Buddha Jayanti pilgrimage sites in Nepal, Boudhanath Stupa and Lumbini Maya Devi TempleBuddha Jayanti pilgrimage sites in Nepal, Boudhanath Stupa and Lumbini Maya Devi Temple

Buddha Jayanti Pilgrimage to Kathmandu and Lumbini 2027

  • Duration7 Days
  • Route Grade Comfort Travel
  • Trip Style Buddhist Pilgrimage and Cultural Heritage Tour
  • Starting City Kathmandu
  • Ending City Kathmandu
Buddha Jayanti Pilgrimage to Kathmandu and Lumbini 2027 map

Trip Overview

This 7-day tour takes place during the auspious period of Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and Mahaparinirvana date in 2027. The trip explores Nepal's most sacred Buddhist heritage sites while offering a meaningful blend of pilgrimage, culture, and gentle sightseeing suited to travelers of all ages, including families and senior travelers.

The trip takes you through the Buddhist heritage of Kathmandu Valley, including Boudhanath Stupa, Kopan Monastery, and Swayambhunath. The trip then moves to Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, to explore Maya Devi Temple, the Sacred Garden, the Ashoka Pillar, and the ancient sites of Tilaurakot, Kudan, and Gotihawa.

This trip is timed around 20 May 2027, the date of the Buddha Jayanti celebration, offering a complete pilgrimage holiday with prayers, processions, and butter lamp offerings. You will celebrate Buddha Jayanti itself in Lumbini, followed by a farewell dinner with Nepali cultural performance back in Kathmandu.

Trip Detail

Detail
Information

Trip Code

 

Starting Point and End Point

Kathmandu to Kathmandu

Accommodation

Hotel Mudita in Boudhanath, Buddha Maya Garden Hotel in Lumbini, and Arya Boutique Hotel or Hotel Mulberry in Kathmandu

Maximum Altitude

Approximately 1,330 m in Kathmandu

Duration

7 Days, 6 Nights

Country

Nepal

Trip Grade

Easy, suitable for pilgrims, families, children, senior travelers, and travelers interested in Buddhist culture

Activities

Buddhist pilgrimage, heritage sightseeing, monastery visits, meditation, cultural experiences, festival participation

Transportation

Private vehicle and domestic flight between Kathmandu and Bhairahawa

Meals

Daily breakfast and dinner

Itinerary Overview

This 7 day, 6 night Buddhist pilgrimage takes you from the ancient heritage sites of Kathmandu, including Boudhanath Stupa, Kopan Monastery, and Swayambhunath, to Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, where you will experience the Buddha Jayanti festival on 20 May 2027 through prayers, chanting, offerings, and processions. The journey also includes Tilaurakot and, time permitting, Kudan and Gotihawa, before returning to Kathmandu for a relaxed final day and farewell dinner.

Here is a quick look at how your 7 day pilgrimage unfolds.

  • Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel in Boudhanath, evening kora around the stupa.

  • Day 2: Explore the Buddhist heritage of Kathmandu, including Boudhanath, Kopan Monastery, and Swayambhunath.

  • Day 3: Fly to Lumbini and visit Maya Devi Temple, the Sacred Garden, and the Ashoka Pillar.

  • Day 4: Participate in Buddha Jayanti prayers, ceremonies, and pilgrimage activities in Lumbini.

  • Day 5: Visit Tilaurakot and other important Buddhist archaeological sites before returning to Kathmandu.

  • Day 6: Enjoy a free morning with optional Buddhist and cultural experiences followed by a farewell dinner.

  • Day 7: Departure from Kathmandu.
     

Why You Will Love This Trip

  • Experience Buddha Jayanti in Lumbini: The main highlight of this pilgrimage is experiencing Buddha Jayanti in Lumbini on 20 May 2027. The day includes early morning prayers, chanting, religious ceremonies, offerings, and the special atmosphere created by pilgrims visiting the birthplace of Lord Buddha.

  • Visit the Birthplace of Lord Buddha: Lumbini is the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama Buddha and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The sacred area includes the Maya Devi Temple, the Ashoka Pillar, the Sacred Garden, and archaeological remains connected with the history of Buddhist pilgrimage.

