Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, where our friendly representative will warmly welcome you with a traditional khata (Buddhist ceremonial scarf) and assist with your hotel transfer. After some time to refresh, begin your spiritual journey at the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest spherical stupas in the world, Boudhanath is the beating heart of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Circled day and night by monks, pilgrims, and devotees spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras, the stupa radiates peace and devotion. You’ll have time to walk around the kora (circumambulation path), light butter lamps, and visit the surrounding monasteries decorated with colorful prayer flags. The atmosphere is particularly moving at dusk, when the stupa glows under butter lamps and chanting fills the air.
Overnight in Kathmandu.

Start your day with a visit to the Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, one of the most iconic landmarks of Nepal. Perched high on a hilltop, it offers panoramic views of the entire Kathmandu Valley. According to legend, Swayambhunath is self-created and has been a center of spiritual practice for more than 2,500 years. Walk among ancient shrines, fluttering prayer flags, and mischievous monkeys while listening to monks chanting prayers.

Continue to Patan Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient royal palace complex is a showcase of Newar craftsmanship, with intricately carved temples, courtyards, and Buddhist viharas (monastic courtyards). You will discover the fusion of Hindu and Buddhist traditions and visit sites such as Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (the Golden Temple), a Buddhist monastery that dates back to the 12th century.

In the afternoon, drive to Pharping, a sacred pilgrimage destination south of Kathmandu. Known as the place where Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) attained enlightenment, Pharping is home to meditation caves, ancient monasteries, and retreat centers. Visiting the Asura Cave and monasteries here allows you to connect with centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist practices that remain alive today.

After breakfast, drive to Bhaktapur, often called the “City of Devotees.” This medieval town is a living museum, with narrow brick alleys, traditional wood-carved houses, and historic squares. Visit the Nyatapola Temple, the tallest pagoda temple in Nepal, and stroll through Pottery Square, where artisans shape clay by hand as they have for generations.

From Bhaktapur, continue to Namobuddha Monastery, one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Nepal, perched on a hill with breathtaking views of terraced fields and the Himalayas. According to Buddhist legend, it was here that Prince Mahasattva (the Buddha in a previous life) encountered a starving tigress and her cubs. Out of compassion, he offered his own flesh to feed them. This profound act of sacrifice is commemorated with a stupa and monastery, making Namobuddha a center for meditation and reflection.

Leave the Kathmandu Valley and embark on a scenic drive across Nepal’s rolling hills and fertile plains toward Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Along the way, stop at Ramgram Stupa, one of the original stupas built to enshrine the relics of the Buddha after his cremation. Unlike other stupas that were opened and redistributed by Emperor Ashoka, Ramgram Stupa remains untouched, making it a site of great historical and spiritual importance.

Upon arrival in Lumbini, you’ll feel a shift in atmosphere as the landscape becomes more serene and meditative, preparing you for the deep spiritual experiences ahead.

Spend the day exploring the Sacred Garden of Lumbini, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the holiest Buddhist pilgrimage destination in the world. The centerpiece is the Maya Devi Temple, which marks the exact birthplace of Prince Siddhartha Gautama in 623 B.C. Inside, you will see the marker stone and ancient ruins, while the temple grounds hold the Ashokan Pillar, erected in 249 B.C. as a testimony to Lumbini’s sanctity.

Explore the Puskarini Sacred Pond, where Queen Maya Devi is believed to have bathed before giving birth, and where Buddha took his first ritual bath. Then, visit the monastic zone, where countries like Thailand, Myanmar, China, Japan, Germany, and Vietnam have built stunning monasteries, each reflecting its own architectural style and Buddhist traditions. Walking through this international zone feels like traveling across the Buddhist world in one day.

Journey to Tilaurakot, the ancient capital of the Shakya kingdom and the childhood palace of Prince Siddhartha. Archaeological remains of fort walls, gates, and courtyards allow visitors to imagine the young prince’s early life before he renounced his royal comforts in search of truth.

Continue to Kudan, where Buddha reunited with his father, King Suddhodana, after attaining enlightenment. According to tradition, this is also the place where his son Rahula and his cousin Ananda joined the monastic order. The peaceful surroundings and spiritual resonance make Kudan a deeply moving stop for pilgrims.

After breakfast, drive to Pokhara, a picturesque city nestled beneath the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The journey takes you through the Terai plains and into the rolling hills, offering changing landscapes.

Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely evening by the tranquil Phewa Lake, reflecting the snow-capped peaks of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain). The lakeside area is filled with vibrant cafés, shops, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes Pokhara a perfect balance to the spiritual journey.

Wake up before dawn and drive to Sarangkot (1,600 m), a hilltop viewpoint renowned for its panoramic sunrise views. As the first rays of sunlight touch the majestic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, the snow-capped peaks turn golden, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The sweeping view also includes Pokhara Valley and Phewa Lake far below.

Later, visit the World Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa), a gleaming white Buddhist monument built by Japanese monks as a symbol of universal harmony. Set on a hilltop overlooking Pokhara, the stupa not only inspires reflection and meditation but also offers sweeping vistas of the lake, valley, and Himalayan peaks.

In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful boating trip on Phewa Lake, the jewel of Pokhara. Glide across its calm waters to visit the Tal Barahi Temple, a two-story pagoda-style temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, located on a small island in the middle of the lake. The combination of natural beauty and spirituality makes this an unforgettable experience.

After breakfast, begin the scenic drive back to Kathmandu. Along the way, stop at the hilltop town of Bandipur, one of Nepal’s hidden gems. Known for its preserved Newar heritage, cobblestone streets, traditional architecture, and stunning Himalayan panoramas, Bandipur feels like stepping back in time. Enjoy a relaxed lunch here while taking in views of Manaslu and Annapurna ranges.

After exploring the town, continue the journey back to Kathmandu, arriving in the late afternoon or evening. Spend your final evening reflecting on your pilgrimage, shopping for souvenirs, or simply enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Nepal’s capital city.

Your pilgrimage journey concludes today. After breakfast, our team will escort you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international departure. As you leave Nepal, you carry with you the blessings of sacred Buddhist sites, the wisdom of timeless teachings, and cherished memories of a spiritual and cultural journey through the Himalayas.