DAY BY DAY ITINERARY
Day 01:	Arrive Delhi Arrive Delhi by International flight,  met by  representative who would assist you at airport & transfer to hotel for check in. Delhi is a bustling metropolis, which successfully combines in its folds the ancient with modern. Its strategic location was the prime reasons why successive dynasties chose it as their seat of power. In fact, more mythological cities are believed to be here, like the city of  Indraprastha from the Hindu epic Mahabharata, founded around 5000 BC. Numerous monuments were built over several centuries by different rulers like Qutub-ud-din Aibek, Alauddin Khilji, Tughlaks, Humayun & Shah Jahan, who built the Walled City Shah Jahanabad. Later in first half of 20th century much of New Delhi was planned by Sir Edwin Lutyens, who laid out a grandiose central administrative area as a testament to British rule in India. The division in walled city & New Delhi also marks the division in life styles. Overnight Hotel - Delhi
Day 02:	Full Day Tour Today we take a guided tour of  Old Delhi, the 17th century walled city of Shah Jahanabad, Visiting the great  Jama Masjid, the principal mosque of Old Delhi. Built in the year 1656 AD by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, it is the largest & best known mosque in India Later we walk down or take a rickshaw ride through Chandi Chowk, the old marketplace of Shah Jahanabad now a picturesque bazaar to reach Red Fort, built in the year 1648 by Shah Jehan. In New Delhi, we visit Raj Ghat, memorial to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. It is a simple black marble platform that marks the spot of his cremation on 31 January 1948. Further we drive past India Gate, memorial built in the year 1931 to commemorate the Indian soldiers who died in the World War I & the Afghan Wars. The names of the soldiers who died in these wars are inscribed on the walls. President's House, the official residence of the President of India, built in the year 1931. Until 1950 it was known as Viceroy's House & served as the residence of the Governor-General of British India. We will also visit Humayun's Tomb, memorial of Mughal Emperor Humayun, built in the year 1562. The complex is a World Heritage Site & the first example of this type of Mughal architecture in India. Qutub Minar, built in the year 1206 by Qutub-ud-din Aibek. It is the tallest (72m) brick minaret in the world, an important example of Indo-Islamic Architecture. Qutub Minar & its monuments are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage SiteOvernight Hotel -- Delhi
Day 03:	Delhi -Jaipur (260 kms / 06 hour) Today in the morning we drive to Jaipur. Jaipur, popularly known as Pink City, the flamboyant & colourful capital of Rajasthan. With its rich & colourful past, resplendent with tales of valour & bravery, it is now one of the most important heritage cities in India. The city was founded in 1728 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the ruler of Amber. It remains the only city in the world symbolizing the nine divisions of the universe, through nine rectangular sectors. Optional Tour - Chokhi Dhani An evening excursion to Chokhi Dhani complex, ethnic village resort located at a distance of 15 km from Jaipur. Rajasthani village atmosphere is recreated on the sprawling ground & includes the entertainment by folk dancers & musicians. Later drive back to hotel. Overnight Hotel - Jaipur
Day 04:	Jaipur : Full Day Tour Today we take an excursion to Amber Fort (11 km); the palace complex which stands to this date was commenced under the reign of Raja Man Singh. We take an Elephant ride to reach the Fort situated on the hill, an overwhelming experience. Later we visit the City Palace, a perfect blend of Rajasthani & Mughal architecture. The centre of the palace is a seven-storied building called Chandra Palace, with fine views over the gardens & the city. Further we visit Jantar Mantar, the Solar Observatory, an astronomical treasure house, with solar devices that give accurate predictions till date. We now visit Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), a five-storied structure of pink sandstone. It was built in year 1799 so that veiled royal women could peer down unseen by the world through its 593 stone Jharokas (mini windows). Overnight Hotel - Jaipur
Day 05:	Jaipur - Agra via Fatehpur Sikri (260 km - 6 hr) Today we drive to Agra, en route we will visit Fatehpur Sikri (Ghost Capital), the political capital of India's Mughal Empire under Akbar's reign, from 1571 until 1585, when it was abandoned, ostensibly due to lack of water. Further we continue our drive to Agra, beautifully situated on the banks of river Yamuna. It achieved prominence as the capital of the Mughal Emperors from 1526 to 1628, remains major tourist destination because of its many splendid Mughal-era monuments, most notably the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort & Fatehpur Sikri, all three of which are UNESCO World Heritage site. Overnight Hotel - Agra
