The Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour is one of the famous tour packages of Nepal with Overland Trek Nepal. This tour takes you to various ancient and famous landmarks of Buddhism. Not only you will be visiting these landmarks but gaining insights into the rich history, culture, traditions, and legends. The Buddhist Pilgrimage 9 days tour takes you through the country learning this ancient way of practice.
The tour starts with a visit to Syambhunath Stupa, located on a hilltop in the western part of the valley. The Stupa complex holds several ancient monuments, and artifacts and the Stupa itself is from around the 5th century CE. Explore the complex and observe the devotes and monks chanting sacred prayers. Next head towards Patan Durbar Square an area filled with ancient architectural wonders. Explore the narrow streets and alleyways and visit several Vihars, monasteries, and shortening of the region.
Next head towards Boudhanath nestled in the eastern region of the valley. The Stupa is one of the largest in Nepal and the world. The Boudhanath stupa personifies as a mandala, a powerful tool for meditation. Soak in the energy of the region and next head towards Dhulikhel. Dhulikhel is a hill located in the eastern part of the country. At Dhulikhel visit one of the holiest pilgrimage sites of Buddhism, Namo Buddha Stupa. explore the Stupa and learn about its rich history and legends. From the stupa witness grand views of the greater Himalayan range and lush rolling hills.
After exploring Namo Buddha Stupa. The following day heads towards Lumbini. The birthplace of Buddha. The Lumbini is the most important site for devotees and a large number of pilgrims flock to this area from all around the world. Visit the various ancient landmarks and newly made monasteries from all around the world. Learn about the ancient history and practices of Buddhism.
The next day you will be heading to Pokhara. Pokhara city is a famous tourist destination in the country. The city of Lakes has various attractions to venture out to. Head towards Sarangkot and witness majestic views at sunrise over the Himalayas, take a boat ride to Phewa Lake and visit caves and Georges. After exploring Pokhara head back towards Kathmandu.
Be a part of this mystical journey of Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour with Overland Trek Nepal.
Once you arrive at Kathmandu a representative from Overland Trek Nepal will greet you and assist you with your accommodation. Once you checked in rest for a while. Later on, head out to explore the vibrant streets of Thamel. In the evening attend a welcome dinner program.
Maximum Altitude:- 1400m
Meals:- Welcome dinner
Accommodation:- Three Star Hotel
Today head on a guided tour of the city. First head towards Syambhunath Stupa, located on a hilltop providing views of the valley and the snowcapped range towards the North. The Syambhunath Stupa complex consists of several ancient landmarks and sculptures. The Stupa is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites for Buddhist and Hindu followers. A large number of followers flock to this Stupa from all around the world. Observe the monks chanting sacred text and devotees worshiping around.
Next head towards Patan, the city one capital by itself is home to the finest craftsmanship in the whole of the valley. At Patan visit Patan Durbar Square, an area holding the finest collection of ancient architecture. Visit the Patan Durbar, which used to be the King’s Palace now a museum, and explore the narrow streets and temples, Vihars, and Monasteries of the region learning about the rich history and culture. After exploring the place head towards your accommodation.
Maximum Altitude:- 1400m
Meals:- Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation:- Three Star Hotel
After breakfast head towards Boudhanath, located in the eastern region of the valley. The Stupa is one of the largest in Nepal and the world. The Boudhanath stupa personifies the mandala, a powerful tool for meditation. Visit the stupa and observe the monks and devotees offering prayers and meditating. Soak in the vibrant energy of the region.
After exploring the stupa and learning about the legends and history head towards Dhulikhel. Dhulikhel is a hill station located in the eastern part of the country and a 40 km ride from Boudhanath Stupa. A famous destination to catch the views of the mighty Himalayas and to witness the beautiful views at dawn and dusk. After arriving at Dhulikhel head towards your accommodation and relax. Witness grand views of the Himalayas during sunset from your accommodation.
Maximum Altitude:- 1,550 m
Meals:- Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation:- Three Star Hotel
After breakfast, you will be heading towards Namo Buddha Stupa. Regarded as one of the most sacred sites for Buddhist pilgrims. The Stupa is located on a hilltop, you will have two options to hike or take a short drive. The hike takes you past the lush woodlands of central Nepal, traversing through lush forests.
