Lumbini Kudan & Tilaurakot Tour
Embark on a soul-enriching journey with our specially designed tour, inviting those in search of a profound spiritual experience to explore Lumbini, the revered birthplace of Gautama Buddha. In the rush of our daily lives, consumed by constant doing and achieving, the essence of simply being often eludes us. Recognizing this, we present a unique package curated with the intention of making your holiday impactful and transformative on a soul level. Our tour seamlessly weaves together the spiritual concepts of Buddhism with a meticulously planned historic itinerary.
This transformative experience introduces meditation and breathing exercises, accompanied by insightful conversations and teachings with Buddhist monks. As you explore the archaeological ruins of Buddha’s life in Nepal, from his birthplace, Maya Devi, to the childhood palace of Tilaurakot and the preaching site of Kudan, you’ll immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Buddha’s journey. Pilgrimage, in its true essence, is a mindful journey to a sacred place, undertaken with heightened awareness and the intention of achieving inner transformation. It’s about listening attentively, observing, and responding from a conscious state of mind. True transformation originates from within, and our purpose is to guide you along this profound path. As part of this holistic journey, an afternoon birdwatching tour through the Lumbini crane sanctuary offers close encounters with local wildlife, from the Nilgai (blue bull) to the endangered Sarus Crane. Let the serenity of nature complement your spiritual exploration, fostering a deeper connection with yourself and the world around you.
Embark on this spiritual odyssey, where every moment becomes a step towards self-discovery, and let the illuminated path guide you towards a profound inner transformation.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
KathmanduWelcome to Kathmandu, Nepal!
Upon arrival at the airport, your representative will greet you and take you to your hotel. Enjoy a special sunset rooftop dinner overlooking Nepal’s largest stupa and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Boudhanath Stupa. The area was once a central trade route that now protects Tibetan Buddhist culture and traditions. Explore the area, and walk around the stupa to get good luck.Kathmandu Valley encompasses three old kingdoms: Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, Patan and Bhaktapur. Kathmandu valley is ornate with palaces, intricate pagodas and monumental stupas which are testament to the artistic talent of the Newars (natives of the valley). The Newari craft was held in high regard by the kings of Malla and the Mongol rulers of 18th century China. The Gopala and Kirati dynasties were the first rulers, followed by Licchavi (300-879 AD), who flourished in trade and crafts.
Accommodation Meals Altitude Drive duration Accommodation4-star Meals-/-/D Altitude1,400 m Drive duration– Day 2
Kathmandu SightseeingSituated atop a hill, Swayambhunath, popularly known as the Monkey Temple, offers captivating panoramic views of Kathmandu valley. This revered site features a prominent domed stupa surrounded by numerous shrines and temples, adorned with gold accents and vibrant prayer flags. It holds significant religious importance for Tibetan Buddhists and Hindus alike. Believed to have originated around 460 A.D., the temple complex was reconstructed during the 13th century under the reign of King Manadeva.
Continue to Kopan Monastery to engage in insightful conversations with resident monks and nuns, and experience a private guided meditation session. Witness the daily rituals and enjoy a nourishing vegetarian meal. Absorb the wisdom and inner stillness, carrying it with you as you return to Kathmandu.
Enjoy a special sunset rooftop dinner overlooking Nepal’s largest stupa and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Boudhanath Stupa. The area was once a central trade route that now protects Tibetan Buddhist culture and traditions. Explore the area, and walk around the stupa to get good luck.Accommodation Meals Altitude Drive duration Accommodation4-star MealsB/L/- Altitude1,400 m Drive duration– Day 3
Fly or Drive to LumbiniFlight Option:
A morning 30 min flight to Bhairahawa and a short 20min private drive to your hotel in Lumbini.Drive Option:
An early morning drive to Lumbini, starts by leaving the valley and following the river before stopping for lunch. The road then turns towards the south, and takes you across the flat lands of the Terai region.Check in and rest, before a guided mindful walk inside the Maya Devi temple grounds. See the Marker Stone, the Nativity Sculpture, the oldest Asoka pillar, the Puskarini pond, as well as the many exposed archaeological excavations dating back to the Maurya Period.
In the evening, take part in a lecture session by a Buddhist Monk. The lecture will have stories relating to how Siddhartha Gautam Buddha conducted himself, his life story and about his teachings. Get an intimate insight into how Buddha was, as a person.
