Highlights
Discover Bendigo on an inspiring small-group journey that brings the city’s gold-rush past and cultural landmarks vividly to life. This award-winning tour explores the stories, people and places that shaped one of the world’s great 19th-century boomtowns. Walk the historic Chinese Diggings and try your hand at panning for real gold before visiting the breathtaking Sacred Heart Cathedral, one of Australia’s tallest and most impressive Gothic churches. Travel on to the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion, the largest Buddhist stupa in the Western world, where peaceful gardens and sacred art offer a powerful moment of reflection. Along the way, your expert local guide shares unforgettable stories of ambition, migration, triumph and transformation. Comfortable transport, rich storytelling and three iconic stops make this the perfect introduction to Bendigo’s remarkable heritage. Proudly awarded Best New Tourism Business in Victoria and finalist in the Australian Tourism Awards.
About This Deal
Departure Point
- Meet in front of Bendigo Visitor Centre, 51-67 Pall Mall, Bendigo, 3550.
Return Details
- Meet in front of Bendigo Visitor Centre, 51-67 Pall Mall, Bendigo, 3550.
Duration
3 hours
Languages Available
- Human tour guide - English
Points of Interest
Stop At: White Hills Chinese Diggings H.a.
East Bendigo, VIC 3550
At this rare surviving 1850s diggings site, guests walk among original mine shafts and learn how both European and Chinese miners worked the goldfields. Your guide explains the lives, hardships and remarkable successes of Bendigo’s early Chinese community and their role in shaping Dai Gum San (“Big Gold Mountain”). The stop also includes a hands-on gold panning activity using real gold-bearing paydirt, giving guests an authentic taste of gold-rush life.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Sacred Heart Cathedral
Mackenzie St, Corner of Wattle and High Streets, Bendigo, Victoria
Here guests step inside one of Australia’s tallest and most spectacular Gothic cathedrals. The guide shares the extraordinary story of Reverend Backhaus, whose unexpected wealth helped fund the project, and the European craftsmen who completed the intricate stonework. Visitors explore the soaring interior, admire stained glass and carvings, and enjoy time for photography inside this architectural masterpiece.
Duration: 20 minutes
Stop At: The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion
25 Sandhurst Town Rd, Myers Flat, Bendigo, Victoria
This visit offers a peaceful and inspiring experience at the largest Buddhist stupa in the Western world. Guests stroll the tranquil Peace Park, see sacred artworks and learn about the 1,000-year vision behind the Stupa’s construction. The highlight is viewing the world-renowned Jade Buddha for Universal Peace, making this stop a powerful blend of culture, spirituality and storytelling.
Duration: 45 minutes
Additional Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Gold Panning Activity with real gold bearing paydirt.
Traveler Pickup Information
Meet at Bendigo Visitor Centre, 51-67 Pall Mall, Bendigo, 3550. Pick up available from local Hotels.
Voucher Info
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
The tour identified in this promotion is made available through Viator. Groupon is not affiliated with or sponsored by the Bendigo Guided Tours in connection with this deal. Please contact Groupon customer service for all inquiries related to this offer. Inquiries placed to Viator will be directed back to Groupon.
This offer is not eligible for promo codes.