bodh gaya tourism mahabodhi temple

Bodh Gaya Tourism

• Mahabodhi Temple
• Great Buddha Statue
• Thai Monastery
• Royal Bhutan Monastery
• Tibetan Refugee Market
• Muchalinda Lake
• Sujata Garh
• Vietnamese Temple
• Archaeological Museum Bodh Gaya
• View all 15 places
• Things to do
• Best time to visit
• How to Reach
• Tourist Map
• within 25kms
• within 50kms
• within 100kms
• within 150kms
• within 200kms
• within 250kms
• within 300kms
• within 500kms

Explore Places to Visit Near Bodh Gaya by Type

Other Suggested Reads for Bodh Gaya

• Places To Visit in Bodh Gaya
• Things to do in Bodh Gaya
• How to Reach Bodh Gaya
• Best time to Visit in Bodh Gaya
• Bodh Gaya Tourism History
• Food in Bodh Gaya
• FAQS about Bodh Gaya
• Bodh Gaya Tourist Map

• Destinations
• Hotels & Homestays
• Food & Drink
• People & Culture
• Mindful Travel
• Readers' Travel Awards
• Escape to Rajasthan
• READERS TRAVEL AWARDS
• #LOVEGREATBRITAIN
• TAJ SAFARIS
• BOUTIQUE HOTELS
• CNT TOP RESTAURANT AWARDS
• DESTINATION WEDDING GUIDE
• DON’T TRAVEL WITHOUT IT
• #UNDISCOVERAUSTRALIA
• ESSENTIALLY RAJASTHAN

A Buddhist trail in Bodh Gaya: What to see, do and eat in the holy city

Centuries ago, the young Shakya prince Siddhartha Gautama meditated under a peepal tree in Bihar for over 40 days and attained enlightenment as the Buddha. Buddhism was born under this peepal tree in the quiet town of Bodh Gaya, and the city is now one of the holiest sites in the world for Buddhists.

As devotees arrived from across India and Buddhist countries like Vietnam , Thailand , Myanmar , Korea , China and Japan , Bodh Gaya evolved into an important pilgrimage centre and tourist site, buzzing with cafes, restaurants and shops alongside holy sites.

Winter is the peak tourist season. Seasonal cafes spring up, serving Tibetan, Thai and Burmese food. Roadside vendors appear, selling Buddha idols, Tibetan thangkas and prayer beads.

Despite the scorching summer, Bodh Gaya is at its busiest on Buddha Purnima , when thousands of people descend on the town to celebrate the birth of Buddhal. This year, Buddha Purnima falls on 23 May, and will see grand processions and ceremonial prayers. Bhante Dinanath Bhikhu, a monk at the Mahabodhi temple, estimates the arrival of 15,000 people in Bodh Gaya for the festival this year.

Here’s a handy guide on what to see, do and eat in Bodh Gaya:

What to see

The mahabodhi temple complex.

At the site of the Buddha’s meditation, Emperor Ashoka built a shrine in the 3rd century BC. This is now the location of the Mahabodhi Temple Complex, a vast site with a grand Gupta-era brick temple dating to the 5th or 6th century, surrounded by stupas, paths for circumambulation and a meditation park. The sprawling Bodhi tree is, perhaps, the most significant site for pilgrims, and is believed to be a fifth-generation descendant of the original peepal under which Buddha meditated. Explore the complex to see other trees, shrines and lakes where Buddha meditated.

During winter, the temple premises are filled with the chanting of monks draped in yellow and maroon. Thousands of marigolds adorn the complex, later recycled to make incense sticks.

(5am-9pm daily, free entry, no cell phones allowed, free lockers available, cameras allowed with payment of Rs 100, only EVs allowed near the complex, car parking near Kalachakra ground, 600m away)

The Buddhist temple and monastery trail

In the absence of a Buddhist doctrine, Buddhism evolved into different schools across Asia. As monks and devotees from around the world began to visit Bodh Gaya, the countries they came from built monasteries to house them in. Today, Bodh Gaya is a microcosm of Buddhism across the continent, with Buddhist shrines built in varying architectural styles spread in a vast area around the Mahabodhi Temple.

The sprawling Wat Thai Buddhagaya Temple was built in 1956 to mark 2500 years of Buddhism and strengthen Indo-Thai ties. Its traditional red roof and gold frescoes are in sharp contrast to the modern, stainless steel Metta Buddharam temple in a metallic silver hue.

The ornate Tibetan monasteries of Gaden Phelgayling and Karma Tharjay Chokhorling Kagyupa Vajrayana are filled with intricate thangka paintings. The Royal Bhutan Monastery has red and gold interiors and impressive clay carvings on the inside walls. The Chinese Temple has three idols of the Golden Buddha. The Vietnamese Temple’s Avalokiteswara statue and the Burmese Vihara Monastery ’s intricately carved gold and cream exterior, dating back to 1936, are worth a visit.

Carved in wood and designed like a Japanese pagoda, the Indosan Nipponji Japanese temple stands apart for its minimalist style, a perfect spot for meditation.

(Some temples close from 12-2pm)

The Great Buddha Statue (7am-5:30 pm) is an 80-foot behemoth in chunar sandstone, set in a garden full of trees and sculptures. A 2.5 km drive through lush fields in Bakraur takes you to the Sujata Stupa (6am-5pm) , the brick stupa of the milkmaid Sujata who fed kheer to a famished Buddha, ending his penance.

For a lesson in history, the Archaeological Museum (9am-5pm, closed Friday) houses sculptures and artefacts, the prime attraction being the original remains of the stone railings which once enclosed the sacred Bodhi tree. The new pink sandstone Mahabodhi Cultural Centre hosts cultural events and conventions.

Meditation and learning

In Bodh Gaya, meditation is the order of the day. Spend some quiet time at the Mahabodhi Sadhna Udyan in the temple complex. There are 10-day residential Vipassana meditation courses at the Dhamma Bodhi Vipassana Meditation Centre and Uruvela Forest Meditation Vihara in Dungeshwari ( 1-10 of every month from July to March, Rs 100/day) . Residential programmes for yoga, meditation and Tibetan language are held at the Root Institute for Wisdom Culture .

Festivals in Bodh Gaya

Bodh Gaya’s biggest festival is Buddha Purnima . At dawn, a procession departs from the Great Buddha Statue, accompanied by monks chanting, drums, Buddhist flags and idols. It culminates at the Mahabodhi temple complex, for prayers under the sacred Bodhi tree.

From October to February, monk groups arrive from across Asian Buddhist countries. They are allotted slots for a week or ten days for group chanting and prayers. The Tripitika chanting - a tradition of chanting Buddha's teachings at the place of his enlightenment - takes place from 2-12 December. There’s also the Buddha Mahotsav cultural festival in January, and the Dalai Lama’s discourses, usually held in December.

Where to eat

During winter, several roadside stalls spring up serving local dishes like litti chokha as well as Tibetan and Chinese food .

Old favourites like Sujata restaurant, with its extensive multi-cuisine menu, and the vegetarian Nirvana café are tried and tested options. Ram Sewak Restaurant is a fifty-year-old establishment serving a home-style vegetarian thali with dal, rice and sabzi at Rs 80.

For four months in the winter, a Tibetan family operates the Tibet Om Café , serving thenthuk , momos, glass noodles, and butter tea in cosy interiors lined with thangkas and prayer flags. A favourite with the monks, Loyag Rooftop Restaurant serves Tibetan, Nepali and Chinese staples along with Korean dishes like gimbap , Korean corn dogs and kimchi. Owner Tenzin Kalden also recommends his Bhutanese father's ema datshi - a spicy cheese and chilly dish.

Fujia Green offers a smattering of Indian, Chinese, Tibetan, Thai, and Japanese food . Mohammad Restaurant is popular for its winter bakery, dishing out delectable cakes baked by a visiting Korean lady.

For good coffee, head to Bodhi Brews & Restro and The French Oven. Be Happy Café has a chilled out vibe and an excellent bakery and pizzeria.

After Covid, the food scene in Bodh Gaya perked up as local youth returned to open cafes. Babloo Singh’s Shyam Café is popular for Italian and Continental cuisine, Niranjan Kumar’s AM 2 PM does brisk service in North Indian food and Rakesh Kumar’s Bodhi Chai Kulhad Special is the best place for a quick streetside masala chai fix.

Top Hotel Collections

Bodh Gaya Travel Essentials

Ideal duration: 1-3 days

Best Time: October to March Read More

Planning a Trip? Ask Your Question

"Buddha, Mahabodhi Tree and the land of Nirvana"

Bodh gaya tourism.

Bodh Gaya is a Buddhist pilgrimage site in Gaya District of Bihar. Famous for the Mahabodhi Temple, It was here under the Bodhi tree that Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment.

It is now one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and a lot of foreign countries, including Japan and China, have helped the Indian government in building facilities for the Buddhist pilgrims. The place is bustling with pilgrims all through the year from India and abroad who come to pay their homage in monasteries, temples and remnants of Bodhi Tree. Located near the river Neranjana, Bodh Gaya was earlier known as Uruwela. It was also known as Sambodhi, Vajrasana or Mahabodhi until the 18th century CE. It is one of the four important Buddhist sites that include: Kushinagar, Lumbini and Sarnath.

Places To Visit In Bodh Gaya

Mahabodhi Temple

Great Buddha Statue

Tibetan Refugee Market

Bodhi Tree, Bodh Gaya

Thai Monastery

Mahabodhi Temple Complex Book store

Bodh Gaya Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

Buddha Trail 7N Tour Package

Complete varanasi & bodh gaya tour package, pilgrimage special package: varanasi, bodh gaya, allahabad, buddhist pilgrimage tour: varanasi & bodhgaya, serinity of varanasi & bodh gaya, enthralling varanasi, bodh gaya & patna, top hotels in bodh gaya.

9.1 (117 reviews)

₽ 1,774 onwards

9.8 (38 reviews)

₽ 554 onwards

9.4 (46 reviews)

₽ 879 onwards

8.4 (186 reviews)

₽ 3,096 onwards

8.4 (49 reviews)

₽ 3,107 onwards

9.3 (82 reviews)

More on Bodh Gaya Travel

History of bodh gaya, the city of enlightenment, restaurants and local food in bodh gaya, suggested itinerary for bodh gaya, best time to visit bodh gaya, top stories about bodh gaya tourism.

Buddha Purnima 2023 - Celebration of Buddha's Birthday

Nearby Places

How to Reach Bodh Gaya

How to reach overview, how to reach bodh gaya by flight, how to reach bodh gaya by road, how to reach bodh gaya by train, local transport in bodh gaya, browse package collections, nearby destinations for packages, browse hotel collections, with specific facilities.

Resorts In Bodh Gaya

Bodh Gaya Photos

+ 18 photos

How To Reach Bodh Gaya

Faqs on bodh gaya, how much does a package cost for bodh gaya, what are the places near bodh gaya, what are the things to do in bodh gaya, what is the best way to reach bodh gaya, what is the local food in bodh gaya, what is the best time to visit bodh gaya, who should visit bodh gaya, what is not so good about bodh gaya, what is famous about bodh gaya, have a question on bodh gaya.

Popular Questions And Answers on Bodh Gaya

Q. I want to spend some time meditating in some Buddhist monastery in Bodh Gaya. How do I go about it?

Shashwat Kant

Bodh Gaya Reviews

Shashank Aditya

Sachin kumar

Brahmani Keni

Similar Places

Get the best offers on Travel Packages

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

Skip to main content

• Select your language English हिंदी

Social Share

The mahabodhi temple complex, bodh gaya.

• From UNESCO

The Mahabodhi Temple Complex is one of the four holy sites related to the life of the Lord Buddha, and particularly to the attainment of Enlightenment. The first temple was built by Emperor Asoka in the 3rd century B.C., and the present temple dates from the 5th or 6th centuries. It is one of the earliest Buddhist temples built entirely in brick, still standing in India, from the late Gupta period.

Outstanding Universal Value

Brief synthesis 

The Mahabodhi Temple Complex, Bodh Gaya lies 115 km south of the state capital of Bihar, Patna and 16 km from the district headquarters at Gaya, in Eastern India. It is one of the four holy sites related to the life of the Lord Buddha, and particularly to the attainment of Enlightenment. The property encompasses the greatest remains of the 5th-6th century A.D in the Indian sub-continent belonging to this period of antiquity. The property has a total area of 4.8600 ha.

The Mahabodhi Temple Complex is the first temple built by Emperor Asoka in the 3rd century B.C., and the present temple dates from the 5th–6th centuries. It is one of the earliest Buddhist temples built entirely in brick, still standing, from the late Gupta period and it is considered to have had significant influence in the development of brick architecture over the centuries.

The present Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya comprises the 50 m high grand Temple, the Vajrasana, sacred Bodhi Tree and other six sacred sites of Buddha's enlightenment, surrounded by numerous ancient Votive stupas, well maintained and protected by inner, middle and outer circular boundaries. A seventh sacred place, the Lotus Pond, is located outside the enclosure to the south. Both the temple area and the Lotus Pond are surrounded by circulating passages at two or three levels and the area of the ensemble is 5 m below the level of the surrounding land.

It is also a unique property of archaeological significance in respect of the events associated with the time Lord Buddha spent there, as well as documenting the evolving worship, particularly since the 3rd century, when Emperor Asoka built the first temple, the balustrades and the memorial column and the subsequent evolution of the ancient city with the building of sanctuaries and monasteries by foreign kings over the centuries.

The Main Temple wall has an average height of 11 m and it is built in the classical style of Indian temple architecture. It has entrances from the east and from the north and has a low basement with mouldings decorated with honeysuckle and geese design. Above this is a series of niches containing images of the Buddha. Further above there are mouldings and chaitya niches, and then the curvilinear shikhara or tower of the temple surmounted by amalaka and kalasha (architectural features in the tradition of Indian temples). At the four corners of the parapet of the temple are four statues of the Buddha in small shrine chambers. A small tower is built above each of these shrines. The temple faces east and consists of a small forecourt in the east with niches on either side containing statues of the Buddha. A doorway leads into a small hall, beyond which lies the sanctum, which contains a gilded statue of the seated Buddha (over 5ft high) holding earth as witness to his achieved Enlightenment. Above the sanctum is the main hall with a shrine containing a statue of Buddha, where senior monks gather to meditate.

From the east, a flight of steps leads down through a long central path to the main temple and the surrounding area. Along this path there are significant places associated with events that immediately followed the Buddha’s Enlightment, together with votive stupas and shrines.

The most important of the sacred places is the giant Bodhi Tree, to the west of the main temple, a supposed direct descendant of the original Bodhi Tree under which Buddha spent his First Week and had his enlightment. To the north of the central path, on a raised area, is the Animeshlochan Chaitya (prayer hall) where Buddha is believed to have spent the Second Week. Buddha spent the Third Week walking eighteen paces back and forth in an area called Ratnachakrama (the Jewelled Ambulatory), which lies near the north wall of the main temple. Raised stone lotuses carved on a platform mark his steps. The spot where he spent the Fourth Week is Ratnaghar Chaitya, located to the north-east near the enclosure wall. Immediately after the steps of the east entrance on the central path there is a pillar which marks the site of the Ajapala Nigrodh Tree, under which Buddha meditated during his Fifth Week, answering the queries of Brahmans. He spent the Sixth Week next to the Lotus Pond to the south of the enclosure, and the Seventh Week was spent under the Rajyatana Tree, to the south-east of the main temple, currently marked by a tree.

