Bodh Gaya, located on the western bank of the Phalgu River in southern Bihar, was originally known as Uruwela, Sambodhi, and Vajrasana. Among all the popular tourist destinations in Bihar, the town of Bodh Gaya is well-known for being the home of the hallowed Bodhi tree, beneath which Gautama Buddha received enlightenment.
Best time to visit: Oct-Mar
Things to do: Explore the Pilgrim Sites, Go Souvenir Shopping, Admire the Scenic Views, Wander the Place
Travel Cost : Approx. $130 - $250 /Person | 2 Days-3 Nights | 2-3 star Hotel
How to Reach Bodh Gaya
Flight -
Gaya has the closest domestic airport. Nonetheless, a lot of visitors prefer to fly into Patna, which is about 110 km from Bodh Gaya. Daily flights from important cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, etc. land at the airport in Patna.
Road -
If you enjoy long drives, you can take a private bus or a luxury taxi from Patna to the sacred Buddhist site. Nonetheless, connecting routes from adjacent states and areas are also accessible.
Rail -
The nearest railway station is at Gaya, just 17kms away from the sacred place.
How to Get Around
Auto -
Third-wheelers are easily accessible and pocket-friendly.
Taxi -
Book a cab or hitchhike a taxi- travel at your own convenience.
Local Buses -
There are local buses available for you to wander around.
What to do in Bodh Gaya
Traditional Food
The main sweets here are Enursa, Tilkut, Khaja, Lai and Kesariya peda. Other Bihari dishes like Sattu ka roti, Litti-chokha, Pua, Marua ka roti, Chana Bhuja, Aaloo Kachalu etc. are also easily available here.
Chana Bhuja
Chaula Bara
Sattu ka rotti
Litti-chokha
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary to book prior before visiting Bodh Gaya
There is normally every day access to the main Buddhist sites and one will not need to book in advance However it is advisable to book for a place to stay beforehand especially during the times of the year that sees a lot of pilgrims
When is it most suitable to visit Bodh Gaya
It is however advisable to visit during October to March
Is there a certain dress code in the temples in Bodh Gaya
Modest clothing is recommended Except for some special places there are no specific rules but it is courteous to dress modestly the upper part of the body and the lower part in particular should be covered
What is the most suitable means of transport to reach Bodh Gaya
The Bodh Gaya is located in Bihar and it can be reached through air rail and road transport There is Gaya airport which is about 7 kilometers away Gaya is also served by railway where buses and taxis are available from Patna which is about 110km away
Are there hotels and guest houses in Bodh Gaya
Well Yes there are plenty of options when it comes to accommodation in Bodh Gaya: starting with cheap guest-houses and ending with more comfortable hotels The majority of them are situated close to the main shrines and temples
Which places are tourist attractions in Bodh Gaya
Some of the famous tourist places are Mahabodhi Temple Bodhi tree Great Buddha statue monasteries and meditation centres among others