Day 06:	Half Day Tour Today we visit Taj Mahal, symbol of eternal love, which stands on the banks of River Yamuna. It was built by the 5th Mughal emperor, Shah Jehan in the year 1631 in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal It was completed in 22 years. Further we visit Agra Fort, taken over from the Lodhis by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century. The Fort can be more accurately described as a walled palatial city. It was built from red sandstone, often inlaid with white marble & intricate decorations. We will also visit Sikandara, Akbar's tomb. His son Jahangir completed the construction of the tomb in the year 1613. Overnight Hotel - Agra
Day 07:	Agra / Jhansi / Orchha (25 kms / 0.5 hr) (Shatabdi Express Dep. at 0800-0930 hrs.) Morning post breakfast on time transfer to railway station to board the train for Jhansi. Upon arrival assistance drive directly to Orchha and check-in hotel. Orchha has a medieval town atmosphere attached to it. The Betwa River quietly flows by the town. The 16th century palaces and temples built by its Bundela rulers appear to be suspended in time.  In the afternoon we will visit Orchha Fort, Jahangir Mahal, Raj Mahal and Ram Raja temple. Evening at leisure. Overnight hotel - Orchha
Day 08:	Orchha - Khajuraho(160 km/ 04 hrs) Morning post breakfast drive to Khajuraho, well known for its magnificent temples which are among the most creative examples of the Indian architecture. Built between 950 and 1050 A.D, only 22 temples out of 85 now survive. Khajuraho sculpture is sublime and sensuous, the centre of new imagery in art. The popular theme is woman: reflective, playful amorous. The carving also depict Griffins, Nymphs, Beasts, Demons in revolt, Gods in cosmic evolution, fear, doubt, jealousy, ardent love and consummate passion. They were rediscovered in the 20th century, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival assistance and check-in hotel. Overnight Hotel - Khajuraho
Day 09:	Khajuraho / Varanasi (by air) 9W 724 1330/1410 hours Today we take a flight to Varanasi, picturesquely situated on the banks of holy river Ganga. The city is the Oldest Living City of the World & traces of its existence are found around 10000 BC. Other than being a very holy city for Hindus, it also holds a very significant association with Buddha's life & Buddhism. Half Day Excursion Later today we take an excursion to Sarnath, the site of the deer park where Gautama Buddha is said to have given his first sermon about the basic principles of Buddhism. It has been a premier centre for Buddhism & has a rich collection of ancient Buddhist relics & antiques comprising numerous Buddha & Bodhisattva images on display at the Archaeological Museum. Overnight hotel - Varanasi (B)
Day 10:	Varanasi- Bodhgaya (245 km- 8 hr) Today we start our day with a boat ride on the river Ganges. Rise before dawn & step gingerly in the boat as the boatman starts rowing the boat. Witness the daily miracle to unfold, as the Sun appears triumphantly over the horizon. The sound of conches & temple bells add to the delicate pink fabric of dawn. The formerly hushed murmuring of ancient Sanskrit 'Shlokas' now rises, in one voice, to a crescendo of unparalleled piety & joy We visit by lanes ghats, Kashi Vishwanath temple (foreigner not allowed inside). Later we drive to Bodhgaya, the place of Buddha's attainment of Enlightenment. We then visit the Sujata village, named after the daughter of chief of the village. It was she who offered Buddha rice & milk after 06 years of severe austerities to attain enlightened. Overnight Hotel -- Bodhgaya
Day 11:	Bodhgaya- Rajgir -- Nalanda -Patna (205 km- 7 hr) Today we visit the Mahabodhi Temple built over 2500 years ago has the diamond throne (Vajrasana) & the holy Bodhi tree. This tree is saplings of the Sri Maha Bodhi tree in Sri Lanka, itself a sapling of the original Bodhi tree. For Buddhists, Bodh Gaya is the most important of the four pilgrimage sites related to the life of Gautama Buddha. Mahabodhi Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site Later we visit Srilankan Monastery Next we drive to Patna, En route we first visit Rajgir, an ancient town, has reference in Mahabharata, Buddhist & Jain texts. Vestiges of its time-honored & magnificent past still remain. Buddha spent 12 years & the most important event of the Buddha's visits to Rajgir was the conversion of two future disciples, Sariputra & Maudgalyayana. While Sariputra was credited with greater intelligence, Maudgalyayana wielded a greater power for miracles. Here we visit Shanti Stupa (Stupa of Peace) on top of the Ratnagiri hill built by Japanese, linked by a rope way. It was here that the teachings of Buddha were penned down for the first time. This place has developed as health & winter resort with its warm water ponds. These baths are said to contain some medicinal properties to cure of many skin diseases. Later we visit Nalanda University, founded in 5th century AD, this great seat of learning flourished until 12th century This university played a central role in development of Buddhism in India. It existed for around 700 years, reaching its zenith under the Gupta rule. Nalanda literally means the place that confers the lotus. In 1193, Nalanda University complex was sacked by Turkish Muslim invasions. This event is seen as a milestone in the decline of Buddhism in India & destruction is considered by many historians to the responsible for the sudden demise of ancient Indian scientific thought in mathematics, astronomy, alchemy & anatomy. Overnight Hotel - Patna