Next to the Bodhi Tree there is a platform attached to the main temple made of polished sandstone known as Vajrasana (the Diamond Throne), originally installed by Emperor Asoka to mark the spot where Buddha sat and meditated. A sandstone balustrade once encircled this site under the Bodhi Tree, but only a few of the original pillars of the balustrade are still in situ; they contain carvings of sculpted human faces, animals, and decorative details. Further up the central path towards the main temple to the south is a small shrine with a standing Buddha in the back and with the footprints (Padas) of the Buddha carved on black stone, dating from the 3rd century BC when Emperor Asoka declared Buddhism to be the official religion of the state and installed thousands of such footprint stones all over his kingdom. The gateway to the Temple, which is on the central path, was also originally built by this Emperor, but was later rebuilt. Further on the path towards the main temple is a building housing several statues of Buddha and Bodhisattvas. Opposite is a memorial to a Hindu Mahant who had lived on this site during the 15th and 16th centuries. To the south of the pathway is a cluster of votive stupas built by kings, princes, noblemen and lay people. They vary in shape and size, from the simplest to the most sumptuous ones.

In the context of philosophical and cultural history, Mahabodhi Temple Complex is of great relevance as it marks the most important event in the life of Lord Buddha, the moment when Prince Siddhartha attained Enlightenment and became Buddha, an event that shaped human thought and belief. This property is now revered as the holiest place of Buddhist pilgrimage in the world and is considered the cradle of Buddhism in the history of mankind.

Criterion (i): The grand 50m high Mahabodhi Temple of the 5th-6th centuries is of immense importance, being one of the earliest temple constructions existing in the Indian sub-continent. It is one of the few representations of the architectural genius of the Indian people in constructing fully developed brick temples in that era

Criterion (ii): The Mahabodhi Temple, one of the few surviving examples of early brick structures in India, has had significant influence in the development of architecture over the centuries.

Criterion (iii): The site of the Mahabodhi Temple provides exceptional records for the events associated with the life of Buddha and subsequent worship, particularly since Emperor Asoka built the first temple, the balustrades, and the memorial column.

Criterion (iv): The present Temple is one of the earliest and most imposing structures built entirely in brick from the late Gupta period. The sculpted stone balustrades are an outstanding early example of sculptural reliefs in stone.

Criterion (vi): The Mahabodhi Temple Complex in Bodh Gaya has direct association with the life of the Lord Buddha, being the place where He attained the supreme and perfect insight.

The inscribed property contains all the attributes necessary to convey its outstanding universal value. The historical evidences and texts reveal that the parts of present Temple Complex date from different periods. The main Temple, the Vajrasana, the seat of Buddha's enlightenment was preserved by Emperor Asoka and the Bodhi Tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment witnessed through the ages, the site's glory, decline and revival since middle of 19th century A.D onwards is unchanged and complete.

The main part of the temple is recorded from about the 5th - 6th century A.D. But, it has undergone various repairs and renovation works since then. Having suffered from long abandonment (13th -18th century A.D) it was extensively restored in the 19th century, A.D and more works were carried out in the second half of the 20th century A.D. Nevertheless, the temple is considered to be the oldest and best preserved example of brick architecture in India from this particular period. Even though the structure has suffered from neglect and repairs in various periods, it has retained its essential features intact.

Authenticity

The belief that Buddha had attained Enlightenment in this particular place has been confirmed by tradition and is now called Bodh Gaya, this is of supreme value to the world. It has been documented since the time of Emperor Asoka who built the first temple in 260 BCE when he came to this place to worship the Bodhi Tree, which still stands as witness to the event, along with the attributes of the property (the Vajrasana, etc). Buddhist texts of both Theravadhan and Mahayanan traditions have clear reference of this event of Buddha's enlightenment at Bodh Gaya. Buddhists from all over the world today venerate Bodh Gaya as the holiest place of Buddhist pilgrimage in the world. This confirms the use, function, location and setting of the complex/property.

The outstanding universal value of the property is truthfully expressed through the attributes present today. The architecture of the Temple has remained essentially unaltered and follows the original form and design.

The Mahabodhi Temple Complex has continuous visitation by pilgrims from all over the world to offer prayers, perform religious ceremonies and meditate.

Requirements for protection and management

The Mahabodhi Temple Complex is the property of the State Government of Bihar. On the basis of the Bodh Gaya Temple Act of 1949, the State Government is responsible for the management and protection of the property through Bodhgaya Temple Management Committee (BTMC) and Advisory Board. The Committee meets once in every three or four months and reviews the progress and position of the maintenance and conservation works of the property and also manages the flow of pilgrims and tourists visit. The Committee is equipped with 85 regular staff members and over 45 casual workers to attend to the Temple duty as office staff, security guards, gardeners and sweepers. Further consideration is still warranted on the possible designation of the property under national legislation to ensure the protection of its outstanding universal value as well as its authenticity and integrity of the property. Given the significant development pressures in the broader urban and rural setting, the definition of an appropriate buffer zone and the establishment of regulations for its protection is a priority. Options, such as extending the property to include related sites, need to be explored to ensure the conservation of the setting and landscape of the property associated with the life and wanderings of Buddha. The protection of these elements is particularly relevant to sustaining the religious character of the property that substantiates criterion (vi).

All developmental activities within the premises of this World Heritage property and at Bodhgaya are guided by the rules and regulations of the Site Management Plan framed by the Government of Bihar. All conservation / restoration works relating to the Temple Complex are taken up under the expert guidance of Archaeological Survey of India. The main source of finance for the property is through the donation from Devotees. The sustained operation of the management system allows for the Temple Complex to be well maintained and flow of visitors managed adequately.

As the site is being visited by pilgrims/tourists (national/international) in large numbers, a need to develop infrastructure and public amenities is anticipated. Proposals will need to be preceded by Heritage Impact Assessments and a particular challenge will be to continuously monitor the impact that potential developments of the area as a whole, including the town, may have on the religious and spiritual significance of the place.

The Bodhgaya Temple Management Committee also seeks to undertake a sustainable approach to the maintenance of the property for example utilization of solar energy, pollution free environment, etc.

The Mahabodhi temple complex is located in Bodh Gaya, in the state of Bihar. It marks the place where Buddha attained enlightenment. Emperor Ashoka built a temple here in the 3rd century B.C. After this, over the next few centuries, the site saw new and additional constructions as well as enlargements of the pre-existing ones. Within the temple complex is the Bodhi tree under which, it is said, the Buddha attained enlightenment. The tree we see today is a descendant of the original tree. The place was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the year 2002. 

Shakyamuni Buddha was a prince of the Shakya tribe. He lived a life of luxury in the palace but was disturbed by the suffering and poverty that he saw outside the palace. Seeking to understand the truth about life he left home and at first lived as a wanderer, and later as a hermit. However, he was unconvinced that man could find liberation from sorrow by self-discipline and knowledge. He performed very severe penance as an ascetic but did not find the truth that he was seeking. Then he arrived at Gaya and sat beneath a Bodhi or pipal tree (ficus religiosa). After continuously sitting here for many days, he found what he was seeking and emerged as the ‘Enlightened One’ or the ‘Buddha’.  

The sanctum of the temple houses a gilded statue of Buddha. It is over 5ft high and depicts Buddha is a seated position in the Bhumisparsh mudra or the ‘earth-touching posture’. This particular posture is related to the event when Buddha had to make the earth a witness to his Enlightenment. It is said that while sitting under the pipal tree, he was tempted and distracted by Mara, the spirit of the sensual world. Mara tried various methods to disturb Buddha. He even made his daughters, named ‘Desire’, ‘Pleasure’ and ‘Passion’, tempt Buddha. Seeing Buddha unmoved, Mara asked for evidence of his goodness. It was then that Buddha touched the earth with his hand and the latter spoke and said, “I am his witness”.

After Ashoka, royal patronage continued and Bodh Gaya witnessed continuous construction activities. The powerful and prosperous kingdom of Magadha provided a stable socio-political climate which helped in the growth and development of art and the expansion of the Buddhist faith. This culminated in the golden age of the Gupta kings. It was they who built in the 5th-6th century A.D the present temple at Bodh Gaya, which has the distinction of being one of the earliest brick structures of India. The style of art and architecture which is seen here is also to be found in other Buddhist sites, especially at Barhut and Sanchi.

After attaining enlightenment, Buddha spent the next few weeks at Bodh Gaya.   All the places in the close vicinity of the Bodhi tree, where the Master set his foot, became sacred and were marked with various structures. These are a part of the Mahabodhi temple complex. The temple is one of the most sacred places of pilgrimage for Buddhists from all over the world, as it is here that the Buddhist Dharma was born. 

© query_squidier

Author: query_squidier

Indian Institute of Technology Bombay

• Phone . [email protected]
• Email . +54 356 945234

The Indian Culture Portal is a part of the National Virtual Library of India project, funded by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. The portal has been created and developed by the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay. Data has been provided by organisations of the Ministry of Culture.

Email Id : [email protected]

• 1 Understand
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.3 By train
• 3.2 By foot
• 8.2 Alcohol
• 9.1 Monasteries
• 9.3 Mid-range
• 9.4 Splurge
• 10.1 Internet
• 11.1 Temples
• 11.2 Sacred cow doctrine
• 11.3 Beggars

<a href=\"https://tools.wmflabs.org/wikivoyage/w/poi2gpx.php?print=gpx&amp;lang=en&amp;name=Bodh_Gaya\" title=\"Download GPX file for this article\" data-parsoid=\"{}\"><img alt=\"Download GPX file for this article\" resource=\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" src=\"//upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f7/GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" decoding=\"async\" data-file-width=\"20\" data-file-height=\"20\" data-file-type=\"bitmap\" height=\"20\" width=\"20\" class=\"mw-file-element\" data-parsoid='{\"a\":{\"resource\":\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\",\"height\":\"20\",\"width\":\"20\"},\"sa\":{\"resource\":\"File:GPX Document rev3-20x20.png\"}}'/></a></span>"}'/> Bodh Gaya [ dead link ] is a town in the state of Bihar . It was the site of the Buddha Shakyamuni's enlightenment, and is the most revered of all Buddhist sacred sites and is part of the Buddhist Circuit .

The main temple complex houses the famous Mahabodhi temple/stupa and a descendant of the original Bodhi Tree under which the Buddha gained enlightenment. There are also temples or monasteries from many other nations with a Buddhist tradition such as Thailand , Tibet and Japan .

The town is a popular spot for tourists from across the Buddhist world. Consequently, a large tourist industry has sprung up along with huge numbers of unscrupulous hustlers, scammers, and beggars, but strict security ensures that that those who indulge in these activities do not disturb the atmosphere inside the stupa compound.

The man who became the Buddha was born in Lumbini , now in Nepal. He was the son of the local ruler, raised in some luxury and well-educated by the standards of the place and time. As a young man he became a seeker of knowledge, giving up luxuries, travelling a good deal, and learning from several teachers. Bodh Gaya is where he achieved enlightenment while meditating under a tree.

The nearest airport is at Gaya (10   km) - Druk Air flies from Paro once a week from November to March. Thai Airways flies to Gaya daily. Air India flies from several destinations including Kolkata and Delhi .

Alternatively, you may take a flight to Patna Airport (110   km away) and take a train or a taxi to Bodh Gaya as Patna has multiple daily direct flights to Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai.

The road from Patna to Bodh Gaya is very rough and narrow, making the three-hour journey feel much longer.

The nearest railway station is Gaya, 16   km away. From there you can take a bus or a three-wheel taxi (rickshaw) to Bodh Gaya. Rickshaw prices are variable, but the going rate was ₹20 for shared ride or ₹150 for entire rickshaw no matter what time of the day in April 2015. There is rarely a shortage of rickshaws.

The train from Patna to Gaya costs ₹25 for passenger train and ₹50 for express non-reserved seat. The fastest express trains in the early morning take about two and half hours and slow passenger trains take about four hours, which is still comparable to buses. Trains leave one to two hour interval.

Best train travel from Kolkata is about 8 hours; from Delhi, about 15 hours (2nd class air con costs ₹161 - book upstairs at Gaya station then pay downstairs at window 29).

The Bodh Gaya train booking office is located opposite the Bank of India (just past the Thai Temple - about 1km from the centre of town)

• Bihar State Tourist Development Corporation , ☏ +91 612 225411 . runs seasonal deluxe bus services to and from Patna.  

Departing from:

• Kolkata . Daily 4:30 (Sri Ram Travels - non-A/C sleeper), 5PM (Maharani Express - A/C sleeper), 7PM Bengal Tiger - A/C sleeper). Respectively, ₹450, ₹650, ₹1,100. 11-12 hours.
• Siliguri . Daily, 3PM from Siliguri Bus Station (Jay Jagdambey Bus Company - A/C sleeper). ₹699. Approx 17 hours. .

Private buses leave in the morning from Varanasi , Nalanda , and Rajgir . In addition, from November to March, special services ply the route from Phuentsholing through Siliguri .

By far the most convenient way to get around Bodh Gaya are the auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and tourist taxis. As always, make sure to bargain and agree on a price before setting out on the trip. The costs are usually quite low; a few rupees will likely get you most places in the city.

Bodh Gaya is very walkable. Most of the major destinations and are within 2 km (about a half-hour walk) from the Mahabdohi Temple complex. There are lots of pilgrims visiting for much of the year, so the streets will have people in them.

Most temples open from 6AM to sunset and close between noon and 2PM.

• Bodhi Tree : During the first week, the Buddha remained under the Bodhi tree. A descendant of this tree can be seen on the western side of the temple today.
• Animeshlocha Stupa : During the second week, the Buddha sat in a spot and stared at the Bodhi tree. This spot is now the Animeshlocha Stupa , or "unblinking stupa," where a statue of Buddha sits staring at the tree in the northern part of the temple.
• Ratnachakrama : During the third week, the Buddha paced back and forth between the tree and the stupa. This path is marked by the Ratnachakrama (Jewelled Ambulatory), which is near the north wall of the main temple. Lotuses sprang up from where he walked, and today, there are raised stone lotuses marking his steps.
• Ratnaghar Chaitya : This is the spot where Buddha spent the fourth week, to the northeastern part of the temple.
• Ajapala Nigrodh Pillar : The Buddha spent the fifth week meditating and answering the questions of the Brahmans under the Ajapala Nigrodh tree, a spot which is commemorated with a large pillar, on the central path past the east entrance.
• Lotus Pond : The Buddha spent the sixth week next to the Lotus Pond, to the south of the main complex.
• Rajyatana Tree : The seventh and final week was spent under the Rajyatana Tree, whose spot is marked in the southeastern corner of the temple with an actual tree.
• 24.694868 84.987522 2 Archaeological Museum ( Oppos. Jaiprakash Park ). Sa-Th . ₹10 .  
• 24.697134 84.991138 3 Bodhgaya Multimedia Museum ( next to the Mahabodhi Temple ), ☏ +91 99778545 . Open daily . Museum provides the historical and geographical context for the life of Buddha through a set of multimedia films and 3D animation movie.  
• Gandhen Phelgye Ling Monastery ( Namgyal Monastery, Bodh Gaya ). A monastery with close ties to the Dalai Lama.  

