A historical tour through India & Nepal
Tracing the Footsteps of the Buddhawith Geshe Chamba, Geshe Samdup & RetreaTours
November 1-15, 2022
Whether you’re simply curious about Buddhism, a “beginner,” or you’re a seasoned practitioner, have you ever longed to feel under your feet the very earth where Buddha lived and taught?
Travel with like-minded people on this memorable trip through India and Nepal. Join RetreaTours owners BJ & Lauren to visit the historical sites where the Buddha spent his days.
You’ll be accompanied by two Geshe monks, available for your questions and to share their experiences and knowledge with you. This journey benefits the construction of a new dormitory at Drepung Gomang monastery for monks from rural Ladakh.
We’ll be led by an expert local guide whose sole focus has been the Buddhist circuit for almost 2 decades. Immerse yourself culturally, intellectually, and spiritually on this fascinating journey through the land where Buddhism was born.
If you’ve ever been intimidated by the idea of a trip to this part of the world, we’d love for you to join us on this safe, comfortable tour where all the details are handled for you. All levels of interest and experience are welcome on this journey, without expectation or judgment.
Trip at a Glance
- November 1-15, 2022
- This journey is triple carbon offset
- Escorted by BJ Graf & Lauren Rathvon, owners of RetreaTours
- Joined by 2 Geshe monks as a fundraiser for new housing at their monastery
- Facilitated by expert Indian guide, specializing in the Buddhist Circuit
- Explore the iconic, transformative locations where the Buddha lived & taught
- Join 15 to 23 like-minded guests on this journey
- Early bird price of $4499 (USD) per person (based on double occupancy)
- Please see “Price & Inclusions” tab below for more details
- Price includes triple carbon offsetting for your entire journey
How to Register
Please complete the registration form through the button below and Lauren will send you a link to pay the deposit.
Please note that from July 22 through the end of August, we will be leading a tour in Madagascar with limited internet. We will respond to your registration interest as soon as possible, and we thank you for your patience!
Click to Jump to…
- Itinerary at a Glance
- What to Expect on this Journey
- About Geshes Chamba & Geshe Samdub and the Drepung Gomang Monstery fundraiser
- Daily Itinerary
- Price & Inclusions
- Payment Details
- Registration Questions & Contract
- Travel Insurance
- FAQ
- About our Hotels
- Packing List
- Reading List
- About RetreaTours
- Our Carbon Negative commitment
- Video album
- Photo album
Notes about COVID protocols (click to open)
We understand this may be your first international journey since the pandemic, and will be here to walk you through any requirements. We welcome any questions or concerns you may have; please email Lauren@RetreaTours.com.
Proof of COVID Vaccination + Booster
RetreaTours requires all guests to show proof of vaccination and one booster before your registration for this journey is complete.
For those who have not been able to be vaccinated for medical or religious reasons, we’d be happy to help you plan a private journey that follows the same itinerary.
Requirements for Entry to India and Nepal
We will keep you updated regarding India and Nepal’s entry and/or exit COVID testing requirements.
As of April 2022, India only requires proof of vaccine to be submitted and an online health declaration to be completed. Nepal also requires proof of vaccination.
Please keep in mind that these requirements may change and we will let you know if they are updated. Please also be aware that your home country may have testing requirements to fly home. We can help arrange these tests, although they are not included in the trip cost.
Face masks
Depending on local regulations at the time of the trip, face masks may be required at points during this journey (and you are always welcome to wear them whenever you like). We will keep you informed as the trip gets closer.
There are four places that a pious person should visit and look upon with feelings of reverence, said the Buddha.
Lumbini is where the Tathagata was born.
Bodh Gaya is where the Tathagata became fully enlightened in unsurpassed, supreme Enlightenment.
Sarnath is where the Tathagata set rolling the unexcelled Wheel of the Dharma.
Kushinagar is where the Tathagata passed away into the state of Parinirvana in which no element of clinging remains.
These, Ananda, are the four places that a pious person should visit and look upon with feelings of reverence. And truly there will come to these places pious monks and nuns, and laymen and laywomen to reflect on the life of the Tathagata.