Accommodation Meals Altitude Drive duration Flight duration Accommodation3-star MealsB/-/- Altitude150 m Drive duration8-9 hrs Flight duration30min Day 4
Kapilvastu And KudanBegin your day with a sunrise meditation session within the Maya Devi grounds. After breakfast, go on a scenic 40-minute drive to Tilaurakot, the ancient palace of Kapilvastu where Buddha spent his formative years living as a prince. Walk amongst the excavated bricks, gaining insights into Siddhartha Gautama’s early life. The King had built three palaces made of materials appropriate for each of the three major seasons in an effort to shield the young Gautama from witnessing or feeling any suffering from the weather. Archaeologists are yet to dig deeper underground to reveal the palace built during the reign of Gautama, which is thought to have been made of organic elements like wood and clay. Visit the Eastern Gate, where Gautama departed on his white horse, renouncing his princely life.
Continue to Kudan, where Buddha reunited with his father, King Suddhodhana, and visit the stupa on the hill, where Buddha ordained his son, Rahula. Returning to Lumbini Garden to explore the monasteries within the Monastic Zone.Accommodation Meals Altitude Drive duration Accommodation3-star MealsB/L/- Altitude150 m Drive duration1-2 hrs Day 5
Lumbini Garden SightseeingBegin your day in Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, with a serene sunrise meditation session within the sacred Maya Devi grounds. From there, embark on a contemplative stroll towards the Little Buddha Statue and the Eternal Peace Flame, symbolizing harmony and tranquillity. This symbolic flame was brought from the USA in 1986 to commemorate the International Year of Peace.
Next, enter the Monastic Zone of the Lumbini Master plan, where you’ll discover an array of monasteries erected by different countries, each showcasing their unique architectural styles and spiritual traditions. Indulge in a delectable lunch at the Royal Thai Monastery, savoring the flavors of Thai cuisine. Afterward, explore the majestic Peace Pagoda and immerse yourself in the rich history and teachings of Buddhism at the Lumbini MuseumAccommodation Meals Altitude Drive duration Accommodation3-star MealsB/-/- Altitude150 m Drive duration– Day 6
Lumbini SightseeingBegin your day with a serene and soulful meditation session in front of the revered Maya Devi Temple, the sacred site of Lord Buddha’s birth.
Engage in a cultural journey through nearby local villages, immersing yourself in the daily lives of the residents. Visit a local school, connect with the younger generation and witness the impact of education. For nature enthusiasts, explore the serene Crane Sanctuary, where you can witness the grace of these majestic birds in their natural habitat. Lumbini’s diverse offerings provide a holistic experience, blending spirituality, culture, and the wonders of nature.Accommodation Meals Altitude Drive duration Accommodation3-star MealsB/-/- Altitude150 m Drive duration– Day 7
Fly or Drive to KathmanduSunrise meditation in front of Maya Devi.
Flight Option:
Practice the Buddhist Dana, the concept of giving and sharing without expecting any return as you may choose to volunteer at a community school in the morning.
Catch an afternoon flight back to Kathmandu. Relax before exploring Kathmandu at your leisure.Drive Option:
An early morning drive to Kathmandu starts by leaving the flat Terai region and ascend along the highway. Stop for lunch before reaching Kathmandu late in the evening.Accommodation Meals Altitude Drive duration Flight duration Accommodation3-star MealsB/-/- Altitude1,400 m Drive duration8-9 hrs Flight duration30 min Day 8
DepartureEnjoy your last breakfast, before we drop you off at the airport to return home.
Lumbini Tour Map
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Information
What is Included
Our package includes all the following.
- Welcome dinner in Boudhanath, Kathmandu upon arrival
- 3 nights at 4-star hotel in Kathmandu incl. breakfast
- 4 nights at 3-star hotel in Lumbini incl. breakfast
- Kathmandu sightseeing tour as per itinerary
- Kudan/Tiluakort sightseeing tour as per itinerary
- Lumbini Garden sightseeing tour as per itinerary
- Lunch at Lumbini Royal Thai Monastery
- Private car in Kathmandu
- Private car in Lumbini
- 2-way domestic flights between Kathmandu & Lumbini OR 2-way private land transfer between Kathmandu & Lumbini
- Private airport transfer service
- All entrance fees for sites mentioned
- Daily guided mediation sessions in Lumbini
- Daily guided breathing exercises in Lumbini
- Daily lecture by a Buddhist monk in Lumbini
Not Included
Our tours do not include the following expenses, however, we do provide assistance if needed to provide them for your holiday.
- Tourist visa fees
- International flight
- Personal expenses
- Non-specified meals
- Personal travel insurance