  • Explore the Buddhist Heritage of Kathmandu: Boudhanath Stupa, Kopan Monastery, and Swayambhunath offer different perspectives on the Buddhist traditions of Kathmandu Valley. The journey allows you to experience sacred monuments, monasteries, prayer rituals, and opportunities for quiet reflection.

  • Walk Around Boudhanath Stupa: Your pilgrimage begins with a peaceful evening kora around Boudhanath Stupa, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Kathmandu. You can observe devotees, monks, prayer wheels, and butter lamp offerings as the evening atmosphere develops around the stupa.

  • Discover Ancient Kapilavastu: Tilaurakot is identified by archaeologists as the ancient capital of the Shakya kingdom and is traditionally associated with the early life of Siddhartha Gautama before he became the Buddha. The site lies approximately 27 kilometres west of Lumbini.

  • A Complete Pilgrimage in One Week: In just 7 days, you experience the major Buddhist heritage sites of the Kathmandu Valley, the birthplace of Buddha during its most sacred festival, and the ancient ruins connected to his early life.
     

Altitude and Activities

This is an easy pilgrimage and cultural holiday involving sightseeing, short walks, and festival participation at low to moderate elevations. The itinerary is suitable for pilgrims, families, and senior travelers comfortable with normal walking and standing during ceremonies.

Day
Location
Altitude
Activities
Travel Time

Day 1

Kathmandu

1,330 m

Airport transfer, evening kora at Boudhanath

Airport transfer

Day 2

Kathmandu

1,330 m

Boudhanath, Kopan Monastery, Swayambhunath

Sightseeing by private vehicle

Day 3

Lumbini

150 m

Flight to Lumbini, Maya Devi Temple, Sacred Garden, Ashoka Pillar, Monastery Zone

Approximately 30 minute flight plus airport transfer

Day 4

Lumbini

150 m

Buddha Jayanti festival, prayers, processions, cultural programs

Local, on foot within Lumbini

Day 5

Tilaurakot and Kathmandu

150 m to 1,330 m

Tilaurakot, Kudan and Gotihawa if time permits, return to Kathmandu

Road transfer and flight or road journey

Day 6

Kathmandu

1,330 m

Free morning, optional monastery or valley visits, farewell dinner

Local sightseeing

Day 7

Kathmandu

1,330 m

Departure

Airport transfer

Accommodation and Meals

You will spend 2 nights at Hotel Mudita in Boudhanath, Kathmandu, 2 nights at Buddha Maya Garden Hotel in Lumbini, and 2 nights at Arya Boutique Hotel or Hotel Mulberry in Kathmandu. The accommodation is selected to provide convenient access to the main Buddhist sites and a comfortable base for the festival activities. The trip includes daily breakfast and dinner.

Day
Location
Accommodation
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 1

Kathmandu

Hotel Mudita, Boudhanath

Not Applicable

Not Applicable

Included

Day 2

Kathmandu

Hotel Mudita, Boudhanath

Included

Not Included

Included

Day 3

Lumbini

Buddha Maya Garden Hotel, Lumbini

Included

Not Included

Included

Day 4

Lumbini

Buddha Maya Garden Hotel, Lumbini

Included

Not Included

Included

Day 5

Kathmandu

Arya Boutique Hotel or Hotel Mulberry, Kathmandu

Included

Not Included

Included

Day 6

Kathmandu

Arya Boutique Hotel or Hotel Mulberry, Kathmandu

Included

Not Included

Farewell dinner included

Day 7

Departure

Not Applicable

Included

Not Applicable

Not Applicable

Dates & Prices
Select Trip Month
Trip DatePriceEarly Bird PriceEarlyBirds 
Trip DateMay 17, 2027 - May 23, 20277 DaysPriceUS$0Early Bird PriceStatusAvailable
Cost Includes

Cost and Inclusions

This 7 day Buddha Jayanti pilgrimage includes comfortable accommodation, airport transfers, transportation during sightseeing, domestic air travel or suitable transportation arrangements between Kathmandu and Lumbini, an experienced guide, Buddhist heritage sightseeing, daily breakfast and dinner, and participation in the Buddha Jayanti pilgrimage experience.

Cost Includes
Cost Excludes

Private airport arrival and departure transfers

International airfare to and from Nepal

Domestic flight between Kathmandu and Lumbini

Nepal entry visa fee

Private vehicle transportation for all road transfers

Travel insurance

Experienced English speaking guide throughout the tour

Lunch throughout the trip

Entrance fees for listed heritage and monastery sites

Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, shopping, and phone calls

Hotel Mudita in Boudhanath, Buddha Maya Garden Hotel in Lumbini, and Arya Boutique Hotel or Hotel Mulberry in Kathmandu for 6 nights

Tips for guides and drivers

Daily breakfast and dinner

 
Itinerary

Once you land in Kathmandu, our representative will meet you right outside the arrival terminal with our company name and logo board and transfer you to Hotel Mudita in Boudhanath. After check in and time to relax, the evening begins with a peaceful kora around Boudhanath Stupa.

You can walk around the sacred stupa while observing pilgrims, monks, prayer wheels, prayer flags, and traditional Buddhist rituals. A butter lamp offering provides a meaningful beginning to your Buddhist pilgrimage in Nepal.

  • Route: Airport to Hotel Mudita, Boudhanath

  • Altitude: Approximately 1,330 m

  • Accommodation: Hotel Mudita, Boudhanath 

  • Meals: Dinner 

  • Highlights: Airport welcome, Boudhanath Stupa, evening kora, butter lamp offering

    After breakfast, continue your exploration of the Buddhist heritage of Kathmandu Valley. Begin with further time around Boudhanath before visiting Kopan Monastery, an important centre for Buddhist study and meditation.

    In the afternoon, visit Swayambhunath, one of the oldest and most sacred Buddhist sites in Nepal, known for its watchful eyes painted on the central stupa. The site is associated with both Buddhist and Hindu traditions and provides an opportunity to experience Nepal's unique religious heritage.

    An optional meditation session may be arranged depending on availability and the schedule of the monastery or meditation centre.

    • Route: Boudhanath to Buddhist heritage sites of Kathmandu Valley

    • Altitude: Approximately 1,330 m

    • Accommodation: Hotel Mudita, Boudhanath 

    • Meals: Breakfast and dinner 

    • Highlights: Boudhanath Stupa, Kopan Monastery, Swayambhunath, optional meditation session

      After breakfast, transfer to Kathmandu airport for your flight to Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha. On arrival, transfer to Buddha Maya Garden Hotel and begin your pilgrimage sightseeing at the Maya Devi Temple and the Sacred Garden. Lumbini is recognized as the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama Buddha and is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage destinations in the world. The sacred area includes the Maya Devi Temple, the Ashoka Pillar, the Sacred Garden, and archaeological remains associated with the history of the site. Continue to the International Monastery Zone, where monasteries and Buddhist centres representing different Buddhist traditions have been established.

      • Route: Kathmandu to Bhairahawa by flight and Bhairahawa to Lumbini by road

      • Altitude: Approximately 150 m

      • Accommodation: Buddha Maya Garden Hotel, Lumbini 

      • Meals: Breakfast and dinner

      • Highlights: Domestic flight, Maya Devi Temple, Sacred Garden, Ashoka Pillar, International Monastery Zone

        Today is the main festival day of the pilgrimage. Buddha Jayanti in 2027 falls on Thursday, 20 May. The day begins early with prayers and religious activities around the Maya Devi Temple and the sacred area of Lumbini.

        Depending on the official festival programme and local arrangements, you may experience chanting ceremonies, religious gatherings, processions, butter lamp offerings, cultural programmes, and other activities attended by Buddhist pilgrims and visitors.

        The festival atmosphere can be busy, particularly around the main sacred areas. Your guide will assist you with the day's programme and help you experience the pilgrimage respectfully while following local instructions and site regulations.

        • Route: Hotel to Maya Devi Temple and festival areas in Lumbini

        • Altitude: Approximately 150 m

        • Accommodation: Buddha Maya Garden Hotel, Lumbini 

        • Meals: Breakfast and dinner

        • Highlights: Buddha Jayanti prayers, chanting ceremonies, butter lamp offering, pilgrim activities, cultural programmes

          After breakfast, travel toward Tilaurakot, the ancient city associated with the Shakya kingdom and the early life of Siddhartha Gautama. The archaeological site is located approximately 27 kilometres west of Lumbini.

          Continue to Kudan and Gotihawa if time, site conditions, and the day's travel arrangements allow. Kudan is associated with important events in the life of Buddha, while Gotihawa is recognized as an important archaeological and Buddhist heritage site.

          After the sightseeing programme, return toward Bhairahawa for your evening flight to Kathmandu if available and suitable. If the flight schedule does not fit the day's programme, the return journey may be arranged by road according to the final tour plan.

          • Route: Lumbini to Tilaurakot, Kudan, and Gotihawa if time permits, then return toward Kathmandu

          • Altitude: Approximately 150 m in the Lumbini area

          • Accommodation: Arya Boutique Hotel or Hotel Mulberry, Kathmandu

          • Meals: Breakfast and dinner

          • Highlights: Tilaurakot, ancient Kapilavastu area, Kudan, Gotihawa if time permits, return to Kathmandu

            After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning in Kathmandu. You may spend the time resting at the hotel or exploring nearby areas at your own pace.

            Optional activities may include a monastery visit, meditation, shopping, or an additional cultural experience. An optional visit to Pharping Valley and Namobuddha Monastery may also be arranged according to available time, road conditions, and the final schedule.

            In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner accompanied by a Nepali cultural performance. This provides a relaxed opportunity to reflect on your pilgrimage through Kathmandu and Lumbini and enjoy one final cultural experience in Nepal.

            • Route: Optional Kathmandu cultural and Buddhist experiences

            • Altitude: Approximately 1,330 m

            • Accommodation: Arya Boutique Hotel or Hotel Mulberry, Kathmandu 

            • Meals: Breakfast and farewell dinner

            • Highlights: Free morning, optional monastery visit, optional meditation, optional Pharping and Namobuddha visit, farewell dinner, Nepali cultural performance

              After breakfast, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport according to your flight schedule. Our representative will assist you with your departure transfer, bringing your 7 day Buddha Jayanti Pilgrimage to Kathmandu and Lumbini to an end.

              • Route: Hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport

              • Altitude: Approximately 1,330 m

              • Meals: Breakfast

              • Highlights: Airport transfer and departure from Nepal

                Trip Information

                Know Before You Book

                • Visa Requirements: For this 7 day trip, you will need to apply for a 15 day Nepal visa, which comfortably covers your stay. All citizens of the world except Indian passport holders need a visa to enter Nepal, and most travelers can get a Visa on Arrival. The 15 day tourist visa fee is USD 30. You can apply and pay online in advance here: https://nepaliport-new.immigration.gov.np/.  We recommend completing the online application ahead of time to save time at the airport.

                • Passport Validity: Please ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your arrival date, with at least one blank page for your visa stamp.

                • Fitness Level: This is an easy pilgrimage and cultural journey suitable for travelers with a normal level of fitness. The itinerary involves regular sightseeing, walking around religious sites, and possible periods of standing during festival activities.

                • Family and Senior Suitability: The tour is suitable for families and senior travelers who are comfortable with normal walking, standing during ceremonies, and periods of waiting during the busy festival day in Lumbini.

                • Festival Day: Buddha Jayanti is a major religious occasion. The main areas of Lumbini may be busy, and access, schedules, ceremonies, and local arrangements may change according to the official festival programme.

                • Travel Insurance: Travel insurance covering medical emergencies and trip delays is recommended.

                • Currency and Payment Methods: We accept payments in major currencies such as USD, EUR, and GBP, though it is a good idea to carry some Nepali Rupees for smaller personal expenses.
                   

                Accommodations, Meals, and Transportation

                • Typical Accommodation Used: You will stay at Hotel Mudita in Boudhanath, Buddha Maya Garden Hotel in Lumbini, and Arya Boutique Hotel or Hotel Mulberry in Kathmandu. 

                • Meals: Daily breakfast and dinner are included. Lunch is not included, allowing travelers to choose from available restaurants and local dining options. A farewell dinner with Nepali cultural performance is included on the final evening. 

                • Guide Support: An experienced English speaking guide accompanies you throughout the tour and provides assistance during Buddhist heritage visits, pilgrimage activities, cultural sightseeing, monastery visits, and festival activities.

                • Transportation: This package includes private airport transfers, a domestic flight between Kathmandu and Lumbini, and private vehicle transfers for road journeys.
                   

                Seasonal Notes

                • Buddha Jayanti in May: This pilgrimage is timed to coincide with Buddha Jayanti, one of the most significant days in the Buddhist calendar, and Lumbini becomes especially busy with pilgrims and cultural programs during this period.

                • Weather in May: Late May in Kathmandu and Lumbini is generally warm, with Lumbini, being at lower altitude, tending to be noticeably warmer than Kathmandu. Light rain is possible as the season moves toward the monsoon.
                   

                Health and Safety

                • General Wellbeing: The tour stays at low to moderate elevations and does not involve high altitude trekking. The itinerary is suitable for pilgrims, families, and senior travelers comfortable with regular sightseeing, walking, and standing during ceremonies.

                • Festival Crowds: Buddha Jayanti in Lumbini draws large numbers of pilgrims. Please stay close to your guide during processions and festival activities, and keep personal belongings secure in crowded areas.

                • Healthcare Facilities: Full hospital facilities are available in Kathmandu and Lumbini. Your guide can assist with local arrangements if required.

                • Children and Senior Travelers: Families and senior travelers can participate in this pilgrimage, although the festival day may involve extended periods of walking, standing, and moving through busy areas. 
                   

                Packing Checklist

                • Essential Clothing: Comfortable, modest clothing suitable for temple and monastery visits, along with a light layer for cooler mornings and evenings in Kathmandu.

                • Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes, along with easily removable footwear for entering temples and monasteries.

                • Trail Gear: A sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket for changing weather.

                • Personal Items: A small daypack, reusable water bottle, personal toiletries, camera, and any personal medications you need.
                   

                Important Notices

                • Travel Advisories: Before you travel, we recommend checking the latest travel advice issued by your home country. Our team is happy to provide local updates before your trip.

                • Flight Schedule: Domestic flights between Kathmandu and Lumbini operate on a fixed schedule and may occasionally be affected by weather. We will make suitable arrangements to keep your journey smooth.

                • Site Access: Some sacred and archaeological areas may have specific visiting rules, opening arrangements, or restrictions during festival activities. Travelers should follow the instructions of local authorities, site staff, and their guide. 

                • Responsible Travel: We encourage you to respect local customs, dress modestly when visiting temples and monasteries, ask permission before photographing pilgrims and monks, and follow guidance during festival ceremonies.

                Trip Preparations

                • What will we experience during the Buddha Jayanti festival day in Lumbini?

                  You will take part in early morning prayers at Maya Devi Temple, followed by processions, chanting ceremonies, a butter lamp offering, and cultural programs throughout the day.

                • Tilaurakot is widely identified as the site of ancient Kapilavastu, believed to be the palace where Buddha spent his early life before renouncing worldly life.

                • Yes, the domestic flight between Kathmandu and Lumbini is included in this package.
                   

                • Yes. This is an easy pilgrimage tour with comfortable transportation and a manageable pace, though families should be prepared for crowds and long periods of standing during the festival day in Lumbini.

                • This journey is built specifically around Buddha Jayanti, allowing you to witness prayers, processions, and butter lamp offerings at the exact place and time of Buddha's birth celebration, alongside the major Buddhist heritage sites of Kathmandu.

                Similar Trips
                View All Trips

                Ask a Question