Overview
Besides the discovery of harmony of Buddhism and Hinduism in and around the Kathmandu Valley, you are granted a chance to trace back the life of the “Enlightened One” or Buddha, the founder of Buddhism in Lumbini, which is believed to be a birthplace of Buddha. The remains of stupa, monasteries as well as the important archeological sites make Limbini a scared pilgrimage site among Buddhists from around the world. There, you get to absorb a relaxing atmosphere of tranquility.
Buddha was born some 2500 years ago in Lumbini in the southern Nepal. Lumbini is the greatest pilgrimage site for all the Buddhists from all over the world. Lumbini today houses the pond where Buddha was bathed after he was born and a temple which has images of young Buddha with his mother. There is also a Stone pillar which is one of such many pillars put by the famous Indian emperor Ashoka to mark the important sites related to Buddha’s life. In an excavation made few years ago more objets of historical importance were discovered which are in display for all. Besides there are many stupas in Lumbini made by many Buddhist countries of the world Thailand, China Sri Lanka, Japan and Myanmar.
There are Buddhists all over Nepal and hence Buddhist monuments are all over Nepal. In Kathmandu valley we have 2000 years old impressive stupa of Swoyambhunath and world’s biggest stupa at Bouddhanath.The Bouddhanath stupa is 1500 years old and is more popular among the many Tibetan refugees living in Kathmandu .Inside the Kathmandu valley the city of Patan is dominantly Buddhists and has places like Mahabouddha Temple and Hiranya Varna Mahavihar to show you.On the outskirt of Kathmandu in the hill is the stupa of Namobuddha, small but old, active and highly revered.
This tour will take you to these Buddhist sites and also too few more while travelling inside the city. Finally you will have free time to shop a great number of Buddhist objects which you may not find in your home country.
KATHMANDU VALLEY:
• Swyambhunath
• Bouddhanath
• Pharping & Dhakshinkali
• Kapan
NEAR KATHMANDU VALLEY:
• Namobuddha
LUMBINI:
• Tilaurakot
• Birth place of Buddha
• Ashoka Pillar
Additional Information:
Kopan Monastery:
Situated just north of Boudhanath, Kopan Monastery stands on a hill, offering panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. This spiritual sanctuary began in the Solu-Khumbu region and was established as a monastic school by Lama Zopa Rinpoche in 1971. Known for its serene environment and rich Tibetan Buddhist teachings, the monastery is a popular retreat for spiritual seekers from around the world.
Pharping:
Located about two hours by bus from Kathmandu, Pharping is a significant pilgrimage site for Vajrayana Buddhists and Hindus alike. The area is renowned for its sacred sites, including the Dakshin Kali Temple and numerous meditation caves. The tranquility and spiritual significance of Pharping make it as revered as Bodhgaya for practitioners.
Swayambhunath (The Monkey Temple):
Swayambhunath, meaning ‘Self-Existent One,’ is one of Nepal’s oldest religious sites, believed to be over 2,500 years old. Legend says the stupa originated from a lotus that bloomed in the ancient lake of Kathmandu Valley. The complex is filled with chaityas, statues, and shrines of Buddhist and Hindu deities. The hilltop stupa is encircled by prayer wheels and offers a challenging yet rewarding climb for pilgrims and visitors.
Boudhanath Stupa:
Boudhanath Stupa, the largest in Nepal and Southeast Asia, is a vital center of Tibetan Buddhism. Located in Boudha on Kathmandu’s eastern edge, this magnificent stupa draws pilgrims and tourists alike with its rich symbolism and spiritual significance.
Lumbini:
Situated 232 kilometers from Kathmandu, Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Buddha. The site features the Ashoka Pillar, ancient monasteries, and the Maya Devi Temple with relics depicting the birth of Buddha. Lumbini is accessible via road from Kathmandu through Pokhara or Chitwan National Park, or by air to Bhairahawa, followed by a short drive.
Tour Plan
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, our guide will provide a brief overview of the tour itinerary and answer any questions you may have. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure to relax and explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Today, we will embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich in cultural and historical landmarks. Our first stop is Kathmandu Durbar Square, where you can admire the magnificent palaces of the Malla and Shah Kings. We will then visit the Kumari Temple, home to the living goddess, Kumari.
Next, we will explore the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, situated atop a hill with breathtaking views of the Kathmandu Valley. Our final stop for the day will be the grand Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in Southeast Asia and a significant center for Tibetan Buddhism. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Our exploration continues with a full-day sightseeing tour in the outskirts of the Kathmandu Valley. We will visit Pharping, a sacred site for both Buddhists and Hindus, renowned for its vibrant spiritual ambiance.
The tour also includes a visit to Dakshinkali Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kali, where local rituals and traditions are practiced. We will conclude our day with a visit to the serene Kopan Monastery, a haven for spiritual seekers, offering insights into Tibetan Buddhist teachings. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.
After breakfast, we will journey to Namobuddha, located approximately 40 kilometers southeast of Kathmandu in Kavre District. A taxi ride will take about two hours, while local buses may take longer due to multiple stops.
Namobuddha is renowned for its tranquil environment, offering stunning views of the Himalayan ranges. The site is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage destination, known for its peaceful ambiance, perfect for meditation and reflection. Enjoy the picturesque sunrise and sunset over the hills before returning to Kathmandu for an overnight stay at the hotel.
After breakfast, we will travel overland or take a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Lumbini, the revered birthplace of Lord Buddha and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. En route, if time permits, we will visit Manakamana Temple, accessed via a scenic cable car ride, and believed to be the abode of the wish-fulfilling goddess.
Upon arrival in Lumbini, check into your hotel before heading to the Sacred Lumbini Garden. Here, you will witness the Ashoka Pillar, visit the Maya Devi Temple, and explore the serene surroundings where Buddha was born. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Today’s exploration takes us to Tilaurkot, located 27 kilometers west of Lumbini. This archaeological site is the ancient palace of King Suddhodana, where Prince Siddhartha Gautama spent his early years. Stroll through the historical grounds, visit the nearby Kapilvastu Museum to view artifacts like pottery and jewelry, and explore the shrines, monasteries, and stupas in the sacred garden area. Overnight stay at the hotel in Lumbini.
After breakfast, we will depart from Lumbini and make our way back to Kathmandu, either by road or by air. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure, allowing you to explore the city, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and make the most of your remaining time in Kathmandu at your leisure. At the designated time, our representative will pick you up from the hotel and transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. Safe travels!
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.