• 24.690545 84.98181 4 The Great Buddha Statue ( The 80-foot Buddha Statue ), Great Buddha Statue Road, Bodh Gaya , ☏ +91 631-2200-747 , fax : +91 631-2200-407 , [email protected] . 7AM-noon, 2-6PM (5:30PM in winter) . This statue is also called the "80-foot Buddha Statue" due to its impressive 25-metre height. Constructed by the nearby Daijokyo Buddhist Temple in 1989, the spectacular statue attracts pilgrims and tourists alike. Note: the contact information is for the Daijokyo Temple, which operates the statue.  
• 24.691141 84.984209 5 Japanese Temple ( Indosan Nipponji ), Temple Road , ☏ +91 2200743 . 5AM-noon, 2-6PM . A beautiful temple with a calm garden. Great place to meditate.  
• Karma Dhargye Chokhorling Monastery . Beru Khyentse Rinpoche  
• Phowa Center . Choeje Ayang Rinpoche  
• 24.696384 84.987211 6 Taiwanese Temple ( World Changhwa Buddhist Sangha ). A peaceful temple that also serves as a great example of Chinese architecture. A short walk from Mahabodhi.  
• Tergar Monastery . Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche  
• 24.694171 84.98499 7 Thai Monastery , Mastipur , ☏ +91 99312 79251 .  

Bodh Gaya is essentially a pilgrimage destination for Buddhists and all of its main attractions are related to this. The subsidiary tourist industry that has grown up around it (shopping, eating, and accommodation) is not really the main attraction. However, there are a number of shops in the main town that specialize in cheap souvenirs that are specific to Bodh Gaya, which may be of interest to some pilgrims.

The main activity for pilgrims is to circumambulate the stupa and to practice meditation under the bodhi tree. Non-Buddhists may just savour the peaceful and refined atmosphere in and around the stupa. The lighting that was installed in 2020 has brought an especially warm and serene ambience to the main site, making the evening a good time to time to walk around the stupa or to just sit quietly under the tree.

• Kagyu Monlam Chenmo . In late December and early January (it corresponds to the fourth through eleventh days of the first month on the Tibetan calendar), a large prayer festival (Monlam) takes place. ( updated Jun 2015 )
• Nyingma Monlam Chenmo . Prayer festival, January/February ( updated Jun 2015 )
• Siddhartha Festival . A bi-annual event held in October or November, The festival aims to celebrate the life and teachings of the Buddha. Conducted under the auspices of Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche. ( updated Nov 2018 )

While there is plenty to learn from just walking around in Bodh Gaya, there are some institutions that offer instruction specifically geared toward travellers and pilgrims.

• 24.692596 84.976058 1 Root Institute , ☏ +91 631 220 0714 . Office hours: 8:30-11:30AM, 1:30-4:30PM . The Root Institute is a Buddhist spiritual institute which offers courses for travellers wishing to learn more about Mahayana Buddhism as well as the culture and wisdom of India. Courses last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks and a list of the dates they offer courses can be found here .  

Many restaurants and cafes are seasonal, and so from the beginning of April untito the end of September many of the places listed will be closed.

• 24.698728 84.993681 1 Bowl of Compassion Cafe , Bodhgaya ( Opposite the police station ). 10AM-11PM . Newly set-up restaurant serving delicious Indian and international cuisine, with connections to the nearby Bowl of Compassion NGO. Patrons can choose special "Compassion meals", where the extra money goes towards helping the poor of the Tikha Bigha Village. Volunteers welcome. ₹20-100 .  
• 24.697469 84.989674 2 Fujia Green ( a little out of the way around the south side of the sports oval ). The Japanese options are surprisingly good (although not authentic). Big portions. ₹30-120 .  
• 24.699757 84.989982 3 Hari Om Cafe , ☏ +92 72 50 956999 , [email protected] . Very cute cafe that offers a variety of food (they advertise themselves as offering "American (New), Chinese, Indian/Pakistani, Japanese and Thai"). Very inexpensive as well. Also offers free Wi-Fi. ( updated Jun 2015 )
• 24.697644 84.989717 4 Lotus Restaurant , ☏ +91 78 70 000034 . Next to Fujia Green restaurant. A nice place with a lot of Indian options. Fairly inexpensive. ( updated Jun 2015 )
• 24.696445 84.989726 5 Mahayama Restaurant , ☏ +91 631 220 0221 , [email protected] . Breakfast 6-11AM, lunch 11AM-3PM, dinner 5-11PM . A restaurant inside Hotel Mahayama (but open to non-guests). Offers good food and is extremely close to the temple complex (~2 minutes walking). ( updated Jun 2015 )
• 24.697857 84.987498 6 Mohammed's Restaurant , Birla Dharamshala Rd , ☏ +91 94312 89084 . Lovely restaurant with food options from a variety of countries. Good Wi-Fi and a fun atmosphere. ( updated Jun 2015 )
• 24.696405 84.987732 7 Samim Thai Restaurant , ☏ +91 88 04 623766 , [email protected] . Fairly good Thai food for very good prices. Not authentic Thai, but still pretty good. Very close to Mahabodhi Temple. ₹130-350 . ( updated Jun 2015 )
• 24.698561 84.990517 8 Tibet Om Cafe , Inside Namgyal Monastery court yard gate , ☏ +91 72779 40832 . Excellent pastries, specializes in Tibetan dishes. ₹30-100 .  
• 24.697896 84.988168 9 Be Happy Cafe , Kalachakra Ground ( Behind Namgyal Monastery - follow signs ), ☏ +91 87971 18390 . A cosy cafe run by a Canadian woman. The cafe specializes in thin crust pizzas, Italian pastas, sandwiches in thick bread, freshly made cakes, homemade granola for breakfast and a variety of coffees. Shaded terrace seating among flowers.  
• 24.697896 84.988168 10 Kirti Guesthouse Cafe , Main town , ☏ +91 631 220 0744 . A simple cafe with good coffee. Excellent breakfasts. Outdoor seating.  

While there are no alcohol outlets in Bodh Gaya, hotels and guesthouses serve beer (₹100-150), provided it is drunk indoors out of public view.

Monasteries

Monastery guest houses offer a cheap alternative to hotels, though guests are expected to adhere to their house rules. They do not charge fixed nightly rates, but instead accept donations (ask other guests for the going rate). There is a whole string of guesthouses just opposite the park from the Mahabodhi Temple. All pretty much the same well maintained with restaurants on the ground floor at around ₹200 a single. Another group of mostly simple guesthouses is north of Kalachakra Maidan.

• 24.692252 84.984417 1 Bhutan Monastery . Pleasant but basic single and family rooms, some with private bathroom  
• 24.70185 84.993303 2 Burmese Vihara , Gaya Road . Very basic accommodation. The Vihara exists mainly to cater to groups of Burmese pilgrims, but there are often rooms available for others. Rules are posted prominently. Food service is only for those arriving in groups, and by prior arrangement.  
• 24.696938 84.989912 3 Maha Bodhi Society of India ( Sri Lankan Temple ), Bodhgaya , ☏ +91 7484880598 , toll-free: +91 6312200742 , [email protected] . Check-in: noon , check-out: noon . Private rooms and dorms available. 5 min walk from Mahabodhi Temple. Clean and comfortable. Observe rules and respect for the temple. Join them for daily Puja sessions (40 min) in the morning and evening. ( updated Aug 2016 )
• Sakya Monastery Guesthouse , Mastipur Village (Near Bhutan Monastery) , ☏ +91 631 2200770 . Clean, simple, friendly, peaceful and calm environment.  
• 24.694598 84.982595 4 Siddhartha Vihar , Bihar Tourist Complex , ☏ +91 631 220-0445 . Simple, but comfortable rooms.  
• Shechen Guesthouse , Main town , ☏ +91 631 220 0650 . Cosy twin bed rooms. Some with shared bathroom. Others with private bathroom. Quiet and centrally located.  
• Taiwan Temple , ☏ +91 2200503 . A pleasant guesthouse in a convenient location. ( updated Nov 2018 )
• 24.70124 84.976995 5 Kundan Bazar Guest House , Bhagalpur Village ( near Old Vietnam Temple ), ☏ +91 6312200049 , [email protected] . Single rooms to full-service apartments, bike rentals, internet cafe, book, gift, and clothing shop, snooker bar, self-service kitchen, laundry facility, tour packages, and more  
• 24.700184 84.989897 6 Rahul Guesthouse ( Less than 100 m north of Kalachakra Maidan. ). Check-out: Noon . Amazingly clean rooms, with medium customer service. Some rooms have access to common balconies. Single from ₹200, Double from ₹250 .  
• 24.702063 84.994092 7 Rainbow Guesthouse , next to Burmese Vihara on Gaya Road , ☏ +91 94312 80810 . Basic rooms, are cleaned more thoroughly on request, friendly and reliable staff. ₹1000-1500 .  
• 24.696453 84.989447 8 Welcome Guest House , 2 mins walk from Tamplenear Mahabodhi Temple ( opp-jayprakash prak ), ☏ +91 631 2200377 , [email protected] . Check-out: Noon . Welcome Guest House offers cheap and pleasant rooms in the center of town.  
• 24.69311 84.985794 9 Hotel Sujata , Buddha Marg , ☏ +91 631 220 0481 , fax : +91 631 220-0511 , [email protected] . Clean environment and good restaurant. ₹5000-7200 .  
• Marasa Sarovar Premiere , Ward No 5, Newataur, Newtapu , ☏ +91 631 220 0222 , fax : +91 631 220-0181 . Stylish rooms. Outdoor swimming people.International restaurant. ₹6000-8500 .  
• 24.696425 84.973719 10 Royal Residency , Domuhan Road , ☏ +91 631 220-0124 , fax : +91 631 220-0181 . Comfortable rooms with Japanese style same-sex communal hot tub. Two-story building with acceptable quality and services. Dining facilities are good. ₹6000-8500 .  
• Sambodhi Retreat , Hathiyar , ☏ +91 74885 35210 , [email protected] . Spacious and elegant rooms. Individual cabins. Outdoor pool. International cuisine. Verdant garden. ₹14,000 plus .  

Many of the restaurants listed in the "Eat" section provide free WiFi.

As in many sacred places, you must take off your shoes before entering the inner parts of the main Mahabodhi Temple complex, as well as any of the monasteries around the area. In fact, due to this, it is recommend you wear sandals or shoes that are easy to slip on and off. A guideline more specific to Mahabodhi is to circumambulate the stupa and other sacred objects in a clock-wise direction. Although it should go without saying, do not climb onto statues, monuments and other sacred objects.

As it is a very religious town filled with pilgrims and monks, dressing modestly is a sign of respect. Loose-fitting clothing should suffice.

Sacred cow doctrine

As India is the home of the sacred cow doctrine, seeing cows wandering the streets of Bodh Gaya is not an uncommon sight. It is illegal to strike or otherwise offend cows, so refrain from doing this. Furthermore, be sure drivers of any rickshaws you are in are cautious, as hitting a cow with a vehicle is a very serious crime. Foreigners have been fined heavily for these offences.

For a non-Indian it is almost impossible to walk twenty meters in the streets without being accosted. Riksha- Wallahs and the hordes of beggars , particularly the groups of children sent to beg instead of going to school, are much more persistent than in other places.

• Deo , Bihar – Visit this place for a glimpse of Famous Sun Temple.
• Kolkata - The cultural capital of north east India. 11-13 hours by bus or train.
• Nalanda – This Buddhist university was established in 450CE. There are extensive ruins, but no inhabitants. Nalanda Museum is open 10AM-5PM daily except Friday. Shared jeeps plying the route between Rajgir and Bihar Sharif make a stop at the turnoff for Nalanda. Rickshaws and other vehicles are available from there to the main gate, a distance of 2   km. PWD operates a guest house near the gate.
• Patna - 130   km by road, deluxe buses for Patna available from BSTDC (enquiry phone No. +91 631 220 0672) Bodhgaya Hotel (7AM, 2PM daily). Local and express trains from Gaya Junction.
• Rajgir – The site of Gridhakuta (Vulture's Peak), where the Buddha stayed and gave teachings on the Mahayana (the second turning of the wheel), and Venuvana, the first Buddhist monastery. Rajgir is also an area known for its hot springs, which are open to the public. There are daily bus tours that depart from behind the Birla temple (close to Cafe OM) and cover Rajgir, Nalanda and around 10 to 12 other interesting sights on the way. These buses leave at around 8AM and return at 7PM. Be ready for a really bumpy ride, which is well worth the effort. Charges are surprisingly low. If you ask any travel agent within Bodh Gaya about this, they will most likely not tell you about this cheap option. It is preferable to book your tickets a day in advance, as at times there are large groups of pilgrims. If you want to venture out on your own, there is an option of changing buses at Bihar Sharif.
• Sarnath : Sarnath is another of the four main pilgrimage sites in Buddhism. It is a suburb of the holy city of Varanasi .
• Siliguri - One of India's most liberal cities. Gateway to Darjeeling , Sikkim , Bhutan , and North-East India Buses at 1PM (Jai-Jagdamba Travels) and 3PM (Sameer Travels). Journey takes around 17 hours.
• Varanasi - buses at 6AM (local bus - 7-8 hours) and 4PM (A/C bus - around 6 hours) - Jai-Jagdamba Travels.

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• UNESCO tag to be fixed
• Has custom banner
• Articles with dead external links
• Has map markers
• Has mapframe
• See listing with no coordinates
• Do listing with no coordinates
• Sleep listing with no coordinates
• All destination articles
• Has Geo parameter
• Usable cities
• Usable articles
• City articles
• Pages using the Kartographer extension

Navigation menu

Bodh Gaya: A Must Visit Destination For Every Traveler

• Post category: Education / General / News
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Religion, politics, myth, and history have traversed for centuries around a  village. These villages are on the banks of the Phalgu River. The small town is just south of Bihar’s capital Patna. This incredible location— Bodh Gaya —is the location of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha’s enlightenment, or “great awakening” (Sanskrit, Mahabodhi). 

Siddhartha Gautama, who left behind his princely life to wander and practise asceticism, sat in meditation under the Bodhi tree. Here, he overcame temptation in the shape of the demon Mara. He also set the wheels in motion to birth a major international religion—Buddhism.

The events of the Buddha’s life occurred about the fifth-century B.C.E… Bodh Gaya is also a famous pilgrimage town filled with ancient, mediaeval, and modern shrines, monasteries, temples, and hotels more than 2,500 years later. This hallowed Buddhist centre’s historical and archaeological record dates back to at least the 3rd-century B.C.E.

