Day 01 :
Arrival In Varanasi (Kashi Yatra), Sarnath Exploration, And Evening Ganga Aarti
Upon arrival in Varanasi, you will be greeted at the airport or railway station and transferred to your hotel for check-in. After a leisurely lunch, we will embark on an excursion to Sarnath, a site of immense historical and spiritual significance. Here, Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon at Deer Park.
Key Attractions in Sarnath:
- Buddha Temples: Explore the serene temples dedicated to Lord Buddha.
- Dhamekha Stupa: Admire this grand stupa, a key site in Buddhist history.
- Chaukhandi Stupa: Visit this ancient stupa, an important pilgrimage site.
- Archaeological Museum: Gain insights into the rich history and artifacts of the region.
Following our visit to Sarnath, we will return to Varanasi.
In the evening, prepare to witness one of the most enchanting experiences Varanasi has to offer: the renowned Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. This captivating ritual is performed on the banks of the Ganges River, and is a highlight of the city’s spiritual landscape.
For a truly memorable experience, you may choose to enjoy the Ganga Aarti from a boat (optional and at your own cost).
Ganga Aarti Timings:
Winter (October to March): 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM (approx.)
Summer (April to September): 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM (approx.)
After the Aarti, return to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay in Varanasi.
Day 02 :
Morning In Varanasi Boat Ride And Temple Exploration, Transfer To Bodhgaya
Begin your day with an early morning boat ride on the Ganges River, a truly mystical and spiritual experience. As you drift along the river, witness the magical sunrise over Varanasi, known as Subah-e-Banaras. This serene moment offers a unique perspective of the city and its ghats.
Morning Boat Ride Highlights:
- Manikarnika Ghat: Explore the largest cremation ground in the world, deeply significant in Hindu rituals.
- Dashashwamedh Ghat: Admire the vibrant setting of this prominent ghat.
- Assi Ghat: Observe the daily rituals and activities at this important ghat and others.
Following the boat ride, return to your hotel for breakfast.
Next, we will visit some of the most famous temples in Varanasi:
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Experience the sacred atmosphere of this renowned temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Annapurna Temple: Visit this temple dedicated to the goddess of nourishment.
- Bharat Mata Temple: See the unique temple featuring a map of India.
- Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: Pay your respects at this temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
- Manas Mandir: Explore this temple dedicated to Lord Rama.
- BHU (Banaras Hindu University): Stroll through the historic campus of one of India’s premier educational institutions.
After the temple visits, return to your hotel for breakfast.
We will then drive to Bodhgaya, a pivotal location in Buddhist history. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel, enjoy dinner, and stay overnight in Bodhgaya.
Day 03 :
Bodhgaya To Varanasi: Mahabodhi Temple Visit, Gayaji Exploration, And Return Journey
After a hearty breakfast, begin your day with a visit to the Lord Buddha Temple and the revered Bodhi Tree in Bodhgaya. These sites are central to Buddhist heritage, as it is here that Lord Buddha attained enlightenment.
Following your visit, drive to Gaya, known as the Homage City. Explore key attractions in Gaya:
- Sita Kund: A sacred site believed to be connected to Sita, the wife of Lord Rama.
- Janki Temple: Dedicated to Goddess Sita, this temple is an important pilgrimage site.
- Haleshwar Asthan: A significant religious site associated with Lord Shiva.
- Ram Chura (Vaishali): An ancient site of historical and religious importance.
- Vishnupad Temple: This sacred temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is renowned for the footprints believed to be those of Lord Vishnu.
Additional Sites to Visit:
- Japanese Temple: Admire the serene architecture and tranquil ambiance of this Buddhist temple.
- Chinese Temple: Experience the unique blend of Chinese Buddhist culture.
- Tibetan Temple: Explore the Tibetan Buddhist traditions reflected in this temple.
- Phalgu River: Witness the sacred river, which holds religious significance.
After a day of exploration, drive back to Varanasi. Check in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing overnight stay in Varanasi.
