Private Bodhgaya Spiritual Tour with Expert Guide
Active
4h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Full day Bodhgaya sightseeing starts at coordinated time by private AC Car from your pre booked hotel in Bodhgaya or Gaya Airport.
Available options
Private Bodhgaya Spiritual Tour with Expert Guide
Pickup included
What's included
AC Transport
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Bottled water
Monument Entrance Fees
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Visit the Dungeswari Temple, also known as the Mahakala Caves, where Lord Buddha meditated during his quest for enlightenment. Nestled in a serene hillside, this sacred site features ancient shrines and statues of Buddha, reflecting his ascetic life. A peaceful and spiritually uplifting stop on your journey.
2
Explore the Sujata Stupa, built to honor Sujata, the woman who offered kheer (rice pudding) to Lord Buddha, ending his extreme ascetic practices. This gesture marked a turning point in his journey to enlightenment. Surrounded by tranquil fields, the stupa symbolizes compassion and the balance of the Middle Path.
3
Metta Buddharam Temple in Bodhgaya is a beautiful Thai monastery known for its graceful architecture and golden details. Dedicated to Metta (loving-kindness), the temple offers a peaceful space for prayer and reflection. Visitors can admire the stunning Buddha image inside, stroll through its serene gardens, and experience the unique charm of Thai Buddhist culture in India’s most sacred pilgrimage town. This temple is a tranquil stop for travelers seeking both spiritual connection and cultural discovery.
4
Stop 4
The Great Buddha Statue Temple in Bodhgaya is one of the most iconic landmarks of Buddhist heritage. Standing 80 feet tall, this magnificent statue of Lord Buddha in a meditative posture is surrounded by smaller statues of his disciples, symbolizing wisdom and enlightenment.
Inaugurated by the 14th Dalai Lama in 1989, the temple complex exudes a serene atmosphere, making it a perfect place for prayer, meditation, and reflection. Visitors can admire the intricate carvings, explore the temple grounds, and experience the peaceful aura of this sacred site.
A must-visit for pilgrims and travelers, the Great Buddha Statue Temple offers a glimpse into the profound teachings and legacy of Buddhism in Bodhgaya.
5
Stop 5
Visit the sacred Mahabodhi Temple, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. Explore the intricate temple architecture, the serene meditation gardens, and ancient votive stupas. Meditate under the revered Bodhi Tree, participate in chanting sessions with monks, and immerse yourself in the tranquil energy of this UNESCO World Heritage site. A profound spiritual experience awaits.
6
Stop 6
Visit the sacred Bodhi Tree, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Meditate beneath its serene shade, explore the nearby Mahabodhi Temple, and witness devotional rituals by monks and pilgrims. Learn about its rich history and significance with insights from a local guide. A profound spiritual experience awaits.
What's not included
Any extras which is not mentioned in the inclusions.
Camera Fee
Travel Insurance
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
Instant confirmation
