Pilgrimage – Opulent Routes

Classical India with Haridwar

Opulent Routes — Tue, 19 May 2020 04:36:59 +0000

Classical India tour with Haridwar and Rishikesh is the most cherished journey for both Indian and international travelers. You can explore the rich heritage sites of forts, and palaces, enjoy the colorful culture and visit the sacred temples and Ashrams. With this tour, you can couple your journey on the Golden Triangle with spirituality.

Our finely designed tour will take you to the famous attractions of the golden triangle circuit and continue the journey to Haridwar and Rishikesh. So now your journey will not end with the exploration of the heritage sites only. You can also take a holy dip in the serenity and purity of the Ganga and visit the famous religious sites in Haridwar and Rishikesh. So, get ready for this tour of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur with Haridwar and Rishikesh that includes Indian heritage, culture, and spirituality all in one journey.

Itinerary

Day 01 Arrive Delhi (By Flight)
Welcome to India, New Delhi is the
Breakfast, The journey begins in Old Delhi with Raj Ghat, the memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. Passing outside the Red Fort during a rickshaw ride takes you to Jama Masjid, one of Asia’s largest mosques and the colorful markets of Old Delhi. We continue to New Delhi and visit InDay Gate, President’s House and Temple of the Sikhs. We will also visit the 12th century Qutub minar, Laxmi Narayan temple and Lotus temple – The Baha’i House of Worship.
Hotel accommodation.

Day 03 Delhi – Haridwar (By Train)
Breakfast, In the morning departure to Haridwar on the train. It is located in the foothills of the lower Himalayas Shivalik mountains, on the banks of the Ganges river, and is an important place of pilgrimage for Hindus. In the afternoon we will visit Har ki Pauri, It is one of the most sacred bano Ghat (Bank). Pilgrims come here to bathe and offer flowers and sweets to the Ganges river.
Hotel accommodation.

Day 04 Haridwar – Rishikesh (By Road) (20 Kms. / 30M appx.)
Breakfast, In the morning departure to Rishikesh in the car. Rishikesh known as “The World Capital of Yoga”. This is also a set of a series of the Ashrams and the temples giving the whole place a spiritual feeling. In the afternoon you can visit Lakshman Jhula and Rajaji National Park. The majestic Ganges River flows through the National Park. The incessant flow of the river, considered as the goddess Ganga adds to the beauty and purity of the place.
Accommodation at the hotel.

Day 05 Rishikesh
Rishikesh offers a plethora of options for adventure lovers to visit, enjoy and explore the life experience in the Ganges. In the morning you can do Yoga and Meditation in Ashram (La ermita). The best way to relax the mind and body. If the wonderful scenery and numerous pilgrimage sites were not enough, Rishikesh also makes some of the most popular InDay duration adventure sports.
Accommodation at the hotel / Hermitage.

Day 06 Rishikesh – Haridwar (20 Km/ 30M) / Haridwar – Delhi (By Train)
Breakfast, In the morning drive to Haridwar in the car to catch the train to New Delhi. Arrival in Haridwar and continue to depart for New Delhi on the train. In the afternoon Arrival in New Delhi and transfer to the hotel. Rest the free time to relax.
Hotel accommodation.

Day 07 Delhi – Mandawa (By Road) (250 Kms. / 5H 10M appx.)
Breakfast, in the morning departure to Mandawa. It is known for its incredible painted havelis. The artists painted the frescoes that represent the mythological images of gods, goddesses and animals. Arrival in Mandawa and transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon visit the town. Also you can see the outstanding exterior walls, balconies, bedrooms and upper floors are full of patterns and paintings.
Hotel accommodation.

Day 08 Mandawa – Jaipur (By Road) (180 Kms. / 3H 30M appx.)
Breakfast, in the morning Departure to the city of Jaipur by car through rustic towns. Jaipur is the capital of the state of Rajasthan, a romantic kingdom of glittering palaces, which is also known as the Pink City. It is an absolutely unique part of the InDay. The ancient capital of Jaipur dates back to the 18th century and stands tall on the crest of the mountain overlooking the valley. Arrival in Jaipur and transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon we will visit the Birla temple and visit the Albert Hall museum.
Hotel accommodation.

Day 09 Jaipur
Continue for a morning excursion to Amber Fort after breakfast. Elephant ride up to the fortress. Amber Fort is the classic romantic fortress palace where a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles finds its maximum expression. Also you can get a wonderful view of the city. Continuation to visit Jal Mahal (Water Palace), Hawa Mahala (Palace of the Winds), Jantar Mantar (Astronomy and observatory) and City Palace, it is the private residence of the royal family. This afternoon is free to relax or shop. Jaipur is an excellent place for shopping, especially for gold and silver jewelry, silk, saris, wood crafts and rugs.
Hotel accommodation.

Day 10 Jaipur – Abhaneri / Fatehpur Sikri – Agra (By Road) (253 Kms/ 5H)
Breakfast, In the morning you will proceed to Agra.

Abhaneri, also spelled Abaneri, is a village in the Dausa district of the Indian state of Rajasthan. Abhaneri is popular for the Chand Baori step well and Harshat Mata Temple.

Walking visit to Fatehpur Sikri, the abandoned city that was once the fabulous capital of the Mughal Empire. A planned walled city, comprising a series of royal palaces, haren, the courts, a mosque, private quarters, and other public buildings.

Arrival in Agra and transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon we will visit the “Taj Mahal”, the most famous architectural monument in the world, Built by the Mughal emperor Shan Jehan in memory of his beloved queen Mumtaz Mahal, the complex took twenty-two years to complete and is counted today among the Seven Wonders of the World. Visit to the Red Fort and the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daula, it is one of the most beautiful Mughal tombs and was built by Nur Jahan.
Hotel accommodation.

Day 11 Agra – Gwalior – Orchha (By Road) (120 Kms. / 2H 30M appx.)
After breakfast, drive to Orchha.
On the way visit Gwalior.

Gwalior is a city in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. It’s known for its palaces and temples, including the Sas Bahu Ka Mandir intricately carved Hindu temple. Ancient Gwalior Fort occupies a sandstone plateau overlooking the city and is accessed via a winding road lined with sacred Jain statues. Within the fort’s high walls is the 15th-century Gujari Mahal Palace, now an archaeological museum.

Orchha is a town in Niwari district of Madhya Pradesh state, India. The town was established by Rudra Pratap Singh some time after 1501, as the seat of an eponymous former princely state of covering parts of central & north India, in the Bundelkhand region.
Hotel accommodation.

Day 12 Orchha – Khajuraho (By Road) (180 Kms. / 4H 30M appx.)
After breakfast, drive to Khajurhao.
On arrival, city tour of Khajuraho.

The Khajuraho Group of Monuments is a group of Hindu temples and Jain temples in Chhatarpur district, Madhya Pradesh, India, about 175 kilometres southeast of Jhansi. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temples are famous for their nagara-style architectural symbolism and their erotic sculptures.

Day 13 Khajuraho – Varanasi (By Flight)
Breakfast. In the morning transfer to the airport to take the flight to Varanasi. It is a most sacred city in India that is famous for the sacred river “Ganges” and it is one of the oldest cities of life in the world. For each visitor Varanasi offers an impressive experience.

Arrival in Varanasi and transfer to the hotel.
In the afternoon we will visit the holy river Ganges to attend the Ganges night ceremony.
Hotel accommodation.

Day 14 Varanasi – Delhi (By Flight)
In the early morning, ‘sunrise’, boat trip on the holy Ganges river to observe the way of life of the pilgrims through the Ghats. Return to the hotel for breakfast. After breakfast we will visit the ancient city Varanasi. We will know the Ghats of the sacred river Ganges and walk through a colorful cloth and the market of traditional dresses. Ghats are very famous not only for taking a sacred bath, but also for cremation. The Kashi Vishwanath temple – is one of the most famous Hindu temples and is dedicated to the god Shiva. Sarnath – This is the famous deer park where the Buddha delivered his first sermon to all five disciples, making it one of the holiest places in Asia.
Hotel accommodation.

Evening, transfer to airport for flight to Delhi.
Overnight in Delhi

Day 15 Depart Delhi (By Flight)
Departure transfer to Delhi International airport for flight to onward destination.

Hotels

City	Night (s)	5* Hotels
Delhi	02	Radisson Blu Dwarka
Haridwar	01	Radisson Blu
Rishikesh	02	Dewa Retreat
Delhi	01	Radisson Blu Dwarka
Mandawa	01	Castle Mandawa
Jaipur	02	Radisson Blu
Agra	01	Jaypee Palace
Orchha	01	Orchha Palace
Khajuraho	01	Radisson Blu
Varanasi	01	Radisson Blu
Delhi	01	Radisson Blu Dwarka

Includes

– Welcome on arrival with fresh flower garlands.
– Meet to attend airports / hotels by our office representative.
– 14 nights in accommodation as per the program.
– Daily breakfast and dinners.
– 01 TL FOC from 10 Pay Pax onwards.
– Khajuraho – Varanasi – Delhi Airline ticket in economy class.
– Delhi – Haridwar – Delhi air-conditioned chair class express train ticket.
– Cover all the main / main monuments and tourist attractions of each city.
– Entrance fees to the monuments.
– Local English / French / German / Italian / Spanish / Chinese / Russian speaking guide.
– All transfers, tourist visits, excursions according to the program in a private vehicle.
– Boat trip on the Ganges river in Varanasi.
– Aarti ceremony on the holy river Ganges.
– Jeep / Elephant Ride at Amber Fort in Jaipur.
– Visit Taj Mahal.
– All taxes.