~paraphrased from Mahaparinibbana Sutta

Itinerary at a Glance
November 1 Arrive in New Delhi, India (overnight in New Delhi)
November 2 Fly to Varanasi, India, the sacred city along the banks of the holy Ganges River (overnight in Varanasi)
November 3 Today we discover Sarnath, the site of Buddha’s first sermon in the Deer Park (overnight in Varanasi)
November 4 We’ll spend today along the ghats of the Ganges River, soaking in the sights and sounds of rituals that the Buddha would have experienced in his day (overnight in Varanasi)
November 5 Today we’ll drive to Bodh Gaya, the site where the Buddha attained enlightenment (overnight in Bodh Gaya)
November 6 Explore the Mahabodhi temple and the Bodhi Tree that commemorate Buddha’s liberation (overnight in Bodh Gaya)
November 7 We’ll visit the nearby Mahakala Caves, where the Buddha practiced asceticism for years before discovering the Middle Way (overnight in Bodh Gaya)
November 8 Explore the wealth of Buddhist sites around Rajgir, including Vulture’s Peak and the Bamboo Forest (overnight in Rajgir)
November 9 Wander the impressive ruins of the ancient university at Nalanda, a center of Buddhist learning (overnight in Patna)
November 10 Visit Vaishali, the site where the Buddha first ordained nuns, then continue on to Kushinagar (overnight in Kushinagar)
November 11 Today we’ll take the time to explore the site where the Buddha entered Mahaparinirvana (overnight in Kushinagar)
November 12 Cross the border into Nepal and continue on to Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha (overnight in Lumbini)
November 13 Discover the peaceful grounds of the Maya Devi temple and Lumbini Park (overnight in Lumbini)
November 14 Explore Nepal’s Kapilavastu site, where the Buddha spent his first 29 years (overnight in Lumbini)
November 15 Our journey together ends today in Lumbini. We’ll help arrange a flight from Lumbini to Kathmandu. You can continue your adventure in Nepal or head home and reflect on your experience of following in the footsteps of the Buddha.

What to Expect on this Journey
This trip is designed for anyone curious about Buddhism, whether it’s new on your radar or you’re a seasoned practitioner. We welcome Buddhists (of any school) and non-Buddhists alike—just pack your passport and your enthusiasm as we trace the footsteps of the Buddha through India and Nepal.
Our expert Indian guide will lead us through these remarkable sites, rich with history and meaning. BJ and Lauren are there every step of the way to facilitate a smooth, memorable journey, whether this is your first or fifteenth time to South Asia.
We’ll be joined by two Ladakhi Geshe monks on this journey; the Geshe degree is the equivalent of a PhD in Buddhist philosophy. They will be able to share with you their accumulated wisdom and knowledge through decades of practice & academic rigor.
There is no dedicated dharma teacher on this journey as there is on our Pilgrimage to India and Nepal with Tricycle. Instead, we will operate organically, and as the group feels called, we can assist in arranging spaces for optional meditation and group discussions. We will hold the space for intellectual and spiritual curiosity and blossoming.
If you feel drawn to follow a teacher on this path for Buddhist teachings, you may wish to consider our Pilgrimage to India and Nepal with Tricycle instead.
Lumbini
New Delhi
The beginning of our journey!
Bodh Gaya
Sarnath
Varanasi
Kushinagar
Nalanda
Kapilavastu
Patna
Vaishali
How Your Trip Benefits the Dharma
Fundraiser for a new dormitory for rural Ladakh monks studying at Drepung Monastery in South India
Perched high on the Tibetan Plateau of northern India, Ladakh is one of our favorite spots on the whole globe and Thiksey Monastery is the shining gem set in the middle. Thiksey Monastery sets the stage for a rich, welcoming environment in which to study and practice the dharma, including a brand new library for monastics and the community alike.
However, monks from Thiksey Monastery who wish to pursue higher Buddhist education must relocate to southern India. Since the 1980s, Drepung Gomang Monastic Institute in the state of Karnataka, India has provided that academic home to Ladakhi monks. Here, 12 monks from Thiksey and the surrounding areas have earned their Geshe degrees, the equivalent to a PhD in Buddhist Philosophy.
In order to welcome more young monks, hungry for education and understanding, the Drepung Gomang Ngari Thiksey Students Association wishes to construct a new dormitory, complete with a small library and prayer hall. This accommodation will provide a safe, clean, nourishing environment for these monks from Thiksey and rural Ladakh to study and practice.
