Kolkata, Bodhgaya & Varanasi: Pilgrimage Journey

Ziua 1 · Kolkata

1. 1

   Kolkata (Calcutta)

   Trecere fără oprire

   Upon arrival at Kolkata airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and assist you with the transition to your hotel, ensuring a smooth start to your journey.

   Transfer to your hotel in Kolkata, where you'll be greeted with refreshing beverages and a traditional Indian welcome, setting the tone for your stay in the City of Joy.

2. 2

   Kolkata (Calcutta)

   Trecere fără oprire

   Take some time to freshen up and relax after your journey, soaking in the ambiance of this vibrant metropolis, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality.

Overnight at hotel.

Ziua 2 · Kolkata

1. 1

   Kolkata (Calcutta)

   Trecere fără oprire

   Begin your day with a delectable breakfast at the hotel before setting out to explore the iconic landmarks of Kolkata.

2. 2

   Victoria Memorial Hall

   2 ore Intrarea inclusă

   Marvel at the majestic Victoria Memorial, an architectural masterpiece that offers insights into the city's colonial past through its exhibits and sprawling gardens.

3. 3

   Howrah Bridge

   Trecere fără oprire

   Experience the hustle and bustle of the Howrah Bridge, one of Kolkata's most famous landmarks, connecting the bustling neighborhoods of Howrah and Kolkata.

4. 4

   Indian Museum (Jadu Ghar)

   2 ore Intrarea inclusă

   Delve into the city's cultural heritage at the Indian Museum, home to a vast collection of artifacts, including sculptures, paintings, and archaeological finds.

5. 5

   Oprirea 5

   30 min

   Discover the serene beauty of St. Paul's Cathedral, a tranquil oasis amidst the urban landscape, with its magnificent architecture and serene ambiance.

6. 6

   Marble Palace Kolkata

   o oră Intrarea inclusă

   Immerse yourself in the opulence of Marble Palace, a stunning mansion adorned with marble sculptures, rare artifacts, and lush gardens.

7. 7

   Kolkata (Calcutta)

   Trecere fără oprire

   Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through New Market, a shopper's paradise offering a plethora of goods, from clothing and accessories to souvenirs and handicrafts.

Overnight at hotel.

Ziua 3 · Kolkata - Bodhgaya (flight)

1. 1

   Patna

   Trecere fără oprire

   After breakfast, check out from your hotel and proceed to the airport for your flight to Patna, the capital city of Bihar.

2. 2

   Nalanda University Ruins

   1 h 30 min Intrarea inclusă

   Upon arrival in Patna, embark on a scenic drive to Bodhgaya, a journey that takes you through picturesque landscapes and rural villages.

   En route, explore the ancient ruins of Nalanda, once a renowned center of learning and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stupas, monasteries, and ancient libraries.

3. 3

   Rajgir

   2 ore

   Continue your journey to Rajgir, a historical city nestled in the verdant hills of Bihar, where you'll visit sacred sites like the Gridhakuta Hill and Vulture Peak.

4. 4

   Bodh Gaya

   Trecere fără oprire

   Arrive in Bodhgaya, the holiest Buddhist pilgrimage site, and check in to your hotel, where you can relax and unwind amidst the serene surroundings.

Overnight at hotel.

Ziua 4 · Bodhgaya

1. 1

   Mahabodhi Temple

   2 ore Intrarea inclusă

   Start your day with a visit to the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the holiest shrine for Buddhists worldwide, marking the spot where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment.

   Explore the Bodhi Tree, a sacred fig tree under which Buddha meditated and achieved enlightenment, radiating tranquility and spiritual energy.

2. 2

   Bodh Gaya

   4 ore

   Visit the Tibetan Monastery, a serene retreat that exudes peace and serenity, offering a glimpse into Tibetan Buddhist culture and traditions.

   Admire the exquisite architecture of the Burmese Temple, a testament to Myanmar's rich cultural heritage, adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant colors.

   Explore the Chinese Temple, reflecting the influence of Chinese architecture and culture in Bodhgaya, and marvel at its ornate design and tranquil ambiance.

   Discover the Bhutanese Monastery, an architectural gem that combines traditional Bhutanese elements with Buddhist symbolism, offering a unique cultural experience.

   Conclude your day with the mesmerizing evening temple aarti, a spiritual ceremony filled with chants and rituals, creating an atmosphere of reverence and devotion.

Overnight at hotel.

Ziua 5 · Bodhgaya – Varanasi (250kms/ 5hrs approx.)

1. 1

   Varanasi

   Trecere fără oprire

   After breakfast, bid farewell to Bodhgaya and embark on a scenic drive to Varanasi, one of the oldest and holiest cities in the world.

   Arrive in Varanasi, where you'll check in to your hotel and have some time to relax and refresh before beginning your exploration of the city.

2. 2

   Ganga Aarti

   3 ore Intrarea inclusă

   In the evening, head to the ghats of the sacred River Ganges to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a centuries-old ritual that celebrates the divine river and its spiritual significance.

   Experience the ethereal beauty of the aarti ceremony as priests perform intricate rituals, accompanied by the sound of bells, chanting, and the glow of oil lamps, creating a magical ambiance.

Overnight at hotel.

Ziua 6 · Varanasi

1. 1

   Oprirea 1

   2 ore Intrarea inclusă

   Rise early for a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, where you'll witness the city come alive with the first light of day and observe the ancient rituals performed by devout pilgrims along the ghats.

2. 2

   Kashi Vishwanath Temple

   45 min Intrarea inclusă

   Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, and marvel at its intricate architecture and spiritual significance.

3. 3

   Sarnath

   2 ore Intrarea inclusă

   Explore Sarnath, the place where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, and visit the Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, and other Buddhist monuments that reflect the city's rich heritage.

4. 4

   Bharat Mata Temple

   30 min

   Discover the Bharat Mata Temple, a unique shrine dedicated to Mother India, showcasing a relief map of the Indian subcontinent carved out of marble, symbolizing the unity of the nation.

5. 5

   Varanasi

   Trecere fără oprire

   Spend the afternoon wandering through the bustling streets and vibrant markets of Varanasi, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts, silk sarees, and other souvenirs.

   In the evening, attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at a different ghat, soaking in the spiritual atmosphere and witnessing the divine connection between the people and the river.

Overnight at hotel.

Ziua 7 · Varanasi – Kolkata/ Delhi/ Mumbai (Flight)

1. 1

   Varanasi

   Trecere fără oprire

   After breakfast, bid farewell to Varanasi as you transfer to the airport for your onward journey, carrying with you memories of a lifetime and the spiritual blessings of Kolkata, Bodhgaya, and Varanasi.