Excludes

– Tips
– International Air Fare
– Visa Fees
– Travel Insurance
– Personal expenses and drinks.

Important

– Accommodation in good hotels.
– Check-in / out time is 12 noon at most of the hotels.
– Extension to other places is also possible with a minimal extra cost.
– Additional nights are available at each place with minimal supplement.
– A visa is required and must be obtained prior to your departure from your Country.
– If quoted hotel is not available, we will provide one of a similar category and standard.
– Small deviations in the tour program are sometimes necessary, depending on weather, road conditions, flight schedules and room availability.
– In case the government changes presently applicable taxes, increase in airlines prices, fuel surcharge our rates will need to be adjusted accordingly.
– In Asia, there is no relevance between the distance and time of travelling, as it depends upon the condition of the roads and congestion of the traffic.
– While every effort will be made to maintain the itinerary, in view of local strikes etc that are beyond our control all schedule and itineraries are subject to last moment changes.
– Clients must be fully insured, as the company cannot accept liability for loss or damage to client’s property, medical emergencies or any other loss suffered by them whilst on tour.
– In Case of issuing Domestic or International air tickets, SGV is not responsible for any refund if the flight is delayed or cancelled, as it is the responsibility of airline.

India – Turbans and Monks

Opulent Routes — Tue, 19 May 2020 04:35:28 +0000

With Himachal tour packages one can experience the best of adventure, honeymoon, holidaymaking and more in one of India’s coveted tourist destination – Himachal Pradesh. Thanks to its stunning countryside, lush green meadows, rich flora and fauna, unexplored areas, unique cultural heritage, chaotic bazaars and a score of adventure activities.

Beaches or hills have actually always been a personal choice, but there is none who have come to Himachal Pradesh and claimed that they really did not enjoy the scenic tour. Himachal Pradesh is a state of famous hill stations as well as a paradise for tourists during the summer period.

The region full of picturesque, popular and yet offbeat places lie in this mystical land, full of flawless natural treasures. Bollywood’s personal favourite and a lively winter sport destination, it is the dearest choice of every travel enthusiast. The world of new experiences await you! Experience adventure with thrilling sports like horse riding, paragliding, mountain biking, zorbing at Solang Valley and equally enchanting sightseeing experiences at Shimla.

The ambience of Himachal Pradesh is welcoming just like the warm-hearted people of this state. The thrill of winter adventure, lures every explorer’s adrenaline urge. The poetic feel of the destination is so romantic that we carefully hand-pick special Himachal tour package for couples. We use our passionate unrivalled knowledge to design your perfect Himalayan vacation!

Itinerary

Day 01 Arrive Delhi (By Flight)
Arrival in Delhi. Assistance and transfer to the hotel. Special welcome with a flower garland.
Hotel accommodation.

Day 02 Delhi
Breakfast. In the morning, visit the ancient Delhi including: The Red Fort (exterior), the Jama Masjid, the longest mosque in the InDay and Raj Ghat, the tomb of Mahatma Gandhi. Enjoy a fascinating ride on the Rickshaw (man-drawn cart) at Chandni Chowk to see its markets and bazaars.

In the afternoon, visit to New Delhi: Qutub Minar, InDay Gate, Presidential Palace and Parliament. You will also visit the Temple of the Sikhs (Guruduwara Bangla Sahib).
Hotel accommodation.

Day 03 Delhi – Amritsar (By Flight)
After breakfast, transfer to Delhi airport for flight to Amritsar.

Amristar the sacred city of the Sikhs. Lunch on board. Arrival and transfer to the hotel. Visit the Golden Temple, home of the Sikh religion. It is a place full of charm and harmony. We also visit the Jaliawala Bagh, where the British in 1919 massacred about 1500 Indians during a demonstration. At the end of the visit, return to the hotel.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 04 Amritsar – Baijnath (By Road) (246 Kms. / 5H 20M appx.)
After breakfast, departure by car to Nurpur.

Visit the Nurpul ruins and frescoes in a temple dedicated to Krishna. Lunch in a local restaurant. Continue to Dharamshala. where you can visit the monastery seat of the Dalai Lama and the Nepalese market. Continue to Baijnath and accommodation at the hotel.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 05 Baijnath
After Breakfast, visit an important 8th century Si Shiva temple in Bajinath, with exquisite carved reliefs. Continuation to Masrur, a fascinating archaeological site, a rocky hill which was carved from above into below in the 8th and 9th centuries. We proceed to visit the Kangra Fort, damaged by an earthquake in 1905. Return to the hotel.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 06 Baijnath – Shimla (By Road) (215 Kms. / 6H 10M appx.)
After breakfast, departure by car to Shimla, at over 2000 meters above sea level. Capital of the state of Himachal Pradesh. After lunch, rest of the Day for a walk on Mall Road. Dinner in hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.

Day 07 Shimla
After breakfast, full day tour of Shimla: Jackhoo Hill; St. Michael’s Cathedral; the Loggia del Vicerè located in a magnificent garden and now home to the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies; Rest of the afternoon free for relaxation.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 08 Shimla – Chandigarh (By Road) (115 Kms. / 3H 30M appx.)
After breakfast, transfer by car to Pinjore and visit of the magnificent Mughal gardens created in 1620 by Fidal Khan, court architect and brother of Emperor Aurangzeb. Continue to Chandigarh and transfer to the hotel.

After lunch, in the afternoon visit of Chandigarh: the rose garden, the rock garden and the museum.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 09 Chandigarh – Delhi (By Road) (245 Kms. / 4H 30M appx.)
After breakfast, visit the buildings of Le Corbusier, the High Court, the Assembly Hall and the Secretariat. Lunch. Afternoon transfer to Shatabdi Express station and train to Delhi.
Arrival and transfer to the hotel.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 10 Depart Delhi (By Flight)
Departure transfer to Delhi airport for flight to onward destination.

Hotels

City	Night (s)	5* Hotels
Delhi	02	Radisson Blu Dwarka
Amritsar	01	Radisson Blu Amritsar
Baijnath	02	Thamsar Hotel
Shimla	02	Radisson Hotel
Chandigarh	01	Golden Tulip
Delhi	01	Radisson Blu Dwarka

Includes

– Welcome on arrival with fresh flower garlands.
– Meet to attend airports / hotels by our office representative.
– 09 nights in accommodation as per the program.
– Daily breakfast and dinners.
– 01 TL FOC from 10 Pay Pax onwards.
– Cover all the main / main monuments and tourist attractions of each city.
– Entrance fees to the monuments.
– Delhi – Amritsar economy class air ticket.
– Local English / French / German / Italian / Spanish / Chinese / Russian speaking guide.
– Red Fort, Moghul dynasty and Parliament House.
– Golden Temple, Jaliawala Bagh and Monastery Home.
– Nepalese market, Si Shiva temple and Fort of Kangra.
– Jackhoo Hill, Cathedral of St. Michael and Mughal gardens.
– Rose Garden, The Rock Garden and The Museum.
– All transfers, tourist visits, excursions according to the program in a private vehicle.
– All taxes.

Excludes

– Tips
– International Air Fare
– Visa Fees
– Travel Insurance
– Personal expenses and drinks.

Important

Sathya Sai Baba with Andhra Pradesh

Opulent Routes — Mon, 18 May 2020 06:36:39 +0000

Get the best of the sightseeing tours in Andhra Pradesh. Sathya Sai Baba with Andhra Pradesh tour package is of 12 Nights and 13 Days that makes you explore the popular tourists attractions in Hyderabad, Warangal, Vijayawada, Nagarjuna Sagar, Srisailam, Kurnool, Puttaparthy (Puttaparthi), Tirupati, and Chennai.

Excursion to popular temples and world heritage sites is included in the package. You also get opportunity to experience the divinity of Sri Sathya Sai Baba at his ashram in Puttaparthy.