The Mahabodhi Temple Complex, located in the centre of historic Bodh Gaya , is bustling with shrines, monuments, and sculpted figures dating back over 2,000 years. In this article, we will also discuss three of the most significant monuments:

• The Bodhi tree is a type of Buddhist tree.
• The Vajrasana, or “Diamond Throne,” is a yoga posture.
• The Mahabodhi Temple is a Buddhist temple in India.

Table of Contents

History Of Bodh Gaya

In Buddhism, Bodh Gaya is the holiest location. It is on the bank of the Lilajan River. It was Uruwela during the Buddha’s time. King Ashoka constructed the first temple on the site.

Buddha is said to have been born in 563 BC on the auspicious Baisakhi Purnima. In 534 BC, at the age of 29, Siddhartha renounced his family and traveled and meditated in quest of truth as Siddhartha. After six years of meditation at Urubela (Buddhagaya) in Gaya, he left up self-mortification since it did not bring him Vimukthi. Then, without the assistance of anyone, he found and pursued the Noble Eightfold Path, and as a result, he reached Buddhatva or enlightenment.

Many inscriptions and pilgrimage records exist to document the history of Bodh Gaya . The narratives of Chinese pilgrims Faxian in the 5th century. And Xuanzang in the 7th century is famous. For decades, the region was the epicenter of Buddhist civilization. But After that, Turkic forces captured it in the 13th century.

Gautama Siddhartha’s disciples began to visit the site during the full moon in the Hindu calendar month of Vaisakh (April–May). Over time, the location became known as Bodh Gaya , the enlightenment day as Buddha Purnima, and the tree as the Bodhi Tree.

Top Places To Visit Bodh Gaya

1. mahabodhi temple.

The Mahabodhi Temple is one of India’s oldest and most prominent sanctuaries. Mahabodhi Mahavihara Temple is located in Bodh Gaya . It is easily accessible from all of Bihar’s major towns and cities. The nearest airport is Patna, which is 96 kilometers away from Gaya.

Bodh Gaya , often known as Gaya , is a holy town with its railway station. A network of highways connects the town to major cities as well. The Great Awakening Temple is the precise translation of the Mahabodhi Temple .

Many of the temple’s oldest sculptural pieces have been relocated to the temple’s museum. Also, some have been replace with copies, such as the carved stone railing wall around the main structure.

2. Bodhi Tree

The Bodhi Tree was a great and old sacred fig tree. The other names are the Bodhi Fig Tree or Bo Tree. It is supposed that Siddhartha Gautama, the spiritual teacher who became known as the Buddha. He acquired enlightenment or Bodhi under it around 500 BCE. The Bodhi Tree is in religious iconography by its heart-shaped leaves. They are generally prominently exhibited.

The Mahabodhi Tree in the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya , sometimes cited as a direct descendant of the original tree is the best example of an existent tree. This tree, established in 250 BCE, is a popular pilgrimage site. It is the most important of the four major Buddhist pilgrimage sites.

3. Great Buddha Statue

One of Bodh Gaya ‘s most famous landmarks is an 80-foot-high stone sculpture of Lord Buddha in a meditation stance. The statue was built in 1989 and had been attracting tourists to Bodh Gaya ever since. This temple is on the street with a few other temples on a tiny town’s corner, not far from the Mahabodhi Temple, and is a must-see for all.

Even though it is close to tourists, it was one of the few sites you can enjoy. You can walk around the circumference, marveling at the simple beauty of the Buddha and his follower’s statues from every angle.

You can come to see this Great Buddha, exclaim, wow, and then leave. It also give the opportunity to interact with others, chant, or meditate. You can also take a slow walk around and understand the meanings of various hand placements. This Buddha has a lot of energy.

4. Thai Monastery

The Thai Monastery stands out among the many monasteries created by many countries. This monastery, located a short distance from the Mahabodhi temple complex. It is a traditional Thai-style monastery. And it also features a large Buddha inside. Between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., the monastery is open to the public and does not close in the afternoon.

It will help if you spend some quiet time here to meditate or admire the architecture and the massive Buddha. Here, you will also get peace and tranquillity. The Thai Monastery is a stunning structure that was created by countries with large Buddhist populations. It attracts large visitors.

5. Royal Bhutan Monastery

The traditional Dzong architectural style created the monastery in the 1990s. We should thank the generous backing of Bhutan’s Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuk, and donations from international and Bhutanese donors. As of 2006, the monastery was still under construction. Despite this, the monastery houses over 250 monks. Many of whom are youngsters and young adults.

The embossed frescos on the inside wall of the shrine are a unique feature of this monastery. It will be an amazing site for you if you will see it the first time. For art lovers, it is a must-see site. About a kilometer from the Mahabodhi temple, Tanger monastery is also well-known for its magnificent and elaborate Bhutanese paintings and tapestries. The monastery is open to tourists throughout the day (except 12-2 PM), and if one arrives during the prayer period, one may soak up the prayers, which is a beautiful sense.

6. Metta Buddharam Temple

Despite its recent construction, the Metta Buddharam temple is a magnificent work of art and a visual delight. Anyone, we are sure, would be instantly enthralled by the place’s pure beauty and elegance. Although this temple is not in the heart of Bodh Gaya , it is near to the Yonggi Dega Temple, which attracts a large number of tourists.

There is a giant white Buddha statue here, but nothing else. It reminds us of a white temple in Chiang Rai. Bodh Gaya Metta Buddharam temple is well worth a visit. There is a calm statue of Lord Buddha there, with Buddha wearing a most human expression.

7. Indosan Nippon Japenese Temple

It is a beautiful temple on the way to Mahabodhi Temple and Great Buddha Statue and within walking reach of both. The large temple construction is reminiscent of a Japanese pagoda. The environment is calm. Within the property, there is a school. It is a must-see along with the other temples on your Bodh Gaya tour. This temple, built in the Mahayana style, stands out among South-East Asian Theravada temples.

It’s quiet and off the beaten path. It’s a nice spot to relax and contemplate. This temple is located in a peaceful and serene environment. After visiting this temple, one will understand the phrase “cleanliness is Godliness.” The scent of incense transports you to another realm. This temple, in my opinion, should not be overlooked.

How Can You Get In Bodh Gaya?

Bodh Gaya By Plane

The nearest airport is at Gaya (17 km), where Druk Air flies once a week from Bangkok. Gaya is served by Thai Airways regularly. Indian Airlines flies from Kolkata to Gaya on Fridays around 10 a.m. and returns on Mondays around 15 a.m. Every day, Air India flies from New Delhi to Varanasi. Indigo also operates flights from New Delhi.

You can also fly to Patna Airport (110 kilometers away) and then take a train or taxi to Bodh Gaya , as Patna has many daily direct flights to Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai. Bangkok can be utilized as a hub to change flights to Kolkata (there are several daily flights Bangkok-Kolkata-Bangkok), and Kolkata has four or five daily flights to Patna. This way you can reach Bodh Gaya by plane.

Bodh Gaya By Train

Gaya is the closest railway station (16 km). You can take a bus or a three-wheel taxi to Bodh Gaya from there. The cost of a three-wheel cab varies greatly depending on the time of day, but it should be between 80 and 120 rupees. It will help if you haggle hard because there is rarely a scarcity of service.

The train from Patna to Gaya costs 34 rupees (Patna is the next large airport and railhead) (as of January 2008). It takes roughly two hours to travel by express train. Calcutta to Delhi train travel takes about 8 hours; Delhi to Calcutta rail travel takes approximately 15 hours (2nd class air-con costs 1600 rupees; book upstairs at the Gaya station then pay downstairs at window 29).

For more detail on Trains for Gaya you can refer to our another important article by clicking here .

Bodh Gaya By Car

Because Patna has many daily direct flights to Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, Lucknow, and Hyderabad, one can fly to Patna Airport (110 km distant) and then take a train or taxi to Bodh Gaya . The road is now in decent condition, but it is narrow, making the ride slow and risky. It takes about 3 hours to get there from Patna, and the easiest way to get there is to bypass the Gaya market because the roads are tiny.

This article is not over yet. We will be updating the article with more genuine and legit information about Bodh Gaya . Please read the article carefully and give your opinion about our work on “Bodh Gaya: A Must Visit Destination For Every Traveler”

You Might Also Like

What Is Special In Gaya? | Must Visit Places In Gaya

What Is The Famous Food Of Gaya? | Traditional Cuisine Of Bihar

Mahabodhi Temple – Temple Of Meditation And Enlightenment

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• International
• Food and Drink
• Places of Interest
• Sustainable
• What's new
• Celebrating People
• Hall of Frame
• Responsible Tourism
• MP on my Mind
• MP Wellness

Guide To Bodh Gaya, Where Buddha Got Enlightenment

Religion may, in the Marxist reckoning, be the opium of the masses, but in Bihar today, the self same masses evidently feel a compelling need for alternative forms of psychotropy. In the land of the Buddha, from where the Light of Asia spread across this vast continent, the entire Indo-Gangetic countryside resonates with the familiar clap-clap of chunam-mixed khaini (chewing tobacco) being patted in the palm of the left hand in preparation for oral ingestion.

So, you're going to Buddha Gaya, sputtered the cycle-rickshaw man from Patna, tucking a dollop-sized dose of the heady reed behind his lower lip. Make sure you get there well before sundown, " Rasta bahut khatarnak hai (The road is dangerous)."

This khatarnak rasta takes the traveller through Jehanabad District, a bastion of armed Marxist-Leninist groups. Dacoits of indeterminate ideological persuasion too abound. I learnt that only a day earlier, three Japanese monks returning from Bodh Gaya had been assaulted and robbed. To travel in these parts is, clearly, a stern test of one's faith.

As it is today, so it was 25 centuries ago. When Siddhartha, who had renounced the pleasures of cocooned aristocracy in Kapilavastu for a life of asceticism, arrived in Uruvela town (present-day Bodh Gaya), his faith too was on test. For years, he had wandered in search of the knowledge of the sources -- whence flows the suffering of the world, and of the path that leads to the extinction of this suffering. The path of spiritual inquiry shown by teachers led him no nearer to enlightenment. Disenchanted, he left them, and subjected himself to more years of excessively severe deprivation and austere meditation. But that effort too proved fruitless.

Buddha's Awekening

Emaciated and on the brink of death, Siddhartha realised that abusing one's frame through extreme denial was just as improper as overindulgence. Accepting a life-restoring offering of kheer from Sujata, a local tribeswoman in Uruvela, he settled himself in the famed lotus posture on a mat of kusha grass beneath a peepul tree ( ficus religiosa ), facing east, and resolved not to rise until he attained the state of supreme awareness. Meditating thus, he underwent successively purer stages of abstraction of consciousness until, finally, at dawn on a full-moon day, he attained the long-sought state of awakening.

A Living, Vibrant Order

In that epiphanic moment when Siddhartha became the Buddha the Enlightened One, was born a philosophy that would spread to large parts of Asia and the West without resorting to militant crusades. The quiet force of its profound teachings has, over the centuries, turned war-victorious emperors into pacifists, with a heightened sensitivity for all life-forms. It has inspired some of the most spectacular art forms, iconography and literature down the ages. And even today, Buddhism is a living, vibrant order with a significant percentage of the worlds population following some aspect of this many-faceted religious philosophy. And the Bodhi Tree , or the Tree of Knowledge, in Bodh Gaya is the most revered spot for Buddhists the world over. This is where it all began.

Thing To See And Do

The Bodhi Tree draws the faithful from all over the world. Bodh Gaya is, in that sense, a world city. At any time, groups of pilgrims -- many in their distinctive national garb -- can be seen in the Mahabodhi Mahavihara Temple complex, built over centuries around the Tree of Knowledge. Apart from this, Bodh Gaya has monasteries established by the Buddhist countries of South and South-East Asia.

A touristy round-trip in a rickshaw won't take more than half a day. Alternatively, you could hire bicycles for the same. That apart, there's the 80-foot alfresco statue of the Buddha in the gyanamudra, built with Japanese funds and unveiled by the Dalai Lama in 1989. In short, Bodh Gaya can be done in a day, but prolonged stays will let you savour it at other levels. Some Western travellers spend weeks, even months, practising meditation techniques or enrolling for introductory courses in Buddhist teachings or learning to read Pali, once the language of commoners and of the Buddha.

The World Heritage Site of the Mahabodhi Temple Complex is the pre-eminent place of pilgrimage for Buddhists. The principal points of interest here are the Bodhi Tree -- the Vajrasana (The Adamantine Seat), also called the Thunderbolt Throne, a red sandstone platform which marks the spot where the Buddha meditated, the Mahabodhi Temple , a towering structure to the east of the Bodhi Tree that houses a large, gilded, 10th century black stone image of the Buddha in the bhumisparshamudra (earth-touching posture), the carved, sculpted stone railing around the temple, believed to have been built around the 1st century BCE and stupas and temples that commemorate events during the seven weeks that the Buddha spent here in a state of bliss after his enlightenment.

A traveller may spend many serene hours wandering around the temple complex, gazing at the magnificent architectural edifice and the thousands of Buddha images carved on the votive stupas. Or he/she may sit in quiet contemplation beneath the sprawling Bodhi Tree. At any time, a handful of monks and devotees can be seen performing countless prostrations to the tree. It's a highly rigorous purificatory ritual. Some monks are known to do up to 1,00,000 prostrations at one time.

In September 2003, the temple management introduced an electronic tourist guidance system, under which transmitters installed at 17 locations in the complex provide recorded commentary heard via headphones, which you can hire at the complex. The service is available in English, Hindi, Japanese and Korean. Entry: Free; Guide Up to 150 per hour; headphones 20 per hour. Timings: 5 am to 9 pm.

Fifth Descendant Of Original Tree

Close to the western end of the complex is the centre of the Buddhist universe, The Bodhi Tree . To the knots of the faithful who come to meditate beneath it, this arboreal sprawl symbolises the potential for each human being to realise the Buddha within by living a life of moderation. The tree you see today is less than 130 years old and is believed to be the fifth descendant of the original Bodhi Tree. The 25 centuries old history of the tree and its offshoots makes for an interesting botanical biography.

Three centuries after the Buddha's mahaparinirvana , or passing, the venerated tree became the object of Emperor Ashoka's chief queen Tisyaraksita's jealousy. She had a spell cast upon it. Chinese scholar Fa Hien, who recorded his impressions of his wanderings in India in the 5th century CE, said that Tisyaraksita, incensed by Ashoka's excessive interest in the tree, tried to destroy it. The emperor's daughter Sanghamitra had earlier carried a sapling from this tree to Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka, and a cutting from that tree was brought back to Bodh Gaya when the mother tree died.

In the 7th century CE, the Bodhi Tree was felled by the sword of Hindu revivalism, which responded to the growing appeal of Buddhism with naked aggression. Shashanka, the Hindu supremacist ruler of Bengal, undertook a crusade to Bodh Gaya and chopped down the Bodhi Tree. Again, a sapling from the felled tree was replanted here a few years later. The Chinese scholar Hieun Tsang noted in his memoirs that devotees worship the tree with curd, milk, perfumes, sandalwood and camphor.

