The Nepal Buddhist pilgrimage tour is a perfect 8-day itinerary that lets you explore and understand the depth of Buddhism in this Himalayan nation. While Nepal is primarily known as a Hindu country, its deep-rooted Buddhist heritage is unquestionable. Even though the majority of the population practices Hinduism, Buddhism maintains a robust presence because the Lord Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, himself was born here.
So, by joining our Nepal Buddhist pilgrimage tour 2024|2025 departure, you will be traveling to the roots of Buddhism where it all started. The Buddhist pilgrimage tour in Nepal offers a glimpse into the Buddhist faith and celebrates the seamless integration of multiple belief systems that make this country a captivating and spiritually rich destination.
Make your Nepal Buddhist pilgrimage tour more immersive by joining aerial yoga, hatha yoga, or singing bowl sessions.
The best thing about the Nepal Buddhist pilgrimage tour is that you do not have to follow the Buddhist faith to join this tour. You can join this tour just to enjoy the profound Buddhist cultural heritage of Nepal and unwind and rejuvenate as the journey flows from one monument to another. Participating in a Buddhist tour in Nepal as a non-Buddhist person is a unique opportunity to embrace the richness and serenity of this ancient religion.
Our Nepal Buddhist pilgrimage tour 8-day program combines both natural and cultural beauty. Exploring the Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Temple, Golden Temple, and Changu Narayan Temple in Kathmandu, drive to Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery in Namobuddha to relish serenity. Learn about the birthplace of Gautam Buddha and visit the palace ruins where he spent his early childhood as a prince in Lumbini.
Finally, end your Buddhist culture tour in Pokhara, unwinding and rejuvenating as you boat on the tranquil Phewa Lake and witness a gorgeous sunrise along with breathtaking views of Annapurna (8091m.|26545ft.) and Machhapuchhre (6993m.|22943ft.) mountains from Sarangkot. Join this life-changing easy 8-day tour at a minimal price. We, Nepal Nirvana Trails, have the best Nepal Buddhist pilgrimage cost with fine service.
If you have any questions regarding the Nepal Buddhist pilgrimage tour price or wish to customize the itinerary, feel free to get in touch with us anytime. You can even extend the tour to remote Himalayan locations where some of the centuries-old monasteries and stupas are suited.
Nepal Buddhist pilgrimage tour 8 days itinerary
Our team will receive you from the Tribhuvan International Airport on your arrival day and drop you at the hotel. There is nothing planned on your arrival day in Kathmandu rather than a welcome dinner in the late evening.
So, you will have ample time to unpack and rest. On your second day, you will have a quick meeting with your tour guide and visit the Buddhist UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu Valley.
The tour guide will introduce you to the monuments and their importance. You will visit Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, Patan Durbar Square, Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahavihar), and Changu Narayan Temple. From Kathmandu, you will visit Namobuddha, a beautiful monastery located on the outskirts of the valley.
Here, you will hear an intriguing story of an ancient stone slab and the stupa. Your time in Namo Buddha will be enchanting and peaceful. Your next stop is Lumbini. From Kathmandu, it is a 30-minute flight to Bhairahawa and a short drive to your hotel in Lumbini.
Explore the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, visit monasteries, and discover the childhood home of Buddha, where we spent his early days as a prince. This part of the Nepal Buddhist pilgrimage tour will take you to the roots of Buddhism. From here, you will take a short flight to Pokhara.
In Pokhara, you will explore waterfalls, lakes, and caves. Witness a gorgeous sunrise from Sarangkot and visit tourist attractions such as Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, Bat Cave, World Peace Pagoda, and Begnas Lake. Boat on the tranquil Phewa Lake and enjoy the bustle of Lakeside Market.
And on the last day, you will fly back to Kathmandu. Spend your last full day in Kathmandu, exploring local markets and shopping for souvenirs.
Differences between Tibetan Buddhism and other forms of Buddhism practiced in Nepal
Tibetan Buddhism and other forms of Buddhism practiced in Nepal share a common foundation in the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha) but have distinct characteristics and practices. Tibetan Buddhism, also known as Vajrayana or Tantric Buddhism, places a strong emphasis on rituals, visual symbolism, and the use of mantras and mandalas in meditation practices. It also incorporates elements of Bon, the indigenous Tibetan religion, and has a hierarchical structure with spiritual leaders like the Dalai Lama and Panchen Lama.
In contrast, other forms of Buddhism practiced in Nepal, such as Theravada and Newar Buddhism, tend to be less ritualistic and more focused on meditation and ethical principles. Newar Buddhism, prevalent in the Kathmandu Valley, has a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist traditions and often involves the worship of deities and participation in festivals.
What places will we visit during our Nepal Buddhist pilgrimage tour for 8 days?
Below are the places you will visit during the Buddhist tour in Nepal:
Explore the major tourist attractions in Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur
Kathmandu Valley is divided into three cities- Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur. Here, you will visit numerous Buddhist monuments, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The tour will take you to Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath) and Boudhnath Stupa in Kathmandu.
Likewise, you will visit the Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahavihar) in Patan and the Changu Narayan Temple in Bhaktapur. Throughout this tour, you will gain profound insights into the rich Buddhist cultural heritage in Nepal.
The sites will present intricate architecture, beautiful art, intriguing craftsmanship, and a soothing environment. Around the monuments, you can explore the local markets and interact with the locals. If you are curious about anything, feel free to ask our guide.
