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Maestro Maestro Jrnys

Bihar with Siddhartha Joshi

Roots of Ancient Civilizations

TRIP DATES
Calendar icon 05 Dec 26 - 09 Dec 26
PRICE PER PERSON
Price icon ₹  54,500

Information
HISTORY
CULTURE
TRIP DATES
Calendar icon 05 Dec 26-09 Dec 26
PRICE PER PERSON
Price icon ₹  54,500

Information
About this Jrny

Long before Delhi, Rome, or Beijing rose to prominence, the plains of Bihar were the intellectual and political centre of Asia. From the imperial power of the Mauryan Empire to the world’s first great residential university at Nalanda, this region shaped philosophy, governance, and spirituality across continents.

This Jrny is led by travel writer and storyteller Siddhartha Joshi. It explores the landscapes where some of the most profound chapters of Indian history unfolded. We walk through ancient university ruins that welcomed scholars from across Asia, visit the sacred site where the Buddha attained enlightenment, and discover one of the world’s earliest republics.

In Patna, discover the city’s rich blend of culture, spirituality, and history along the Ganga. Continue through evocative historic landscapes to Bodhgaya, one of the world’s most important pilgrimage sites.

Over five days, this immersive journey reveals Bihar not simply as a destination, but as the cradle of Indian civilisation—a place where ideas, faiths, and empires were born. Join this Jrny to experience Bihar’s timeless heritage and stories.

Highlights
  • Walk through the ruins of Nalanda, the world’s first residential university
  • Experience sunrise and meditation at the sacred Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya
  • Visit Vaishali, one of the world’s earliest known republics
  • Explore the remarkable Barabar Caves, India’s oldest surviving rock-cut caves
  • Discover the powerful legacy of the Mauryan Empire in ancient Pataliputra (Patna)
  • Experience authentic Bihari cuisine and local cultural traditions
Inclusions
Meals as per itinerary
Meals as per itinerary
Boutique Stays
Boutique Stays
English Speaking Guides
English Speaking Guides
Entrance Fees and Permits
Entrance Fees and Permits
Airport Transfers
Airport Transfers
Maestro's Expertise
Maestro's Expertise
Led by Jrny Maestro

Overview

Calendar icon
Dates
05/12/26 - 09/12/26
Group icon
Suggested Ages
Min 18
Calendar icon
Duration
5 Days
Activity level
Moderate

info icon
Price icon
Price per person
₹  54,500

Information
Comfort icon
Travel Style
comfort

info icon
Group icon
Maximum Group size
14
Itinerary
Sat 05 Dec

Arrival in Patna

Sun 06 Dec

A Day in Vaishali

Mon 07 Dec

Patna - Nalanda - Rajgir - Bodhgaya

Tue 08 Dec

A Day in Bodhgaya

Wed 09 Dec

Bodhgaya - Barabar Caves - Patna - Departure

Stay
Lemon Tree Premier
CHECK IN 05 Dec
Night 2 N
CHECK OUT 07 Dec
Lemon Tree Premier

Patna
Marasa Sarovar Premiere
CHECK IN 07 Dec
Night 2 N
CHECK OUT 09 Dec
Marasa Sarovar Premiere

Bodhgaya
Your Daily Itinerary

Arrival in Patna

Arrive in Patna and transfer to the hotel, settling into the lively capital of Bihar where layers of history unfold along the banks of the Ganga. Step out in the afternoon to explore some of the city’s most remarkable landmarks. Begin at Golghar, the massive granary built in the 18th century, its imposing dome standing as a reminder of colonial-era engineering. Continue to Takht Shri Patna Sahib Gurudwara, one of the holiest Sikh shrines and the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh. Feel the spiritual calm of the complex as devotees gather in prayer and devotion.

Explore the thoughtfully curated Bihar Museum, where artefacts, sculptures, and interactive exhibits bring the region’s ancient civilisations to life. Visit Buddha Smriti Park, a serene space dedicated to the legacy of Lord Buddha, where landscaped gardens and a tranquil atmosphere invite quiet reflection. If time permits, enjoy a gentle walk along the Ganga Riverfront. Watch the river glow in the soft evening light as locals gather for prayers, conversations, and peaceful moments by the water.

