Buddhist pilgrimage tour in Nepal
Trip at a Glance
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Country: Nepal
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Trip grade: Easy
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Destination: Kathmandu/Pokhara/Lumbini
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Activities: Cultural Sightseeing
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Accommodation: Hotels
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Meals: Breakfast included
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Transportation: Private vehicle or Tourist Bus
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Maximum altitude: Namobuddha (1750m)
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Trip Start / End: Kathmandu - Kathmandu
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Best Season: Jan-Jun, Sep-Dec
A Buddhist pilgrimage tour in Nepal is a spiritual experience traveling through Buddhist pilgrimage sites and locations. Nepal, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, is home to numerous sacred sites and monasteries. Nepal is a deeply spiritual country with a rich Buddhist heritage, making it an ideal destination for a Buddhist pilgrimage tour.
You will visit Lumbini, one of the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage destinations worldwide. The birthplace of Lord Buddha is believed to be Lumbini. The site includes the Maya Devi Temple, the exact spot where Buddha is said to have been born, as well as numerous stupas, monasteries, and meditation centers.
Kathmandu is a treasure trove for Buddhist pilgrims and culture enthusiasts. The tour will take you to Buddhist pilgrimage sites like Swayambhunath, often called the "Monkey Temple," Boudhanath, one of the largest stupas in the Kathmandu Valley, Pharping Monastery, a historic site with caves and temples and Namobuddha, a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site and monastery located outside Kathmandu.
In Pokhara, you will visit Matepani Gumba, a serene Buddhist monastery located on a hilltop in Pokhara. The World Peace Pagoda, also known as Shanti Stupa, a famous white pagoda that provides bird's eye views of Pokhara and the spectacular Himalayas.
Buddhist pilgrimage tour in Nepal Highlights:
- Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu
- Lumbini, the birth place of Lord Buddha
- Explore Lumbini visiting many monasteries, stupas, shrines erected by Buddhist nations
- Pokhara, the most beautiful lakeside city in Nepal
- Buddhist monasteries, stupas & temples
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 02: Sightseeing – Patan Durbar Square, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath
Day 03: Sightseeing – Pharping & Kirtipur
Day 04: Drive to Pokhara from Kathmandu
Day 05: In Pokhara- Matepani Gumba, Tibetan Refugee Camp
Day 06: Drive to Lumbini via Tansen
Day 07: In Lumbini – sightseeing
Day 08: Fly to Kathmandu from Lumbini
Day 09: Day trip to Namobuddha & back to Kathmandu
Day 10: Final departure
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Take this day to rest or explore the city on your own.
After breakfast, visit Patan Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historical complex is filled with ancient palaces, courtyards, temples, and intricate wood-carved architecture. After Patan Durbar Square, head to Swayambhunath Stupa, which is a short drive away. Enjoy the panoramic views of the city and the serene ambiance of this sacred Buddhist site.Afterward, visit Boudhanath Stupa, one of the most iconic and revered Buddhist stupas in Nepal. This massive mandala-shaped stupa is adorned with prayer flags and surrounded by monasteries, making it a significant center of Tibetan Buddhism. As the day comes to a close, return to your hotel. Take some time to rest and freshen up at your hotel.
Today go for a scenic drive to Pharping, a spiritual town located on the outskirts of Kathmandu. Pharping is known for its monasteries, caves, and religious significance.Then visit the nearby Kirtipur which is an ancient Newari town located on a ridge southwest of Kathmandu and en-route Pharping. Kirtipur has rich history and culture offering visitors a glimpse of traditional way of life. Then back to Kathmandu.
Early in the morning after breakfast drive to Pokhara. The drive takes approximately 6-8 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. The route offers stunning views of the countryside, terraced fields, rivers, and, on clear days, distant views of the Himalayas. Arrive in Pokhara in the afternoon and check in to your hotel. Take some time to relax and freshen up after the long drive.
Begin your day with a visit to the World Peace Pagoda, a stunning Buddhist stupa situated on a hilltop overlooking Pokhara and Phewa Lake. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the lake, and the surrounding mountains. After descending from the World Peace Pagoda, head to Matepani Gumba, a peaceful Tibetan monastery nestled in the hills near Pokhara. The monastery offers a serene environment for meditation and reflection. Then visit the Tibetan Refugee Camp in Pokhara, which is home to a community of Tibetan refugees who have preserved their culture and traditions.
