The Buddhist circuit follows the life of the Buddha through sites in northern India and Nepal. It is visited by pilgrims from across Asia and by travellers interested in history.
The four great sites
- Lumbini, Nepal: the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, with the Maya Devi Temple and the Ashoka Pillar.
- Bodh Gaya, Bihar: where he attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. The Mahabodhi Temple is a UNESCO site.
- Sarnath, near Varanasi: where the Buddha gave his first sermon, with the Dhamek Stupa and an excellent museum.
- Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh: where he attained parinirvana, with the reclining Buddha statue.
Other important sites
- Nalanda & Rajgir: Rajgir's Vulture's Peak, where the Buddha preached, and the ruins of Nalanda's ancient university.
- Vaishali: associated with the Buddha's last sermon and an Ashokan pillar.
- Shravasti: where the Buddha spent many rainy seasons.
Suggested routes
- Short circuit (five to six days): Varanasi and Sarnath, Bodh Gaya, Rajgir and Nalanda.
- Full circuit (ten to twelve days): add Kushinagar and Lumbini, crossing into Nepal at the Sunauli border.
Getting around
Gaya, Varanasi and Kushinagar have airports, but distances between sites are long and roads vary. A car with driver is the most comfortable way to travel.
When to go
October to March. December and January are peak pilgrim season at Bodh Gaya, when teachings and ceremonies are held.
Etiquette
- Walk clockwise around stupas.
- Dress modestly.
- Keep silence near meditation areas.
- Remove shoes where required.
Documents for Nepal
Indian citizens can enter Nepal with a valid passport or voter ID; check current rules. See Pilgrimage tours and Cultural holidays.
When to go
When to go
When to go
When to go