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Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour in Nepal

The Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour in Nepal is a nine-day journey that takes you on a meaningful journey through sacred sites that have preserved the teachings, traditions, and values of Buddhism for centuries. It’s an inspiring way to connect with the roots of the Buddha’s life and philosophy while exploring the cultural richness of Nepal. Nepal, being the birthplace of Lord Gautam Buddha, holds deep spiritual significance for Buddhists worldwide.

The tour begins in Kathmandu. Known for its rich blend of Hinduism and Buddhism, Kathmandu offers a unique spiritual atmosphere. Here, you’ll explore iconic Buddhist landmarks like Boudhanath Stupa and Swoyambhunath (the Monkey Temple), along with other significant monasteries that reflect centuries-old traditions.

After Kathmandu, the journey continues to Pokhara. While famous for its natural beauty, Pokhara also offers cultural depth. You’ll visit the serene World Peace Stupa and explore the Tibetan Refugee Center, where you can witness the everyday life and practices of Tibetan Buddhist communities.

The tour then takes you to Lumbini, the sacred birthplace of Lord Buddha. Recorded in the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites, Lumbini is a holy place for Buddhists. Here, you can visit the exact spot where Buddha was born. Besides this, you can also visit many temples and monasteries, including the Ashoka Pillar, Maya Devi Temple, and the World Peace Pagoda, as well as the Bodhi Tree, making the trip even more enchanting.

Per Person From

$1,215

9 Days
  • Best Price Guaranteed
  • No Booking Fees
  • Professional Local Guide
  • Local Operators
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Best Season

March, April, May, September, October, November, December

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Difficulty

Easy
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Transportation

Private Vehicle 

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Start / End

Kathmandu to Kathmandu

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Accommodation

3-star hotel
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Meals

Breakfast
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Language

English | Chinese

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Route

KTM-Pokhara-Lumbini-KTM

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Trek Distance

Kathmandu to Kathmandu (834.6km/518.5 miles)

Major Highlights: Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour Package

  • Meditation in peaceful and calm environments of Bouddhanath, Swayambhunath, Kopan monasteries, the World Peace Pagoda of Pokhara, and Lumbini’s garden.
  • You’ll visit important Buddhist temples, stupas, and other Hindu pilgrimage sites.
  • You can interact with monks, see their rituals, and learn about their teachings.
  • You’ll explore Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, along with other monuments made by different nations.
  • Get a stunning view of Pokhara and the lakeside from the World Peace Pagoda.
  • Participation in spiritual rituals and prayers, and a chance to follow the footsteps of the Buddha.
  • Build bonds with fellow pilgrims who share your passion for Buddhism and inner growth.

Must-Visit Buddhist Pilgrim Destinations in Nepal

Kathmandu

Kathmandu is home to many important Buddhist sites that are worth visiting. Each place is a deep, peaceful exposure, providing you with the opportunity to learn about Buddha’s life and teachings. You can see old stupas, monasteries, and meditation centers that are special in Buddhism. Visiting these locations allows you to appreciate Nepalese culture and connect with the Buddha’s journey. You can also relax, worship, or reflect in the peaceful environment.

  • Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)
  • Boudhanath Stupa
  • Kopan Monastery
  • Pharping

Pokhara

Pokhara is a peaceful place with beautiful mountains and lakes, perfect for spiritual travelers. You can visit several Buddhist sites here, where the calm atmosphere allows you to relax and meditate. The natural beauty of Pokhara makes it even more special, providing a peaceful space to reflect on Buddha’s teachings. It is a great place for you to experience both nature and spirituality.

  • World Peace Pagoda
  • Tibetan Refugee Camp
  • Hemja gumba

Lumbini

Lumbini is a peaceful place where you can visit the location where Buddha was born. Ashoka pillar, Mayadevi temple, and stupas at the location mark the historical significance of this place. The footsteps of Lord Buddha, representing his teachings and journey, are also visible here. Additionally, Lumbini provides a peaceful space for pilgrims to meditate and connect deeply with Buddhist teachings. The significant places in Lumbini include:

  • Maya Devi Temple
  • Lumbini Garden
  • Puskarini Pond
  • The Ashoka Pillar
  • Lumbini Museum
  • Royal Monastery

Outline Itinerary For Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour

Day 01: Arrrival in Kathmandu
Day 02: Buddhist Pilgrimage Site Tour 
Day 03: Kathmandu to Pharping Day Tour 
Day 04: Kathmandu to Pokhara
Day 05: Sarangkot tour || Pokhara Buddhist Pilgrimage site tour 
Day 06: Pokhara to Lumbini
Day 07: Lumbini Tour (Birthplace of Lord Gautam Buddha)
Day 08: Lumbini to Kathmandu 
Day 09: Transfer to the Airport 