End the day with a warm welcome dinner featuring traditional Bihari flavours. Savour dishes such as litti chokha, a rustic delicacy that captures the authentic taste and culinary heritage of the region.

Meals Included: Dinner

Arrival in Patna - Day 1 image

Activities

Meet & Greet in Patna activity
Meet & Greet in Patna
08:00 - 09:30

Arrive at the Patna Jay Prakash Narayan Airport (Airport Code: PAT). Once you pass immigration, retrieve your luggage and clear customs. Please look for JrnyOn representative holding a placard with the Jrnyon logo at the exit.

Duration: 20 minutes
Distance: 7.9 kms / 4.9 miles

Visit Golghar activity
Visit Golghar
10:00 - 11:00

Step inside the historic Golghar and admire its massive beehive-shaped dome. Climb the spiralling steps, pause at the top, and take in sweeping views of the city and the Ganges.

Takht Shri Patna Sahib Gurudwara activity
Takht Shri Patna Sahib Gurudwara
11:00 - 12:00

Visit the sacred Takht Sri Patna Sahib, birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh. Walk through the serene complex, admire its white marble beauty, and feel deep devotion as prayers and hymns fill the air.

Bihar Museum & Buddha Smriti Park activity
Bihar Museum & Buddha Smriti Park
12:00 - 13:00

Step into history at the Bihar Museum, where galleries reveal Bihar’s rich past. Then pause at Buddha Smriti Park; walk peaceful paths and feel the calm of this sacred Buddhist memorial.

Ganga Riverfront activity
Ganga Riverfront
15:00 - 16:00

Take a short walk along the Ganga Riverfront. Breathe in the evening air and watch the river glow as lamps, prayers, and gentle chants fill the atmosphere.

Welcome dinner in Patna activity
Welcome dinner in Patna
17:00 - 19:30

In the evening, savour a delightful welcome dinner that introduces you to the cultural richness of Bihar. Indulge in a fusion of local flavours and contemporary dining, all while surrounded by stories of the past.

A Day in Vaishali

Set out from Patna on a scenic drive towards the ancient city of Vaishali, one of the world’s earliest republics and a site deeply revered in both Buddhist and Jain traditions. Arrive and step into a landscape where history and spirituality intertwine.

Visit the serene Vishwa Shanti Stupa, its gleaming white dome symbolising peace and harmony. Pause before the majestic Ashoka Pillar, a timeless reminder of Emperor Ashoka’s devotion to Buddhism. Continue to the sacred Buddha Relic Stupa, believed to enshrine relics of the Buddha and drawing pilgrims from across the world. Take a photo walk through these tranquil grounds and feel the quiet spiritual presence that defines Vaishali’s heritage.

Explore the local museum to discover artefacts and stories that reveal the city’s profound role in ancient Indian civilisation. Take time to absorb the peaceful surroundings before returning to Patna, carrying with you the echoes of centuries-old faith, philosophy, and history that still linger across Vaishali’s sacred landscape.

Meals Included: Breakfast

A Day in Vaishali - Day 2 image

Activities

Drive Patna to Vaishali activity
Drive Patna to Vaishali
07:00 - 09:00

Drive from Patna to Vaishali. Enjoy rural landscapes and sense ancient history unfolding.

Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes
Distance: 33.4 kms / 20.7 miles

Full day excursion to Vaishali activity
Full day excursion to Vaishali
09:00 - 13:00

Full day excursion to Vaishali (60 Kms one way) - Buddhist and Jain sites, including the Vishwa Shanti Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, and Buddha Relic Stupa. (Vaishali Museum remains closed on Friday and Buddha Samyak Darshan Museum remains closed on Monday)

Return to Patna activity
Return to Patna
13:00 - 15:30

Return to Patna. Sit back, relax, and watch Bihar’s countryside drift past the window.

Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes
Distance: 33.4 kms / 20.7 miles

Patna - Nalanda - Rajgir - Bodhgaya

Begin the day with a morning drive from Patna towards Bodhgaya, travelling through landscapes steeped in Buddhist history. Pause at the evocative ruins of Nalanda University, one of the world’s earliest residential universities and a legendary centre of learning that flourished over a thousand years ago. Walk among the ancient red-brick monasteries and temple remains, imagining scholars and monks who once studied philosophy, medicine, and astronomy here.