Begin your journey by driving from Pokhara to Tansen, a charming hill town known for its picturesque views, cobbled streets, and Newari architecture. The drive will take you through scenic landscapes and winding roads. Upon reaching Tansen, visit places of interest such as Srinagar Hill, Amar Narayan Temple, and Shreenagar Hill for panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Resume your drive from Tansen to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. As you make your way through the countryside, you'll witness rural life and the changing scenery of Nepal. Arrive in Lumbini in the evening and check in to your hotel.
Start your day by visiting the Lumbini Garden Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that encompasses the sacred garden where Siddhartha Gautama, later known as Buddha, was born. Explore the Maya Devi Temple, the Marker Stone, and the ancient ruins that provide insight into the history of this revered site. Discover the sacred ponds of Lumbini, including the Puskarni Pond where Maya Devi is said to have bathed before giving birth. Explore various monasteries built by different countries, each reflecting their unique architectural styles and Buddhist traditions. Visit the Ashoka Pillar, an ancient stone pillar erected by Emperor Ashoka to mark the birthplace of Buddha.
After breakfast, fly back to Kathmandu from Bhairawa Airport in Lumbini which is about 35 minutes flight. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check-in hotel and the rest of the time is free to explore/shopping or take a rest at your hotel in Kathmandu.
Start your day early by departing from Kathmandu for your day trip to Namobuddha. The drive to Namobuddha takes around 2-3 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. Enjoy the scenic route through picturesque countryside and rural villages. Upon reaching Namobuddha, visit the Namobuddha Monastery and Stupa, a sacred Buddhist site known for its historical and spiritual significance. Explore the monastery, observe the prayer rituals, and take in the peaceful surroundings. After exploring Namobuddha and having lunch, begin your journey back to Kathmandu.
Your memorable Buddhist Culture & Pilgrimage Tour comes to an end on this day. Our representative will escort you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. Make sure to arrive at the airport well in advance of your flight and you need to be at least 3 hours before your flight time. Have a safe flight back home!
What is included?
- Airport pick-up and drop services.
- All land transfers by a private vehicle.
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu, Pokhara & Lumbini with breakfast on twin share basis.
- Tour guide throughout the trip.
- Sightseeing as per the itinerary.
- Lumbini Kathmandu flight fare.
- All applicable tourist entrance, monumental fees.
- Farewell dinner with live Nepalese cultural program.
- All government and local taxes.
What is not included?
- International airfare
- Personal insurance for travel to Nepal.
- Nepal entry visa fee – Visa can be obtained upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu.
- Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu, Pokhara or Lumbini.
- Bar bills, alcoholic drinks & beverages.
- Other expenses of personal nature (phone calls, laundry etc.)
- Tips to guide or driver.
Route Map
FAQ's
What is the Nepalese Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour?
This excursion is a spiritual journey that brings you to significant Buddhist locations in Nepal, including Lumbini (the birthplace of Lord Buddha), ancient monasteries, stupas, and holy meditation centers in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Namobuddha.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts 10 days and 9 nights, and it goes to Kathmandu, Pokhara, Lumbini, and Namobuddha.
What is the highest point reached during the tour?
Namobuddha, at 1,750 meters (5,741 feet), is the highest point on this tour.
Is there a risk of altitude sickness?
No, this excursion generally takes place at low to moderate altitudes, so the risk of altitude sickness is much lower than when trekking in the Himalayas.
When is the optimal season for this tour?
The ideal months for a visit are January through May and September through December, as the skies are clear, the weather is pleasant, and the conditions are great for sightseeing and photography.
What are the most important parts of the Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour?
The Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) and the Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu.
The Maya Devi Temple, along with monasteries, stupas, and meditation areas in Lumbini.
Matepani Gumba and the World Peace Stupa in Pokhara.
Day excursion to Namobuddha Monastery located near Kathmandu.
Patan and Pharping are ancient towns where you can explore cultural heritage.
Where will I be staying during the tour?
You will stay in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Lumbini, on a twin-share basis with breakfast.
Are all the meals part of the tour?