Itinerary

Day 01 Arrive Hyderabad (By Flight)
On your arrival at the Hyderabad Airport/Railway station, get welcomed and assisted by the representative and transferred to your hotel. Check in and freshen up. After taking a little rest, if time permits, explore the nearby attractions. You may enjoy gradual walks down the streets, communicate with the locals or enjoy street food. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 02 Hyderabad
In the morning, after breakfast, get ready to visit some of the architectural heritage sites of Hyderabad. Enjoy guided tour to the royal Tombs of the Qutb Shahi Kings and the magnificent Golkonda Fort. Thereafter, visit Nizams Museums, Birla Temple, etc. Evening is free to be spent at leisure. You may explore the local markets and buy artifacts as souvenirs. Later return to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 03 Hyderabad
Early morning, after breakfast, get ready to explore other tourist attractions. Visit the biggest ‘One Man Collection’ – Salarjung Museum. Here, at this national museum, you may find paintings, ceramics, sculptures, metallic artifacts, carvings, manuscripts, clocks, carpets, and textiles. Additionally, a huge collection of furniture from Persia, Japan, Europe, Burma, North America, China, Egypt, and Nepal, are pleasurable to watch. Later, you may proceed to the second biggest Mosque of India, Charminar, also popular as The Arc de Triomphe of the east. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 04 Hyderabad – Warangal (By Road) (150 Kms. / 3 Hrs appx)
Post breakfast, drive to Warangal. En route, visit Pembarti Village for its Brass making, the carpet weaving center and Kulpakji (Kolanupaka) for the 2000 years Jain Temple. On your arrival at hotel in Warangal, check in, freshen up and take a little rest. You may use the remaining hours of the day to explore the nearby attractions. Dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel.

Day 05 Warangal – Vijayawada (By Road) (250 Kms. / 5 Hrs appx.)
Early in the morning, after breakfast, visit the 1000 Pillar Temple, Ramappa Temple. In this temple, there are sculpted figures drawn on the wall panels, ceiling and pillars, all inspired from Hindu mythology. Also visit various mud-brick forts that today are in ruins. Thereafter, drive to Vijayawada. On your arrival at Vijayawada hotel, check in and halt for an overnight stay.

Day 06 Vijayawada
In the morning, after breakfast, enjoy guided tour to Kondapali Village and explore the unique wooden Toys. Thereafter, visit Kanaka Durga Temple. Here, at this ancient living temple, you may find inscriptions of different dynasties. Later in the afternoon, visit a finest testimonial of ancient Vishwakarma Sthapathis, Undavalli Caves. After a full day excursion, return to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 07 Vijayawada – Nagarjuna Sagar (By Road) (170 Kms. / 3H 30M appx.)
Post breakfast, drive to Nagarjuna Sagar. On your arrival at hotel in Nagarjuna Sagar, check in and take a little rest. Later, in the afternoon, visit the Nagarjuna Konda and Anupu – the Amphitheatre. Also pay a visit to various other Buddhist remains in the area. Return to your hotel for dinner and halt for an overnight stay.

Day 08 Nagarjuna Sagar – Srisailam (By Road) (180 Kms. / 4H appx.)
After breakfast at hotel, drive to Srisailam. Reach your hotel, check in and take a little rest. Later in the evening, visit Mallikarjuna Temple. This is one of the twelve Jyotir Lingam temples of India. This temple is nestled in the Jungles of Nallamala. After excursion, return to your hotel. If time permits, you may also take gradual walks down the streets and communicate with the locals. Dinner and an overnight stay at you hotel.

Day 09 Srisailam – Kurnool (By Road) (180 Kms. / 4H appx.)
In the morning, after breakfast, drive to Kurnool. Reach your hotel, check in and take a little rest. Later in the afternoon visit the magnificent 7th century Chalukyan Nava Bramha temples. Later proceed to the wonderful museum at Alampur. Return to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 10 Kurnool – Puttaparthy (By Road) (240 Kms. / 5 Hrs appx.)
Early morning, after breakfast, drive to Puttaparthy (Puttaparthi). Check in at your hotel in Puttaparthy. Freshen up and take a little rest. Later in the afternoon, visit Vijayanagar temple and the great Nandi at Lepakshi. Also visit the impressive Fort ruins at Penugonda. Return to your hotel and if time permits, communicate with the locals. Dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel.

Day 11 Puttaparthy
This day is fully dedicated for excursion to Puttaparthy Prasanthi Nilayam. This is the main ashram of Sri Sathya Sai Baba. The ashram was established 40 years ago. Here you may attend the early morning prayers and later explore the attractions of the ashram. You may also attend evening prayers. Later return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 12 Puttaparthy – Tirupathi (Tirupati)
Early morning, get ready for a full day excursion to Tirupathi (Tirupati). Visit the Govindaraju temple, Padmavati temple and Lord Venkateswara temples. Thereafter, reach to your hotel, check in and take a little rest. You may also use the remaining hours taking gradual walks down the streets and visiting nearby attractions. Dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel.

Day 13 Tirupathi – Chennai (By Road) (175 Km/ 4 Hrs) / Depart Chennai
In the morning, after breakfast, get transferred to the Chennai hotel. Check in and freshen up. You may use the remaining hours for sightseeing in Chennai. Later get assisted and transferred to Chennai Airport/Railway station to board the flight/train towards your onward journey.

Hotels

City	Night (s)	5* Hotels
Hyderabad	03	Hyderabad Marriott
Warangal	01	Grand Gayathri
Vijayawada	02	Novotel Vijayawada Varun
Nagarjuna Sagar	01	Matha Sarovar Resorts
Srisailam	01	Pathaleswara Sadanam
Kurnool	01	Suraj Grand
Puttaparthy	02	Satyam Resorts
Tirupathi	01	Marasa Sarovar Premiere, Tirupati

Includes

– Meet assist at the airport and hotels.
– 12 nights accommodation as per the program.
– Meal as per mentioned in the itinerary.
– Services of English-Speaking Local Guide for the sightseeing as per the itinerary.
– 01 SGV accompanying tour escort throughout the tour
– One-time entrances to the monuments as per the itinerary.
– Local English / French / German / Italian / Spanish / Chinese / Russian speaking guide.
– All transfers, sightseeing and excursions by private AC vehicle and driver.
– All taxes.

Excludes

– Tips
– International Air Fare
– Visa Fees
– Travel Insurance
– Personal expenses and drinks.

Important

Buddhist Trail + Buddhist Art

Opulent Routes — Sun, 17 May 2020 16:38:35 +0000

Your journey will begin in Mumbai and continue to Aurangabad, where you will visit the Ellora and Ajanta Caves. The magnificent world heritage site, Ellora is famous for its rock-cut cave temples that date back to 10th and 11th century. In Ajanta too, you would see the cave temples, but they are much older than Ellora ones and dates from around the 2nd century to the 6th century BC.

After a fantastic heritage walk in the Aurangabad, drive to Jalgaon to board a train for Bhopal. The capital city of Madhya Pradesh, Bhopal is the closest city to Sanchi, the nest destination of the tour. Famous for its stupas, monolithic Asokan pillar, temples, monasteries and sculptural wealth, Sanchi is an architectural wonderland. Following a brief visit to the archeological splendor of India, visit Agra to see the beautiful Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Next day, you will board a train for Patna to visit the iconic places like Nalanda, Rajgir and Bodhgaya.

A world heritage site, Mahabodhi Temple Complex in Bodh Gaya marks the place where Buddha attained enlightenment. Here you can find structures that date back to 5th century BC. Also here you will see the Bodhi tree under which the Buddha found enlightenment.

Drive to Varanasi to see the place where Buddha gave his famous first sermon after attaining enlightenment, Sarnath. In Sarnath, you will see a 100m-high stupa, which is one of the largest in the world. From Sarnath, drive to Kushinagar, an ancient town where Gautama Buddha attained Parinirvana after his death. Spend a day in Kushinagar and then visit Lumbini in Nepal, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, for a short period of time.

In Lumbini, visit the Maya Devi Temple, which marks the spot where Queen Maya Devi gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama. Due to time constraint, you will leave Lumbini and proceed to Sravasti, the last attraction of the tour. In Shravasti, you can see Ananda Bodhi tree and Jetavana, one of the famous Buddhist monastery and Vihara in India. After a day tour in Shravasti, go to Lucknow to board a train or flight to your destination onwards.

Itinerary

Day 01 Arrive Mumbai (By Flight)
Arrive Mumbai airport. Our representative will be at the airport to welcome you. Further he will transfer to the prebooked hotel and will assist you till check in. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 02 Mumbai – Aurangabad (By Train)
After breakfast city tour of Mumbai. Later transfer to railway station for train to Aurangabad.
On arrival meet-assist & transfer to hotel for overnight stay.

Mumbai is a cluster of seven islands and derives its name from Mumbadevi, the patron goddess of the koli fisher folk, its oldest inhabitants. Mumbai pulsates with activity. It is a city that is disciplined by no time frame neither day nor night. Mumbai is also the country´s financial powerhouse, the nation´s industrial heartland, and its economic nerve center. Mumbai houses dazzling shopping arcades, exciting sport activities, night clubs & discotheques, theater & music, gourmet restaurants and interesting sightseeing. Mumbai offers visitors a heady mix of all this and more.
Places Visit: Gateway of India, Prince of Wales Museum, Marine Drive.

Day 03 Aurangabad
After breakfast full city tour of Aurangabad.
Overnight stay at hotel.