Continue to Rajgir, a town cradled by gentle hills and closely associated with the life of the Buddha. Take the ropeway up to the hilltop Vishwa Shanti Stupa, a gleaming white Peace Pagoda that rises serenely above the valley. Take pictures of the sweeping views of the surrounding hills, many believed to be meditation sites of the Buddha, and pause to appreciate the calm, spiritual atmosphere that defines the area.

Resume the journey towards Bodhgaya, one of the most sacred pilgrimage destinations in the Buddhist world. Arrive by evening and settle in for the night, surrounded by a landscape that continues to draw seekers, monks, and travellers from across the globe.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Patna - Nalanda - Rajgir - Bodhgaya - Day 3 image

Activities

Nalanda University Ruins activity
Nalanda University Ruins
09:00 - 11:00

Drive to Bodhgaya via Nalanda University ruins and Rajgir. Walk through ancient monastic remains and absorb the spiritual calm of these historic Buddhist sites.

Vishwa Shanti Stupa activity
Vishwa Shanti Stupa
11:00 - 13:00

Ride the ropeway up to Vishwa Shanti Stupa and take in sweeping hill views. Stand where Buddha once meditated. Feel the calm of this sacred hilltop as prayer flags flutter and the landscape unfolds around you.

Drive to Bodhgaya activity
Drive to Bodhgaya
13:00 - 16:00

Drive to Bodhgaya. Feel the calm of this sacred town; you arrive for the night.

Duration: 2 hours
Distance: 72.5 kms / 45 miles

A Day in Bodhgaya

Step into Bodhgaya, one of the most sacred places in the Buddhist world and a site steeped in profound spiritual history. Begin at the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site marking the spot where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment beneath the Bodhi Tree. Admire the temple’s soaring spire and intricate carvings while monks chant softly and pilgrims circle the shrine in quiet devotion. Wander through the peaceful temple complex where prayer flags flutter and the atmosphere carries a deep sense of reverence.

Continue to the impressive 80-foot Great Buddha Statue, a striking symbol of serenity and devotion surrounded by smaller statues of disciples in meditation. Explore the many international monasteries built by Buddhist communities from across the world, each reflecting unique architectural styles and traditions. Stroll through these tranquil grounds and capture photos of prayer halls, murals, and gardens that celebrate global Buddhist culture.

As evening approaches, slow the pace and embrace the calm spirit of Bodhgaya. Participate in a quiet meditation or reflection session within the temple precinct, allowing the gentle chants and glowing lamps to create a deeply peaceful and contemplative atmosphere. We end the day with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

A Day in Bodhgaya - Day 4 image

Activities

Mahabodhi Temple activity
Mahabodhi Temple
09:00 - 12:00

The Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya is a revered UNESCO World Heritage site, symbolizing the place where Buddha reached enlightenment. Its grand architecture exudes tranquility and devotion, attracting pilgrims and seekers who find spiritual solace under the Bodhi tree, where history and spirituality unite peacefully.

Evening temple visit and meditation activity
Evening temple visit and meditation
17:00 - 20:00

An enchanting evening unfolds with a second visit to the Mahabodhi Temple, where its sacred ambiance intensifies as the day recedes. Immerse yourself in a serene meditation session surrounded by the temple's tranquil aura. The soft glow of twilight amplifies the spiritual experience, offering a profound connection to the sacred energy permeating this hallowed ground in Bodhgaya.

Bodhgaya - Barabar Caves - Patna - Departure

Begin the morning with a drive from Bodhgaya towards Patna, travelling through the quiet countryside of Bihar. Pause along the way to explore the remarkable Barabar Caves, among the oldest surviving rock-cut caves in India. Step inside these ancient chambers carved from solid granite during the Mauryan period and admire the astonishingly smooth, polished interiors that reflect light with a mirror-like sheen. Walk through the simple yet powerful halls that once hosted Ajivika ascetics, and feel the profound sense of history embedded in these remarkable structures. Capture the precision of the carvings and the calm surroundings that add to the caves timeless atmosphere.

