Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour

Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour in Nepal is a transformative journey steeped in spirituality and rich cultural immersion. Nepal, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, boasts a tapestry of sacred sites revered by Buddhists worldwide.

This pilgrimage typically commences in Kathmandu, a vibrant city adorned with ancient stupas like Swayambhunath (the Monkey Temple) and Boudhanath, where the echoes of prayers and rituals resonate within the air. These sites serve as profound starting points, offering insights into Nepal’s religious heritage and spiritual fervor.

As the journey progresses, to other significant sites like Namo Buddha, known for its poignant legend of the Buddha’s compassionate sacrifice, and the revered monasteries of Pharping, where Guru Padmasambhava’s spiritual footprints linger.

Moreover, it extends a trip to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. This pilgrimage site exudes an unparalleled sense of serenity, with the sacred Maya Devi Temple and the tranquil Lumbini Garden serving as focal points for meditation and reflection.

Throughout the journey, pilgrims immerse themselves in rituals, prayers, and teachings, guided by experienced monks and spiritual leaders. They engage in acts of merit, offer prayers for peace and enlightenment, and absorb the wisdom entrenched in these sacred sites.

Likewise, Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour in Nepal transcends a mere physical journey; it becomes a soulful odyssey, weaving together spirituality, culture, and natural splendor. Pilgrims depart not only with memories of revered sites but also with a profound sense of inner peace and spiritual rejuvenation that remains long after they bid farewell to Nepal’s sacred lands.

Buddhist Pilgrimage tour packages itinerary details.

01 DayArrival in Kathmandu city. See the UNESCO heritage sights Kathmandu, 5 hours

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu city, we pick you up with a private car and transfer you to your hotel. Ammar Guni, a leader of Gokyo Treks Agency will meet you to brief the Buddhist Pilgrimage tour information.

Your sightseeing trip will just begin from the tourist hub Thamel at around 11:30 am. Professional and certified private tour guide will pick you up from your hotel and escort a full day city tour.

We serve the private car or Hiace van depending upon the group size you are traveling to. However on your first, day, we visit Swayambhunath stupa, known as a Monkey Temple. Lastly, visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square including Kal Bhairav Temple, Hanuman Dhoka, Kastamandapa temple, Telaju temple, and Kumari Temple (living Goddess), and see its entire sights.

02 DayNamo Buddha (1,750m) and Bhaktapur Durbar Square Sightseeing, 6-7 hours

Join us for a full day of guided exploration around the revered pilgrimage site of Namo Buddha, a place of immense significance in Nepalese Buddhism. This sacred site beckons with its spiritual allure and captivating surroundings.

Adorned with artistic monasteries and the poignant idol depicting the “Sacrifice to the Tigress,” Namo Buddha rests atop a hill known for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset vistas. On clear days, the panorama extends to reveal the majestic Himalayas, offering a sight to behold.

Upon returning, our journey continues to Bhaktapur Durbar Square, an architectural marvel adorned with pagoda-style and shikhara-style temples encircling the grand 55-window palace. Bhaktapur’s royal heritage shines through landmarks like the Lion Gate and the Golden Gate. The 55-window palace, an art gallery, and the statue honoring King Bhupatindra Malla stand as testaments to the city’s rich history.

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of these historical wonders before concluding our day’s exploration. As the day draws to a close, we’ll return to your hotel in Kathmandu, leaving you with cherished memories of a day filled with spirituality, history, and cultural wonders.

03 DayFly from Kathmandu to Lumbini – Birth place of Lord Buddha!. , & Seeing some sights.

Following a delightful breakfast at the hotel, your guide will rendezvous with you to proceed to Kathmandu’s domestic terminal. We take a flight from Kathmandu to Bhairawa airport which will take about 35 minutes.

Bhairawa Airport, serves as a crucial air hub connecting the region to domestic destinations like Kathmandu and other parts of the country. Additionally, it facilitates essential air travel, supporting both passenger and cargo transportation, fostering regional connectivity, tourism, and trade within Nepal. Bhairahawa airport is a gateway for our trip to Lumbini, the sacred birthplace of Lord Buddha.

Upon arrival, we’ll check into the hotel, allowing you time to refresh and rejuvenate. In the afternoon, after a brief respite, we’ll embark on a captivating walking tour amidst the serene ambiance of Lumbini. Our path will lead us to explore the various monasteries that grace this revered pilgrimage site, each exuding its unique essence of spirituality and history.

04 DayVisit religious and archaeological sites of Kapilavastu, 6-7 hours

Today, our experienced tour guide will accompany you to the renowned highlights of Lumbini, offering a rich tapestry of spiritual landmarks. Our journey will encompass revered sites such as the Peace Pagoda, Lumbini Garden, Maya Devi Temple, Tara Foundation, World China Temple, Thai Monastery, Burmese (Myanmar) Temple, Nepal Buddha Temple, and Dharmaswami Buddhist Monastery.

To ensure your comfort and enjoyment, you have the option to explore on foot or by rickshaw, or alternatively, opt for a private car for a relaxed day trip.

