Bodhgaya and Gaya Pilgrimage Tour
Active
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 the "Bodhgaya and Gaya Pilgrimage Tour" to delve into the spiritual essence of these sacred cities. Begin at the UNESCO-listed Mahabodhi Temple, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Immerse yourself in prayer rituals and behold the towering Great Buddha Statue, an 80-foot testament to serenity. Explore the tranquility of the Thai Monastery, marvel at the symbolism of the Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple, and soak in the peaceful ambiance of the Tibetan and Vietnamese Temples. Journey to Gaya, a city steeped in religious significance, and pay homage at the historic Vishnupad Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Conclude your pilgrimage at the divine Mangla Gauri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Parvati. The tour encapsulates the rich spiritual heritage and cultural diversity of Bodhgaya and Gaya, leaving you with profound memories of this sacred journey.
Available options
Car & Guide
Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides.<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 & Entrance
Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.<br/>Pickup included
Car Only
Includes: Private Car with Driver.<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
1
9:00 AM - Meet your guide at your hotel lobby in Bodhgaya and start your tour of the holy city.
2
Stop 2
9:30 AM - Visit the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the holiest Buddhist shrine in Bodhgaya. Explore the temple complex, learn about the life of Lord Buddha and his teachings from your guide, and participate in the prayer rituals.
11:00 AM - Head to the Great Buddha Statue, which stands at 80 feet tall and is located in the peaceful and serene surroundings of the Mahabodhi Temple complex. Marvel at the intricate details of the statue and learn about its history from your guide.
3
12:00 PM - Visit the Thai Monastery, a beautiful and peaceful temple complex built in traditional Thai style. Explore the temple complex and admire the intricate carvings and beautiful gardens.
12:30 PM - Lunch break.
4
1:30 PM - Visit the Japanese Temple, also known as the Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple. This temple is a symbol of peace and friendship between India and Japan and is known for its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings.
5
Stop 5
2:30 PM - Visit the Tibetan Monastery, a beautiful temple complex built in traditional Tibetan style. Explore the temple complex, learn about Tibetan Buddhism, and admire the beautiful prayer flags and intricate carvings.
6
3:30 PM - Visit the Vietnamese Temple, also known as the Vietnamese Pagoda. This temple is a symbol of the friendship between India and Vietnam and is known for its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings.
7
4:30 PM - Leave Bodhgaya and drive to Gaya, a holy city located approximately 17 kilometers away.
8
Stop 8
5:00 PM - Visit the Vishnupad Temple, (Only Hindu can enter the Temple Complex) an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Your guide will tell you about the history and significance of the temple, and you can participate in the prayer rituals.
9
Stop 9
6:00 PM - End your tour by visiting the Mangla Gauri Temple, (Only Hindu can enter the Temple Complex) a beautiful temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati. Explore the temple complex, admire the intricate carvings and sculptures, and learn about the temple's religious significance.
10
6:30 PM - Return to your hotel in Bodhgaya, with memories of a memorable day tour of Bodhgaya and Gaya.
What's not included
Camera charges at monuments.
Gratuities and optional activities.
Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
