Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train India – Bodh Gaya, Lumbini, Varanasi & More

The Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train offers travelers a unique chance to retrace the sacred footsteps of Lord Buddha across India and Nepal. Covering some of the most significant pilgrimage destinations like Bodh Gaya, Rajgir, Nalanda, Varanasi, Lumbini, Kushinagar, and Shravasti, this luxury spiritual journey blends faith, heritage, and comfort. 

Highlights of the Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train

• Covers India & Nepal’s Buddhist pilgrimage sites.

• Onboard luxury with air-conditioned coaches, vegetarian dining, and guided tours.

• Meditation sessions at sacred monasteries.

• Cross-border journey into Lumbini, Nepal (Buddha’s birthplace).

Destinations Covered

The Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train takes travelers on an 8-day spiritual journey, covering:

1. Bodh Gaya (Bihar) – Mahabodhi Temple & Bodhi Tree.

2. Rajgir & Nalanda (Bihar) – Vulture’s Peak and ruins of Nalanda University.

3. Varanasi & Sarnath (Uttar Pradesh) – Dhamek Stupa and Sarnath Museum.

4. Lumbini (Nepal) – Birthplace of Lord Buddha.

5. Kushinagar (Uttar Pradesh) – Mahaparinirvana Temple and Rambhar Stupa.

6. Shravasti (Uttar Pradesh) – Jetavana Monastery and other relics.

Facilities Onboard

• Comfortable AC coaches (1st & 2nd class).

• Hygienic onboard kitchen serving vegetarian meals.

• Guides and tour escorts.

• Security arrangements and medical support.

• Optional add-on excursions. 

Best Time to Travel

The train usually operates between October and March, when the weather is pleasant for pilgrimage and sightseeing.

Booking & Packages

• Booking available through the official IRCTC Buddhist Circuit Train portal.

• Packages include train travel, meals, sightseeing, entry fees, and guided tours.

• Foreign tourists are offered dedicated packages with multilingual guides. 

Why Choose This Train Journey?

• Saves time by connecting all major Buddhist pilgrimage sites in one trip.

• Hassle-free travel with accommodations, meals, and transfers included.

• Provides cultural immersion and spiritual enrichment.

8-Day Itinerary for Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train

Day 1: Delhi – Boarding the Train

• Arrive at Safdarjung Railway Station, New Delhi.

• Welcome ceremony & briefing.

• Departure for Bodh Gaya.

Day 2: Bodh Gaya (Bihar)

• Visit Mahabodhi Temple (UNESCO Site).

• Bodhi Tree meditation, Great Buddha Statue, monasteries.

• Evening prayers at the temple.

Day 3: Rajgir & Nalanda (Bihar)

• Visit Vulture’s Peak, Vishwa Shanti Stupa.

• Explore Nalanda University ruins & museum.

• Return to train in the evening.

Day 4: Varanasi & Sarnath (U.P.)

• Sunrise boat ride on River Ganga.

• Witness the Ganga Aarti.

• Visit Sarnath – Dhamek Stupa, Ashokan Pillar, and Sarnath Museum.

Day 5: Lumbini (Nepal)

• Cross-border trip to Lumbini.

• Visit Maya Devi Temple, monastic zones, and Peace Pagoda.

• Overnight in Lumbini.

Day 6: Kushinagar (U.P.)

• Visit Mahaparinirvana Temple, Rambhar Stupa (cremation site).

• Meditation at monasteries.

Day 7: Shravasti (U.P.)

• Visit Jetavana Monastery, ancient stupas, and temples.

• Explore sacred Bodhi Tree.

Day 8: Delhi – Farewell

• Train returns to Delhi.

• Farewell ceremony and cultural program.

The Significance of the Buddhist Circuit

The journey allows pilgrims and travelers to experience sites connected with Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, first sermon, and Mahaparinirvana. It’s not only a spiritual trip but also a cultural immersion into ancient Buddhist heritage.

Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train Departure dates: 08.11.2025 and 22.11.2025.  

 For More information visit official site : Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How long is the Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train journey?
The journey spans 8 days and 7 nights, covering both India and Nepal.

Q2: Do I need a visa for Nepal (Lumbini)?
Yes, Indian nationals do not need a visa, but foreign travelers require a valid Nepal visa.

Q3: What type of food is served on the train?
The train serves pure vegetarian meals, with Indian and continental options.

Q4: Is this train suitable for non-Buddhist travelers?
Absolutely! The journey is open to all spiritual seekers, history lovers, and cultural enthusiasts.

🔍 People Also Ask (PAA)

1. What is the route of the Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train?
The route covers Delhi – Gaya – Bodh Gaya – Rajgir – Nalanda – Varanasi – Sarnath – Lumbini – Kushinagar – Shravasti – Delhi.

2. How much does the Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train cost?
Fares vary based on occupancy (single, double, or triple). Packages usually start from ₹65,000 per person and include meals, accommodation, and guided tours.

3. What are the facilities on the Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train?
Facilities include air-conditioned coaches, dining cars, meditation areas, hygienic washrooms, and professional tour guides.

4. Why is the Buddhist Circuit important?
It covers the most important events of Buddha’s life – birth (Lumbini), enlightenment (Bodh Gaya), first sermon (Sarnath), and Mahaparinirvana (Kushinagar). 

Conclusion

The Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train is not just a pilgrimage—it’s a soulful journey connecting you to Buddha’s legacy across India and Nepal. Whether you seek peace, meditation, or cultural discovery, this train promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience.