A Buddhist culture tour, also referred to as a Buddhist pilgrimage tour, is the best way to experience the rich Buddhist heritage in Nepal. Even though Hinduism stands at the forefront, Buddhism also has deep roots in this country. Not to mention, the father of Buddhism, Gautam Buddha, was born here.
Travelers who want to learn about the early life of Lord Buddha and dive deep into Buddhist history, legends, and art should join this 7-day tour program. It is a fantastic journey that includes visits to many ancient monasteries, sacred stupas, museums, beautiful gardens, and meditation sites.
The tour will also provide you ample time for mindfulness and inner reflection. You will have opportunities to listen to chantings and engage in conversation with monks.
Likewise, during your visit to the historical sites and monuments, you will also discover many intricate and fascinating symbols, thangkas, mandalas, and sculptures.
Both solo and group travelers can join us on our Buddhist culture tour 7 days in Nepal. Bookings are open for 2025 and 2026 departures. Follow our proposed itinerary or customize it to your needs.
You can also take extra Buddhist teaching and practice classes if you want. Likewise, there is also an option for yoga, meditation, sound healing, and other classes.
Places you will explore during the Buddhist culture tour 7 days
Monkey Temple:
It is also known as Swayambhunath Stupa. The temple symbolizes peace and harmony and has importance for both Hindus and Buddhists. Monkey Tempel's history goes back over 2000 years. Some legends even associate this temple with the creation of Kathmandu Valley. Perched on a hilltop, the view of the city is fantastic from here.
Bouddhanath Stupa:
The history of the Bouddhanath Stupa dates back to the 5th or 6th century. It is the largest stupa in Nepal and the center of Tibetan Buddhism in the country. The area is also the largest Tibetan hub in Nepal. The unique dome structure of this monument, with a golden tower and Buddha's eyes on all four sides, is a work of art.
Kapan Monastery:
Kapan Monastery was built in the 1970s. Located on a hilltop, the monastery shows Tibetan architecture with modern design. It is one of the most famous places in Nepal, where you can learn about Buddhist philosophy and meditation. This place attracts hundreds of travelers from around the world who are into Buddhism.
Pharping Monastery:
Pharping Monastery is one of the significant holy sites for Buddhists in Nepal. It is also a pilgrimage site and is specifically important for those who follow Tibetan Buddhism. There are caves around the monastery where devotees meditate. The monastery is located on the outskirts of Kathmandu.
Namobuddha:
If you have heard about the tale where Prince Mahasattva offered his body to a starving tigress and her cubs, then you should know that Namobuddha is where this event took place. It is a very important place for Buddhistss in Nepal and around the world. Here, you will learn in-depth about Buddha's compassion and meditate and pray.
Lumbini
Lumbini is the birthplace of Buddha. You will also visit this sacred city during the Buddhist heritage tour. During your visit to Lumbini, you will explore the ruins of the palace where Buddha spent his early life as a prince, the Maya Devi Temple, where he was born, and many other historical sites.
Maya Devi Temple:
Maya Devi Temple is the exact place where Lord Buddha was born. As per the archaeological evidence, the temple dates back to the 3rd century BCE. Today, this temple is the heart of Lumbini and is visited by thousands of pilgrims. Queen Maya Devi was the mother of Buddha.
Ashoka Pillar:
Ashoka Pillar was built by the Indian emperor Ashoka in 249 BCE. The pillar was erected to show his visit to Lumbini. On the pillar, you can see an inscription saying Lumbini is the birthplace of Gautam Buddha.
Sacred Garden:
The Sacred Garden is a peaceful place where pilgrims go for walks and meditation. It has numerous Bodhi trees tied with prayer flags. Likewise, many pathways and seating areas are surrounded by ponds, greenery, and colorful prayer flags inside the garden.
World Peace Pagoda:
The World Peace Pagoda was built by the Japanese Nipponzan Myohoji organization. The structure was part of their global network of peace pagodas built to promote harmony and peace.
International Monasteries:
Many countries have built monasteries in Lumbini, showcasing their architecture, art, and Buddhist beliefs. Visiting these monasteries will be a fantastic part of the tour. You will see how Buddhism is reflected in Thai, Chinese, Japanese, and German communities.
Tilaurakot and Kudan:
Tilaurakot is where Gautam Buddha spent his early life as a prince. Here, you will explore the ruins of the palace complex, city gates, and defensive walls. You will also see the southern gate from where Buddhas are believed to have passed by during his great renunciation journey.
Kudan is the place where Buddha returned after his enlightenment to meet his father and the rest of the family. They meet in the Nigrodharama Monastery. Buddha shared his teaching with them here, who later became his disciples.
Packing list
Packing wisely is necessary for a smooth tour. Tours like this don't require special clothing or gear, but you will need comfortable clothes and shoes. Additionally, packing according to the weather is also essential.
Below, we have shared general guidelines of things you will need during the Buddhist culture tour. You may need a few extra pieces depending on the time of the year.
- Comfortable clothing
- A few warm layering prices
- Comfortable shoes and a casual pair of footwear
- Breathable underwear, socks
- Gloves & scarf (depending upon the season you are traveling in)
- Daypack
- Reusable water bottle
- Toiletries (SPF, moisturizer, lip balm, toothbrush, wet tissues, etc)
- Necessary documents (passport, visa, passport-size photos, cash)
- Camera, mobile, extra batteries, power bank, adapter
- Snacks, journal/pen (optional), and other personal essentials
Buddhist culture tour cost
We have an affordable Buddhist culture tour cost. As it is a relatively short tour itinerary, the overall price of the package is also on the lower side. Additionally, you will get a further discount if you do the Buddhist culture tour 7 days in a group. For more information, talk to our team.
Highlights
- Experience the rich Buddhist heritage in Nepal
- Explore the birthplace of Lord Gautam Buddha, Lumbini
- Learn about the early life of Lord Buddha
- Dive deep into Buddhist history, legends, and art
- Visit monasteries, sacred stupas, museums, beautiful gardens, and meditation sites
- Ample time for mindfulness and inner reflection
- Discover many intricate and fascinating symbols, thangkas, mandalas, and sculptures
Why should you do the tour with Adventure Treks Nepal?
A cultural tour like this becomes much more meaningful and immersive if supported by the right team. Our Buddhist culture tour itinerary is well-designed. You will visit many important Buddhist sites and have ample time to explore independently.
The itinerary includes a perfect balance of discovering Buddhist heritage in Nepal as well as peaceful personal time. Every aspect of the tour will be pre-arranged by us, which will make the trip hassle-free and safe.
Likewise, a trained and knowledgeable guide will travel with you everywhere. We will reserve excellent hotels and private transportation. All services will be given as per the itinerary.
We are a Kathmandu-based Nepali trekking and tour company offering over three decades of expertise. Bookings are open for the Buddhist culture tour 2025 departures.
