The Ancient Wonders of Nalanda & Rajgir Day Trip From Bodhgaya

Bodh Gaya , India

The Ancient Wonders of Nalanda & Rajgir Day Trip From Bodhgaya

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(2 reviews)

7h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on a captivating exploration with "The Ancient Wonders of Nalanda & Rajgir Day Trip From Bodhgaya." Meet your guide at your hotel and journey towards Nalanda. Immerse yourself in history at the Nalanda Archaeological Museum, housing a vast collection of artifacts from the ancient Nalanda University. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nalanda University ruins, founded in the 5th century AD, gaining insights into India's rich educational heritage. Indulge in a delectable lunch at a local restaurant before heading to Rajgir, a historic town. Discover the Venuvana Vihara, a serene monastery surrounded by green forests, and visit the Gridhakuta Hill, where Lord Buddha delivered profound sermons. Take a cable car to the hill's summit for breathtaking views. Explore the Saptaparni Cave, the site of the first Buddhist council, and rejuvenate in the medicinal Hot Springs. Conclude your journey, departing Rajgir for Bodhgaya, carrying cherished memories of historical wonders.

Available options

Car Only

Includes: Private Car with Driver.<br/>Pickup included

Car, Guide & Entrance

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.<br/>Pickup included

Car, Guide, Entrance & Lunch

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary & Lunch.<br/>Pickup included

Car & Guide

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

English speaking local guide, if option selected.

Entrance fees to monuments, if option selected.

Private AC car/van for pick up and drop off from/to your hotel.

Lunch, if option selected.

Government Taxes.

Bottled water in the car.

Detailed itinerary

8:00 AM - Meet your guide at your hotel lobby in Bodhgaya and start your journey towards Nalanda.

9:30 AM - Reach Nalanda and visit the Nalanda Archaeological Museum. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the ancient Nalanda University. Explore the museum with your guide and learn about the rich history and culture of the region.

11:00 AM - Visit the Nalanda University ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ruins of the ancient university, founded in the 5th century AD, offer a glimpse into the glory days of Indian higher education. Your guide will take you through the ruins, explaining the various structures and their significance.

12:30 PM - Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Nalanda.

1:30 PM - Head to Rajgir, a historic town located approximately 25 kilometers away from Nalanda.

2:00 PM - Visit the Venuvana Vihara, a beautiful monastery located amidst lush green forests. The monastery is believed to have been established by King Bimbisara of Magadha and was a favorite retreat for Lord Buddha. Explore the monastery complex and learn about its history from your guide.

3:00 PM - Visit the Gridhakuta Hill, also known as the Vulture Peak. This hill is believed to be the site where Lord Buddha delivered some of his most important sermons. Take a cable car ride to the top of the hill, from where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills.

4:00 PM - Visit the Saptaparni Cave, a historic cave located at the foothills of the Gridhakuta Hill. The cave is believed to be the site where the first Buddhist council was held after Lord Buddha's death. Your guide will tell you about the history and significance of the cave.

4:30 PM - Visit the Hot Springs, located in the foothills of the Vaibhava Hill. The hot springs are believed to have medicinal properties and are a popular destination for pilgrims. Take a dip in the hot springs and relax amidst the serene surroundings.

5:00 PM - Leave Rajgir and start your journey back to Bodhgaya.

7:00 PM - Reach your hotel in Bodhgaya, with memories of a memorable day tour of Nalanda and Rajgir.

What's not included

Camera charges at monuments.

Gratuities and optional activities.

Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

Please provide up pick up information at least one day before the tour

About Bodh Gaya

Bodh Gaya is a sacred Buddhist site where Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. It's a spiritual hub with ancient temples, monasteries, and a profound sense of peace. The Mahabodhi Temple Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the focal point of pilgrimage and meditation.

Top Attractions

Mahabodhi Temple Complex

The Mahabodhi Temple Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site. It includes the Bodhi Tree, where Buddha attained enlightenment, and the Mahabodhi Temple, a magnificent structure with intricate carvings.