We’ll be joined by two Ladakhi Geshe monks on this journey
We are honored and humbled to be joined by two monks originally from Ladakh who have both earned their Geshe degrees. We’ll benefit greatly from their vast experience and knowledge as we all walk in the footsteps of the Buddha together. Please learn more about Geshe Chamba and Geshe Samdub below.

Click to learn more about Geshe Chamba
Geshe Chamba Tonyut was born near Thiksey Monastery and at the age of 11 he took his novice ordination precepts (Getsul vows) from Kyabje Yangzin Ling Rinpoche, one of two great teachers of H.H. the Dalai Lama. In 1992 he took full ordination vows (Gelong vows) from the H.H. the Dalai Lama at Drepung University.
After 21 years of Buddhist study, he was conferred a title of Geshe Lharampa in 2003, with study in the subjects of Pramanavarttika (Valid Cognition), Prajnaparamita (Perfection of Wisdom), Madhyamika (Middle way), Abhidharmakosa (Treasure of Knowledge), and Vinaya (Monastic Discipline). He was a student of distinction in his class.
At the end 2003, he joined Gyuto Tantric College at Dharamsala, where he studied tantra and served as a Vajra master for a year. In 2008, he was appointed as the Discipline Master (Gegu) of Drepung Gomang Monastery. After Geshe Chamba completed his Geshe degree, he became a lecturer at Drepung Gomang University and is the most senior teacher at Dhakpo Monastery.
Geshe Chamba currently travels internationally to teach about meditation and mindfulness. He divides his time between Dhaka Monastery in Manai and Drepung Gomang Monastery in Karnataka.


Click to learn more about Geshe Samdub
Geshe Samdub was born in Thiksey village in 1980 and joined Thiksey Monastery at the age of 8. In 2010 he earned his Master of Prajnaparamita (equivalent to a BA) and in 2013 he earned his Master of Madhyamaka (equivalent to MA). He took his Bhikku vows from His Holiness the Dalai Lama in 2013.
Geshe Samdub went on to earn his Master of Buddhist Philosophy in 2017 and his Rime Geshe (equivalent to PhD in Buddhist Philosophy) in 2019. Geshe Samdub has also studied Buddhist Tantra at Gyuto Tantric Monastery.
Tracing the Footsteps of the Buddha 2022
Daily Itinerary
Welcome to India!
You’ll arrive in New Delhi, India on November 1. We’ll stay in a very comfortable hotel in New Delhi’s Aerocity near the airport, and we’ll get a good night’s rest before tomorrow’s 90-minute flight to Varanasi, the sacred Hindu city set along the Ganges River. (If you wish to visit the Taj Mahal before our journey begins, let us know and we can arrange a privately guided tour!)
Setting in Motion the Wheel of Dharma
On November 2nd, we’ll take a short drive (~30 minutes) to Sarnath. This is where the Buddha journey after his enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, and it is here that he encountered the five men who had been his companions throughout their austerities. He preached his first sermon in the Deer Park to set in motion the ‘Wheel of the Dharma,’ the founding of Buddhism.
On November 3rd, we’ll focus on the banks of the Ganges River in the holy city of Varanasi. Mark Twain once remarked that Varanasi “is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend, and looks twice as old as all of them put together.” Our sunrise boat ride will give us an insight into the same Hindu rituals that the Buddha would have witnessed in his day. We’ll have the opportunity to witness the time-honored tradition of cremation along this holy river, as well as the unfolding of daily life along the ghats.
The Navel of the Earth
Tomorrow we’ll drive to Bodh Gaya (~6 hours), where we’ll spend the nights of November 5th, 6th, and 7th. The Mahabodhi temple at Bodh Gaya commemorates the spot where the Buddha attained enlightenment. This temple complex, which draws pilgrims from different Buddhist traditions all over the globe, is home to a direct descendant of the original Bodhi tree under which the Buddha meditated. In the Jataka Tales, this place is recognized as the “navel of the earth,” the exact spot where Siddhartha attained enlightenment.
“Here on this seat my body may shrivel up, my skin, my bones, my flesh may dissolve, but my body will not move from this seat until I have attained Enlightenment.”
We’ll share in group exploration and meditation at the Mahabodhi temple. In addition, our Bodh Gaya hotel was carefully chosen because of its proximity to the Mahabodhi Temple, allowing you to revisit during your free time.
