Enlightenment Trail: Exploring Bodh Gaya And Gaya
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3d
If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on the "Enlightenment Trail: Exploring Bodh Gaya and Gaya" itinerary for a profound journey into Buddhist heritage. Upon your arrival at Gaya airport, you'll be seamlessly transferred to your Bodh Gaya hotel, where you can unwind or explore the local surroundings. Day 2 unfolds with a visit to the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, followed by the awe-inspiring Great Buddha Statue and the elegant Japanese Temple. In the afternoon, venture to Gaya to experience the sacred Mangla Gauri Temple and the Vishnupad Temple on the Falgu River bank. Explore various international monasteries, including the Thai, Japanese, Bhutanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese, creating a rich cultural tapestry. The day concludes with an overnight stay in Bodh Gaya. On Day 3, bid farewell to Gaya as you check out from your hotel and head to Gaya airport, marking the end of this enlightening journey through the spiritual and cultural heartland.
Available options
Tour Price Without Hotels
Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.<br/>Pickup included
Price using 3 star hotels
Stay in 3 star hotels: + Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.<br/>Pickup included
Price Using 4 Star Hotel
Stay in 4 star hotels: + Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private AC car/van for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program.
Government taxes.
Bottled drinking water in the car.
Breakfast
Monument entrances and activity charges mentioned in the itinerary.
English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per the program
Assistance on arrival at the airport.
2 Nights' accommodation (if option selected) in selected price category hotels.
What's not included
Any flight ticket.
Camera charges at monuments if any.
Meals other than mentioned in inclusions.
Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet, etc.
Gratuities and optional activities.
Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
Hotels used or similar for 2 nights accommodation
Bodhgaya x 2 nights
3* - The Imperial/ Hotel Taj Darbar
4* - Marasa Sarovar Premiere/ The Royal Residency
About Gaya
Gaya is a sacred city in the Indian state of Bihar, renowned for its spiritual significance. It is a major pilgrimage center for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains, offering a rich cultural and historical experience.
Top Attractions
Vishnupad Temple
A sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its ancient architecture and spiritual significance.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free
Mangla Gauri Temple
A temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, known for its serene atmosphere and religious importance.
Religious
1 hour
Free
Bodhgaya
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major Buddhist pilgrimage center, known for the Mahabodhi Temple and the Bodhi Tree.
Historical
Half-day to full day
Free to enter, donations appreciated
Bara Chatti
A group of eight ancient temples dedicated to various Hindu deities, known for their historical and religious significance.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Litti Chokha
A traditional Bihari dish made of roasted wheat balls (litti) and mashed vegetables (chokha).
Main Course
Vegetarian
Sattu Paratha
A stuffed paratha filled with sattu, a roasted gram flour mixture.
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Malpua
Sweet pancakes soaked in sugar syrup, often served with rabri (a sweetened milk pudding).
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in Rajgir
Exploring ancient temples
Meditation in Bodhgaya
Visiting hot springs in Rajgir
Attending religious ceremonies
Exploring local markets
Visiting during festivals
Performing religious rituals at Vishnupad Temple
Best Time to Visit
October to March
This is the best time to visit Gaya as the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing and religious activities.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Hindi
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Indian Rupee (INR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Gaya is generally safe for tourists, but common precautions should be taken to avoid scams and petty theft.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable taxi services.
- • Bargain for prices in markets.
- • Keep valuables secure.
Getting there
By air
- Gaya International Airport • 5 km from city center
By train
Gaya Junction
By bus
Gaya Bus Stand
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are the primary mode of public transport. They are affordable but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Ola, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Bodhgaya
Day trips
Bodhgaya
15 km • Half-day to full day
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major Buddhist pilgrimage center, known for the Mahabodhi Temple and the Bodhi Tree.
Rajgir
70 km • Full day
An ancient city known for its historical and religious significance, including the Vulture's Peak and the Cyclopean Wall.
Festivals
Maha Shivaratri • February/March
Buddha Jayanti • April/May
Pro tips
- Visit the Vishnupad Temple early in the morning for a peaceful experience.
- Explore the local markets for authentic Bihari handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Respect the religious customs and traditions, especially during festivals and ceremonies.
- Try local dishes like Litti Chokha and Sattu Paratha for an authentic culinary experience.
- Use reputable taxi services and bargain for prices in markets to avoid scams.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