Itinerary for 9-day Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu 

Welcome to Nepal. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our guide or team member will meet you and escort you to the hotel, where you will have some free time to rest or explore the surrounding area. In the evening, you can enjoy a local dinner at one of the nearby Nepali restaurants. We will meet with the guide for a brief introduction to the tour and discuss the itinerary. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary Fact Details
Meals: N/A
Accomodations: Himalayan Ghar or similar

Day 02: Buddhist Pilgrimage Site Tour 

Itinerary Details
Itinerary Fact Details
Time: 09-17
Travel Duration: 8hr
Travel Distance: 24.2km/15.0 miles
  • Attraction of the day : Swyambhunath, Bouddhanath Stupa, and Kopan Monasteries

We will start our day early with a visit to Swayambhunath Stupa (also known as the Monkey Temple). Perched on a hilltop, it offers peaceful vibes and 360-degree views of the Kathmandu Valley. Next, we will head to Bouddhanath Stupa, one of Asia’s holiest Tibetan Buddhist sites. Here, you’ll witness monks chanting and devotees walking clockwise around the stupa in deep reverence. Our day will conclude with a visit to Kopan Monastery, where we can participate in a brief meditation session or attend a teaching.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary Fact Details
Meals: Breakfast
Accomodations: Himalayan Ghar or similar

Day 03: Kathmandu to Pharping Day Tour 

Itinerary Details
Itinerary Fact Details
Time: 09-17
Travel Duration: 1 hr 34 min
Travel Distance: 37km/22.9 miles
  • Attraction of the day: Pharping

Another day, another trip. Have breakfast at your hotel and be ready for a drive towards Pharping, a calm and less-traveled area known for its Buddhist heritage. The drive takes you through modern and rural landscapes with views of terraced fields and forest areas. In Pharping, we will visit the important Nunnery and the revered Asura Cave, where Guru Rinpoche meditated. Later, we will return to Kathmandu, where you can explore the city at your own pace or relax at the hotel. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary Fact Details
Meals: Breakfast
Accomodations: Hotel Surya Heritage / Kathmandu Business Hotel or similar   

Day 04: Kathmandu to Pokhara

Itinerary Details
Itinerary Fact Details
Time: 09-17
Travel Duration: 8hrs 
Travel Distance: 210km/130.4 miles

Today we’ll leave Kathmandu and move towards our next destination, Pokhara. We will depart early in the morning for a scenic 8-hour drive to Pokhara, passing through charming and picturesque landscapes. Along the way, we can stop for breaks to stretch and enjoy local snacks. Upon reaching Pokhara, we will check into our hotel and take some time to relax by the beautiful Phewa Lake or perhaps explore the lakeside area for a casual walk. In the evening, you can have your dinner with views of the mountains and a pretty lake. Overnight in Pokhara.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary Fact Details
Meals: Breakfast
Accomodations: Hotel Queens Park / Majheri Resort or similar 

Day 05: Sarangkot tour || Pokhara buddhist pilgrimage site tour 

Itinerary Details
Itinerary Fact Details
Time: 05- 08 and 09 -17
Travel Duration: 1 hour 20 mins
Travel Distance: 35km/21.8 miles
  • Attractions of the day: Sarangkot, Hemja Gumba, David fall, Peace Pagoda, and Phewa Lake

Day 5 begins early with a trip to Sarangkot for a spectacular sunrise view over the Annapurna Range. After taking in the stunning view of the sunrise, we will back to hotel for breakfast and we move to boating in fewa lake. After 1hr boating in fewa lake we drive to Hemja Gumba for short tour than we will visit Davi’s Fall. We will head to Tibetan Refugee Camp. Finally, we drive to Peace pagoda after reach there we will enjoy the mountain panorama view and stupa. after visit pagoda we practice the meditation. after meditation we will return to the hotel for the night.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary Fact Details
Meals: Breakfast 
Accomodations: Hotel Queens Park / Majheri Resort or similar

Day 06: Pokhara to Lumbini 

Itinerary Details
Itinerary Fact Details
Time: 09-17
Travel Duration: 6 hours
Travel Distance: 201km/124.8 miles