The rise of aggressive Hinduism and Afghan and Turk invasions in the 12 th and 13 th centuries forced the decline of Buddhism in the land of its birth, and both the tree and the temple complex fell into neglect for centuries. They were rediscovered in 1861 by Alexander Cunningham, then director of the ASI. Today, the Bodhi Tree stands as a vibrant symbol of an ancient religion that is taking root in newer regions and reaching out to ever larger numbers.

Most countries with a large Buddhist population, including Sri Lanka, Japan, Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam, Korea and Taiwan, have built temples and monasteries in Bodh Gaya with their very own distinctive architectural styles and forms of worship. These are, principally, centres of worship, learning and meditation for monks and researchers and visitors from their native lands. For the traveller, they also provide interesting insights into the nuances of various schools of Buddhism. Almost all the monasteries are located within a 1-km radius of the Mahabodhi Temple. Timings 5 am to 9 pm

About 2 km to the west of Bodh Gaya flows the River Phalgu. A short walk away is a small shrine dedicated to Sujata , the Uruvela tribeswoman who offered kheer to the starving Siddhartha. The idol there depicts a skin-and-bones Siddhartha, his visage a virtual death's head, accepting Sujata's offering. A rickshaw ride across the Phalgu to this folksy, unostentatious shrine makes for a pleasant early-morning diversion.

Bodh Gaya comes alive from October to March (the cooler months), but the peak season is December-January, when the Dalai Lama presides over the Kalachakra Festival. The festival centres around an initiation traditionally conferred by the Dalai Lama on throngs of people who gather from all over the world. This is when Tibetan pilgrims as well as trinket-sellers come down from Dharamsala and give Bodh Gaya a certain lively buzz. The entire promenade to the north of the Mahabodhi Temple complex is filled with roadside stalls selling thangkas, Buddhist icons and trinkets.

The seasonal Tibetan refugee market , which comes up about 1 km west of the temple complex, is good for purchasing woollens. Throughout the year, the government-authorised handicrafts stores, which are located to the north of the temple complex, sell thangkas, dried peepul leaves, peepul-bead rosaries for meditation and lotus-bead malas from Mongolia. The bookshop at the entrance to the temple complex has low-priced editions of some rare translations of Buddhist texts.

Where To Stay

Like the accommodative religious order that was born here, Bodh Gaya has room for all. Accommodation is plentiful and, as a consequence, even a traveller who is bashful about driving a hard bargain can invariably land a good deal.

Ever since the temple complex was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in June 2002, restrictions have been imposed on construction activity in its proximity. But enterprising hoteliers have shown that where there's a rule, there are ways of getting around it. On roads that have been earmarked only for temples and monasteries, a string of temple guest houses have come up. By the expedient of putting up a small shrine near the entrance, these establishments pass off as temples, though in practice they are guest houses with rooms for rent. Quite a few of them offer good, clean accommodation at attractive rates although officially these are recorded as voluntary donations and are in most cases open to negotiation.

Sikkim Guest House , near the 80-foot Buddha statue, has rooms for a voluntary donation. The All Indian Bhikkhu Sangha (Tel 0631 295 0719) offers comfortable rooms with attached baths. The BSTDC Tourist Complex is another budget option.

Hotel Tathagat International (Tel 0631-2200106), near the Mahabodhi Temple complex, with a travel desk and multi-cuisine restaurant, is one of the best among the mid-range options. Hotel Mahamaya (Tel 099736 36777), also situated near the Mahabodhi Temple complex, offers clean and good accommodation. The Mahayana Guest House (Tel 099344 80065), located next to the Shenchen Monastery, offers rooms and has its own restaurant. You could also try Hotel Sujata (Tel 0631 220 0761) for its ofru, the Japanese community bath facility. In the high-end bracket, The Royal Residency (Tel 095254 03646), located on Dumuhan Road, has a bar, restaurant and also arranges sightseeing. The Lotus Nikko Hotel (Tel 05564 273 026), near the Mahabodhi Temple, has rooms and a restaurant.

Where To Eat

The congregation of pilgrims from all over the world has an interesting culinary consequence. In peak season, the town comes alive with roadside restaurants that serve everything from Chinese to Japanese to Korean to Tibetan to Italian to that ultimate symbol of America, apple pie. Most hotel-restaurants offer mishmash by way of a menu.

But the best food options are offered by the nameless, makeshift tents that come up near the temple complex from December to February. Of the established restaurants, Om Restaurant , opposite the Jayaprakash Narayan Park entrance, is famed for its breakfast menu. It also offers kheer (which Sujata offered Siddhartha), now extolled as Sujata rice pudding. Fujia Green , near the Tibetan refugee market, serves great Tibetan and Chinese. Shiva Hotel (near the temple entrance) serves Indian, Chinese and Continental.

High-end hotels pander to foreign palates the Japanese okaiyo , a bland breakfast broth the Thai masala omelette the Korean kimchi salad and the satvik no-onion, no-garlic Taiwanese dishes. The Lotus Nikko Hotel (in Bodh Gaya), and the Indo-Hokke and Rajgir Residency (in Rajgir) source their speciality ingredients from faraway INA Market in New Delhi. On occasion, they are known to import sushi and spices for discerning travellers.

Related Stories

Bodh Gaya Land of buddha

Mahabodhi Vihar or Mahabodhi Temple is a famous Buddhist vihara located in Bodh Gaya . It has also been declared a World Heritage by UNESCO. This monastery stands at the same place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment in the 6th century BCE.

Buddham Saranam Gacchami

This vihara is also known as Mukhi Vihar or Mahabodhi Vihar. The structure of this vihara is similar to the stupa established by Emperor Ashoka. 

A huge statue of Gautama Buddha is installed in this vihara. The statue is the state of padmasana.

It is interesting to follow here that this idol is located in the place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. The carved railing of the stone is built around the Vihara. This railing is the oldest remains found in Bodh Gaya. To the south-east direction of this Vihara complex is a park rich in natural scenes where Buddhist bhikkhus meditate. Common people can enter this park only with the permission of the Vihar administration.

Who, When & Why Was Buddha ?

Lord Gautam Buddha, who showed the world a new path with his thoughts, was a great philosopher, scientist, religious leader of India, a great social reformer and founder of Buddhism. Buddha was married to Yashodhara. A child was born from this marriage, which was named Rahul, but sometime after the marriage, Gautam Buddha abandoned his wife and child.

He went from his palace to the forest in the night in search of true divine knowledge and a way to liberate the world from birth, death and sorrows. After many years of rigorous practice, he attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya ( Bihar ) and became Siddhartha Gautama to Gautam Buddha.

• Name – Siddharth Gautam Buddha
• Birth – 563 BC Lumbini, Nepal
• Death – 483 BC Kushinagar, India
• Wedding – Princess Yashodhara
• Children – One son, Rahul
• Father’s name – Shuddhodan (a king and a skilled ruler)
• Mother’s Name – Maya Devi (Queen)
• Establishment of Buddhism – during the fourth century

Today there are about 190 crore Buddhist followers in the whole world and the number of people following Buddhism is 25% in the world. According to a survey, it includes – China, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, Mongolia, Cambodia, Bhutan, South Korea, hong-kong, Singapore, India, Malaysia, Nepal, Indonesia, America and Sri Lanka etc. countries which include Bhutan, Sri Lanka and India In Buddhism, there are a large number of followers. Bodh Gaya is a religious site and place of pilgrimage for Buddhists

Life introduction of Lord Gautam Buddha

Gautama Buddha was born in Lumbini Nepal near Kapilavastu around 563 BC. Mahalaya Devi, the queen of Kapilvastu, suffered a childbirth on her way to her goddaughter, in which a child was born. Due to his birth in Gautam Gautra, he was called Gautama Buddha. His father Shudodhan was a king, his mother Maya Devi was a woman of Koli dynasty but Maya Devi died within 7 days after giving birth to a child.

After which he was brought up by his aunt and queen Gautami, the king’s second wife, and this child was named Siddhartha. This name means one who was born to attain Siddhi but he was later attained Siddhi. Siddhartha was a very kind and compassionate person since childhood.

Siddhartha used to lose himself when he used to play sports in childhood as he did not want to give grief to others. Siddharth also has a cousin named Devadatta. Once Devdutt had fired an arrow with his bow, which injured a bird goose and later Siddhartha protected the injured goose.

Buddha's teaching, marriage & penance

Siddhartha completed his education with Guru Vishwamitra. Along with the Vedas and Upanishads, he also received education in warfare. Since childhood, no other person could compete in a charioteer riding horse, bow and arrow and chariot.

Siddharth was married to Princess Yashodhara at the age of just 16 and from this marriage a child was born, named Rahul, but he did not feel like home and fascination in the world of Maya and he left the family Went into the forest.

Father and King Shuddhodana had also made a lot of pleasures for Siddharth. The father had also built 3 palaces for his son according to the season of 3, in which all the arrangements of dancing, singing and such rest were available, but these things could not pull Siddhartha towards himself. Siddharth decided to leave his beautiful wife and beautiful child and go towards the forest.

Siddharth went to the forest and started doing austerities even harder. At first Siddharth started austerities by eating sesame rice, but later he started doing austerities without food and drink. Due to harsh heating, his body was dry and it had been 6 years while he was doing penance.

One day Siddhartha was doing penance in the forest, suddenly some women were returning from a city, on the same path Siddhartha was doing penance.

One of the songs that the women were singing was a song in Siddharth’s ears, “Don’t leave the strings of Veena loose” Don’t leave the strings so long that it breaks Siddharth’s ears and he realizes that the routine Yoga is proved by dieting, but nothing is good. For any attainment, the medium is the right path, for this hard penance has to be done.

Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment

On the day of Vaishakhi Purnima, Siddharth sat in his meditation carefully under the tree tree. A woman from the village named Sujatha had a son, that woman had asked for a vow for her son from the vatavriksha which he had asked for and he had got a gold plate to fulfill this happiness. I filled the pudding of cow’s milk and reached that vatavriksha.

The woman very comfortably presented Kheer to Siddharth and said that my wish was fulfilled as well as yours. Siddhartha’s meditation was successful on meditating that same night, he realized the truth since then Siddhartha was called Buddha. The tree which Siddhartha had realized under the Peepal tree was called Bodhivriksha and Bodh Gaya was called the border place of Gaya.

Dharma Chakra and Transformation

For the 80 years, instead of Sanskrit, keep preaching your religion in the simple language of the time, and the popularity of religion started increasing rapidly. After remaining under the Bodhi tree for 4 weeks and contemplating the nature of the religion, Buddha went out to teach religion. First he made 5 friends his followers and then sent them to preach religion.

According to the formula of Pali Siddhant, Buddha announced this at the age of 80. Gautama Buddha received his last meal which he had received as an offering from a blacksmith named Kunda, due to which he fell seriously ill. Gautama Buddha gave a specific instruction to his disciple Anand to explain to Kunda that he did not make any mistake, he said that these meals are great and incomparable.

Gautama Buddha's teachings

Lord Buddha exhorted people to take the path of the medium. He laid great emphasis on non-violence for its cause and for its unhappiness. Have mercy on the creatures Gautam Buddha has strongly condemned the havan and the animal sacrifice. The essence of some Buddha’s teachings are as follows:

⇒ Mahatma Buddha propagated and propagated some resolutions of Sanatan Dharma such as – Agnihotra and Gayatri Mantra

⇒ Meditation and insight

⇒ Follow the Middle Way

⇒ Four Arya Truths

⇒ Ashtanga paths

Major works and Buddhism

Gautam Buddha is a special person in Buddhism. The religion of Buddhism keeps its foundation in its teachings. 8-fold path of Buddhism is proposed. One of the great religions of the world, Mahatma Gautam Buddha, the originator of Buddhism, has left an indelible influence not only in the country but also abroad.

•  Injuries will be painful and there are pain options.
• Always remember to make a mistake on the mind, it is like a heavy burden.
• You cannot walk on the path till you make your own way.

Successful Mantras of Gautama Buddha's life

→ Anger is a harmful weapon – Anger kills your enemies as well as you, when you are very angry, your words only deceive you.

→ You are never punished for your anger, rather you are punished only by your anger.

→ We are increased by our thoughts. We become what we think when your mind is clear. Then Khushiya will always be with you as your shadow.

→ When you like a flower, you break it, but when you love a flower, you give it water every day.

→ Fills a pot of water from drop to drop.

→ The beginning of a small work is the beginning of the end of a big work. It does not matter whether you start from small or from big if you take that beginning to the end, then one day you will be able to achieve everything that you want.

→ Life is a long journey and you are like a traveler, so it would be better for us to live and travel well and not to be happy about the future is the real enjoyment of life. We should be happy by staying in the present instead of worrying about the past and the future.

→ Even if you are surrounded by filth, but you have a store of power to resist evil.

BodhGaya for Visitors

What to Visit Bodh Gaya

• Mahabodhi Temple
• Animesh Lochan Chaitya (Vajrasana)
• Chankramana
• Sujata Kutir
• Dungeshwari Caves
• Muchalinda Sarovar
• Barabar Cave
• Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple
• Thai Temple & Monastery
• Chinese Temple & Monastery
• Archaeological Museum
• The Great Buddha Statue
• Burmese Temple
• Buddhist Monastery of Bhutan
• Meditation Park
• Dungeshwari Hill (Pragbodhi)
• Buddha Kund
• Maitraya Project

General Information

Altitude:  113 Meters Temperature (Max./Min.) Deg C:  Summer 47/28; Winter-28/4 Rainfall: 186 cms (Mid-June to Mid-September) Best Season:  October to March Clothing:  Summer – Cottons; Winter – Heavy Woollens

How to Reach Bodh Gaya

Air:  The nearest airport is at Gaya 7 Kms and Patna 135 kms. Indian Airlines and Sahara Airlines connect Patna to Calcutta, Bombay, Delhi, Ranchi, Lucknow and various other cities.

Rail:  The nearest railway station is Gaya (17km).

Road:  Bodhgaya is well connected by road to Gaya (17km), Nalanda (101 km), Rajgir (78 km), Patna (135km), Varanasi (252 km), Calcutta (495km).

Bus:  Regular direct bus services are available from Gaya, Patna, Nalanda, Rajgir, Varanasi. Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation run buses from Patna- Bodhgaya route twice a day.

Local Transport:  Taxis, Tongas, Auto Rickshaws, Cycle Rickshaws are available.

Conducted Tour: Chartered buses or taxis are arranged from Ranchi and Patna by Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation.    Contact Bihar Tourism

Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared. Buddha

• Search Search Search …
• Search Search …

How to Visit Bodhgaya [One day Itinerary for exploring Bodhgaya]

Bodhgaya is where Prince Siddartha gained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree.  It’s where he became Buddha some 2600 years ago.  Each year Tibetan pilgrims come from Dharamsala.  The Dalai Lama often visits in January.  We didn’t make it until March and most of the adventure was the journey.  Here’s a one day itinerary for exploring the birthplace of Buddhism in India, Bodhgaya.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED AND AFFILIATE LINKS MORE INFORMATION IN  OUR DISCLAIMER

How to Get to Bodhgaya

We arrived in Gaya this morning after another overnight train.  We’ve come from Varanasi.  We’re now in the state of Bihar.    Gaya is the closest town to Bodhgaya with a train station.  It’s our only day here and we’re late by about an hour.