No, the tour package only includes breakfast (In Lumbini, Breakfast/Dinner is included). You can explore dishes and have lunch and dinner by your choice.
Is this tour good for families or for first-timers?
Yes, for sure. The schedule is slow-paced and perfect for pilgrims, families, and visitors who want to learn about culture and spirituality.
How hard is the tour on your body?
The excursion is slow and easy, with mainly sightseeing and short walks. So, it’s not hard on your body.
Do I need permission to visit any of the sites?
You don't have to bother about permits because the package includes all admission fees and local permits.
Can I charge my phone while on the tour?
Yes, you can charge your mobile at hotels in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Lumbini.
Do I need to bring a power adapter?
Yes, you should pack a universal travel adaptor.
Will there be Wi-Fi and cell phone service during the tour?
Yes, most hotels and restaurants have Wi-Fi, and the cell network works well. You can use local SIM cards to make calls and send data.
Can I use credit cards and ATMs while on the tour?
Yes, there are a lot of ATMs in big cities, and most hotels, restaurants, and stores take credit and debit cards. However, you will need cash to pay in small and local shops.
Can I get access to hot showers in hotels?
Yes, hotels have hot showers and other modern conveniences to make your stay more comfortable; however, this may be limited in smaller towns.
Will I be able to go to festivals during the tour?
You might see Buddhist festivals, prayer rituals, or meditation ceremonies in temples and monasteries, depending on the time of year.
Can I take pictures at the sites?
Most places do allow photography. Some monastery interiors may not allow photography, so always check with your guide.
Will I have a guide with me?
Yes, an experienced and government-licensed guide will be with you the whole time, sharing cultural, historical, and spiritual information.
Will I have time to buy things or souvenirs?
Yes, when you go to Lumbini, Kathmandu, and Pokhara, you can explore and look for handicrafts, prayer flags, Buddhist artifacts, and other things at the local marketplaces.
What do I need to carry on the tour?
Bring clothes that are comfortable, modest clothes for monasteries, sunglasses, a camera, travel documents, and warm layers at higher altitudes. Please check our Nepal tour packing list for more details.
Why go on a guided pilgrimage instead of going on your own?
Guided tours make your spiritual trip more meaningful and less stressful by giving you expert explanations, easy transportation, permits, and cultural context.
Do I need travel insurance?
It is not mandatory, but it is strongly advised to cover medical emergencies, accidents, or lost items.
Is it possible to customize the tour?
Yes, you can change the schedule, number of days, destinations, style of lodging, meal options, and add optional activities. You need to inform us while booking so we can plan accordingly.
Trip Info
Accommodation
During tour, we opt you accommodate in 3 star or 5 star hotels like Hotel Royal Singhi (3star), Hotel Manaslu (3 star), Radisson (5 star), Yak & Yeti (5 star) or similar in Kathmandu City. In Pokhara and Lumbini, we will provide the best available hotels/lodges.
Meals
While in Nepal, you'll find a diverse selection of cuisine ranging from continental to Chinese, Indian, and more. Tourist hubs like Thamel in Kathmandu or Lakeside in Pokhara host a plethora of restaurants offering dishes from around the world. In addition to international fare, don't miss out on the opportunity to savor traditional Nepali dishes such as Dal Bhat (rice and lentils served with vegetables or meat), Momos (dumplings), Thukpa (noodle soup), Sel Roti (rice-based doughnut), and Samosas. These Nepali delicacies offer a delightful taste of the local culinary culture. Whether you're craving familiar flavors or eager to explore new tastes, Nepal's dining scene has something for everyone.
Best Months
Though the tour can be done round the year, the best months is January-May & September-December which are the pick tourist season in Nepal.
Our Guides
The Guides play a very active role at the time of trip. Marron Treks has experienced and helpful guides who make your trip enjoyable as well as successful. Our Guides will help you to know the city, provide information and will let you know about the history about all the sites you visit.
Travel Insurance
Before starting your journey with MarronTreks it is advised that you arrange your travel insurance before leaving your homeland. It should cover medical expenses if injured or theft/loss of your belongings. That would make your trip safe and hassle free.
Safety
Nepal is a safe place and has always attracted lots of visitors from all over the world. You are given security from the Tourist-Police of Nepal and at any time they are present for immediate help.
