Day Trip To Nalanda And Rajgir From Bodhgaya With Lunch

Bodh Gaya , India

Day Trip To Nalanda And Rajgir From Bodhgaya With Lunch

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About this experience

About 45 miles from Gaya is the historical town of Nalanda in the North Eastern state of Bihar. Visit the famous Buddhist monastery that was home to an international university from the 5th to the 12th century A.D. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the well preserved ruins of this ancient seat of learning make it an important destination on the Buddhist tourism circuit. Next drive to the ancient town of Rajgir that is 10 miles from Nalanda. Lord Buddha spent several years of his life in Rajgir.

Highlights:
• Nalanda University, oldest residential University of the world
• Ajatshatru Fort
• Vulture Peak

Available options

1-8 Traveler

Pickup included

What's included

02 bottles of mineral water per person

Lunch (beverage excluded)

Local English speaking guide

Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle

Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

You will be picked up from your hotel in Gaya and driven to Nalanda, which is a 2-hour drive away.

Nalanda is one of the world’s oldest living cities. It flourished as an international university under the patronage of Emperors Ashoka and Harshavardhana, who built temples and monasteries here. Nalanda was the first residential university of the world. It attracted scholars from all over the Buddhist world and at its peak had around 2 000 teachers and 10 000 monks staying here. The monasteries here are built on the Kushan style of architecture. There is a large courtyard that is surrounded by cells where the monks lived. Nalanda was destroyed by Muslim invaders in the 12th century. The three libraries here were burnt down. It is said that they had such a large collection of books and manuscripts that the fire burnt for six months. Spend some time walking through the ruins of this ancient seat of learning.

Next take lunch at a local restaurant (beverage excluded).

After lunch visit Rajgir, that is 10 miles from Nalanda. Rajgir was the capital of the ancient state of Magadh. Lord Buddha spent many years in Rajgir and delivered some of his famous sermons here. This town is important for the Jain community, too, as Lord Mahavira is also said to have stayed in Rajgir. The travelogues of ancient Buddhist travelers Huen Tsang and Fa Hian also mention Rajgir. Vulture peak - Lord Buddha’s favorite retreat and Ajatshatru Fort are two important sites to visit in Rajgir.

At the end of the tour you will be driven back to Gaya and dropped off at your hotel.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities ( Optional

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Adult pricing applies to all travelers.

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Meeting point

We will pick up traveler from their hotels / fixed point within city center.

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

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