Aurangabad is a historical city, situated on the western coast of India. Though it lies in the remote corner of Maharashtra, it manages to attract a lot of tourists every year. The main attractions of the city comprise of the historical sites and religious places, situated in and around its precincts.
Places Visit: Aurangabad Caves, Bibi Ka Maqbara, Panchakki, Jama Masjid, Chauk Masjid.

Day 04 Aurangabad – Bhopal (By Train)
After breakfast transfer to railway station for train to Bhopal.
On arrival meet-assist & transfer to the hotel for overnight stay.

Bhopal, capital of Madhya Pradesh combines scenic beauty, historicity and modern urban planning. It is situated on the site of an 11th century city, Bhojapal, founded by Raja Bhoj. Jama Masjid have Gold spikes crown the minarets of this beautiful mosque built in 1837 by Kudsia Begum. Taj-ul-Masajid is one of the largest mosques in Asia, built by Nawab Shahjehan Begum. Upper and Lower Lakes -The Upper Lake is divided from the Lower Lake by an overbridge.

Day 05 Bhopal – Sanchi – Bhopal (By Road) / Bhopal – Agra (By Train)
After breakfast drive to Sanchi. After visit Sanchi transfer to railway station for train to Agra.
Arrive Agra meet assist & transfer to the hotel for overnight stay.

Sanchi- is known for its Stupas, monasteries, temples and pillars dating from the 3rd century B.C. to the 12th century A.D. The most famous of these monuments, the Sanchi Stupa 1, was originally built by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka. Great Stupa No. 1The oldest stone structure in India. 36.5 mt in diameter and 16.4 MT high, The Eastern Gateway Depicts the young prince, Gautama leaving his father’s palace on his journey towards enlightenment and the dream his mother had before his birth. Stupa No. 2The stupa stands at the very edge of the hill and its most striking feature is the stone balustrade that rings it.

Day 06 Agra – Delhi (By Road) (205 Kms. / 4 hrs. appx.)
After early breakfast visit Taj Mahal & Fort.
Later drive to Delhi, on arrival city tour of Delhi. Overnight stay at hotel.

Agra -Historians suggest Agra to be the Agravana in the epic Mahabharata. It is expected to be known as Agralapura during the medieval age. An archaeological fact pushes the existence of Agra back to three million years. The Lodhi dynasty ruled over Agra for a long time. It was in the onset of the sixteenth century that the Mughals took over the ruling of Agra from the hands of Lodhis.
Taj Mahal Shah Jahan the great emperor and a great builder constructed Taj Mahal in the loving memory of his beloved wife Anjuman Bano Begum. Shah Jahan met this beautiful girl in his young age and later gets married with her. Red Fort – The construction of the Agra fort was started around 1565 when the initial structures were built by Akbar.

Delhi- India’s capital and a major gateway to the country. New Delhi also reflects the legacy the British left behind. The division between New & Old Delhi is the distinction between the capitals of the British & the Moghuls respectively. Tourist Attractions: Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Built by Shah Jahan, Chandni Chowk and Rajghat – the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi. The Lakshmi Narayan Temple or the Birla Temple as it is popularly known enshrines Lord Vishnu – the preserver of the Hindu Trinity. Witness the India Gate, the Presidents House & the Parliament, Qutab Minar -Qutubuddin Aibak laid the foundation of Qutab Minar, as a victory tower, in 1199 AD.

Day 07 Delhi – Patna (By Flight)
After breakfast transfer to the Airport to catch the flight for Patna.
On arrival, city tour of Patna.

Patna- is the capital of Bihar and is located on the southern parts of the Ganges. Patna also flaunts immense historical significance and was the center of art and culture during the ancient times. There are many tourist attractions in Patna to catch a glimpse of, some of the prominent ones being.
Visit: Hanuman Mandir. Kumhrar, Takht Shri Harmandir Saheb, Golghar, Patna Museum, Patna Planetarium.

Day 08 Patna – Rajgir – Bodhgaya (By Road) (206 Kms. / 6 hrs. appx.)
After breakfast drive to where the Buddha attained enlightenment and which is one of the most sacred pilgrimage places for the Buddhist. Enroute visit Nalanda and Rajgir.

Nalanda-a great center of Buddhist learning and one of the most famed university citadels of ancient times. Rajgir was once the ancient capital of the powerful kingdom of Maghada. From the out skirts of Rajgir, a historic road leads to Gridha – Kuta or vultures peak where the Buddha preached, here the first Buddhist Council was held after the Lord’s Mahaparinirvana.
Overnight stay in the hotel.

Day 09 Bodhgaya
Buddha – Bodhgaya After breakfast Sightseeing of Bodhgaya. Here under the Bodhi Tree, Shakyamuni Gautama attained supreme knowledge to become Buddha, “the Enlightened one” the profounder of one of the great religious of the world. River Nirajnana in which the Buddha bathed after attaining elightment flows quietly outside the tiny hamlet. Overnight stay in the hotel.

Day 10 Bodhgaya – Varanasi (By Road) (250 Kms. / 5 hrs. appx.)
After breakfast drive to Varanasi. Upon arrival transfer to the hotel.
Evening visit river Ganga Ghat to attend the holy Aarti. Overnight stay in the hotel.

Varanasi: It has been known as Kashi and Banaras, its present name is a restoration of the ancient name meaning the city between the two rivers Varun and Asi. The internal city id one of the most important pilgrimages sites in India. Situated on the bank of the sacred river Ganges, Kashi , Vishwanath temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is popularly known as the Golden Temple due to the Golden Plating done on its 15.5 meter high spire.

Day 11 Varanasi – Kushinagar (By Road) (224 Kms. / 5 hrs. appx.)
Early Morning boat tour on River Ganges to visit Bathing Ghats, return to hotel for breakfast.
Later drive to Kushinagar i.e. 265 kms or 07 hrs drive. Upon arrival visit Kushinagar.
Later transfer to the hotel for overnight stay.

Kushinagar- Nirvana Temple: Set in a leafy park at the heart of Kushinagar, the Nirvana Stupa, dating back to the reign of Kumaragupta I 413-55AD, enshrines. Japanese Temple: Built by the Atago Isshin World Buddhist Cultural Association, it consists of a single circular chamber, housing a golden image of the Buddha. Rambhar Stupa: About 1.5 km southeast of the Nirvana Temple, surrounded by rice, wheat and cane fields, lies at the Rambhar Stupa.

Day 12 Kushinagar – Lumbini – Sravasti (By Road) (300 Kms. / 7 hrs. appx.)
Morning visit Mahaparinirvana Temple and Rambhar Stupa.
Later drive to Sravasti 170 kms and 04 hrs drive via visit Lumbini.
Upon arrival transfer to the hotel for overnight stay.

Lumbini, the place where the Buddha was born in 623 BC, is situated in the Terai plains of southern Nepal. For those interested in the treasury of cultural and archaeological riches, Lumbini is the perfect place to be there with a number of stupa, monasteries, meditation centers and bahals courtyard, no other place evokes the time and aura of the Buddha like Lumbini.

Day 13 Sravasti – Lucknow(164 Kms. / 4 hrs) / Lucknow – Delhi (By Flight)
After early breakfast proceed for the sight seeing visit Sravasti Sahet-Mahet capital of the ancient kingdom of Kosala, an active centre for Buddhism. Later drive to Lucknow and board flight to Delhi.
Arrive Delhi & transfer to the hotel for overnight stay.

Saravasti- This was one of the largest cities in India at the time of the Buddha, and today is the small village of Sahetha-Mahetha, There are few places to see in Saravasti and most of them are associated with the Buddha. The prominent among them is the Jetavana. Angulimala: The dreaded dacoit Angulimal, who used to wear necklace of fingers that were chopped from his victims. Monasteries: There are few Chinese, Tibetan and Thai monasteries, which are a delight to watch. The beautiful among all is the Thai Monastery.

Day 14 Depart Delhi
Early morning transfer to the airport for flight back home.

Hotels

City	Night(s)	*5 Hotels**
Mumbai	01	ITC Grand
Aurangabad	02	Vivanta by Taj
Bhopal	01	Jehan Numa Palace
Agra	01	Radisson Blu
Delhi	01	Radisson Blu
Patna	01	Hotel Patliputra
Bodhgaya	02	Bodhgaya Regency
Varanasi	01	Radisson Blu
Kushinagar	01	Lotus Nikko
Sravasti	01	Lotus Nikko
Delhi	01	Radisson Blu PV

Includes

– Welcome on arrival with fresh flower garlands
– Meet assist at airport
– 13 Nights hotel accommodation as per the program.
– Daily Breakfast and Dinner.
– All Transfers, Sightseeing and Excursions as per itinerary by private vehicle
– Air ticket Delhi – Patna & Lucknow – Delhi in economy class.
– A/C chair car Train ticket for Mumbai – Aurangabad – Bhopal – Agra.
– Entrance fees to monuments.
– Local English / French / German / Italian / Spanish / Chinese / Russian speaking guide.
– Transport, Parking, Gasoline & Toll ways
– All taxes.