EASIEST WAY TO VISIT

Take a Tour of the Temples of Bodhgaya

• Visit Mahabodhi temple & The Bodhi tree
• Visit Sujata Kutir, Niranjana River, Dungeswari Cave
• Enjoy the knowledge and expertise of a local guide about Buddhist Circuit

The cloakroom is as far away from the station entrance as could be and is also the outward parcel room.  It’s obvious by how they’re ignoring us that they don’t get much business and that no one wants to deal with the western visitors.  Regardless, we make up the usual information that they need and hand over our “must be padlocked” backpacks.

Gaya is seriously LOUD.

And then we step out into the noisiest place we have been to.  PERIOD.  Wow.

Before we came to India, I told Nige that the road noise would be much, much worse than any country we’ve been to.  And it’s true, but Gaya.  Gaya takes the biscuit.  This is loud with a capital LOUD.

How to Go from Gaya to Bodhgaya

We’re here long enough to pick up an auto for 150 INR to Bodhgaya, 13 kilometers away.  We negotiate our driver, who we’ll call “Nutter” down from 200 INR, allowing him to take on folks en route.  They’ll sit in the front with him, rather than it just being the two of us.

Nutter is a nutter pyscho auto-rickshaw driver.  He’s the one who creates spaces where there are none.  He’s the one who argues with the traffic police.  The one who pulls into a crowded junction to block it more.  The one who accelerates towards the bumps in the road.  Yes, he did do all of this.  One of his front seat passengers escapes paying with some chewing tobacco.  We escape with our lives some 40 minutes later.

Why You Should Visit Bodhgaya

We’re in Bodhgaya, because this is where the Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. Our explorations in India along Buddhist lines also took us to Sanchi, which was incredible (read about it here )  The original Bodhi tree might no longer be here, but a cutting obtained from the Bodhi Tree in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, now grows here.  The original tree was killed by the jealous wife of King Ashoka, but it grew again.  It was also cut down several more times, but each time a new tree replaced it.

Bodhgaya is to Buddhists what Mecca is to Muslims and what Rome is to Catholics.  The Mahabodhi Temple is where we head to first.  This temple is next to the Bodhi Tree and while there is no charge to enter, there is charge for cameras of 100 INR.

This is also where we meet Indian policies.  Head on.

Mahabodhi Temple Entrance Policies

As you head towards the entrance of the Mahabodhi temple, there’s a (free) shoe check, a (free) bag check, a (free) mobile phone check and a BUY CAMERA TICKETS booth.

First of all, don’t leave your shoes here, it means that you get to walk about 5 minutes over hot, hot, hot tarmac and concrete and you don’t need to.

Secondly don’t check your bag.  Or your mobile phone.  You don’t need to.   Unless you don’t want to pay a 100 INR camera fee.  If you take your phone or your bag with you, you’ll have to pay the camera fee.

You’ll go through two security checks (men and women separate).  These checks are NOT for the additional security that was put in place following the 2013 explosions here, rather, they’re now blatant revenue opportunities.

The security staff are checking for mobile phones, cameras, laptops and iPads.  Anything that will take a photo. If they find one they will send you back to buy a ticket or to check your bag.    So if you don’t want to take photos leave the camera/phone somewhere else (or stick it down your pants like I did in Delhi at the Jama Masjid) or cough up the 100 INR fee.

I’ll end my rant by saying I have no issue at all with paying a fee, but for the right reasons.  If you want me to pay then give me the real reason.  Don’t hide it in a “security check”, because if your security check is not even checking the pockets on my trousers or two of the pockets on my day pack which hold a Swiss Army knife and other goodies, then I’ll call you out.  If your security is there for revenue generation at least be honest about it.

Willing some inner calm I manage to leave my aggravations at Indian bureaucracy at the gate (after security, where you should leave your shoes).

The Mahabodhi Temple Bodhgaya

We take the route around the temple, flipping the prayer wheels as we go.

It’s pleasant to sit in the shade and watching the pilgrims from Tibet sliding on their prayer mats in an endless adoration.

We enter the temple, which as is usual, is simple inside, but distinctive for having the floor washed with disinfectant.  I’m glad, as I have no cuts on my bare feet, but the folks in front do.  I leave with feet sparkling and smelling of bleach.

The Big Buddha of Bodhgaya

On our tourist pilgrimage route around Bodhgaya we stop at the Giant Buddha statue.  It’s 25 metres high and is in a meditation – or dhyana mudra – pose.  It took 12,000 masons seven years to complete and was consecrated in November 1989 by the Dalai Lama.

Other Buddhist Temples of Bodhgaya

Bodhgaya is a centre of spiritualism for Buddhists – and pilgrims from all over the world converge here – in March, there are lots of Tibetans and residents of Dharamsala here.  There are many Buddhist temples here, each built by a specific country and reflecting the design aesthetics of that country.

The Japanese Buddhist Temple of Bodhgaya

The Japanese Temple reflects the simplicity of Japanese architecture.  Open, clean, beautiful.

The Bhutanese Temple of Bodhgaya

A fabulously over the top mix of colour and imagery, this has us contemplating a visit to the country on the basis of a single temple.

The Thai Temple of Bodhgaya

The highlight of the temple visit has to be the tiger spotting when we visit the Thai temple.  While it wasn’t actually a tiger, but a friendly dog, it definitely didn’t look like paint, and he definitely prowled like a Tiger too.

Where to Eat in Bodhgaya

There are many places to eat in Bodhgaya.  We took advantage of the Tibetan pilgrims being in town.  Tibet Om is a temporary restaurant than opens from November to March each season.  We’re lucky this is their last day and we feast on veggie momos and Tibetan bread.

The family that runs this decamps from Dharamsala each year for several months and then packs up heads home again in late March.  It’s a cool respite from our temple trails.

Where to stay in Bodhgaya

There are some great places to stay in Bodhgaya– here’s our pick of the luxury places to stay in Bodhgaya, mid-range places to stay in Bodhgaya, and budget accommodation in Bodhgaya.

The Royal Residency, Bodhgaya: The Royal Residency Hotel is located near central Bodhgaya. The rooms at The Royal Residency feature a flat-screen TV with cable channels, air-conditioning, a private bathroom with a hot tub, a wardrobe, a kettle, a seating area, and views of the bustling city. Enjoy freshly brewed coffee at the in-house café along with snacks from the snack bar.  This luxury hotel option in Bodhgaya also has wellness facilities that offer fitness classes, yoga classes, and massages. This top hotel in Bodhgaya offers quality services and a great experience here in Bodhgaya. Check room rates and availability here.

Maya Heritage, Bodhgaya: The Maya Heritage Hotel is conveniently located in central Bodhgaya. Each room at this mid-range Bodhgaya hotel is equipped with a flat-screen TV, air-conditioning, a private bathroom, a seating area, soundproofing, and access to a WiFi connection. Enjoy continental breakfast at the on-site restaurant and good coffee at the in-house café. The Maya Heritage hotel is a fantastic well-priced place to stay when in Bodhgaya. See room rates and availability here.

Gaurav Guest House, Bodhgaya : The Gaurav Guest House is located near central Bodhgaya surrounded by the main attractions here. Rooms at this Bodhgaya guest house include a private bathroom with a bidet, bathrobes, and slippers, an in-room safe, a patio with a view of the garden, and air-conditioning. This guest house in Bodhgaya has an in-house café and; a kitchen space is also available with a dining table and an electric kettle. A WiFi connection is also available here. If you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodation while in Bodhgaya, Gaurav Guest House is the perfect place. Read more reviews and check rates and dates here.

Travel Tips for Exploring India

• Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
• Get online immediately with an eSIM for India
• Protect your data – use a VPN in India – use this coupon to get 3 months free.
• Book the best tours and guides in India on GetYourGuide or Klook
• Find the right accommodation for you via Booking.com
• Book Trains and Buses in India with 12goAsia

Final Words on Visiting Bodhgaya

Bodhgaya itself has a pleasant and restful feel – there are lots of places to eat and grab a coffee and there’s even wifi in a few places.  Before long, however, it’s time to hail an auto driver for 200 INR to return to the noise and dust of Gaya where our overnight train to Kolkata is of course running late.

We receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using our affiliate links. We do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

ASocialNomad is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, and amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases .

Sarah Carter

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Privacy Overview

• Logout Login
• Adventure Holidays
• Weekend Getaways
• Driving Holidays
• Travel News

Top Searches

Japan Tsunami Advisory

Long Weekend Getaways

Longest Train Routes

Bangladesh Travel Advisory

August Long Weekend

Kanwar Yatra Traffic Advisory

All about Bodh Gaya and its mystic Mahabodhi Temple Complex

Resham Sengar Resham Sengar / Times Travel Editor / TRAVEL NEWS , BODH GAYA / Created : May 17, 2019, 15:15 IST

You're Reading

Lord Buddha, who the world also knew as Siddhartha Gautam, was an embodiment of compassion, and 2500 years later from his birth, lakhs of people get drawn to the Mahabodhi Temple complex in Bodh Gaya.

Lord Buddha, who the world also knew as Siddhartha Gautam, was an embodiment of compassion, and 2500 years later from his birth, lakhs of people get drawn to the Mahabodhi Temple complex in Bodh Gaya. Read less

More from Travel News

Comments (0)

Refrain from posting comments that are obscene, defamatory or inflammatory, and do not indulge in personal attacks, name calling or inciting hatred against any community. Help us delete comments that do not follow these guidelines by marking them offensive . Let's work together to keep the conversation civil.

Comments ( ) Sort: Newest UpVoted Oldest Discussed Down Voted closecomments

SIGN IN WITH

Or post without registration.

Visual Stories

Popular Galleries

Wildlife parks in Karnataka perfect for wildlife and nature enthusiasts TRAVEL TRENDS , KARNATAKA

Mount Abu: A family-friendly destination with something for everyone TRAVEL TRENDS

Exploring 8 timeless historical and modern marvels across Europe and Asia TRAVEL TRENDS , WORLD

Trending stories.

Places you need to explore when in Arunachal Pradesh

Are the Pyramids of Giza visible from space?

What’s causing the walls of the iconic Jaisalmer Fort to crumble?

Japan issues tsunami advisory: Powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake strikes southern Japan

Sweden: 19-th century champagne found, but authorities won’t let anyone sip

• 1 All about Bodh Gaya and its mystic Mahabodhi Temple Complex
• 2 Kerala Tourism campaign ‘Human by Nature,’ finds a place at Times Square in New York City
• 3 Now, you can stay with locals and get a taste of local cuisine in Pune
• 4 Feel like a hero at India’s only drive-in beach, Muzhappilangad Beach, Kerala
• 5 Paris celebrates 130th birthday of Eiffel Tower

THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO DESTINATIONS, ITINERARIES, THINGS TO DO, RESTAURANTS, NIGHTLIFE and LOTS MORE!

FOLLOW US ON

Places to visit.

• Places to visit in Bangalore
• Places to visit in Mumbai
• Places to visit in Delhi
• Places to visit in Goa
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Jaipur
• Hotels in Shimla
• Hotels in Mumbai

Things To do

• Things to do in Goa
• Things to do in Mumbai
• Things to do in Bangalore
• Things to do in Delhi

Travel Inspiration

• Visa on arrival for Indians
• Honeymoon Places in india
• Hill Stations in India
• Weekend getaways in Mumbai
• Weather in Delhi
• Weather in Chennai
• Weather in Bangalore
• Weather in Mumbai

Best Beaches

• Goa Beaches
• Mumbai Beaches
• Pondicherry Beaches
• Kerala Beaches
• Restaurants in Bangalore
• Restaurants in Chennai
• Restaurants in Pune
• Restaurants in Jaipur
• Hill Station near Delhi
• Winter trip to Ladakh
• Places to visit in Kerala
• Winter Honeymoon Destinations
• UK visa guide for Indians
• Winter Trip to Manali
• Vaishno Devi Yatra
• Special Train Ticket Booking
• HP inter-state Bus
• Honeymoon Destinations India

Latest News

• Tower of Hercules: World's oldest surviving lighthouse in Spain
• Asia’s largest dinosaur-theme park, Dino Desert, has opened in Malaysia
• Island-hopping paradise: Unveiling Indonesia's untamed beauty
• Mysterious world inside Hang Son Doong, world's largest cave
• How to apply for a Singapore tourist visa: A step-by-step by guide
• Is Indonesia’s Gunung Padang the oldest pyramid on earth?
• Hindu temples in Singapore that are a must visit
• Ubud, the cultural capital of Bali, for unforgettable holiday experiences
• 7 iconic things that make Australia's capital, Canberra special
• Quick guide to the Five Boroughs of New York City
• Universal Studios Singapore: Your quick and simple guide to make the most of your visit
• From treetops to river cruises: Singapore’s 5 most unique experiences
• Timeless landmarks in Singapore that are a must-visit
• A journey through the enigmatic Pinnacles in Australia, one of the world's weirdest landscapes
• China launches 'Nuclear Tourism'; check what’s it all about
• The extremes of Death Valley: Hottest, driest, and lowest place on Earth!
• Good news for travellers: Visa-on-arrival now for Japan, South Korea, and UAE tourists
• How to obtain a Thailand Tourist Visa: A complete guide

Congratulations!

You have been successfully added to the mailing list of Times of India Travel. To complete the subscription process, kindly open your inbox and click on the confirmation link which has been emailed to you.

Share with friends

Thank You for sharing! Your friend will receive the article link on email mentioned.

• (For more than one recipient, type addresses separated by commas)

• Tour Enquiry
• Sign up | Login
• My Bookings
• New User? Sign-up
• Domestic Tours
• South India
• Maharashtra
• Golden Triangle
• North India
• North East India
• International
• Maldives (Discontinued)
• All Domestic Tours
• All International Tours
• Offbeat Tours
• Domestic Cruise Tours
• Jungle Lodges by JLR
• Kabini River Lodge
• Bandipur Safari Lodge
• JLR Kings Sanctuary
• River Tern Lodge
• Kali Adventure Camp
• Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort
• K Gudi Wilderness Camp
• Car Rentals
• Destinations
• Tourist Places on Drive
• Driving Directions
• * Workation
• * Tour Plans
• List Property
• Places to Visit in Bodhgaya

19 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Bodhgaya

• Bodhgaya Overview
• Top 19 Places to Visit in Bodhgaya
• 2 Best Bodhgaya Tour Packages
• Top Resorts in Bodhgaya
• Best Time to Visit Bodhgaya
• How to Reach Bodhgaya
• Driving Directions to Bodhgaya
• within 1 km
• within 5 km
• within 10 km
• within 20 km
• within 30 km
• within 40 km
• within 50 km

Mahabodhi Temple & Bodhi Tree

#1 of 19 Places to Visit in Bodhgaya

At a distance of 1.5 km from Bodhgaya Bus Station, Mahabodhi Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar. Situated near Muchalinda Pond, it is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in India and among the prime places to visit in Bodh Gaya as part of the Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour in India. Situated on the banks of Niranjana River, Mahabodhi Temple Complex is one of the four holy sites related to the life of the Lord Buddha. The temple is fondly called as the 'Great Awakening Temple' as this is the very place where Lord Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment. The original temple was built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC, however, the present structure is estimated to be erected between 5th and 6th century BC during the Gupta Period. The Temple was restored by the British in the year 1880 and the Indian Government after independence. Due to its religious and historical significance, the temple has been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the year .....