Day 12:	Patna- Vaishali- Kushinagar (285 - 8 hr) Today we drive to Kushinagar, en-route we visit Vaishali, a vibrant republican state. Numerous references to Vaishali are found in texts pertaining to both Jainism & Buddhism, which have preserved much information on Vaishali & other /Maha Janapadas/. Based on the information Vaishali was established as a republic by 6th century BC, prior to birth of Gautama Buddha in 563, making it the world's 1st republic. Buddha delivered his last sermon at Vaishali & announced his Nirvana there. We visit Abhishek Pushkarini, the coronation tank. The sacred waters of the tank anointed the elected representatives of Vaishali. Next we visit Japanese temple & the Vishwa Shanti Stupa (World Peace Pagoda). Near the coronation tank is Stupa1 or the Relic Stupa are the Lichchavis reverentially encased on of the eight portions of the Master's relics, which they received after the Mahaparnirvana. In the end before continuing our drive to Kushinagar we visit the Site Museum, it has an excellent collection of terracotta artefacts dating from 3rd century BC to 6th century AD. Overnight Hotel -- Kushinagar
Day 13:	Kushinagar- Lumbini (165 km- 4 hr) Today we take a tour of Kushinagar, ancient times, it was known as Kushavati. It was here that Lord Buddha is said to have attained 'Mahaparnirvana', the freedom from the endless cycle of birth & rebirth. Many of the ruined Stupas & viharas here date back to 3rd century BCE 5th century CE when prosperity was at its peak. The Mauryan emperor Ashoka is known to have contributed to significant construction at this site. Prior to its rediscovery in the 19th century, there was a silence of more than half a millennium at Kasia. After an officer of the East India Company, arrived in Kasia in the course of his survey-work & made the suggestion that ancient Kushinagar & Kasia were the same. Excavations began in the late 1800s & many important remnants of the main site such as the Matha Kuar & Ramabhar stupa were unveiled. We visit the Nirvana Stupa, it bore an inscription in ancient Brahmi, which stated that Lord Buddha's remains had been deposited here. Next we visit Nirvana temple, which houses over 6 meters long statue of reclining Buddha. The statue represents the dying Buddha reclining on his right side. An inscription below dates the statue to the 5th century AD. We also visit Madhukar Shrine,a black stone image of the Buddha in the Bhumi sparsha mudra (touching the earth posture) was recovered here also the last sermon by Lord Buddha was given here. Also visit Ramabhar Stupa, where the Lord Buddha was cremated. Later we drive to Lumbini (Nepal), a Buddhist pilgrimage site located near India Nepal border. It is the birth place of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, who lived between approximately 563 BCE & 483 BCE. Lumbini is located 25kms east of the Kapilavastu, the place where the Buddha grew up & lived up to the age of 29. Many auspicious signs accompanied the Buddha's birth, including the sprouting of Bodhi tree. It is an UNESCO World Heritage Site specifically nominated for the international World heritage program. Overnight Hotel -Lumbini
Day 14:	Lumbini - Kathmandu (Budha airline  1550hr-1620hr) Today we visit Ashoka Pillar, the first epigraphic evidence relating to the life history of Buddha. The historic importance of the pillar is evidenced by the inscription engraved in the pillar (Brahmi script). It is said that the great Indian Emperor Ashoka visited the site in the 20th year of is ascendancy to the throne & as homage to the birthplace, erected the pillar. Next we visit Pushkarni (Sacred Pool), sacred pool in which Maya Devi, mother took a holy dip just before giving birth to the Buddha & also where infant Buddha was also given his first bath. Sanctum Sanctorum is a stone slab foundation pointing the exact spot of Buddha's birth. The Buddhist temple, built inside the complex of Lumbini. The prayer hall contains a large image of Buddha. Medieval style murals decorate the walls. Overnight Kathmandu - Hotel
Day 15:	Kathmandu Post breakfast full day sightseeing covering Patan City also known as Lalitpur, the city of arts and artisans which covers Patan Durbar, Krishna Mandir, Taleju Temple, Golden Temple, Harihar Temple, Bhimsen Temple, Khumbeshwor Temple, Mahaboudha also known as 9000 buddhas. Swayambhunath also known as Monkey Temple, 2500 years old buddhist stupa said to be one of the oldest in the world located at a hillock overlooking the Kathmandu valley.Kathmandu city, the old royal palace also known as Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Kumari Temple, Kasthamandap, Kal Bhairab, Swet Bhairab, Taleju Temple, Nine Storied Palace, Basantapur Palace, Freak Street and the old bustling colourful Ason Tole Baazar Macchindra Bahal, Akash Bhairab, etc. Overnight hotel -- Kathmandu (B)
Day 16:	Kathmandu - Lhasa (Flight) Fly from Kathmandu to Gongar Airport, Lhasa in Tibet. Upon arrival you will be met by your Tibet Guide and transferred (60 Kms) to Lhasa. On route we will visit Woka Choling, where Lama Tsongkapa and disciples made their retreat- Overnight Hotel - Lhasa.