Excludes

– Tips
– International Air Fare
– Visa Fees
– Travel Insurance
– Personal expenses and drinks.

Important

Buddhist Trail

Opulent Routes — Sun, 17 May 2020 16:38:32 +0000

The Buddhist Circuit Tour comprises of the four places that were extremely significant in the life of Buddha– the place where he was born, attained Enlightenment, preached first Sermon and then reached Nirvana. Lumbini, Bodhgaya, Sarnath and Kushinagar are important places in the Buddhist Circuits that are linked to the life and teachings of Lord Buddha. Along with these, there are various other important sites too where Buddha had travelled to, during his lifetime.

The teachings of Lord Buddha became popular after King Ashoka of India, embarked on a journey where he visited the important sites following the Footsteps of Lord Buddha. These places include Lumbini in Nepal and Bodhgaya, Sarnath as well as Kushinagar in India.

Itinerary

Day 01 Arrive Delhi (By Flight)
Arrive Delhi airport. Our representative will be at the airport to welcome you. Further he will transfer to the prebooked hotel and will assist you till check in. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 02 Delhi – Varanasi (By Flight)
After breakfast sightseeing tour of Delhi includes Raj Ghat Cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi, Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar & India Gate War Memorial. Drive past President House & Parliament House.
PM: Flight to Varanasi.
Overnight stay in the hotel.

Day 03 Varanasi
Early Morning boat tour on River Ganges to visit Bathing Ghats, return to hotel for breakfast.
City tour of Varanasi visiting various temples and noted Banaras Hindu University. Afternoon excursion to Sarnath. It was here that the Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon and set in motion the wheel of law of Buddhist faith. Evening visit river Ganga Ghat to attend the holy Aarti.
Overnight at hotel.

Day 04 Varanasi – Bodhgaya (By Road) (250 Kms. / 5 hrs. appx.)
In the morning after breakfast drive to Bodhgaya.
On arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Later, visit Bodhgaya.
Overnight in the hotel.

Day 05 Bodhgaya
Buddha – BodhgayaAfter breakfast Sightseeing of Bodhgaya. Here under the Bodhi Tree, Shakyamuni Gautama attained supreme knowledge to become Buddha, “the Enlightened one” the profounder of one of the great religious of the world. River Nirajnana in which the Buddha bathed after attaining elightment flows quietly outside the tiny hamlet. Overnight stay in the hotel.

Day 06 Bodhgaya – Patna (By Road) (115 Kms. / 3 hrs. appx)
In the morning after breakfast, drive to Patna. Enroute visit Nalanda and Rajgir.
On arrival, city tour of Patna.
Overnight stay in the hotel.

Nalanda and Rajgir. Nalanda-a great center of Buddhist learning and one of the most famed university citadels of ancient times. Rajgir was once the ancient capital of the powerful kingdom of Maghada. From the out skirts of Rajgir, a historic road leads to Gridha – Kuta or vultures peak where the Buddha preached, here the first Buddhist Council was held after the Lord’s Mahaparinirvana.

Day 07 Patna – Kushinagar (By Road) (224 Kms. / 5 hrs. appx.)
After breakfast drive to Kushinagar.
Upon arrival visit Kushinagar. Later transfer to the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 08 Kushinagar – Lumbini (By Road) (120 Kms. / 2.5 hrs. appx.)
Morning visit Mahaparinirvana Temple and Rambhar Stupa. Later drive to Lumbini i.e. 170 kms or 4 hrs drive. Upon arrival transfer to the hotel. Later Sightseeing of Lumbini where the Lord Buddha was born. Visit the pillar raised by Emperor Ashok, In the twenty first year after his coronation at the birthplace. Overnight stay in the hotel.

Day 09 Lumbini – Sravasti (By Road) (155 Kms. / 4.5 hrs. appx.)
After early breakfast, drive to Sravasti. Upon arrival transfer to the hotel. Later proceed for the sight seeing visit Sravasti Sahet-Mahet capital of the ancient kingdom of Kosala, an active centre for Buddhism. Overnight at hotel.

Day 10 Sravasti – Lucknow (By Road) (164 Kms. / 4 hrs. appx.)
Morning free for lsiure. Later drive to Lucknow.
On arrival, city tour of Lucknow. Overnight in Lucknow.

Lucknow- The legacy of the imperial splendor of Lucknow has always fascinated people all over the world. The ambience of Awadh has commonly been associated with the leisurely habits, etiquette, architecture, food and refinement, the residues of Nawabi culture. Place to visit here Bara Imambara, Chota Imamabad Rumi Darwaza, Shah Najaf Imambara, the Residency.

Day 11 Lucknow – Agra (By Train)
Morning train to Agra. On arrival, meet assist and transfer to the hotel.
Later: Half- day city tour of Agra. Overnight in Agra.

Day 12 Agra – Delhi (By Road) (205 Kms. / 4 hrs. appx.)
In the morning after breakfast, city tour of Agra.
Evening, drive to Delhi.
Overnight in Delhi.

Taj Mahal Shah Jahan the great emperor and a great builder constructed Taj Mahal in the loving memory of his beloved wife Anjuman Bano Begum. Shah Jahan met this beautiful girl in his young age and later gets married with her. Red Fort – The construction of the Agra fort was started around 1565 when the initial structures were built by Akbar.

Day 13 Depart Delhi (By Flight)
Early morning transfer to the airport for flight back home.

Hotels

City	Night(s)	*5 Hotels**
Delhi	01	Radisson Blu
Varanasi	02	Radisson Blu
Bodhgaya	02	Bodhgaya Regency
Patna	01	Hotel Patliputra
Kushinagar	01	Lotus Nikko
Lumbini	01	Hokke Hotel
Sravasti	01	Lotus Nikko
Lucknow	01	The Piccadily
Agra	01	Radisson Blu
Delhi	01	Radisson Blu

Includes

– Welcome on arrival with fresh flower garlands
– Meet assist at airport
– 12 Nights hotel accommodation as per the program.
– Daily Breakfast and Dinner.
– All Transfers, Sightseeing and Excursions as per itinerary by private vehicle
– Air-ticket Delhi – Varanasi in economy class.
– A/C chair car Train ticket for Lucknow – Agra.
– Entrance fees to monuments.
– Local English / French / German / Italian / Spanish / Chinese / Russian speaking guide.
– Transport, Parking, Gasoline & Toll ways
– All taxes.

Excludes

– Tips
– International Air Fare
– Visa Fees
– Travel Insurance
– Personal expenses and drinks.

Important

Buddhist Pilgrim + Taj

Opulent Routes — Sun, 17 May 2020 16:38:28 +0000

This spiritual tour takes you to a serene journey on the footsteps of Buddha. Gautam Siddartha was born in 6th century BC in Lumbini on India – Nepal border. The Buddhist Tour India lets both pilgrims and travelers explore the places associated with life and death of Buddha. You visit Bodhgaya, where he was enlightened or should we say where he understood the concept of life, death and existence in deepest way possible. Next, we visit Sarnath, where Buddha preached his first sermon after becoming Buddha.

We also visit Sravasti, Vaishali, Kapilvastu and Rajgir – all these places are associated with life of Buddha and Kushinagar, the city where Buddha entered mahaparinirvana or site of Buddha Shakyamuni’s death. At the end of the tour, you will also be able to witness the beauty of seven wonders of the world ‘Taj Mahal’ in Agra.

Itinerary

Day 01 Arrive Delhi (By Flight)
Arrive Delhi airport. Our rrepresntative will be at the airport to welcom you. further he will transfer to the prebooked hotel and will assist you till check in. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 02 Delhi
After breakfast sightseeing tour of Delhi includes Raj Ghat Cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi, Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar & India Gate War Memorial. Drive past President House & Parliament House. Overnight stay in the hotel.

Day 03 Delhi – Patna (By Flight)/ Patna – Bodhgaya (206 Km / 6 Hrs.)
After breakfast transfer to the Airport to catch the flight for Patna. Enroute visit Nalanda and Rajgir
On arrival, city tour of Patna.
Later, drive to where the Buddha attained enlightenment and which is one of the most sacred pilgrimage places for the Buddhist.

Day 04 Bodhgaya
Buddha – BodhgayaAfter breakfast Sightseeing of Bodhgaya. Here under the Bodhi Tree, Shakyamuni Gautama attained supreme knowledge to become Buddha, “the Enlightened one” the profounder of one of the great religious of the world. River Nirajnana in which the Buddha bathed after attaining elightment flows quietly outside the tiny hamlet. Overnight stay in the hotel.

Day 05 Bodhgaya – Varanasi (By Road) (250 Kms. / 5 hrs. appx.)
After breakfast drive to Varanasi i.e. 247 kms or 6-7 hrs drive. Upon arrival transfer to the hotel. Evening visit river Ganga Ghat to attend the holy Aarti. Overnight stay in the hotel.