Day 04 :
Varanasi To Prayagraj Cultural Insights At Maha Kumbh Mela Triveni Sangam
After breakfast, embark on a drive to Prayagraj (Allahabad). Upon arrival, check in to your hotel or Swiss Camp in Prayagraj.
Later, head to the maha kumbh mela Ground at triveni sangam prayagraj, the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. This site is renowned for its spiritual significance and is the venue for the Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.
Kumbh Mela Activities:
- Shahi Snan (Bathing Ritual): Experience the sacred bathing ritual in the holy waters of Triveni Sangam. This ritual is believed to purify the soul and is a central part of the Maha Kumbh Mela festivities.
- Cultural Activities: Enjoy a full day of cultural events and activities at the Kumbh Fair Ground, including religious processions, spiritual discourses, and traditional performances.
After a spiritually enriching day, return to your Swiss Camp or hotel for dinner. Spend the night in Prayagraj, soaking in the unique atmosphere of the Kumbh Mela.
Day 05 :
Maha Kumbh 2025 Fair Shahi Snan Ritual And Cultural Extravaganza
Begin your day early with the Shahi Snan (Bathing Ritual) at Prayagraj triveni sangam. Perform the ritual ablutions and puja dedicated to the rising Sun God in the holy confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. This sacred ritual is a profound experience that purifies the soul and is a highlight of the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025.
Post-Bathing Activities:
- Cultural Activities: Spend the rest of the day exploring the vibrant cultural activities at the Maha Kumbh Fair. Engage with the diverse range of experiences the fair offers, including religious and cultural events.
- Akhara Procession: Witness the world-famous Akhara Procession, where hundreds of Naga Sadhus (ascetic holy men) make a public appearance and take a ceremonial dip in the Sangam. This grand procession is a powerful display of devotion and yogic discipline, offering a rare opportunity to seek spiritual guidance and blessings.
- Interactions with Sadhus: Meet and interact with the Akhara Sadhus. This experience allows you to gain insights into their spiritual practices and seek blessings.
- Other Rituals and Activities: Participate in various other rituals and activities such as:
- Shastrarth: Engage in religious discussions on Vedas and scriptures.
- Devotional Singing: Join in the devotional singing that echoes through the fairgrounds.
- Mass Feeding: Observe or participate in the mass feeding of holy men, women, and the less fortunate.
- Religious Assemblies: Attend gatherings where spiritual leaders and devotees come together for discussions and ceremonies.
After a full day of spiritual and cultural immersion, return to your Swiss Camp or hotel for dinner and a restful overnight stay in Prayagraj.
Day 06 :
Prayagraj To Ayodhya – Visit To Ram Janm Bhumi
After an early breakfast, drive to Ayodhya and check in to your hotel. Spend the full day exploring the spiritual and historical landmarks of this ancient city.
Sightseeing in Ayodhya:
- Ram Janmabhoomi: Visit this sacred site, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama. It holds immense significance in Hinduism.
- Saryu River: Take a ritual bath in the holy Saryu River, which is considered a purifying experience.
- Hanuman Garhi: Explore this temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, known for its historical and devotional importance.
- Kanak Bhavan: Visit this temple dedicated to Lord Rama and Goddess Sita, known for its beautiful architecture and historical relevance.
- Tulsi Smarak Bhawan: Pay your respects at this memorial dedicated to the great poet-saint Tulsidas, who composed the epic Ramcharitmanas.
- Sita Ki Rasoi: Explore this site believed to be the kitchen of Goddess Sita, offering insights into the mythology of the Ramayana.
Ayodhya is a city where remnants of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Islam coexist. According to Jain belief, five Tirthankaras, including Adinath (Rishabhadeva), were born in Ayodhya, adding to the city’s rich spiritual heritage.
Return to your hotel in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay in Ayodhya.
Day 07 :
Ayodhya To Lucknow – Departure And Drop-Off
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and drive to Lucknow Airport or Railway Station for your onward journey. Safe travels!