Day 17:	Lhasa Guided sightseeing tour of Potala, the winter palace of the Dalai Lama; Drepung, the biggest monastic university of Tibet & Nechung Monastery, temple of the State oracle of Tibet. Overnight Hotel - Lhasa
Day 18:	Lhasa Guided sightseeing tour of Jokhang, the central cathedral of Tibet, Barkhor, the bustling Lhasa market encircling the Jokhang Temple, Tibetan Medical Center & Norbulinka Palace & Sera Monestry. Overnight Hotel - Lhasa
Day 19:	Lhasa - Ganden Monastery (50 Km one way) Today we will take excursion to Ganden Monastery. Ganden Monastery is located on Wangbur Mountain, on the southern bank of Lhasa River in Tagtse County, 50 kilometers (29 miles) from Lhasa City. It stands at an altitude of 3,800 meters (12,467 feet) above sea level! Ganden Monastery is one of the earliest and largest Buddhist monasteries in Tibet, and stands atop of the six famous temples of Gelugpa - a branch of Tibetan Buddhism. Overnight Hotel - Lhasa
Day 20:	Lhasa - Gyangtse Post breakfast, Drive to Gyantse via Yamdrok Tso, the Turquoise Lake, crossing Kampa-la (5050 m) & Karo-la (5045 m) passes. Visit Kubum Stupa & Pelkhor Chode Monastery. Overnight at the hotel. Overnight Hotel - Gyangtse
Day 21:	Gyangtse - Shalu - Shigatse Post breakfast, Drive to Shigatse. Enroute visit Shalu Monastery. Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery (This monastery houses the Big Statue of Golden Buddha), the seat of Panchen Lama who is the 2nd in the Tibetan Buddhist religious hierarchy & Shigatse Market.Overnight Hotel - Shigatse
Day 22:	Shigatse - Sakya - Shegar Today we will Drive to Shegar across Tsou-la pass (4500 m) & Gyatso-la pass (5220 m). En route visit Sakya Monastery. Overnight Hotel – Shegar
Day 23:	Shegar - Zhangmu Post breakfast, Drive over Lalung-la pass to Zhangmu. Enjoy great views of the peaks of the Himalayan Range. En route visit Milarepa Cave. Overnight Hotel - Zhangmu.
Day 24:	Zhangmu - Kathmandu Walk across Friendship Bridge to Nepal & transfer to Kathmandu Overnight Hotel - Kathmandu.
Day 25:	Kathmandu Post breakfast full day sightseeing covering Bhaktapur, also known as Bhadgaon, is said to be a living museum, places to visits consists of Golden Gate, Royal Bath, Taleju Temple, replica of Pashupatinath, 55 Windows Palace, Naytapola, the 5 storied temple said to be tallest Hindu Temple in Nepal, Taumadhi Square, Pottery Square, Dattaraye Square, world famous Peacock window. Pashupatinath Temple, the most sacred Hindu shrine and one of the most important sites in the world for Shiva worshippers. Boudhnath Stupa, the largest stupa in the Asia. It looms 36 meters tall and presents one of the most fascinating specimens of stupa design. Followed by Kapan, visiting Kapan Monastery and other monasteries. Overnight at Hotel Royal Singhi or similar.
Day 26:	Kathmandu – Delhi (Flight) Today we will board flight for Delhi. Arrive Delhi our representative will meet you & transfer to hotel. Overnight Hotel – Delhi
Day 27:	Delhi departure On time transfer to airport to board flight for onward Journey. Tour Concludes.
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