Day 06 Varanasi
Early Morning boat tour on River Ganges to visit Bathing Ghats, return to hotel for breakfast. City tours of Varanasi visiting various temples and noted Banaras Hindu University. Afternoon excursion to Sarnath. It was here that the Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon and set in motion the wheel of law of Buddhist faith. Overnight at hotel.

Sarnath: One of the major Buddhist centers in India. Having achieved enlightenment in Bodhgaya, it was at Sarnath where Buddha came to preach his message of the middle way to final Nirvana. Later emperor Ashoka erected many magnificent stupas and other buildings here. Sarnath was at its peak when Chinese travellers Fa hian and Hiuen Tsang visited the site.

Day 07 Varanasi – Kushinagar (By Road) (224 Kms. / 5 hrs. appx.)
After breakfast drive to Kushinagar i.e. 265 kms or 07 hrs drive. Upon arrival visit Kushinagar.
Later transfer to the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 09 Lumbini – Sravasti (By Road) (155 Kms. / 4.5 hrs. appx.)
After early breakfast, drive to Sravasti 170 kms and 04 hrs drive. Upon arrival transfer to the hotel. Later proceed for the sight seeing visit Sravasti Sahet-Mahet capital of the ancient kingdom of Kosala, an active centre for Buddhism. Overnight at hotel.

Day 10 Sravasti – Lucknow (164 Km/ 4 hrs) / Lucknow–Agra (By O/N Train)
Morning free for lsiure. Later drive to Lucknow and board train to Agra.
Arrive Agra and transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Agra.

Day 11 Arrive Agra (By Train) / Agra – Delhi (By Road) (205 Kms. / 4 hrs.)
In the morning, city tour of Agra.
Evening, drive to Delhi.
Overnight in Delhi.

Day 12 Depart Delhi
Early morning transfer to the airport for flight back home.

Hotels

City	Night (s)	*5 Hotels**
Delhi	02	Radisson Blu
Bodhgaya	02	Bodhgaya Regency
Varanasi	02	Radisson Blu
Kushinagar	01	Lotus Nikko
Lumbini	01	Hokke Hotel
Sravasti	01	Lotus Nikko
Lucknow – Agra O/N Train in 2^nd AC
Delhi	01	Radisson Blu

Includes

– Welcome on arrival with fresh flower garlands
– Meet assist at airport
– 10 Nights hotel accommodation as per the program.
– 01 Overnight Nights Train from Lucknow to Agra in 2nd AC Sleeper class.
– Daily Breakfast and Dinner.
– All Transfers, Sightseeing and Excursions as per itinerary by private vehicle
– Air ticket Delhi – Patna in economy class.
– 2nd A/C Sleeper Class Train ticket for Lucknow – Agra.
– Entrance fees to monuments.
– Local English / French / German / Italian / Spanish / Chinese / Russian speaking guide.
– Transport, Parking, Gasoline & Toll ways
– All taxes.

Excludes

– Tips
– International Air Fare
– Visa Fees
– Travel Insurance
– Personal expenses and drinks.

Important

Buddhist Pilgrim + Ganges

Opulent Routes — Sun, 17 May 2020 16:38:25 +0000

Starting from Delhi, this package would allow you to explore the Bodh Gaya, the place where Buddha received enlightenment; Nalanda, an ancient Buddhist center of academic excellence; Gridhakuta Hill, the place where he spent many years meditating and preaching Dharma, and Saptparni caves, where his first council was organized. By opting this tour, you will visit Vaishali, where Buddha preached his last summon before attaining Parinirvana at Kushinagar, which is also a part of the tour.

Also, you will be visiting Lumbini in Nepal, the birthplace of the Buddha, and Saravasti, where you can find oodles of monasteries. All the architectural splendors included in this itinerary are the testimonial of Buddha’s philosophies, preachings and teachings.

Itinerary

Day 03 Delhi – Patna (By Flight)
After breakfast transfer to the Airport to catch the flight for Patna.
On arrival, meet assist and transfer to the hotel.
Later, city tour of Patna.
Overnight in Patna.

Day 04 Patna – Nalanda – Rajgir – Bodhgaya (By Road) (206 Kms. / 6 hrs)
In the morning after breakfast, drive to where the Buddha attained enlightenment and which is one of the most sacred pilgrimage places for the Buddhist.

Enroute visit Nalanda and Rajgir. Nalanda-a great center of Buddhist learning and one of the most famed university citadels of ancient times. Rajgir was once the ancient capital of the powerful kingdom of Maghada. From the out skirts of Rajgir, a historic road leads to Gridha – Kuta or vultures peak where the Buddha preached, here the first Buddhist Council was held after the Lord’s Mahaparinirvana. Overnight stay in the hotel.

Day 06 Bodhgaya – Varanasi (By Road) (250 Kms. / 5 hrs. appx.)
After breakfast drive to Varanasi i.e. 247 kms or 6-7 hrs drive. Upon arrival transfer to the hotel. Evening visit river Ganga Ghat to attend the holy Aarti. Overnight stay in the hotel.

Day 07 Varanasi
Early Morning boat tour on River Ganges to visit Bathing Ghats, return to hotel for breakfast. City tours of Varanasi visiting various temples and noted Banaras Hindu University. Afternoon excursion to Sarnath. It was here that the Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon and set in motion the wheel of law of Buddhist faith. Overnight at hotel.

Day 08 Varanasi – Kushinagar(By Road) (224 Kms. / 5 hrs. appx.)
After breakfast drive to Kushinagar.
Upon arrival visit Kushinagar. Later transfer to the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 09 Kushinagar – Lumbini (By Road) (120 Kms. / 2.5 hrs. appx.)
Morning visit Mahaparinirvana Temple and Rambhar Stupa. Later drive to Lumbini i.e. 170 kms or 4 hrs drive. Upon arrival transfer to the hotel. Later Sightseeing of Lumbini where the Lord Buddha was born. Visit the pillar raised by Emperor Ashok, In the twenty first year after his coronation at the birthplace. Overnight stay in the hotel.

Day 10 Lumbini – Sravasti (By Road) (155 Kms. / 4.5 hrs. appx.)
After early breakfast, drive to Sravasti. Upon arrival transfer to the hotel. Later proceed for the sight seeing visit Sravasti Sahet-Mahet capital of the ancient kingdom of Kosala, an active centre for Buddhism. Overnight at hotel.

Day 11 Sravasti – Lucknow (By Road) (164 Kms. / 4 hrs. appx.)
Morning free for lsiure. Later drive to Lucknow.
On arrival, city tour of Lucknow.
Overnight in Lucknow.

Day 12 Lucknow – Agra (By Train)
Morning train to Agra.
On arrival, meet assist and transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Agra.

Day 13 Agra – Delhi (By Road) (205 Kms. / 4 hrs. appx.)
In the morning after breakfast, city tour of Agra.
Evening, drive to Delhi.
Overnight in Delhi.

Day 14 Depart Delhi
Early morning transfer to the airport for flight back home.

Hotels

City	Night (s)	*5 Hotels**
Delhi	02	Radisson Blu
Patna	01	Hotel Patliputra
Bodhgaya	02	Bodhgaya Regency
Varanasi	02	Radisson Blu
Kushinagar	01	Lotus Nikko
Lumbini	01	Hokke Hotel
Sravasti	01	Lotus Nikko
Lucknow	01	The Piccadily
Agra	01	Radisson Blu
Delhi	01	Radisson Blu

Includes

– Welcome on arrival with fresh flower garlands
– Meet assist at airport
– 13 Nights hotel accommodation as per the program.
– Daily Breakfast and Dinner.
– All Transfers, Sightseeing and Excursions as per itinerary by private vehicle
– Air ticket Delhi – Patna in economy class.
– A/C chair car Train ticket for Lucknow – Agra.
– Entrance fees to monuments.
– Local English / French / German / Italian / Spanish / Chinese / Russian speaking guide.
– Transport, Parking, Gasoline & Toll ways
– All taxes.

Excludes

– Tips
– International Air Fare
– Visa Fees
– Travel Insurance
– Personal expenses and drinks.

Important

Buddhist Pilgrim + East India

Opulent Routes — Sun, 17 May 2020 16:38:22 +0000

Buddhist Tour of North East, as the name says, tour will take you to the major Buddhist temples in North-East India. Starting from Delhi, this tour covers Sarnath (the place where Gautam Budha first taught the Dharma), Nalanda ( primary institutions of higher learning in ancient India), Vulture Peak (favorite retreat center of Buddha) and Saptparni caves (one of the places where first Buddhist council was held).

Along with the significant Buddhism sites, this tour will also take you to the monasteries of Gangtok, Darjeeling, and Kalimpong, and a sightseeing tour to Agra and Delhi. To be very clear and concise, this tour package will take you to all the places in India that has witnessed Buddhism history and legacy.

Itinerary

Day 01 Arrive Delhi (By Flight)
Arrive Delhi. Assistance and transfer to the hotel. Overnight in Hotel.