Today, we will drive from Pokhara to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. The journey takes around 6 hours and covers a distance of 201km. Upon reaching Lumbini, we will check into our hotel, relax, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the area. In the evening, you can explore around the Lumbini Garden, immersing in the tranquil environment of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Overnight at Lumbini.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary Fact Details
Meals: Breakfast 
Accomodations: Hotel Bodhi Red Sun or similar

Day 07: Lumbini Tour (Birthplace of Lord Gautam Buddha) 

Itinerary Details
Itinerary Fact Details
Time: 09-17
Travel Duration: 1 hr 10 min
Travel Distance: 31km/19.2 miles
  • Attractions of the day: Maya Devi temple, Ashoka pillar, Tilaurakot, and World Peace Pagoda

Today is one of the prominent days that will let you immerse yourself in the sacred history of Lumbini. We will visit the Maya Devi Temple, the very place where Lord Buddha was born, and the Ashoka Pillar, which marks this holy spot. We will also visit the ancient city of Tilaurakot, the childhood home of Buddha, and the World Peace Pagoda. Furthermore, in Lumbini, we will explore the various monasteries built by different countries in the region. Afterward, we will return to the hotel and enjoy a calm evening.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary Fact Details
Meals: Breakfast 
Accomodations: Hotel Bodhi Red Sun or similar

Day 08: Lumbini to Kathmandu 

Itinerary Details
Itinerary Fact Details
Time: 08-17
Travel Duration: 9 hours
Travel Distance: 285km/177.0 miles

After breakfast, we will return to Kathmandu from Lumbini through a scenic drive. The drive takes approximately 9 hours, covering 285km. Along the route,  we will stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we will check into our hotel and have the evening free to rest and relax. Before our tour concludes, you can visit any remaining spots in the city, like the Garden of Dreams or Durbar Square. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary Fact Details
Meals: Breakfast 
Accomodations: Himalayan Ghar or similar

Day 09: Transfer to the Airport 

On our final day, we will have breakfast at the hotel before transferring to the airport for your flight. If time allows, we can visit any last-minute attractions or shop. The drive to the airport is short, and after bidding farewell to the guide, you will head to the airport for departure, carrying the memories of a spiritual pilgrimage tour.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary Fact Details
Meals: Breakfast

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Cost of Buddhist holy site tour package

The cost of the Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour is USD 1215 per person. However, the price varies depending on the group size. As the group size increases, the cost per person decreases. Want to know how? Check out the table below:

Group size Price (per person)
1 pax USD 12155.00
2 pax USD 660.00
3 pax USD 610.00
4 pax USD 550.00
5 – 7 Pax USD 515.00
8 – 10 pax USD 460.00
10+ USD 440.00

In addition to the main tour, optional add-on services are available for an enhanced experience and added comfort. A 50-minute mountain flight with a guaranteed window seat and airport transfer costs USD 250 per person. For those seeking upgraded accommodations, there are options to upgrade to a 4-star hotel for USD 220 or a 5-star hotel for USD 450, adding luxury to your stay during the pilgrimage tour at an extra cost.

What's included and excluded in the Buddhist tour package?

Includes

Excludes

Accommodation

  • 8 Nights in a 3-star hotel as mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Extra night acommodation for your early arrival or late departure

Transfer

  • A comfortable private vehicle for the tour, as per Group size and itinerary only.
  • International airfare

Others

  • All entrance fees as per the itinerary mentioned at the listed places.
  • English-speaking guide.
  • Meals as per the Itinerary mentioned.
  • All internal taxes
  • 1 Bottle/day of water during the tour
  • All personal expenses
  • International airfare
  • All drinks and food except those mentioned in the itinerary
  • All the services on the not listed in the lists
  • Single supplementary

The Best Time to Visit the Buddhist Pilgrimage Site

The best time to visit the Buddhist Pilgrimage sites in Nepal is from October to December and March to May. These months have pleasant weather with clear skies and moderate temperatures, making travel comfortable. In other words, the season allows you to explore the sacred sites without the discomfort of extreme heat or heavy rain, giving you an enjoyable experience.

Similarly, during these months, you can also experience important Nepali festivals. In October, Dashain is celebrated with grand family gatherings, feasts, and rituals. In November, Tihar, the festival of lights, adds color to temples and sacred places.

However, for the Buddhist Pilgrimage tour, we suggest traveling during March or April, when Buddha Jayanti is celebrated. The festival is celebrated enthusiastically, with special ceremonies in Lumbini, Bouddhath, Swayambhunath, and other prominent Buddhist landmarks. Additionally, Losar, the Tibetan New Year, is another Buddhist festival that falls in February or March, celebrated with dances and offerings that enhance the spiritual atmosphere of the pilgrimage.