During our time in Bodh Gaya we’ll spend time at the Dungeshwari (Mahakala) caves (~45-minute drive). This is the site where Siddhartha Gautama lived on the banks of the Nairanjana River with five ascetic followers for four to five years, practicing austerities. After he realized that these austerities could not lead him to enlightenment, he abandoned them. We’ll also visit Senani village, where Siddharta walked after leaving his ascetic companions. Near death from starvation, here he was offered milk rice by a Brahmin girl named Sujata.
High Peaks & Higher Education
On the 8th we’ll drive to Rajgir (~2.5 to 3 hours) where we’ll spend the night. The area around Rajgir is extraordinarily rich in Buddhist heritage sites. We’ll spend time at Vulture’s Peak (Gridhrakuta) which is said to be the favorite of all the Buddha’s retreat locations. We’ll visit Venuvan (Bamboo Forest), where the Buddha spent his 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 17th rainy seasons.
We’ll also explore the nearby ruins of Nalanda the following morning, the ancient center of Buddhist learning from the early 5th century to 1200 CE. Nalanda was one of the first institutions of higher learning in the world, focused not only on Buddhism but also medicine, philosophy, and science, with over 10,000 students in its prime.
Entering Mahaparinirvana
After our Nalanda exploration, we’ll head to the city of Patna (~2-hour drive), where we will spend the night. Tomorrow morning we’ll visit Vaishali (~2-hour drive) en route to Kushinagar (~4 hours), where we will spend two nights. The Buddha spent much time in Vaishali, and this is the place where he first ordained women as nuns. Vaishali is also where he preached his final sermon before moving on to Kushinagar. Kushinagar is the site where the Buddha achieved Mahaparinirvana and was then cremated. The 20-foot-long reclining Buddha statue inside the Parinirvana Stupa is simply mesmerizing, dating from 637 CE or earlier.
The Land Where Buddha was Born
On November 12th we’ll cross the border into Nepal and head to Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha (~4 to 5-hour drive, plus time for immigration at the border). We’ll stay in Lumbini for three nights, giving us plenty of time to explore the gems here. We’ll visit the Maya Devi temple early in the morning and watch the endless prayer flags emerge from the morning mist. This is thought to be the spot where Queen Maya Devi gave birth to Siddhartha under a sal tree. These peaceful gardens, home to a pillar of Ashoka and a sacred pond, are a lovely place for morning meditation.
While in Lumbini, we’ll also take a drive (90 minutes) to Tilaurakot, a site that many people believe is the true location of Kapilavastu, the kingdom where Siddhartha spent his first 29 years. Standing on the ruins of the ancient city walls and looking out at the countryside, one can only imagine what Prince Siddhartha might have been feeling as he left his family and embarked on his quest for liberation.
What’s Next
Our journey ends on the morning of the 15th in Lumbini. If you wish to explore the beauty of Nepal’s mountains, national parks & wildlife, and rich culture, let us help! We can even arrange a private trip to Bhutan, a short and scenic flight from Kathmandu.
Please note: This journey ends in Lumbini, Nepal. When this journey was first planned, flights were slated to open from Lumbini to New Delhi. Sadly, those flights are now a year behind schedule and have not started. However, we have acquired a group ticket from Lumbini to Kathmandu, Nepal.
You may wish to extend your time around Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu. You can fly home from Kathmandu, Nepal, or you can fly directly from Kathmandu back to New Delhi if you have a roundtrip ticket from your home airport to New Delhi.
Please click the title of the desired tab to open it.
Price & What is Included
This journey is $4499 USD per person (double occupancy).
The single supplement for this trip is $995 (please keep reading for information about the single supplement). .
This price only covers journey within India and Nepal, not international airfare (for a full list of inclusions, please see below).
When registration opens, a $1000 deposit holds your space. The second installment of $2000 is due by July 15, 2022 and the balance is due by August 15, 2022. The single supplement ($995) is due along with the last installment.
If you prefer to have your own room, the single supplement is $995 USD and will be added to your last payment. (Click here to understand why this single supplement is necessary). Please note that we cannot guarantee you a roommate for this trip, and if you room alone, you will be responsible for the single supplement. This particular single supplement, although high, is actually subsidized by RetreaTours, and your entire supplement goes to cover the other half of the hotel rooms that a roommate would be covering.
Price Includes:
- All accommodation in India and Nepal, from the night of November 1 to 14.