Day 02 Delhi
Full day sightseeing tour of Old & New Delhi visiting the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Parliament House, Birla Mandir, Memorials to Nehru and Gandhi. Later visit the Qutab Minar, Humayuns Tomb, etc. Overnight in hotel.

Day 03 Delhi – Agra (By Road) (205 Kms. / 4 hrs. appx.)
In the morning after breakfast drive to Agra.
On arrival, city tour of Agra.
Overnight in Agra.

Day 04 Agra – Delhi (205 Kms. / 4 hrppx.) / Delhi – Varanasi (By Flight)
In the morning after breakfast, drive to Delhi.
On arrival, transfer to Delhi airport for flight to Varanasi.
Afternoon excursion to Sarnath, where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon. Return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 05 Varanasi – Bodhgaya (By Road) (255 Kms. / 5 hrs. appx.)
Morning early depart for a boat ride on the Holy River Ganges viewing the sunrise and the religions rites being performed on the River bank. After breakfast, check out from the hotel.
Drive to Bodhgaya, visiting Bharat Mata Temple, Durga Temple, Tulsi Manas and the Banaras Hindu University. Overnight in Bodhgaya.

Day 06 Bodhgaya
In the morning after breakfast visit Bodhgaya. Here under the Bodhi Tree, Shakyamuni Gautama attained supreme knowledge to become Buddha, “the Enlightened one” the profounder of one of the great religious of the world. River Nirajnana in which the Buddha bathed after attaining elightment flows quietly outside the tiny hamlet. Overnight stay in the hotel.

Day 07 Bodhagaya – Patna (By Road) (112 Kms. / 3 hrs. appx.)
Morning depart for Patna. Visit the Vulture Hill, World Peace Stupa and Bamboo’s Garden. Later drive to Nalanda 14 kms and visit one of the oldest Universities of the world & International Centre of Buddhist Studies. Continue drive to Patna.
Check into hotel for overnight stay.

Day 08 Patna – Kolkata (By Flight)
Morning Patna Sahib & Patna Museum. Later transfer to airport to connect flight for Calcutta. Rest day free for leisure. Overnight in Hotel.

Day 09 Kolkata–Bagdogra (By Flight) / Bagdogra–Darjeeling (96 Km/ 4 hrs)
Early morning visit the flower market on the riverbanks in Howrah. This is followed by a boat-ride on the Hooghly. The afternoon sightseeing of the metropolis includes the imposing Victoria Memorial, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Indian Museum that houses one of the best collections of Indian art.
Afternoon, transfer to the airport for flight to Bagdogra.
On arrival, drive to Darjeeling.
Overnight in Darjeeling.

Kolkatta -It is interesting to explore the origin & history of kolkata, the capital of British India. Calcutta history is not that old as that of Delhi. Calcutta, the city of joy was established in the year 1686, as a result of the expansion plans of the British Raj. Visit – Calcutta Victoria memorial hall is a fabulous museum that was established in the year 1921. The credit for designing and drawing the plan for this monument goes to Sir William Emerson, President of the British Institute of Architects. Howrah Bridge, located over the Hoogli River in West Bengal, India, is said to be the busiest bridge of the world. Hawrah Bridge in Kolkata, India, also known by the name ‘Rabindra Setu’, was set up in 1874. It stands on two 270 feet high pillars. , St Paul’s Cathedral and the Indian Museum – St Paul’s Cathedral is acknowledged as the first Episcopal Church of the eastern world. It is an Anglican cathedral of the Church of North India. Besides, being a religious site, the cathedral is also an architectural marvel. St. Paul’s Cathedral is 247 feet in length, 81 feet in width and 114 feet at transept. The flagstaff rises to a height of 175 feet above ground level. Indian Museum – The history of the origin and the growth of the Indian Museum is one of the remarkable events towards the development of heritage and culture of India.

Founded in 1814 at the cradle of the Asiatic Society of Bengal at the present building of the Asiatic Society, 1 Park Street, Kolkata, Indian Museum is the earliest and the largest multipurpose Museum not only in the Indian subcontinent but also in the Asia-Pacific region of the world.

Day 10 Darjeeling
Early in the morning drive up to Tiger Hill 9000 ft to see the spectacular sunrise over Mt. Everest and Kanchenjunga, visiting the Ghoom Monastery on return. Later visit the Himalayan mountaineering Institute and a local tea garden.

A favourite hill-station of the British to escape from the heat of Calcutta, Darjeeling is surrounded by tea gardens and has magnificent views of the snowy peaks of Kanchenjunga.
Also, enjoy the toy train ride.
Overnight in hotel.

Day 11 Darjeeling – Kalimpong (By Road) (60 Kms. / 2.5 hrs. appx.)
Morning depart for Kalimpong.
On arrival check in the hotel.
Afternoon, visit local monasteries and flower nurseries.
Overnight in hotel.

Kalimpong – Established in 1922, the Tharpa Choling Gompa belongs to the Yellow Hat Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, founded in the Tibet in the 14th century and to which the Dalai Lama belongs. It’s a 40 minute walk from town; take the path to the right off KD Pradhan Rd, just before the Milk Collection and Extension Wing Building. Flower Nurseries Kalimpong produces 80% of India’s gladiolas and is an important orchid – growing area; flowers are exported from here to many cities in northern India. The Sri Ganesh Moni Pradhan Nursery and the Udai Mani Pradhan Nursery are among the most important in the area. The Standard and the Universal Nurseries also specialise in cacti. There’s a flower festival in Kalimpong in October

Day 12 Kalimpong – Gangtok (By Road) (75 Kms. / 3 hrs. appx.)
In the morning after breakfast visit Dello Hills and Dr. Graham`s Home and a Flower Nursery. In the afternoon drive from Kalimpong to Gangtok.
Overnight in Hotel.

Day 13 Gangtok
This morning take sightseeing tour that will cover Rumtek Monastery, Deer Park, Droul Chorthen, Research Institute of Tibetology, Directorate of Handicraft & Handloom and Enchey Monastery.
For a truly unforgettable experience, visit the sacred and serence Tshangu Lake 3780 m, 12400 ft.
The lake remains frozen for the greater part of the year and comes alive during May to August when rhododendrons, iris, primulas, and poppies burst into bloom on its banks.
Overnight in hotel.

Gangtok – is the capital of Sikkim and is situated at a height of 5,500ft above sea level. The city has become the famous centre for Buddhist learning and culture, along with political, commercial, religious and cultural activities of the people of Sikkim.The city attracts a major crowd ever year for it is provided with a number of tourists attractions by nature itself. Start your trip, by visiting the famous 200-year-old, Enchey meaning solitary Monastery or Gompa, located in the middle of a forest and offering a brilliant view of the Kanchendzong range. Also, catch the famous mask dance performances called ‘Cham’ in the months of August and January. For flower and bird lovers, hit the Deorali Orchid Sanctuary nearby, which houses 200 different species of birds and also an exhibition centre displaying varieties of orchids

Day 14 Gangtok – Bangdogra (115 Km/ 4 hrs) / Bagdogra – Delhi (By Flight)
In the morning after breakfast, drive to Bagdogra.
On arrival, transfer to airport for flight to Delhi.
Visit Connaught Place, Janpath Market in Delhi.
Overnight in Delhi.

Janpath Market is a shopping stretch that is strategically situated near the reputed landmarks of Delhi, namely Jantar Mandar and Connaught Place. Connaught Place is one of the must-visit places in Delhi and therefore, Janpath Market becomes very difficult to miss. There are a variety of shops that are lined along the entire stretch of this place. There is something in this place even for people with shoe-string budgets, which makes it one of the most crowded places in Delhi.
Souvenirs shops are the major Janpath Market attractions, as the shops here are considered to sell the best gifts that tourists feel proud to take back to their native places.

Day 15 Depart Delhi (By Flight)
Transfer to the airport for departure for onward destination.

Hotels

City	Night(s)	*5 Hotels**
Delhi	02	Radisson Blu
Agra	01	Radisson Blu
Varanasi	01	Radisson Blu
Bodhgaya	02	Bodhgaya Regency
Patna	01	Hotel Patliputra
Kolkata	01	Fortune Select
Darjeeling	02	Elgin Darjeeling
Kalimpong	01	Elgin Nor-Khill
Gangtok	02	Elgin Silver Oaks
Delhi	01	Radisson Blu

Includes

– Welcome on arrival with fresh flower garlands.
– Meet assist at airport.
– 14 Nights hotel accommodation as per the program.
– Daily Breakfast and Dinner.
– All Transfers, Sightseeing and Excursions as per itinerary by private vehicle
– Air ticket Delhi – Varanasi, Patna – Kolkata – Darjeeling – Delhi in economy class.
– Toy train ride in Darjeeling.
– Entrance fees to monuments.
– Local English / French / German / Italian / Spanish / Chinese / Russian speaking guide.
– Transport, Parking, Gasoline & Toll ways
– All present State & Central Government taxes

Excludes

– Tips
– International Air Fare
– Visa Fees
– Travel Insurance
– Personal expenses and drinks.

