9 Days In the Footsteps of the Buddha

tama attained enlightenment and became the Buddha. Explore the temple complex and spend time at the sacred Bodhi Tree, with an opportunity for prayer, meditation and quiet reflection.

Explore the simple caves and shrines while learning how this period helped lead him toward the Middle Way.

Her offering helped him regain his strength and marked an important turning point toward the Middle Way and enlightenment.

The impressive 80-foot statue depicts the Buddha in meditation and is surrounded by smaller statues of his disciples.

nt teaching and meditation places in Rajgir. Walk up the sacred hill and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding valleys while learning about the teachings delivered here.

Walk through its peaceful gardens and pond while learning about one of the earliest monasteries connected with the Buddha.

The quiet cave on Vaibhava Hill is an important site in early Buddhist history.

e great centres of learning in ancient Asia. Walk through the remains of monasteries, temples and study areas that once welcomed Buddhist scholars from across Asia.

From here, the king is said to have looked toward Vulture’s Peak, where the Buddha often stayed and taught.

iated with relics of the Buddha following his Mahaparinirvana. Explore the peaceful archaeological surroundings and learn about Vaishali’s place in Buddhist history.

e connected with the Buddha’s final journey. The well-preserved pillar, crowned by a single lion capital, stands beside ancient Buddhist remains associated with his final teachings in Vaishali.

According to tradition, this is where he gave his alms bowl to the Licchavis before continuing his journey.

h the Buddha’s passing into Mahaparinirvana. Inside is the famous reclining Buddha statue, representing his final moments and liberation.

Surrounded by peaceful gardens, this important pilgrimage place marks the final stage of the Buddha’s earthly journey.

iated with the final period of his life in Kushinagar. (Optional)

Explore the sacred birthplace area, including the ancient Ashoka Pillar and Pushkarini Sacred Pond, important landmarks associated with the Buddha’s birth.

hakya kingdom where Prince Siddhartha spent his early life before leaving the royal palace in search of truth.

Walk through the peaceful archaeological grounds where he spent many rainy seasons teaching his disciples.

ged from a feared bandit into a devoted follower of the Buddha. Also visit the stupa associated with Anathapindika, one of the Buddha’s most devoted lay followers and the benefactor who donated Jetavana Monastery.

five former companions after arriving at Sarnath following his enlightenment.

first teaching after enlightenment and set the Wheel of Dharma in motion.

See the ghats illuminated with lamps as priests perform traditional rituals with fire, incense and chanting.

g scenes from the Buddha’s life and for housing sacred Buddhist relics.