Once you reach the Stupa area explore the region learning about its rich history and legends. From the stupa witness grand views of the greater Himalayan range and lush rolling hills. After exploring and soaking in the tranquility of the region head back to your accommodation
Maximum Altitude:- 1,750 m
Meals:- Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation:- Three Star Hotel
Today after breakfast head towards Kathmandu, the domestic airport, and catch a flight to Lumbini. The flight takes around 35 minutes. Once you land at Lumbini airport head towards your accommodation. After a brief rest, you will be heading towards Lumbini.
Lumbini is the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha. The region is listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and consists of several ancient ruins, landmarks, and recently built monasteries from all over the world. Explore the complex and learn about the history, culture, and legends of Buddhism. After exploring the Lumbini complex head towards your accommodation and rest.
Maximum Altitude:- 150 m
Meals:- B/ L/D
Accommodation:- Hotel / Resort
After breakfast, you will be heading on a long drive toward Pokhara. The city of Lakes Pokhara is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the country and has several attractions. Once you reach Pokhara head towards your hotel. After a brief rest head out and stroll around the banks of Phewa Lake and witness the snowcapped mountains lurking behind the lake. In the evening visit pubs and restaurants on the banks of the lake.
Maximum Altitude:- 800 m
Meals:- Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation:- Hotel / Resort
Today head on a guided tour of the city. After breakfast head towards Sarangkot hill. A viewpoint to witness grand views of the sunrise over the Himalayas. Witness the rays of the sun changing the white snow-capped mountains into the hue of colors. Next head towards Phewa Lake for a boat ride and later a drive towards the Peace Pagoda. There are other various attractions that you can choose from.
After exploring Pokhara head towards your accommodation and after a brief refreshment head out again to enjoy the nightlife of the region.
Maximum Altitude:- 800 m
Meals:- Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation:- Hotel / Resort
After breakfast head back towards Kathmandu. The drive takes to past various settlements along the central hills of Nepal. Following the rapids of Marsyangdi River and eventually Trishuli River towards Kathmandu. Upon reaching Kathmandu head towards your hotel and after a brief rest head out to stroll around Thamel. In the evening join in for a special dinner program to mark the end of your trip.
Maximum Altitude:- 1,400 m
Meals:- B/ L / D
Accommodation:- three Star Hotel
Our staff will drop you off at the airport, you’ll bid farewell to your newfound friends as well as Nepal.
NOTE: All of the trekking hours and distances mentioned above are estimates and should only be used as a general guideline.
During the Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour, ensure to consume safe and hygienic food and water. Bottled water is readily available, and it’s advisable to use it or carry water purification methods. Local cuisine includes dal bhat, momos, and various vegetarian dishes, reflecting the cultural and culinary diversity of Nepal.
The ideal time for the Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer pleasant weather with clear skies, making it suitable for outdoor exploration and pilgrimage activities. Avoid the monsoon season (June to August) due to heavy rainfall and potential transportation disruptions.
Road conditions in Nepal can vary, especially in rural areas. While major highways connecting Kathmandu, Dhulikhel, Lumbini, and Pokhara are generally well-maintained, some remote areas may have rough and unpaved roads. Consider hiring a reliable local driver or joining a guided tour with transportation arrangements to ensure a comfortable and safe journey.
Accommodation options range from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels in Kathmandu, Dhulikhel, Lumbini, and Pokhara. Ensure to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Some places may offer traditional homestays, providing an opportunity to immerse in local culture and hospitality.
Show respect to local customs, traditions, and religious sites throughout the pilgrimage tour. Dress modestly when visiting temples and monasteries, remove shoes before entering sacred sites, and refrain from touching religious artifacts without permission. Engage with locals respectfully, learn about their culture, and seek guidance from knowledgeable guides or community members.
Obtain a tourist visa for Nepal before arrival, which can be obtained upon arrival at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport or at land borders. Additionally, travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellation is recommended for peace of mind during the pilgrimage tour.
Some Buddhist pilgrimage sites may have entrance fees, which contribute to the maintenance and preservation of these sacred sites. Budget for entrance fees when planning the itinerary, and inquire about any applicable discounts for students or senior citizens.
Gain insights into the rich Buddhist heritage and history of Nepal by visiting significant pilgrimage sites such as Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) and Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu, the birthplace of Lord Buddha in Lumbini, and various monasteries in Dhulikhel and Pokhara. Engage with knowledgeable guides or local residents to learn about the historical significance and cultural significance of each site.
Essential equipment for the Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour includes comfortable walking shoes, lightweight clothing suitable for warm and cool temperatures, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, a camera for capturing memorable moments, and a respectful attitude towards local customs and traditions.