- All meals in India and Nepal, from dinner on November 1 until breakfast on November 15 (*except one lunch at the airport on November 2)
- All ground transportation within India and Nepal
- Flight from New Delhi to Varanasi, India
- Airport transportation upon arrival in New Delhi and departure in Lumbini
- All site fees
- Donation to Drepung Gomang monastery to fund new dormitory
- Tips at hotels and restaurants
- Tips to expert local guide and driver
- Triple carbon offsets for your entire journey (door to door)
Price does not include:
- International airfare (although we will be more than happy to advise you!)
- Flight from Lumbini to Kathmandu ($100 USD)
- Indian visa fee (we will advise on the entire visa process; eVisas for 30 days will cost ~$25 USD)
- Nepal visa fee (~$30 USD)
- Travel insurance (required)
- Laundry services
Payments
Please refer to the Price tab for specific information about price & what is included on your journey.
We accept payments via check and credit or debit card (via PayPal) for our American guests. For our guests outside the U.S., please write Lauren@RetreaTours.com for transfer details.
- Paying by Check: Checks can be made out to RetreaTours and sent to 8821 NW 14 Street, Pembroke Pines, FL 33024.
- Paying by Credit Card or PayPal balance: You can pay with credit card, debit card, or PayPal balance. All PayPal transactions must be in USD. Note that you do not have to pay with your PayPal balance; please click here if you’d like further instruction.
We will email you an invoice via PayPal before each installment’s due date.
FAQ: Visas, Health, Food, Money & more
- Passport and Visa information
- Food
- Health & Vaccines, Travel Insurance
- Money & How to Get Local Currency
- Communication
PASSPORT/VISA
- What do I need to know about the visa?
First and foremost, your passport MUST be valid at least 6 months beyond the end date of the trip (that is, May 15, 2023), and you’ll need three empty pages in the Visas section of your passport (make sure they are in the Visa section, not the Amendment or Endorsement section).
You will need to arrange an Indian visa before you arrive; we will provide you more detailed information before you apply for your visa. You will get your Nepal visa upon arrival in Nepal for ~$30 USD.
FOOD
- I have special dietary needs—can I be accommodated?
Vegetarians should have no problem anywhere on our travels. The only thing that might prove difficult is veganism in India. Although meat is entirely avoidable, India is the world’s largest consumer of butter, and it is almost unavoidable in most of their curries, stews, and even breads. Many vegans that we have known to travel through India adopt what is locally referred to as a “pure veg” diet: no meat, no eggs, but it allows for dairy consumption. (It is worth nothing that some of the reasons for avoiding dairy consumption in the west is slightly mitigated here, as there is less factory farming and antibiotic use in livestock.) Milk can be avoided by not consuming creamy dishes or milk tea.
Gluten is also avoidable in India by choosing rice over chapatis and other local breads. Celiactravel.com has GREAT printable cards in local languages to present to restaurants and hotels about your intolerance of gluten. Click here for the Hindi version. If you have multiple dietary needs, it may be worth your while to check out these specialty cards, available in 60 different languages.
When you register for a trip, you will answer a set of questions, including a question about food allergies. We’ll take a look at your answers and let you know if we have any suggestions or concerns.
There is typically a large amount of Western/”Continental” food available at meals, for those of you who aren’t in the mood Indian food.
Click here for our very own Indian Food Primer!
- Can I drink the water?
In a word, No. Although many cities around the world are getting more advanced public water systems, we don’t recommend it. Not only from a pathogen standpoint, but it’s a different set of bacteria than your body is used to. Why risk an upset stomach if you don’t have to? We recommend drinking only bottled water, and you will want to rinse your toothbrush off in bottled water.
For those of you who wish to use your own filtration system (LifeStraw bottle, etc), you can definitely bring them and use tap water in them, which will save on the plastic of water bottles!
HEALTH
- What vaccines do I need?
None are required to enter India, but we suggest you work with your physician or your area’s travel health expert to decide what options are best for you. You can read the CDC’s recommendations here and the UK NHS recommendations here.
- What about malaria?
You may or may not wish to consider anti-malarial drugs, so please work with your physician or travel doctor when making these choices. Please see our blog about this topic for more information. Here is an NHS malaria map for India and one for Nepal. You’ll see on the maps that the areas we will be visiting are in the low to no risk” areas, although BodhGaya is on the border of “low to no risk” and “low risk.”
- What are the physical requirements for this trip?
