Day 1: Pune to Patna (Train Journey)

  • Depart from Pune Railway Station to Patna by train. (Approximate travel time: 24-30 hours)
  • Use this travel time to introduce the group to the history, culture, and significance of Bihar, especially focusing on its educational heritage.
  • Provide educational materials or conduct interactive sessions during the train journey to engage the participants.

 

Day 2: Arrival in Patna

  • Arrive in Patna and check into your hotel.
  • After freshening up and breakfast, proceed for a visit to the Patna Museum, known for its rich collection of artifacts and sculptures dating back to ancient times.
  • Explore the Golghar, an iconic granary built during the British colonial period, offering panoramic views of the city.
  • Visit the Bihar Vidhan Sabha (Legislative Assembly) to learn about the state’s political history and governance structure.
  • In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Ganges River and witness the vibrant life along the ghats.

 

Day 3: Patna to Nalanda and Rajgir

  • Depart from Patna and travel to Nalanda (approximately 2-3 hours by road).
  • Visit the ancient Nalanda University ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its archaeological remains, monasteries, and stupas.
  • Proceed to Rajgir (approximately 1 hour by road) and visit the Griddhakuta Hill, where Lord Buddha preached many important sermons.
  • Explore the Vishwa Shanti Stupa (World Peace Pagoda) and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Return to Patna in the evening.

 

Day 4: Patna to Bodh Gaya

  • Depart from Patna and travel to Bodh Gaya (approximately 6-7 hours by road).
  • Visit the Mahabodhi Temple Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment.
  • Explore the Bodhi Tree, under which Buddha meditated, and other significant sites such as the Bodhi Path and Great Buddha Statue.
  • Visit the various monasteries and temples representing different Buddhist countries.
  • Attend a meditation session or participate in discussions on Buddhist philosophy.
  • Overnight stay in Bodh Gaya.

 

Day 5: Bodh Gaya to Pune (Train Journey)

  • After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Gaya Railway Station.
  • Board the train from Gaya to Pune and commence your return journey.
  • Use the train journey to reflect on the learnings and experiences gained during the tour, discussing the significance of Bihar in the context of Indian history, culture, and education.
  • Arrive back in Pune, concluding the educational tour.