05 DayTilaurakot, Gotihawa, Kudan, Siddhartha Nagar, and Niglihawa tour, 7 hours

On this day, there’s an opportunity to visit additional remarkable Buddhist sites in Lumbini, that includes the Tilaurakot, Gotihawa, Kudan, Siddhartha Nagar, and Niglihawa places. They are the MUST see places possible to visit with a private car.

Upon conclusion of the day’s explorations, we’ll journey to Bhairawa Airport for your return flight to Kathmandu, ensuring a seamless conclusion to this enriching pilgrimage experience in Lumbini.

Upon your arrival back in Kathmandu city, we’ll be waiting to greet you at TIA Airport and facilitate your transfer to the hotel. Your comfort and convenience remain our priority as we ensure a seamless transition to your accommodation. Art enthusiasts can explore the city’s vibrant art scene by visiting galleries showcasing local artworks.

Meanwhile, souvenir shopping at bustling markets like Thamel ensures a last-minute cultural immersion, allowing travelers to take home a piece of Nepal’s vibrant craftsmanship. Additionally, Kathmandu graciously offers a mosaic of experiences that encapsulate its rich culture, spirituality, and diverse offerings, ensuring every moment counts until departure.

06 DayVisit Boudhanath Stupa, Sankhu, Vajrayogini Temple & Milarepa Cave Sightseeing, 7 hours.

UNESCO heritage site Boudhanath Stupa, stands as an iconic symbol of Buddhist culture and spirituality. Its massive mandala and the watchful eyes of the Buddha gaze out in all directions, embodying peace and enlightenment.

Pilgrims and visitors alike gather here, circumambulating the stupa, spinning prayer wheels, and immersing themselves in its serene ambiance, making it a sacred center for prayers, meditation, and cultural exploration.

Alike, Sankhu Gate stands as a portal to an ancient Newar town, merely 17 kilometers away from Kathmandu, known as the abode of the 80 Siddhas and home to numerous caves of significant religious importance. Steeped in history, highlights two prominent landmarks: the Vajrayogini Temple and the early medieval settlement, dating back to the Lichchhavi era (9th century), nestled in the northeastern corner of modern-day Kathmandu.

Traces of tradition and ancient practices linger through the town’s streets, retaining their medieval essence with narrow pathways, public squares, temples, and lodging places. Among these revered monuments, the illustrious Vajrayogini Temple holds its position.

Likewise, this Bajrayogini Temple, situated in the Gun Bihar area, stands as a revered Tantric temple. Within its premises, a script in Newari chronicles the temple’s evolutionary journey. It boasts a distinct characteristic with approximately nine caves within its vicinity.

Legend has it that Manjushree, the deity who cleaved the lake to form the valley, received blessings from the goddess Vajrayogini. Perched atop a hill, the primary temple houses the sacred representations of two four-armed Vajrayogini Ugra-tara statues, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.

This temple serves as a evidence to the existence of Buddhism in Nepal from the onset of the first century. And witnessing the renowned Vajrayogini Fair during Chaite Purnima, the full moon night in March or April, adds another layer of significance to this place.

Additionally, Jetsun Milarepa, approximately from 1052 to 1135 CE, is widely recognized as one of Tibet’s most renowned yogis and poets. He studied under Marpa Lotsawa and remains a significant figure in the Kagyu (Bka’-brgyud) school of Tibetan Buddhism. Milarepa’s essence resides in his writings, known as the Songs of Milarepa, canonical texts in Mahayana Buddhism.

These writings emphasize the impermanent nature of the body and advocate for non-attachment. In contrast, the legends surrounding Milarepa’s life are steeped in magic and lack the same emphasis on devout non-attachment.

Popularized by the romanticized biography Mi-la-rnam-thar, authored by Gtsang-smyon he-ru-ka rus-pa’i-rgyan-can (1452-1507), these legends might questionably align with historical accuracy. However, the biographical details presented here are derived from this account or its variations.

07 DayVidhyeshvari Vajra Yogini Temple, Sightseeing, 7 hours.

This Vidhyeshvari Vajra Yogini Temple, known by various names including Bijeśvarī Vajrayoginī, Gun Bihar or Bidjeshwori Bajra Jogini, holds a significant place within the Kathmandu Valley’s Newar Buddhist heritage. This temple venerates the Vajrayāna Buddhist deity Vajrayoginī, referred to as Bajra Jogini in the Newar language, specifically in her form as Akash Yogini.

Situated on the western bank of the Bishnumati river, this sacred sanctuary stands adjacent to the ancient Ramadoli (Karnadip) cremation ground. Its location on the main pathway from the revered Swayambhunath stupa in the west to Kathmandu underscores its historical and spiritual importance within the valley.

This Vajra Yogini Temple in Pharping stands as a sacred sanctuary, steeped in spiritual significance for Vajrayana Buddhists. Perched amidst the serene landscapes south of Kathmandu, this temple pays homage to the tantric deity Vajra Yogini.

Legend intertwines with devotion here, as it’s believed that this temple holds the energy of Guru Padmasambhava’s meditative endeavors, making it a focal point for seekers of enlightenment.