Participants should be able to comfortably climb stairs, slowly but in a stable fashion. Guests should be able to walk unassisted for 1 mile at a time. Guests should be comfortable sitting for 2-3 hours at a time on the bus without a break. We won’t be at most sites for more than 2-3 hours at a time, and even then there will be benches or low walls to take breaks on. Guests make wish to bring an inflatable meditation cushion for meditation opportunities.
- Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, travel insurance is required on this trip. Please find out what must be covered in the “Travel Insurance” tab on this page. You’ll provide us with your travel insurance company name, policy number, and emergency number before the start of the trip.
MONEY
- How much money should I bring?
All of your meals and transportation are covered once you arrive (except your $30USD Nepal visa and tip to local guide/driver), so you just have to gauge how much you want to spend on extras (laundry, souvenirs, and alcohol when available [only in Nepal]). Please see the “Price and Inclusions” tab on this page for all the specifics.
- How do I get the local currency?
You can either exchange cash in Nepal and India or use a local ATM (which we personally prefer for ourselves). Just make sure you call your bank and credit card company to let them know you’ll be traveling in India and Nepal, so they don’t put a hold on your card when they see it being used halfway across the world. Most smaller shops will not take credit cards.
COMMUNICATION
- Will I be able to charge my electronics (phone, iPad, etc)?
Yes, just be sure to bring along a Universal Travel Adaptor that can go with you anywhere in the world!
- Will we have WiFi?
We will have access to wifi at all of our hotels, but please know it may be strongest (or only functional) in common spaces like the lobby or the restaurant. WiFi speeds may not be what you are used to at home.
We will be asking that you download WhatsApp for communication on tour, in addition to communication with family back home, as it works remarkably well on very little internet connectivity.
- Should I get an International phone plan? What about a local SIM card?
Please check with your cell provider about international options that might work for you. If you have an unlocked smartphone, you can purchase a SIM card upon arrival at the airport in New Delhi for our time in India. However, as we are crossing overland into Nepal in a rural area, there is no convenient place to purchase a Nepal SIM card for our 3 night stay there.
- How can my family get ahold of me in an emergency?
Before the trip begins we will give you a contact for our hotels; in addition, we will give you our Indian phone numbers and WhatsApp numbers ahead of time, as well as an American number good for text messages and voicemails.
About our Hotels
Each of our hotels will have a private ensuite bathroom, air conditioning, and WiFi access (although in some locations the connection will not extend to the rooms and will only be usable in common areas like the lobby or restaurant).
We have carefully chosen each hotel based on comfort, location, and safety. These are our intended hotels for each stop on our journey:
- New Delhi: Novotel Aerocity
- Varanasi: Hotel Madin
- Bodh Gaya: Hotel Anand International
- Rajgir: Indo Hokke
- Patna: Lemon Tree
- Kushinagar: The Imperial Kushinagar
- Lumbini: Buddha Maya Gardens Resort
About many Indian and Nepali bathrooms…
You will have a Western toilet in all of your rooms (as opposed to a squat toilet). However, it is worth noting that many Asian bathrooms are considered “wet rooms”—that is, the shower shares the entire bathroom space with the sink and toilet (as opposed to having an inset shower stall or bathtub with a curtain or shower door). You may also find, in addition to a traditional showerhead, a large bucket and a smaller dipper for a “bucket bath.” This is a great way to save water, and we’ll tell you all about it in our orientation!
Travel Insurance
If you are traveling with RetreaTours, we require that each guest carries travel insurance that covers emergency medical treatment and emergency evacuation and repatriation.
We suggest trip cancellation insurance, as well, as you never know what obstacles life can toss at you leading up to a trip. However, we do not require this coverage, we only suggest it highly. You may even wish to consider a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy.
Below you will find some options to look into, if this is a new world to you. However, we ask that you carefully consider your choice in travel insurance. What works for some people may not work for others, particularly if you have any pre-existing conditions. Please do take the time to consider the best policy for your individual needs.
World Nomads provides medical coverage for guests under 70 that includes trip cancellation, as well. You can use the box on this page to get a quote and see coverage.
InsureMyTrip.com is a good place to see and compare many policies at once, and you can refine the options by what coverage you would like.
It may also be a good idea to check with your credit card companies, especially American Express, to see if they offer any medical coverage for travel.
About your International Flights
We are more than happy to recommend international flights, but ultimately you will make the purchase yourself directly through the airline website or through a 3rd party site like Expedia or Kayak.