...read more

Great Buddha Statue

#2 of 19 Places to Visit in Bodhgaya

At a distance of 1 km from Bodhgaya Bus Station and 1.5 km from Mahabodhi Temple, the Great Buddha Statue is a giant statue located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar. It is one of the tallest statues in India and among the prime spots to visit as part of the Buddhist Circuit in India. About 25 m tall, the Great Buddha Statue is by far the tallest and the first Buddha statue ever built in India. The construction of the statue was started in 1982 and was consecrated by the XIV Dalai Lama in 1989. Carved from red granite and sandstone, the magnificent figure is resembling Lord Buddha in his meditation pose on top of a blooming lotus. The statue is partly hollow and contains about 20,000 bronze Buddhas. Surrounded by 10 smaller sculptures of Buddha's disciples, the peaceful ambiance and the beauty of the statue attract thousands of tourists every year from all across the world. Of the ten standing statues, those of Sariputta and Mahamoggallana were unveiled and consecrated in 1993 while the .....

Wat Thai Buddhagaya / Thai Monastery

#3 of 19 Places to Visit in Bodhgaya

At a distance of 700 m from Mahabodhi Temple, and 1 km from Bodh Gaya Bus Station, Wat Thai is a Thai monastery located in Bodhgaya, Bihar. Situated near Maya Sarovar, it is one of the exquisite monasteries in Bodh Gaya and among the must-visit places in Bodh Gaya. Popularly known as Thai Monastery, Wat Thai Buddhagaya was established in 1956 by the government of Thailand on the request of the former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru to strengthen the relationship between the two countries. The monastery was constructed with an idea of propagating the philosophies of Buddhism among the masses. It is the only Thai Temple in India. The place abounds with peace and serenity and is ideal for solace seekers and those looking for a break from the humdrum of city life. Known for its exceptional architecture and stunning beauty, Wat Thai Bodhgaya is strikingly similar to the temples of Bangkok and is richly gilt and highly ornamental. It has a sloping roof covered with golden tiles. .....

Archaeological Museum

#4 of 19 Places to Visit in Bodhgaya

At a distance of 500 m from Mahabodhi Temple, and 1 km from Bodhgaya Bus Station, Archaeological Museum is a museum located in Bodhgaya, Bihar. Situated near Chinese Temple, it is one of the best museums in Bihar, and among the must-visit tourist places in Bodhgaya. Established in 1956, the Archaeological Museum in Bodh Gaya was established to display ancient articles belonging to the Brahmanical and Buddhist beliefs, mostly related to the Pala period. The museum has several displays on various Buddha preachings and his ideals. Apart from articles from Gautam Buddha's age, you will also find various artifacts, scriptures, and educational aids that belonged to the ancient universities at this museum. The museum has two galleries and an open courtyard, along with two verandahs that boast various antiques. The first gallery exhibits the sculptures depicting crowned Buddha in Bhumisparsamudra, Maitreya, a standing image of Manjusri, images of Buddha in a different attitude, standing .....

Royal Bhutan Monastery

#5 of 19 Places to Visit in Bodhgaya

At a distance of 500 m from Giant Buddha Statue, and 1 km from Bodhgaya Bus Station, Royal Bhutan Monastery is a magnificent Buddhist monastery and temple located in Bodhgaya, Bihar. Situated beside Wat Thai Buddhagaya, it is one of the peaceful places to visit in Bodh Gaya. Built by the King of Bhutan as a tribute to Lord Buddha, the Royal Bhutan Monastery is one of the remarkable Buddhist monasteries in the pilgrimage town of Bodh Gaya. The monastery featuring important instances from the life of Gauthama Buddha in the form of clay carvings which attracts millions of Buddhism followers from across the world. It is a peaceful place where you can learn and practice Buddhism. Standing in the Bhutanese architecture, the monastery is home to a magnificent temple and a rest house for the Bhutanese monks. The temple inside the monastery has a 7-feet high image of the Lord Buddha, which is further carved with the Buddhist symbols and scriptures. Besides, the monastery also carries .....

Sujata Temple & Stupa

#6 of 19 Places to Visit in Bodhgaya

At a distance of 3 km from Bodhgaya Bus Station, Sujatha Temple is a Buddhist temple situated in the Bakraur area of Bodh Gaya, Bihar. It is one of the many places of pilgrimage in Bodhgaya. Sujatha Temple is dedicated to a humble tribal woman named Sujatha, who offered pudding to Gautam Buddha. The temple is considered to be religiously important as the offering is believed to have saved Lord Buddha's life. According to legend, it is said that kheer was the first meal Gautam Buddha had consumed after years of starvation ever since he renounced the materialistic life including food to attain enlightenment. Later Gautama Buddha realized that one cannot attain enlightenment by Immoderation, after that he continued his journey and reached Bodh Gaya where he finally attained enlightenment. So, a small temple is built here to remark that historical incident. Besides, one can also visit the Sujata Stupa located nearby. It was built to commemorate the living site of the doomed village .....

Vishnupad Temple

#7 of 19 Places to Visit in Bodhgaya

At a distance of 4 km from Gaya Junction Railway Station, and 10 km from Bodhgaya Bus Station, Vishnupad Mandir is a Hindu temple located in the city of Gaya, Bihar. It is one of the ancient sacred temples in Gaya and among the well-known places to visit as part of the Bodhgaya Tour Packages. Situated on the banks of Falgu River, Vishnupad Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. According to the historical records, the existence of the Vishnupad temple goes back to the period of Samudragupta, who ruled over a vast empire during the 5th Century CE. The inscriptional source for this evidence is based on the Basarh Seal discovered in Vaishali. Further evidence is found in the Mehrauli Pillar inscription of King Chandragupta II. The inscription mentions this King as a devotee of Lord Vishnu and records the installation of 'dhvaja' or pillar of Vishnu on the Vishnupad Hill. A 9th-century inscription commemorates the dedication of a house for ascetics at Vishnupad by the Pala king Narayanapala. .....

Tibetan Refugee Market

#8 of 19 Places to Visit in Bodhgaya

At a distance of 500 m from Bodhgaya Bus Station, Tibetan Refugee Market is a shopping area in Bodhgaya, Bihar. Situated opposite to Bodhgaya Bus Stand, it is one of the best places for shopping lovers in Bodhgaya. Located on the northern side of the Mahabodhi Temple, the Tibetan Refugee Market is a seasonal market set up in the month of November till March. This market is especially for warm clothes and other textile materials. The market is quite famous among the locals and travelers, as they can get knickknacks along with some exotic Tibetan and Chinese food stalls. Right from budget products to expensive items, one can get complete solutions for fashion and lifestyle at this market. Tibetan Refugee Market is the best place to buy a souvenir in Bodhgaya. A visit to this market is never boring, and it is not complete without buying something from here. One can spend a couple of hours by just looking at various handicraft articles of the Tibetan faith. The statues of Lord .....

Muchalinda Lake / Lotus Pond

#9 of 19 Places to Visit in Bodhgaya

At a distance of 1.5 km from Bodhgaya Bus Station, Muchalinda Lake or Lotus Pond is a sacred lake in Bodh Gaya, Bihar. Situated right of Mahabodhi Temple, it is one of the best places to visit in Bodhgaya. Named after Muchalinda, the king of the serpents, the Muchalinda Lake is yet another peaceful spot in Bodh Gaya. There is a legend associated with this lake. It is believed that during Buddha's sixth week of meditation, a huge storm broke out here while Buddha was meditating. It was then that Muchalinda came out from his abode beneath the lake to protect Lord Buddha from the uproar of the storm and used his hood so as not to disrupt Buddha from his meditation. The structure depicting the epic story is placed at the center of Muchalinda Lake. On the boundary of the lake, one may found the epic tale inscribe on the rocks. A huge number of people visit Muchalinda Lake, especially the Buddhist Monks for meditation as the lake is surrounded by lush greenery and a peaceful atmosphere. .....

Chinese Temple

#10 of 19 Places to Visit in Bodhgaya

At a distance of 1 km from Bodhgaya Bus Station, the Chinese Temple is a sacred Buddhist shrine located in Bodhgaya, Bihar. Situated just opposite to the entrance of the Mahabodhi Temple complex, it is one of the many temples in Bodh Gaya and among the must include places in Bodh Gaya Packages. The Chinese Temple is a spectacular Buddhist temple built by Chinese-Buddhist monks in collaboration with the government of China in 1945. It was renovated in the year 1997. The architecture of the temple is an amalgamation of the beautiful Indian and Chinese designs, especially the temple exterior, which resembles a Chinese monastery. The temple houses a 200-year old Buddha statue which was brought from China and erected as a sacred shrine. Apart from the main shrine, the temple boasts three beautiful golden statues of Lord Buddha that are the primary attractions of this place. Another attraction to the temple is the rich and detailed travelogues drawn by Chinese religious scholars .....

Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple

#11 of 19 Places to Visit in Bodhgaya

At a distance of 500 m from the Great Buddha Statue, and 1 km from Bodhgaya Bus Station, Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Bodhgaya, Bihar. Situated beside the Royal Bhutan Monastery, it is one of the famous temples in Bodh Gaya and among the must-visit places in Bodhgaya. Bodh Gaya is considered as one of the greatest tourist attractions in Bihar as this is the place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree and also the birthplace of Buddhism. This sacred city has temples of great beauty and heritage and makes it one of the most desired spiritual destinations in India. And, Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple is one such sacred temple situated in the heart of Bodh Gaya. Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple is a beautiful temple built in the year 1972 with the help of international Buddhist communities. The temple was built to preserve and propagate Buddhism and the beliefs of Lord Buddha. This temple is known for its unique and exquisite .....

Burmese Vihara Monastery

#12 of 19 Places to Visit in Bodhgaya

At a distance of 1 km from Mahabodhi Temple, and 2 km from Bodhgaya Bus Station, Burmese Vihara is another well-known Buddhist monastery in Bodhgaya, Bihar. Situated in Pachhati locality, it is one of the popular places to visit in Bodhgaya. Bodh Gaya is considered as one of the greatest tourist attractions in Bihar as this is the place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree and also the birthplace of Buddhism. This sacred city has temples of great beauty and heritage and makes it one of the most desired spiritual destinations in India. And, the Burmese Vihara Monastery is one such sacred temple and monastery situated in Bodh Gaya. Placed amidst beautiful gardens, this tranquil monastery represents the traditional Burmese architecture. It is a spiritual retreat for those who wish to take a break from their stressful lifestyle. The monastery houses a Buddha Meditation Hall, a library with a large collection of books on the teachings of Lord Buddha, .....

Vietnamese Temple

#13 of 19 Places to Visit in Bodhgaya

At a distance of 500 m from Mahabodhi Temple, 1 km from Bodh Gaya Bus Station, and 1 km from Wat Thai Buddhagaya, Vietnam Temple is a Buddhist temple in Bodhgaya, Bihar. Situated near Kalachakra Maidan, it is one of the prominent places to visit in Bodhgaya. Bodh Gaya is considered as one of the greatest pilgrimage site in Bihar as this is the place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree and also the birthplace of Buddhism. This sacred city has temples of great beauty and heritage and makes it one of the most desired spiritual destinations in India. And, the Vietnamese Temple is among the most recent additions to Bodhgaya. The Vietnam Temple in Bodh Gaya was constructed by the Vietnamese government in the year 2002 to revive Buddhism in India. Built-in Vietnamese architectural style, the temple, amidst serene surroundings and scenic locales, is a stunning attraction in the town that attracts a number of tourists to the complex. The most popular attraction .....

Prachin Bharat Multimedia Museum

#14 of 19 Places to Visit in Bodhgaya

At a distance of 500 m from Mahabodhi Temple, and 2 km from Bodhgaya Bus Station, Prachin Bharat Multimedia Museum is a museum situated next to the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, Bihar. It is one of the important museums in Bodhgaya, and among the interesting places to visit in Bodhgaya. The museum was established to provide a glimpse into the historical life of Gautam Buddha in the most interesting way possible. The museum educates visitors with lucid animated films as well as audio-visual presentations which trace the history of the Mahabodhi Temple from its inception by Emperor Asoka to its gradual decay and its new lease of life given by the Sri Lankan pilgrim who single-handedly wrested control from the Shaivite priests. The entire show is divided into four sections which are dedicated to different things - 3D animation, historical background, geographical coverage, and thoughts of Lord Buddha. One can also learn more about Prince Siddhartha's ascent into Nirvana, his .....

Dungeshwari Hill Caves

#15 of 19 Places to Visit in Bodhgaya

At a distance of 15 km from Bodhgaya Bus Station, Dungeshwari Cave Temples are ancient Buddhist cave temples situated at Larpur, near Bodh Gaya, Bihar. These are one of the prominent Buddhist caves in India and among the prime Bodhgaya Tourist Places. The ancient Dungeshwari Cave Temples are popularly known as the Mahakala Cave Temples. The Dungeshwari Hill is a religious site held with high reverence by Buddhists as they believe that Lord Gautama Buddha had meditated in these caves before traveling to Bodh Gaya in search of enlightenment. As per the legend, when Buddha was doing his self-mortification, he became frail, feeble, and starved. When he rested under a Banayan tree, a village woman named Sujata offered him food. Buddha accepted her offerings and consumed the food. It was from this experience that he come to the conclusion that neither extreme self-indulgence nor self-abasement is the right way to attain enlightenment. With this realization, he left the Dungeshwari Caves .....

Barabar Caves

#16 of 19 Places to Visit in Bodhgaya

At a distance of 31 km from Gaya, and 42 km from Bodhgaya, Barabar Caves are the ancient Buddhist caves located at Barabar near Gaya in Bihar, India. These are the oldest surviving rock-cut caves in India, and among the most-visited places in Bodhgaya. Situated on the twin hills of Barabar and Nagarjuni, Barabar Caves are a set of 7 rock-cut-caves dating back to the 3rd century BC, during the Maurya period. These rock-cut chambers bear dedicatory inscriptions which informs that the four caves on Barabar hill were assigned by King Ashoka to Ajivika monks in 261 BC. Another inscription on the Nagarjuni hill is of the grandson of King Ashoka, Dasaratha Maurya, which tells that the Ajivikas continued to enjoy imperial Mauryan patronage for long. Out of the 7 caves, the Barabar Hill houses 4 caves and the Nagarjuni Hill is having 3 caves. Carved out of granite, the caves on Barabar Hill are named as Karna Chaupar, Lomas Rishi Cave, Sudama Cave, and Vishwamitra Cave. The cave of .....