Climate Conditions in Different Buddhist Sites 

Location Winter (Dec- Feb) Spring (Mar-May) Monsoon (Jun- Aug) Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Kathmandu Cool, 5°C to 15°C, clear skies Pleasant, 10°C to 25°C, mild rain Hot and humid, 20°C to 30°C, frequent rain Mild, 10°C to 20°C, clear skies
Pokhara Cold, 5°C to 15°C, clear skies Pleasant, 10°C to 25°C, occasional rain Hot, 20°C to 30°C, heavy rain Mild, 10°C to 20°C, clear skies
Lumbini Cool, 5°C to 15°C, clear skies Warm, 15°C to 30°C, mild rain Hot, 25°C to 35°C, heavy rain Mild, 15°C to 25°C, clear skies

Packing Checklist for Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour

Clothing & Footwear

  • Comfortable footwear
  • lightweight clothes
  • Warm clothes

Personal Essentials

  • Sunscreen & hat
  • Water bottle
  • Personal medications

Electronics & Accessories

  • Camera or smartphone
  • Travel adapter & charger
  • Small backpack

Documents & Money

  • Cash & small change
  • Travel insurance & copies of important documents

Spiritual & Reflection Items

  • Notebook & pen
  • Prayer beads or religious items

Snacks & Extras

  • Snacks
  • Emergency items

What Makes the 9-day Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour Package Special in Nepal?

Nepal is a deeply spiritual land where Buddhism thrives through daily practice, sacred rituals, and diverse traditions like Tibetan and Theravada Buddhism. So, embarking on a 9-day Buddhist cultural tour in Nepal offers you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of Buddhist teachings, visit revered locations like Lumbini, and experience the rich cultural tapestry of Nepal.

Deep Roots in Buddhism

Approximately 9% of Nepal’s population practices Buddhism, making it the second-largest religion in the country. Buddhism is very important to the people here. Many Nepali people practice prayer, meditation, and rituals on a daily basis. Nepal has different schools of Buddhism, like Tibetan Buddhism and Theravada Buddhism. Each school teaches something unique about Buddha’s path and offers different ways to understand and follow the teachings of Buddha.

Tibetan Buddhism focuses on meditation and rituals, while Theravada Buddhism focuses on personal enlightenment. The Buddhist culture in Nepal is peaceful and deeply connected to the land, making it a special place to experience the Buddhist culture.

Birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama

Gautam Buddha, also known as Siddhartha Gautama, was born in Lumbini, Nepal, over 2,500 years ago. He was born into the royal family of the Shakya kingdom, with his father being King Suddhodana. Siddhartha’s early life in the palace was luxurious, but after seeing the suffering of life, he left his kingdom in search of enlightenment.

Lumbini, his birthplace, is now a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide. Thus, being the birthplace of the founder of Buddhism, Nepal is special for a Buddhist Pilgrimage tour.

A Land of  Peaceful Pilgrimage

Nepal has many holy Buddhist pilgrimage sites, each offering a peaceful and spiritual experience. These places are perfect for meditation and reflection, allowing visitors to connect with the teachings of the Buddha. Key sites, such as the Mayadevi Temple in Lumbini, where the Buddha was born, and the sacred stupas of Swayambhunath and Boudhanath, provide a peaceful atmosphere.

Visiting these locations not only brings a sense of relaxation but also a deeper understanding of Buddhism and its significance, making Nepal an ideal location for a Buddhist Pilgrimage tour.

Why Should You Join Us for the Buddhist Pilgrimage Site Tour?

At Himalayan 360, a company deeply rooted in Nepal, we aim to give you a safe and enjoyable experience on your Buddhist Pilgrimage tour. Our team’s primary goal is to provide you with the most enjoyable experience. Hence, we offer a variety of tour packages. From visiting sacred sites to exploring Nepal’s culture, we handle everything to make your trip memorable. There is an absolutely local touch and personalized service to guarantee a meaningful and special pilgrimage experience.

Here are some reasons for you to choose us for your cultural tour:

  • We arrange personalized pilgrimage tour packages tailored to your desires.
  • Our experienced guides offer in-depth knowledge of the Buddhist pilgrimage sites.
  • We ensure your safety and comfort throughout the entire tour.
  • We allow every itinerary to be adjusted with the time and changes in interest.
  • Our team is available 24/7 to assist with any concerns during the tour.
  • We provide access to blessings from monks at monasteries.
  • Transparent pricing with no hidden costs.
  • We promote responsible tourism, respecting local cultures and the environment.

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