Important

– Accommodation in good hotels.
– Check-in / out time is 12 noon at most of the hotels.
– Extension to other places is also possible with a minimal extra cost.
– Additional nights are available at each place with minimal supplement.
– A visa is required and must be obtained prior to your departure from your Country.
– If quoted hotel is not available, we will provide one of a similar category and standard.
– Small deviations in the tour program are sometimes necessary, depending on weather, road conditions, flight schedules and room availability.
– In case the government changes presently applicable taxes, increase in airlines prices, fuel surcharge our rates will need to be adjusted accordingly.
– Sometimes, there is no relevance between the distance and time of travelling, as it depends upon the condition of the roads and congestion of the traffic.
– While every effort will be made to maintain the itinerary, in view of local strikes etc that are beyond our control all schedule and itineraries are subject to last moment changes.
– Clients must be fully insured, as the company cannot accept liability for loss or damage to client’s property, medical emergencies or any other loss suffered by them whilst on tour.
– In Case of issuing Domestic or International air tickets, SGV is not responsible for any refund if the flight is delayed or cancelled, as it is the responsibility of airline.

Orissa Buddhist Tour

Opulent Routes — Sun, 17 May 2020 16:38:18 +0000

Far away from the hustle and bustle of the cities along the river banks and serene surroundings, lives remnants of Odisha’s glorious tryst with Buddhism. The contribution of Buddhism in shaping the cultural heritage of Odisha & the latter’s contribution in spreading the religion to Asian countries is a perfect example of symbiotic relationship.

During the 8th Century -10th Century AD under Bhaumakara dynasty rule, Buddhism was considered a state religion of Odisha.In fact it’s believed that the first disciples of Lord Buddha were Tapasu and Bhallika who hailed from the modern day city of Jajpur. Though Buddhism entered Odisha long before the Kalinga War it took wings in the region after the under the patronage of Emperor Ashoka.

Odisha’s most famous poet Jayadeva went on to describe Lord Buddha as one of the incarnations of Lord Vishnu in the 12th century AD. The writings of fabled Chinese Traveler Hiuen T’sang just reinforces the glorious chapter of Buddhism in Odisha. The influence of Buddhism can be found in the socio cultural life of the people of Odisha and rich depository of history is reflected in the Buddhist monuments of the state.

Itinerary

Day 01 Arrive Bhubaneshwar (By Flight)
Upon Arrival at Bhubaneswar our representative will Welcome you and Transfer to Hotel.
Rest of the day free for own activities.
Overnight in Bhubaneshwar.

Day 02 Bhubaneshwar
Full day city tour of Bhubaneswar Temples famous for beautiful architecture(One of the Most Important Temple, Mukteswar Temple, influenced by Buddhism) Later Odisha(Orissa) State Museum with lot of Buddhist Sculptors collected from different Budhist archeological sites of Odisha(Orissa) and Khandagiri & Udaygiri Jain Caves of 2nd Century BC.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 03 Bhubaneshwar
Visit Dhauli Famous for Ashokan Rock Edicts and Place where battle of Kalinga was Fought which made a great change of Ashok mind so that he became Buddhist. Also Visit Peace Pagoda. Later visit Pipili applique works and World heritage site Sun Temple of Konark(Watch the Buddhist influence on this temple) & Famous Jagannath Temple and Back to Bhubaneswar.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 04 Bhubaneshwar
Full day Excursion to Lalitigiri(Archeological site of a Buddhist Monastery from 4th to 8th Century AD) with Monastery parts and many votive Stupa, all different Buddhist sculptors with Chaita hall and a Huge stupa from where caskets of Budhha’s relic is available. Ratnagiri, the Largest Buddhist monastery we have till know, flourished from 4th to 14th century AD with most of sculptors of Vajrayanic sect, hundred of Votive Stupa & brick Stupa and huge monastery. Later visit Udayagiri, Another huge Buddhist monastery which still under excavation. Then back to Bhubaneswar.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 05 Bhubaneshwar
Full day visit Kayam Hill Buddhist cave and Langudi Giri which one of recent excavation with ruins of Monastery, Stupas and lot of Mahayanic sculptors, Five Dhyani Buddhas. Back to Bhubaneswar.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 06 Depart Bhubaneshwar (By Flight)
Transfer to the airport for departure for onward destination.

Hotels

City	Night(s)	5* Hotels
Bhubaneshwar	05	Mayfair Lagoon

Includes

– Welcome on arrival with fresh flower garlands
– Meet assist at airport
– 05 Nights hotel accommodation as per the program.
– Daily Breakfast and Dinner.
– All Transfers, Sightseeing and Excursions as per itinerary by private vehicle
– Entrance fees to monuments.
– Local English / French / German / Italian / Spanish / Chinese / Russian speaking guide.
– Transport, Parking, Gasoline & Toll ways
– All taxes.

Excludes

– Tips
– International Air Fare
– Visa Fees
– Travel Insurance
– Personal expenses and drinks.

Important

Telangana Buddhist Tour

Opulent Routes — Sun, 17 May 2020 16:38:15 +0000

The state of Telangana is home to many religious sites of historical and heritage prominence. One such renowned site for Buddhism is Dhulikatta village in Peddapalli district. The Buddhist circuit of the state has many prominent places that spell their glory. One such prominent place of Buddhism takes nestling in Telangana, at Dhulikatta. The village is only 25 kilometers away from Karimnagar.

The Buddhist Mahastupa or the great stupa and vihar in Dhulikatta village date back to 2nd century BC, which is about more than 2000 years ago. According to many historians, the description of this fortified town which is situated on the banks of a stream called Hussaini Vagu, is one of the 30 walled cities mentioned by Greek emissary Megasthenes.

Itinerary

Day 01 Arrive Hyderabad (By Flight)
Upon arrival in Hyderabad, our tour representative will meet you and assist you in smooth transfer to the hotel. Later, set off for a sightseeing tour of Hyderabad. Visit the Golconda Fort.
Stay overnight in the hotel.

Day 02 Hyderabad – Nagarjunkonda – Hyderabad (152 Km/ 3H – One Way)
Post breakfast in the morning, embark on a sightseeing tour of Nagarjunkonda-famous for its Buddhist temple remains and museum.
Stay overnight in the hotel.

Day 03 Hyderabad – Warrangal (By Road) (145 Kms. / 3H 5M appx.)
Post breakfast in the morning, take a road journey to Warangal. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel. Later, proceed on a sightseeing tour of Warangal which include Ramappa Temple, Warangal Fort, Thousand Pillared Temple and Pakhal Lake.
Stay overnight in the hotel.

Day 04 Warrangal – Vijayawada (By Road) (259 Kms. / 4H 50M appx.)
In the morning, hit the road to Vijaywada. Upon arrival in Vijaywada, check in at the hotel. Post lunch, take a nap. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll in the city.
Stay overnight in the hotel.

Day 05 Vijayawada – Amravati (By Road) (43 Kms. / 1H 20M appx.)
In the morning, embark on a sightseeing tour of Vijaywada. Visit the famous Durga temple. Later, head straight to Amravati. Explore the medieval ruins of Buddhist stupas and temples in Amravati and will return back to Vijaywada.
Stay overnight in the hotel.

Day 06 Amravati – Vishakapatnam (By Road) (390 Kms. / 8H appx.)
In the morning, take a road trip to Visakhapatnam. Arrive in Vishakapatnam by evening and check in at the hotel. Take a rest and stroll around the beach in the evening.
By evening, return back to the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 07 Vishakapatnam
After breakfast, full day city tour of Vishakapatnam.
Overnight in Vishakapatnam.

Visakhapatnam is a port city and industrial center in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, on the Bay of Bengal. It’s known for its many beaches, including Ramakrishna Beach, home to a preserved submarine at the Kursura Submarine Museum. Nearby are the elaborate Kali Temple and the Visakha Museum, an old Dutch bungalow housing local maritime and historical exhibits.

Day 08 Vishakapatnam – Delhi – Home (By Flight)
In the morning, take a short trip to Vishakhapatnam. Later, you will be transferred to the airport to board flight to Delhi.
Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the international airport for onward journey.

Hotels

City	Night(s)	*5 Hotels**
Hyderabad	02	Taj Banjara
Warrangal	01	Grand Gayathri
Vijaywada	01	Novotel Vijayawada
Amravati	01	Hotel Woodland
Vishakapatnam	02	Novotel Vishakapatnam

Includes

– Welcome on arrival with fresh flower garlands
– Meet assist at airport
– 07 Nights hotel accommodation as per the program.
– Daily Breakfast and Dinner.
– All Transfers, Sightseeing and Excursions as per itinerary by private vehicle
– Vishakapatnam – Delhi economy class air ticket.
– Entrance fees to monuments.
– Local English / French / German / Italian / Spanish / Chinese / Russian speaking guide.
– Transport, Parking, Gasoline & Toll ways
– All taxes.

Excludes

– Tips
– International Air Fare
– Visa Fees
– Travel Insurance
– Personal expenses and drinks.