Pilgrims and practitioners are drawn to this revered site to engage in meditation, rituals, and contemplation amidst the tranquil surroundings. The temple’s architecture, adorned with traditional Nepali and Tibetan elements, resonates with the spiritual essence that permeates the air.

Visiting the Vajra Yogini Temple in Pharping is an invitation to delve into the spiritual heritage of Vajrayana Buddhism and absorb the tranquility that envelopes this sacred space.

08 DayVajrayogini Temple in Pharping, Asura & Guru Rinpoche Cave Sightseeing, 6 hours.

Another interesting facts that this Vajrayogini Temple in Pharping, (19 km south of Kathmandu), is a significant pilgrimage site for Vajrayana Buddhists. This temple is dedicated to Vajrayogini, a tantric deity associated with the Chakrasamvara cycle of teachings within Tibetan Buddhism.

It’s believed to be one of the sacred places where the great tantric master Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) meditated and attained realization. As such, it holds immense spiritual significance for followers of Vajrayana Buddhism. The structure of the temple reflects traditional Nepali and Tibetan styles. And it’s a place where practitioners come to engage in meditation, rituals, and offerings.

Both local devotees and international visitors seeking spiritual insights and blessings on this sites. Pharping holds a sacred place of housing several monasteries, caves, and religious sites connected to Padmasambhava.

Asura Cave in Pharping is a significant pilgrimage site in Nepal, renowned for its connection to Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche). It holds a great spiritual importance as it is believed that Padmasambhava, a tantric master, meditated and attained profound achievement around.

Legend has it that Padmasambhava subdued powerful demons (asuras) in this cave, hence the name “Asura Cave.” It’s said that he performed meditation and tantric practices to subdue these negative forces and convert them into protectors of the Dharma.

Additionally, Guru Rinpoche Cave in Pharping, stands as a timeless testament to the spiritual legacy of Guru Padmasambhava. Known as the “Second Buddha” in Tibetan Buddhism, Padmasambhava’s profound meditative presence permeates this sacred cave.

It’s believed that Guru Rinpoche engaged in intensive meditation, profound teachings, and transformative practices within these hallowed confines. This cave served as his sanctuary for harnessing spiritual energies and subduing negative forces, symbolized by the vivid tales of demons he tamed.

Likewise, Pilgrims and practitioners visit those both Cave to pay homage, meditate, and seek blessings. It remains an essential destination for those interested in the spiritual legacy of Guru Padmasambhava and the practice of Tibetan Buddhism.

09 DayKopan Monastery Sightseeing, 3 hours. Final departure to Kathmandu airport.

Situated atop Kopan Hill, north of the historic town of Boudha, Kopan Monastery stands as a revered center of Tibetan Buddhism. Home to monks hailing from Nepal and Tibet, spanning ages from seven to sixty, this monastery embodies a commitment to the teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha, shaping lives dedicated to profound learning and practice.

Kopan monastery extends introductory courses to the public, delving into subjects like Death and Dying, Karma, Mind Training, and Bodhicitta, offering a gateway into Buddhist philosophy. Additionally, it offers short courses covering Tibetan medicine, Thangka painting, Buddhist psychology, and philosophy, attracting individuals keen on deepening their understanding of these disciplines.

A significant draw for seekers of wisdom and serenity, Kopan Monastery welcomes many visitors seeking to explore Buddhism and meditation. Beyond its educational offerings, the monastery showcases remarkable art and architectural wonders within a spiritual ambiance, accompanied by awe-inspiring vistas of Kathmandu Valley.

Adding to its significance, Kopan Monastery oversees a nunnery, furthering its commitment to spiritual practice and education in the tranquil surroundings of this revered sanctuary. Head back to your hotel to gather your belongings and prepare for your onward journey. From there, we’ll drive you to Kathmandu International Airport for your connecting flights to your next destination. As your trip concludes, we wish you a safe and fantastic journey ahead.

Departure & Return Departure Point:

Please note that we provide a private transportation services from Kathmandu International Airport, ensuring pick-up upon your arrival and drop-off after the tour. Additionally, if guests are already settled at a hotel in Kathmandu, we can arrange pick-up from Kathmandu to the tourist spots and safely return you to the hotel after the tours.

What To Expect

Within this Buddhist Pilgrimage sites tour package in Nepal, each day spans 6 to 8 hours. Experience the vibrant tapestry of people, immerse in their culture, witness their way of life, explore ancient temples, caves, and serene meditation spots. Delve into heritage sites offering breathtaking views of the entire city and its surroundings throughout the journey.

Additional Information (TIPS AND TRICKS)

Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
wheelchair accessibility is not possible everywhere to get into the Buddhist Pilgrimage sites.
A maximum of 13 people per booking
Travelers with back pain, pregnant, and very old travelers are not recommended.
It’s a private touring activity.

Cancellation Policy

You have the flexibility to cancel your booking and receive a full refund if done up to 30 days before the experience. To ensure a full refund, please ensure cancellation is made at least 30 days before the scheduled start time of the experience. However, if cancellation occurs within 30 days of the experience, the deposit amount paid will not be refunded.

Please note that any modifications or cancellations made less than 7 days before the scheduled start time of the experience will not be accommodated. All cut-off times align with the local time of the experience.