Because the new flights from Lumbini to New Delhi have not begun yet, a flight into New Delhi and out of Kathmandu is your best bet. However, if you wish to purchase a roundtrip ticket to New Delhi, you can fly from Kathmandu to New Delhi on the evening of the 18th (after your flight from Lumbini to Kathmandu).
Expected Temperatures & Suggested Packing List
Expected temperatures
The expected and historical temperatures on this journey range between 65°F (18°C) at nights and 85°F (30°C) during the day. This means mornings and late evenings might be cool, but temperatures will get warmer in the afternoons. This is not a rainy time of year, although it will still be humid.
Updated packing list coming soon!
Reading List
There is no required reading for this trip, but for those of you interested, here are some reading materials to help familiarize yourself with the historical footsteps of the Buddha.
Our Carbon Negative Commitment
Please visit our Carbon Negative page to learn more about what we are doing to mitigate the impact of our collective journey, including a triple carbon offset credit to cover not only your time in India and Nepal, but travel to and from your home.
* * *
RetreaTours is officially a Carbonfree® Partner with Carbonfund.org, as well as a “Certified Carbon Fighter” with Cool Effect.
You may have heard the term “carbon neutral,” which means that a company offsets as much carbon as it produces. With this 300% offset, RetreaTours is actually offsetting more carbon than we produce each year, making us “carbon negative” (or “climate positive,” which has a nicer ring to it!)
Since 2012 we’ve focused on making travel safe and easy for our guests; with our triple carbon offset tours, we’re pleased to make our trips as sustainable as they are memorable.
About BJ and Lauren of RetreaTours




BJ Graf and Lauren Rathvon have traveled the globe year-round since January 2013, researching, designing, and leading impactful journeys. We are deeply grateful for the trust placed in us by our guests; we save our guests’ time and resources during trip planning and maximize their engagement and enjoyment on tour.
We are committed not only to our guests, but to our host destinations and the planet. We engage with local businesses and guides to keep money within the community, and we triple carbon-offset each of our tours.
We invite you to visit our Testimonials page to see what other people have to say about us!
Contact RetreaTours
Please write to Lauren for any questions you may have about this journey. If you have not received a reply within 48 hours, please do check your spam folder.
Please enjoy these videos, taken by BJ on-site at each location.
To enlarge each of the videos after pressing play, please click the square icon in the bottom right-hand corner of the video.
Photo Album
Please click a photo to see an enlarged version and the location; you can use your arrow keys or mouse to navigate within the album.
Lumbini
48985305_2387449054660371_8590823624460468224_nLumbini
48425029_2387447387993871_2305079591661731840_npilgrims circle the Mahabodhi temple at Bodh Gaya
48955981_2387455057993104_6684481585309286400_nPilgrim movement at Bodh Gaya
48421188_2387447561327187_5750360004116873216_nmonks at Sujata stupa
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48426353_2387447924660484_8899916619568906240_nBodh Gaya
48422019_2387455477993062_4864791323103723520_nBodhGaya temple
48985337_2387448067993803_8980950029535543296_nBuddha icon in metalwork at Lumbini
48425334_2387448144660462_4801860826627571712_nMahakala Cave (Dungeshwari Cave)
48430210_2387455554659721_4538857159932248064_nMahakala Cave (Dungeshwari Cave)
48936570_2387456011326342_1137667893895364608_nBodh Gaya (the Cankamana, or Cloister Walk)
49384532_2387448411327102_6292965376061865984_nKushinagar
49108976_2387448444660432_7262602857868689408_nKushinagar
48419795_2387448814660395_4972038322932154368_nLumbini
48425883_2387449107993699_6420150855323877376_nBodh Gaya
49178180_2387456157992994_8446389900135104512_n49068165_2387449327993677_5920446790712164352_n
Bodh Gaya
48932581_2387449691326974_1009459413552988160_nKushinagar
48928892_2387449674660309_8461691824933699584_nSujata stupa
48421138_2387449864660290_4481309481543663616_nNalanda