Meditate in the tranquility of Namobuddha and enjoy the soothing serene environment
The main attraction of Namobuddha is the Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery that houses a beautiful stupa and a sacred cave. It is believed that in a previous life, Prince Mahasattva offered his body to a starving tigress and her cubs, displaying selfless compassion. Visitors to Namobuddha are welcomed by a serene environment surrounded by lush green hills and pristine nature.
The tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking views make it an ideal destination for meditation and spiritual reflection. You can feel an aura of calmness, with monks engaging in prayer and meditation rituals exuding from the monastery. This short getaway from the bustle of Kathmandu lets you meditate in the peaceful embrace of Namobuddha and rejuvenate your spirit.
Explore the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, the creator of Buddhism
Lumbini is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in the world for Buddhists. It is the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautam, who later became the Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. The main attraction in Lumbini is the Maya Devi Temple, which is believed to mark the exact spot where Queen Maya Devi gave birth to Prince Siddhartha under the shade of a sal tree.
Likewise, you will visit places like the sacred garden and various monasteries, stupas, and monuments built by Buddhist communities from around the world. One other famous monument in Lumbini is the Ashoka Pillar, erected by Emperor Ashoka of India in the 3rd century BCE. On your second, you will drive to Tilaurakot, located 25 km west of Lumbini.
Tilaurakot is the kingdom of the Sakya dynasty where Prince Siddhartha, who later became Gautan Buddha. Visiting Tilaurakot is like stepping back in time to the era when the Buddha lived as a prince. Tilaurakot's most prominent feature is the palace complex, which is believed to be the residence of King Suddhodana, the Buddha's father.
The ruins of this royal residence are spread over a large area and offer a fascinating insight into the opulence and grandeur of the ancient Sakya dynasty. Visit the eastern and the western stupas and a museum for better historical context.
Enjoy a refreshing and calming boat ride on Phewa Lake in Pokhara
Your hotel will be near Phewa Lake. The lake is surrounded by lush green hills and the towering Annapurna and Machapuchare mountain ranges, creating a stunning backdrop. Upon reaching Pokhara, you will have the remaining day to explore the Lakeside Market, situated along the northern shore of Phewa Lake.
It is a vibrant and bustling area filled with hotels, restaurants, cafes, shops, and stalls selling souvenirs, handicrafts, clothing, and more. Later visit Phewa Lake and enjoy boating on it, admiring a lovely sunset. Phewa Lake is also home to the Tal Barahi Temple, located at the lake's center.
You can row your boat to the temple and explore its premises, adding a touch of cultural enrichment to your lake adventure. Whether you're seeking adventure, a romantic getaway, or simply a moment of peace, Phewa Lake and Lakeside Market will provide you.
Witness a gorgeous sunrise with Himalayan mountain views from Sarangkot and explore tourist sites in Pokhara
Sarangkot is a viewpoint and is known for paragliding. You will drive here early in the morning to witness a gorgeous sunrise along with the view of mountains like Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri. This will be a quite remarkable moment for you.
The serene silence, the distant chirping of birds, and the whispers of the wind will profoundly soothe your soul. From there, the adventure continues to different tourist sites in Pokhara. Visit the World Peace Pagoda, Davis Falls, Bat Cave, and Begnas Lake.
Explore the underground waterfalls and intricate limestone formations in Gupteshwor Cave. Unlike Kathmandu, Pokhara will let you spend more time in nature and heal your heart as you encounter beautiful views and peaceful surroundings.
Visit Museums and local markets, and buy souvenirs like Thangka paintings, pashmina clothes, singing bowls, prayer beads, etc.
The museums and local markets you will explore during the Nepal Buddhist tour for 8 days will enhance the overall journey for you. You will visit the National Museum and the Patan Museum. Explore ancient sculptures, paintings, exquisite Newari art, and archaeological treasures that trace the evolution of Buddhism in Nepal.
Likewise, enjoy the aroma of incense mingles with the vibrant colors of traditional textiles and handcrafted goods as you explore the local market. Discover an array of Buddhist goods like carved wooden masks, prayer flags, delicate Thangka paintings, prayer scrolls, prayer beads, singing bowls, incense, pashmina clothes, etc.
Other pilgrimage and holiday tour packages in Nepal
The Nepal Hindu pilgrimage tour is one of our other famous religious tour packages. Likewise, we have trekking and tour packages to Muktinath Temple, Gosaikunda Lake, etc.
If you are looking for family holidays in Nepal, check out these packages - Glimpse of Nepal, Nepal Adventure Tour Package, Chisapani Nagarkot Hike, Kathmandu Chitwan Pokhara Tour, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites Tour.
What makes Nepal Nirvana Trails the best travel company for the Buddhist pilgrimage tour in Nepal?
Nepal Nirvana Trails is operated by Nepalese who are very connected to their roots and have more than 10 years of expertise in organizing tours and treks in Nepal. Traveling with us means we will ensure the journey is immersive for you.
Our team will arrange all the logistics for the tour so that you will have a hassle-free trip. Likewise, we provide top-notch service at an affordable Nepal Buddhist pilgrimage tour cost. Our team's experience, knowledge, and dedication will make your Buddhist pilgrimage tour in Nepal a lifetime journey.
You will be accompanied by our friendly tour guide, who knows the roots of Buddhism in Nepal. All the reservations will be made in advance for your trip. There will be no hidden cost during the tour. With our 24/7 support, you can travel to Nepal confidently with us.