Religious/Historical 2-3 hours Free (donations welcome)

Great Buddha Statue

The 80-foot tall statue of Buddha in the Mahabodhi Temple Complex is one of the largest Buddha statues in India. It is a significant landmark and a focal point for meditation and reflection.

Religious/Architectural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Vishnupad Temple

Vishnupad Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is built on the site where it is believed that Lord Vishnu left his footprints. The temple is an example of ancient Indian architecture and is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus.

Religious/Historical 1 hour Moderate (donations welcome)

Sujata Stupa

Sujata Stupa marks the spot where Sujata, a village girl, offered a meal to the Buddha before his enlightenment. The stupa is a peaceful place for meditation and reflection.

Religious/Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Thai Monastery (Wat Thai Bodhgaya)

The Thai Monastery is a beautiful example of Thai architecture and is known for its intricate carvings and golden spires. It is a peaceful place for meditation and reflection.

Religious/Architectural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Bodh Gaya Museum

The Bodh Gaya Museum houses a collection of artifacts related to the history and culture of Bodh Gaya. It provides valuable insights into the region's rich heritage.

Museum 1 hour Moderate (entry fee applies)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Litti Chokha

A traditional Bihari dish made of roasted wheat balls (litti) served with a spicy mashed vegetable (chokha) made from roasted eggplant, potatoes, and tomatoes.

Main Course Vegetarian, Gluten-free (if made with gluten-free flour)

Dal Pitha

A Bihari specialty made of lentil dumplings (pitha) cooked in a spicy tomato-based gravy.

Main Course Vegetarian

Malpua

A sweet pancake made from flour, bananas, and sugar, deep-fried and soaked in sugar syrup.

Dessert Vegetarian

Thukpa

A Tibetan noodle soup with vegetables, meat, or tofu, often flavored with garlic and ginger.

Main Course Vegetarian or non-vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby hills Exploring ancient ruins Meditation at the Mahabodhi Temple Complex Visiting hot springs in Rajgir Visiting monasteries and temples Attending Buddhist festivals Boating in nearby lakes Visiting during winter for pleasant weather

Best Time to Visit

October to March

The best time to visit Bodh Gaya is during the cooler months. The weather is pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Hindi, Bhojpuri
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30 (Indian Standard Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Bodh Gaya is generally safe for travelers, but it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and scams, can occur, especially in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour operators and guides
• Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Gaya International Airport • 12 km from Bodh Gaya

By train

Gaya Junction

By bus

Gaya Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses are affordable and cover most areas within Bodh Gaya. They can be crowded and may not have fixed schedules.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Ola, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Temple Area Market Area Residential Area

Day trips

Nalanda

65 km from Bodh Gaya • Full day

Nalanda is an ancient center of learning and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to the ruins of Nalanda University, one of the world's first residential universities.

Rajgir

70 km from Bodh Gaya • Full day

Rajgir is an ancient city with a rich history and religious significance. It is known for its hot springs, ancient stupas, and the Vulture's Peak where Buddha preached.

Vaishali

80 km from Bodh Gaya • Full day

Vaishali is an ancient city known for its association with Lord Buddha and the Licchavi kingdom. It is home to several Buddhist and Jain pilgrimage sites.

Festivals

Buddha Purnima • Full moon day in May/June (varies each year) Kalachakra Initiative • Varies (typically every few years) Vesak (Vaisakhi) • April/May (varies each year)

Pro tips

Visit the Mahabodhi Temple Complex early in the morning for a peaceful meditation experience and to avoid crowds
Hire a local guide or join a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the history and significance of Bodh Gaya's attractions
Try local Bihari and Tibetan cuisine at the many restaurants and street stalls in the market area
Attend a meditation retreat or teachings by Buddhist monks to immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of Bodh Gaya
Explore the international monasteries in Bodh Gaya to learn about different Buddhist traditions and practices