Sarnath and Varanasi Private Day Tour from Bodhgaya with Return

Bodh Gaya , India

Sarnath and Varanasi Private Day Tour from Bodhgaya with Return

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(1 reviews)

11h - 12h

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

Seamless & Private Travel: Enjoy pickup and drop-off from your Bodhgaya hotel, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.

Spiritual & Historical Depth: Visit Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, and Mulgandha Kuti Vihara with an expert guide who brings their rich history to life.

Tailored Comfort & Flexibility: With private transportation, a flexible schedule, and a delicious lunch included, this tour blends spirituality, history, and convenience effortlessly.

Perfect for history and culture enthusiasts seeking an immersive Sarnath & Varanasi experience.

Available options

Sarnath and Varanasi Private Day Tour from Bodhgaya with Return

Pickup included

What's included

AC Transport

Entrance fees

English speaking guide

Lunch

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Visit the majestic Dhamek Stupa, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, setting the Wheel of Dharma in motion. Marvel at the towering structure adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions. Surrounded by peaceful gardens, this sacred site invites quiet reflection and a deep connection to Buddhist history.

Explore the serene Mulgandha Kuti Vihara, a modern temple in Sarnath known for its stunning frescoes and murals depicting Lord Buddha’s life. Witness daily chanting and rituals performed by monks, adding to the spiritual ambiance. Stroll through the surrounding gardens and visit the nearby Dhamek Stupa, where Buddha delivered his first sermon. A peaceful and enriching stop on your journey.

Stop 3

Explore the historic Chaukhandi Stupa, marking the site where Lord Buddha first met his disciples after enlightenment. This terraced brick structure, topped by a Mughal-era octagonal tower, stands amidst serene surroundings. A symbol of a pivotal moment in Buddhist history, it offers a tranquil space for reflection.

What's not included

Any extras which is not mentioned in the inclusions.

Camera Fee

Travel Insurance

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

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1★

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