Arrive Delhi (from Bangkok); meet driver; luggage load into the AC tempo-traveller and prepare for a full day of sightseeing before the overnight drive to Agra.
Classic South Indian breakfast (dosas, idlis, filter coffee) in a reliable, quick stop in central Delhi to fuel the day; good for vegetarian groups and opens early.
A modern Hindu cultural complex noted for stunning stone architecture, gardens and exhibitions; great introduction to Delhi’s spiritual and cultural side. (Akshardham campus expects security checks — plan 1.5–2 hours).
India’s national museum houses archaeology, art and historic artifacts; visit the main galleries (note: museum is closed on Mondays but today is Sunday and it is open ~10:00am–5:00pm).
Depart Delhi by AC tempo-traveller; the Yamuna Expressway shortens the trip to around 3–4 hours depending on traffic; use this time for rest before arrival in Agra.
World-famous white-marble mausoleum best visited early for cooler temperatures, softer light and smaller crowds; note Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays but today is Monday (open).
Visit the Ashokan pillar remains, stupa site and museum ruins — important early Buddhist site where Buddha is said to have returned after enlightenment.
Explore extensive Buddhist monastery ruins, stupas and the monastery gardens associated with Buddha’s many monastic stays; best before sunset (site generally open daylight hours).
Cross the India–Nepal border (allow time for immigration formalities) and drive to Lumbini — travel time about 4–5 hours depending on border wait times.
Visit the birthplace of Lord Buddha: the Maya Devi Temple, central Mayadevi Park, Ashoka Pillar and monastic zones; the garden and museum hours typically fall within daylight (museum often ~10:00am–5:00pm).
Visit the Parinirvana Temple housing the reclining Buddha statue and nearby stupas marking Buddha’s parinirvana; sites typically open during daylight hours (early morning to evening).
Attend the famous evening Ganga Aarti — a spiritual and visual highlight of Varanasi (aarti usually starts just after sunset — arrive early for good vantage).
Visit the Vishnupad Temple (important Hindu pilgrimage site) and walk along the sacred Phalgu river ghats; temples generally open from early morning until late evening.
Visit the hill associated with Buddha’s teachings (Vulture’s Peak) and the white World Peace Pagoda (Vishwa Shanti Stupa) for panoramic views; sites open during daylight hours.
Drive to Gaya Airport for international flight to Bangkok (or transfer to an onward domestic flight hub if necessary); arrive 2 hours before scheduled departure for check-in and security.
Confirm international travel documents, visas (Nepal entry/exit), and allow extra time at the India–Nepal border and for city traffic. Keep water, light snacks and comfortable shoes for temple/stupa walks.