48423483_2387450381326905_8862726304479313920_nRamabhat Stupa at Kushinagar
48423413_2387451371326806_8669358072130437120_nSarnath
49076972_2387451881326755_6328363856565370880_nBodh Gaya
49008900_2387452831326660_165218423985405952_nSujata stupa
48419223_2387453701326573_6851024839201783808_nSujata stupa
48928979_2387454014659875_3246342629725569024_nSujata Temple
48429922_2387454167993193_7302724926224465920_nVaishali
49007439_2387454394659837_3844247397823676416_nVaishali
49192915_2387454704659806_7901088564333510656_nBodh Gaya
48407438_2387454571326486_8318529690100826112_nVulture's Peak at Rajgir
48971447_2387454724659804_3265678233189744640_nBodhi leaves against the temple at Bodh Gaya
48422045_2387473384657938_5071581517231161344_nVaranasi
49140254_2387474397991170_6959292456403730432_nRituals at the Ganges River in Varanasi
48419840_2387474844657792_5073488074688692224_nA holy man walks along the banks of the Ganges River in Varanasi
48422993_2387475011324442_1789028602348568576_nAshoka Pillar at Maya Devi temple in Lumbini
82099103_3350869404984993_4597911096236441600_nvisiting the Mahabodhia temnple at sunrise
80718280_3350870028318264_7647239036314058752_nMahabodhia temple
80562744_3350872208318046_4957093833901867008_nretouching a Buddha statue at the Sujata temple
81910291_3350876568317610_3189678748232318976_nCremation stupa in Kushinagar
81532555_3350858024986131_7849074337125498880_nearly morning meditation at the Maya Devi temple
80987411_3350849928320274_5749952050943229952_nThe Giant Buddha in Bodh Gaya
81278212_3350858508319416_6408363257450463232_nThe grounds at the Parinirvana temple
80629201_3350876784984255_6846144974669479936_nParinirvana temple in Kushinagar at sunset
81147653_3350856011652999_6088172985972162560_nMeeting the local pilgrims at the Mahakala caves
81134389_3350883898316877_6242360559551905792_nMahabodhi temple at sunset
80583974_3350860068319260_7743313301492203520_nMahabodhi temple by night
81523029_3350861704985763_3862302985069527040_nThere's a spot for everyone at Bodh Gaya <3
81181252_3350861534985780_3202348618287677440_nInside the caves where the Buddha practiced before his enlightenment
81760129_3350853994986534_6981058762249338880_nthe Maya Devi temple at dawn
81219454_3350861894985744_7716305164155486208_na monk at the cremation stupa
80447774_3350854344986499_174972436448542720_nMonkeys at Rajgir
81042583_3350887181649882_9131107991783735296_nNalanda
80634286_3350886861649914_488709313406173184_nNepal's Kapilavastu
80395522_3350865538318713_7260293204845527040_nBodh Gaya at night
81167044_3350887404983193_266931478712025088_nOn the ghats in Varanasi
81458015_3350865761652024_4000033364957462528_nmorning offerings at Maya Devi
80759176_3350855851653015_6915361834388160512_nDhamek stupa at Sarnath
81313987_3350885408316726_3742980315321204736_nStupa ruins that once housed the Buddha's relics at Vaishali
81138134_3350883974983536_8868087059319881728_nearly morning sweeping at Lumbini
81186842_3350877831650817_1090123099849883648_nSujata temple
80748770_3350888144983119_7473506157491912704_nAnanda stupa (with Ashoka Pillar) at Vaishali
80542913_3350859898319277_2324519081794863104_nReciting the Heart Sutra at Vulture's Peak in 2019
80623498_3350882604983673_2554143430896779264_nMahabodhi temple at Bodh Gaya
324256696_2506760636128981_1810066327968462667_nMahabodhi temple
324340955_853171622660117_8276795636521389639_nMaya Devi temple in Lumbini
324349060_850353686074911_1262104097109986183_nLumbini
324405883_636458471569216_4626907382906374105_nVaranasi
324272199_504939311738445_7400574825869829197_nKesariya Stupa
324343434_567340881933971_2919885784445566570_nAnanda stupa at Vaishali
324244153_1560365627765551_4615051909726526509_nThe main Buddha statue at the Mahabodhi temple
324267885_704883301182472_5978320395254361280_n324242883_1991808324356947_231287697787195157_n
Pilgrims in Bodh Gaya
324339943_648507740294603_8252769648518265043_nSunrise on the Ganga
324243361_1224270988514806_7300723121721847503_nBodh Gaya
324341217_1198837864387162_6272437663483301779_nBodh Gaya
324244916_571518251087867_7105948815034262996_nMahabodhi temple
324402533_1325407348237554_2255640125859930028_n
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