check in at your hotel. Rest and relax at the hotel, later set out to explore Kalimpong. Start with Durpin Hill to visit the serene Zong Dog Palri Fo-Brang Monastery, offering panoramic views of the Teesta Valley. Continue to Mangal Dham Temple and Pine View Nursery, known for its rare cactus collection. Visit Dr. Graham’s Homes Complex to explore its colonial legacy and educational heritage. Later, head to Delo Hill, the highest point in Kalimpong for breathtaking views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and the surrounding valleys. Return to your hotel in the evening for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, drive to Gangtok and check in to your hotel upon arrival. After some time to relax and freshen up, begin your exploration with a visit to Tashi View Point, ideally timed for clearer skies and panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range. Later, drive to Rumtek Monastery, one of Sikkim’s most revered spiritual centers, located 23 km from the city, offering profound insight into Tibetan Buddhist traditions and monastic life. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll along MG Marg, Gangtok’s vibrant pedestrian boulevard lined with cafés, shops, and local charm. Return to your hotel for a restful overnight stay.

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, set out for a full day of sightseeing in Gangtok. Begin with a visit to Hanuman Tok, a peaceful hilltop temple maintained by the Indian Army, offering sweeping views of the surrounding peaks. Continue to Ganesh Tok, a compact yet charming viewpoint known for its colorful prayer flags and panoramic vistas. Next, explore the Directorate of Handicrafts & Handloom (closed on Sundays), where you can admire traditional Sikkimese craftsmanship. Visit the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology (also closed on Sundays), home to rare manuscripts and Buddhist relics that reflect the region’s deep spiritual heritage. Proceed to the Do Drul Chorten, a revered stupa encircled by prayer wheels and vibrant murals. Conclude your day at Banjhakri Falls and Energy Park, where cascading waters and landscaped gardens offer a refreshing retreat. Return to your hotel in the evening for a restful overnight stay.

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Darjeeling - nestled in the Himalayan foothills and famed for its tea estates and colonial charm. En route, enjoy sweeping views of rolling tea gardens, serene forests, and hilltop villages. On arrival in Darjeeling, check in to your hotel and relax. The evening is free to enjoy the refreshing mountain atmosphere at your own pace. Overnight stay at the hotel in Darjeeling.

Begin your day with an optional early morning excursion to Tiger Hill (around 4:00 AM) to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Kanchenjunga range. On your return, stop at the Batasia Loop, where the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway spirals through manicured gardens and a war memorial, offering panoramic views.

Next, board the Darjeeling Toy Train joy ride (Subject to availability), a UNESCO World Heritage experience - on a roundtrip from Darjeeling to Ghoom and back. This nostalgic journey winds through misty hills, charming neighborhoods, and lush tea gardens, with a brief halt at Ghoom Station, India’s highest railway station.

After the ride, visit the serene Ghoom Monastery, home to a majestic Maitreya Buddha statue and ancient Tibetan manuscripts. Later in the afternoon, unwind with a walk through a Darjeeling tea garden, soaking in the aroma and views of the rolling plantations. Conclude your day with a visit to the Japanese Temple and Peace Pagoda, tranquil symbols of harmony nestled on the hillside. Overnight stay in Darjeeling.

Today morning our driver will transfer you to Bagdogra Airport to board a flight to Kolkata. Upon arrival at Kolkata airport, our local driver will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax and explore at your own pace. Enjoy an overnight stay in Kolkata.

After breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of Kolkata, formerly Calcutta, which was established as a trading post by the East India Company and served as India's national capital under British rule from 1772 to 1911. Today, it is renowned for its impressive colonial architecture, vibrant art galleries, and lively cultural festivals. Begin with a visit to the Victoria Memorial, an iconic landmark with its stunning architecture and museum. Visit Memorial Hall for a glimpse into Kolkata's historical heritage. Continue to Mother Teresa's Home, where you can learn about her remarkable humanitarian work. Stroll through China Town to experience its unique culture and cuisine. Admire the engineering marvel of the Vidyasagar Setu and the bustling Howrah Bridge, a symbol of the city's vitality. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk through one of Kolkata's local markets, soaking in the vibrant local life. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to Kolkata International Airport to board your flight to your home or onward destination.