Continue the journey towards Patna, watching the landscape gradually shift from rural plains to the bustle of the state capital. Arrive at Patna Airport and prepare for departure. Conclude the journey with memories of sacred sites, ancient craftsmanship, and the spiritual heritage that defines this region of India. Board the flight for the return journey home or continue onward to the next destination. Note: please book your departure flight post 4pm.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Bodhgaya - Barabar Caves - Patna - Departure - Day 5 image

Activities

Visit Barabar Caves activity
Visit Barabar Caves
09:00 - 11:00

The Barabar Caves in Bodhgaya, carved into rock faces, reveal the grandeur of ancient Buddhist art and architecture. With detailed sculptures, inscriptions, and paintings, these caves serve as a spiritual refuge, inviting contemplation. The site embodies the rich cultural heritage of the Gupta period, offering a tranquil space for reflection.

Drive Bodhgaya to Patna Airport activity
Drive Bodhgaya to Patna Airport
11:00 - 14:30

Drive Bodhgaya Hotel to Patna Airport for your flight back.

Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
Distance: 120 kms / 74.56 miles

Frequently Asked Questions

You want to explore Bihar’s deep spiritual roots and ancient Buddhist heritage.

You enjoy history and photography

You enjoy discovering ancient universities, historic stupas, and timeless monuments.

You want to experience the cultural and spiritual heart of eastern India.

You appreciate meaningful walks through temples, heritage ruins, and historic towns.

You enjoy journeys that combine history, photography, and thoughtful exploration.

- International and domestic flights

- Visa fees (if applicable)

- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary

- Personal expenses (e.g., drinks, laundry, tips for guides and drivers)

- Camera/video charges during sightseeing

The tour starts and ends in Patna. You should arrive at and depart from Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport, Patna (Airport code: PAT).

If you are an international traveller, you will need a visa to travel to India. Most internationals are eligible for an e-visa which can be applied for at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html. If you’d like assistance with your visa, write to us at [email protected]. If you are an Indian national or travelling from within India, you will not require any separate travel documents. Please carry a valid photo ID with you as you may need it for hotel check-ins.

Travel insurance is mandatory to protect against loss of personal valuables, illness or unforeseen late cancellations. While suppliers make every effort to ensure guests' safety, we cannot be held responsible for events beyond our control.

No mandatory vaccinations are required. We advise you to check with your doctor incase you have any personal requirements. Also check with your local clinic or doctor a few weeks before the trip for any change in recommendations.

Yes, airport transfers are included in this tour. These transfers will be shared with you before your travel.

There are activities / sightseeing scheduled for the first day. The standard check-in time at the hotel would be 1400 hours, and you can plan your arrival accordingly.

Book an afternoon flight post 4pm, as we drive from Bodhgaya to Patna in the morning.

Children under 12 are not allowed on this Jrny. Children above 12 are welcome as long as they are accompanied by an adult.

Normally, yes! In some cases if the exact hotels are unavailable for any reason, we'll make sure you're put up in hotels that are equivalent to the original in terms of location and facilities. Rest assured, your stay will be as promised.

Please read through the itinerary in detail to understand the intensity of the activities planned. Overall for the tour on a scale from 1 - 5, a fitness level of 2 would be ideal.

Yes, there are a few road journeys between destinations such as Patna, Vaishali, Nalanda, Rajgir, and Bodhgaya. These drives are scenic and form an important part of exploring Bihar’s historic and spiritual landscape.

Absolutely, we will do our best to provide a variety of vegetarian meal options. Vegan options may be limited but available.

We try and cater to other diet restrictions as much as possible. But, we do focus on regional local cuisine. So there will be limitations. Please write to [email protected] with your booking number in the subject line to inform us well in advance of any such restrictions.

Bihar generally experiences warm days and cooler mornings and evenings depending on the season. Temple visits and heritage walks can involve time outdoors, so light breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes are recommended. For up to date weather information, visit weather.com before your trip begins.

We require a 35% advance payment at the time of booking. The remaining balance needs to be paid in full at least 45 days before the date of travel.

We have the following cancellation terms for this tour:

Cancellation up to 91 days from the date of travel: 10% cancellation charges (as per the total trip cost) will be levied, the rest will be refunded to you

From 90 - 46 days from the date of travel: 30% cancellation charges will be levied

From 45 days or less from the date of travel: 100% cancellation charges will be levied

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