#17 of 19 Places to Visit in Bodhgaya

At a distance of 12 km from Rajgir, 25 km from Bihar Shariff, 80 km from Bodhgaya, 92 km from Patna, 138 km from Vaishali, 145 km from Muzaffarpur, 205 km from Darbhanga, 230 km from Dhanbad, 252 km from Ranchi, 290 km from Purulia, 316 km from Varanasi, 318 km from Sarnath, 436 km from Prayagraj, and 624 km from Lucknow, Nalanda is an ancient city situated in the northeast Indian state of Bihar. It is one of the popular places of heritage in Bihar and among the must include places in the Buddhist Circuit of India that also includes Bodh Gaya, Sarnath, and Lumbini. Nalanda is one of the greatest centers of learning in the ancient kingdom of Magadha (modern-day Bihar) in India. The city houses one of the world's oldest and finest residential universities which itself was an architectural masterpiece. Nalanda was initially a prosperous village that ran past the route of Rajgriha (modern Rajgir) which was then the capital of Magadha. It is said that the Jain Tirthankara, Mahavira, spent ..... Distance (From Bodhgaya): 80 Kms Trip Duration (From Bodhgaya - Including Travel): Full Day .....

#18 of 19 Places to Visit in Bodhgaya

At a distance of 12 km from Nalanda, 32 km from Bihar Shariff, 71 km from Bodhgaya, 103 km from Patna, 153 km from Muzaffarpur, 197 km from Darbhanga, 225 km from Dhanbad, 247 km from Ranchi, 295 km from Purulia, 310 km from Varanasi, 431 km from Allahabad, Rajgir is an ancient city in Nalanda district of Bihar. Known for its holy sites, it is one of the popular places of pilgrimage in India and among the must include places in Bihar Tour Packages. Rajgir is a spiritual town set in a green valley and surrounded by rocky hills. The town finds its mention in the Mahabharata as the kingdom of Jarasandha, the arch-nemesis of Krishna and his Yadava clan. While the exact date of Rajgir's foundation is not known, ceramics dating to about 1000 BC have been found in the city. The famous 2500-year-old Cyclopean Wall (Cyclopean masonry) is also located in the city. The city of Rajgir was the first capital of the kingdom of Magadha, until the 5th century BC when Udayin (460-440 BC), son ..... Distance (From Bodhgaya): 71 Kms Trip Duration (From Bodhgaya - Including Travel): Full Day .....

#19 of 19 Places to Visit in Bodhgaya

At a distance of 35 km from Muzaffarpur, 55 km from Patna, 105 km from Darbhanga, 128 km from Nalanda, 145 km from Rajgir, 174 km from Bodhgaya, 182 km from Kushinagar, 233 km from Gorakhpur, 417 km from Shravasti, 505 km from Lucknow, Vaishali is a small district situated in the eastern Indian state of Bihar. Situated on the banks of Gandak River, it is one of the popular Buddhist Pilgrimage places in India and among the must include places in Bihar Tour Packages. Vaishali or Vesali was once an ancient city and is now an archaeological site near Basarh. Vaishali is believed to have been named after King Vishal of the Mahabharata age. Gautama Buddha preached his last sermon before his death in c. 483 BC, then in 383 BC, the Second Buddhist council was convened here by King Kalasoka, making it an important place in both Jain and Buddhist religions. It contains one of the best-preserved of the Pillars of Ashoka, topped by a single Asiatic lion. Apart from Buddhists, Vaishali is revered ..... Distance (From Bodhgaya): 174 Kms Trip Duration (From Bodhgaya - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Bodhgaya Blogs

Bodhgaya related packages, bodhgaya related pages.

Places to Visit in Popular Sites in India

• Coorg Tourist Places
• Ooty Tourist Places
• Munnar Tourist Places
• Shimla Tourist Places
• Mahabaleshwar Tourist Places
• Chikmagalur Tourist Places
• Wayanad Tourist Places
• Pondicherry Tourist Places
• Goa Tourist Places
• Andaman Tourist Places
• Hampi Tourist Places
• Ajanta Ellora Tourist Places
• Lonavala Tourist Places
• Nainital Tourist Places
• Agra Tourist Places
• Jaipur Tourist Places
• Kodaikanal Tourist Places
• Darjeeling Tourist Places
• Ratnagiri Tourist Places
• Murudeshwar Tourist Places
• Varanasi Tourist Places
• Ayodhya Tourist Places
• Madurai Tourist Places
• Rameswaram Tourist Places
• Shirdi Tourist Places
• Dwarka Tourist Places
• Somnath Tourist Places
• Yercaud Tourist Places
• Dandeli Tourist Places
• Thekkady Tourist Places
• Mussoorie Tourist Places
• Kerala Tourist Places
• Tamilnadu Tourist Places
• Karnataka Tourist Places
• Maharashtra Tourist Places
• Orissa Tourist Places
• Sikkim Tourist Places
• Kashmir Tourist Places

Near By Places

Similar Places

100% SECURE PAYMENTS

Domestic & International Cards Accepted

Our WhatsApp Numbers

Kerala, Tamilnadu, AP & TG Tours

Karnataka Tours

Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat Tours

North India Tours

Rest of India

International Tours

Request Quote

Travellers #

Explore Tour Packages

Discover Affordable Tour Packages

Need Customized Tour? Request Quote

Login / sign-up.

Your Sign in was successful! Itinerary will be downloaded shortly.

Sign up with Trawell.in

Already Created Account? Login Here

Sign in with Trawell.in Account

Forgot Password?

New User? Sign Up Here

Activate Your Trawell.in Account

Your account is activated successfully. Login Here

Reset Your Trawell.in Password

Your password has been reset successfully. Login Here

Booking Policy

A Note on Spectacular Geodiversity and Cultural Sites In and Around Gaya-Rajgir Region of Bihar, India: Prospect for Geoheritage and Geotourism

• Original Paper
• Published: 02 September 2024
• Volume 16 , article number  88 , ( 2024 )

Cite this article

• K. Milankumar Sharma   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-7591-7655 1 ,
• Sapam Ranabir 2 ,
• N. Amardas Singh 3 &
• Prafull Singh 1  

1 Altmetric

The Indian subcontinent is well known for its rich geological and cultural diversity. The Magadh region, with its plethora of heritage sites, stands as a living testament to the rich tapestry of India's cultural and geological history. The geodiversity of the Gaya-Rajgir area of Bihar, India comprises of volcano-sedimentary sequences juxtaposing with Rajgir meta-sediments and volcano sedimentary sequence of Bathani, anorthosite-gabbro and granites suites of Barabar-Nagarjuni area. The present report highlights some of the important geological and cultural sites of this region. The pillow basalt site of Churi Hill, Gaya is proposed to be classified as a geoheritage site which needs immediate conservation in addition to the already classified Barabar caves geoheritage site having been known for its remarkable architectural antiquities, relics and inscriptions of the rich historical past of Mauryan dynasty as engraved in the granite of the cave. The area is also characterized by the presence of its rich natural, geological, geomorphological, and significant historical and cultural heritage especially the Churi hills, Mahabodhi Temple, Vishnupad Temple, Nalanda University relict site, Caves of Barabar Hill, Rajgir area, cyclopean walls, hot water spring of Brahmakund, peace pagoda etc. From the ancient ruins of Nalanda to the spiritual sanctuaries like Vishnupad Temple and Mahabodhi Temple, each site narrates a unique story of the past. The Barabar Caves and Rajgir add further layers to this narrative, offering a glimpse into the diverse facets of the region's history. As we explore and celebrate these heritage sites, it is essential to prioritize their preservation and promote sustainable tourism, ensuring the livelihood promotion of the local indigenous people and also conserving the beauties and significance that endure for generations to come.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Subscribe and save.

• Get 10 units per month
• Download Article/Chapter or eBook
• 1 Unit = 1 Article or 1 Chapter
• Cancel anytime

Price includes VAT (Russian Federation)

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Rent this article via DeepDyve

Institutional subscriptions

(Source: https://tourism.bihar.gov.in/en/destinations/nalanda/cyclopean-wall#category-cyclopean-wall ). b Photograph of the Cyclopean Wall of Rajgir being constructed along the ridge of quartzite hill

(Source: https://templeyatri.in/places-to-visit-near-gaya-bihar/ ), b . Showing footprint of Lord Vishnu at Vishnupad temple, Gaya (Source:  https://www.tripadvisor.in/Profile/Pinddaaningaya/Photo/74456946 )

Similar content being viewed by others

Geoarchaeological Heritage of Kachchh Region, Gujarat, Western India: Geotourism Potentials

Stratigraphy and Conservation of Cultural Heritage: the Example of Rupestrian Churches of Cappadocia (Turkey)

Geological heritage of Luxor and its vicinities, Egypt: a new assessment and geotourism perspectives

Acharyya SK (2003) The Nature of Mesoproterozoic Central Indian tectonic zone with exhumed and reworked older granulites. Gondwana Res 6:197–214

Article   Google Scholar  

Ahluwalia AD (2006) Indian geoheritage, geodiversity: Geosites and geoparks. Curr Sci 91(10):1307–1307

Google Scholar  

Ahmad M, Wanjari N (2009) Volcano-sedimentary sequence in the Munger-Rajgir metasedimentary belt, Gaya district, Bihar. Indian J Geosci 63:351–360

Ahmad M, Paul AQ, Negi P, Akhtar S, Gogoi B, Saikia A (2021) Mafic rocks with back-arc E-MORB affinity from the Chotanagpur Granite Gneiss Complex of India: relicts of a Proterozoic Ophiolite suite. Geol Mag 158:1527–1542. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0016756821000078

Article   CAS   Google Scholar  

Azman N, Halim SA, Liu OP, Saidin S, Komoo I (2010) Public education in heritage conservation for Geopark community. Procedia- Soc Behav Sci 7:504–511. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2010.10.068

Bakliwal PC, Grover AK, Kaura SC (2004) Earth Science related features for Geotoursim in Arunachal Pradesh, Northeastern India. In: Workshop on Geotourism in NE India with special emphasis on Meghalaya, Shillong. Geol Surv Ind, pp 37–38

Bhosale S, Chaskar K, Pandey DK, Lakhote A, Thakkar A, Chauhan G, Bhandari S, Thakkar MG (2021) Jurassic geodiversity and geomorphosite of Kanthkot area, Wagad, Kachchh, Western India. Int J Geoheritage Parks 9(1):51–68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijgeop.2020.12.008

Bradbury J (1993) A preliminary geoheritage inventory of the eastern Tasmania Terrane. A report to Park and Wildlife Service, Tasmania

Brilha J (2002) Geoconservation and protected area. Environ Conserv 29:273–276

Brilha JBR (2009) A importância dos geoparques no ensino e divulgação das Geociências. Geol USP 5:27–33

Brilha J (2016) Inventory and quantitative assessment of geosites and geodiversity sites: a review. Geoheritage 8:119–134. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12371-014-0139-3

Brilha J (2017) Geoheritage and Geoparks. In: Reynard E, Brilha J (eds) Geoheritage: assessment, protection, and management. Elsevier, Amsterdam, pp 323–335

Brilha J (2012) A Rede Global de Geoparques Nacionais: um instrumento para a promoção internacional da geoconservação. In: Schobbenhaus C, Silva C (Org.) Geoparques do Brasil: propostas.Rio de Janeiro: CPRM-Serviço Geológico do Brasil, pp 29–37

Brilha JBR, De Carvalho AMG (2010) Geoconservação em Portugal: uma Introdução. In Ciências Geológicas: Ensino, Investigação e sua História Volume II Geologia Aplicada. Publicação Comemorativa do “Ano Internacional do Planeta Terra” (Org. Cotelo Neiva JM, Ribeiro A, Victor M, Noronha F, Ramalho M). Associação Portuguesa de Geólogos Sociedade Geológica de Portugal

Brocx M, Semeniuk V (2007) Geoheritage and geoconservation–history, definition, scope, and scale. J R Soc West Aust 90:53–80

Brocx M, Semeniuk V (2011) Assessing geoheritage values: a case study using the Leschenault Peninsula and its leeward estuarine lagoon, south-western Australia. Proc Linnean Soc NSW 132:115–130

Bruno DE (2015) Concept of geosite. In: Tiess G, Majumder T, Cameron T (ed) Encyclopedia of mineral and energy policy. Springer, Berlin, pp 1–5. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-40871-7_6-1

Bruschi M (2007) Development of a methodology for the characterization, evaluation and management of geodiversity resources. University of Cantabria, León, p 355

Burek CV, Prosser CD (2008) The history of geoconservation: an introduction. Geol Soc Lond 300(1):1–5

Chatterjee N, Ghose NC (2011) Extensive early Neoproterozoic high-grade metamorphism in North Chotanagpur Gneissic Complex of the Central Indian Tectonic Zone. Gondwana Res 20:362–379

Chatterjee N, Crowley JL, Ghose NC (2008) Geochronology of the 1.55Ga Bengal anorthosite and Grenvillian metamorphism in the Chotanagpur gneissic complex, eastern India. Precambrian Res 161(3–4):303–316. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.precamres.2007.09.005

Chauhan G, Biswas SK, Thakkar MG, Page KN (2021) The unique geoheritage of the Kachchh (Kutch) Basin, Western India, and its conservation. Geoheritage 13:1–34

Citiroglu HK, Isik S, Pulat O (2017) Utilizing the geological diversity for sustainable regional development, a case study-Zonguldak (NW Turkey). Geoheritage 9(2):211–223. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12371-016-0196-x

Crofts R, Tormey D, Gordon JE (2021) Introducing new guidelines on Geoheritage conservation in protected and conserved areas. Geoheritage 13:33. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12371-021-00552-0

Cunningham A (1871) Four reports made during the years, 1862–63–64–65. Government Central Press, pp 43–52

Das S, Mukherji S (2001) Mineralogy and geochemistry of V-Ti magnetite deposits of Mayurbhanj basic igneous complex, Orissa. Indian Mineral 35:134–150

CAS   Google Scholar  

Dayal N (1983) Report on the systematic geological mapping in parts of Gaya District, Bihar; Geological Survey of India. Kolkata, India. Unpublished Report

De Lima FF, Vargas JC (2014) Geoconservação, geoturismo e geoparques. In Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina. Departamento de Engenharia Sanitária e Ambiental. Centro Tecnológico. Florianópolis: [s. n.]

Freire-Lista DM (2020) Geotourism from Fuente de Cibeles of Madrid. History, Building Stones and Quarries. Cadernos do Laboratorio Xeolóxico de Laxe. Revista de Xeoloxía Galega e do Hercínico Peninsular 42:69–94. https://doi.org/10.17979/cadlaxe.2020.42.0.7286

Freire-Lista DM, Fort R (2019) Historical city centres and traditional building stones as heritage: the Barrio de las Letras, Madrid (Spain). Geoheritage 11(1):71–85. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12371-018-0314-z

Freire-Lista DM, Fort R, Varas-Muriel MJ (2017) Ruta Geomonumental por Manzanares el Real (Madrid). Geogaceta 62:107–110

Freire-Lista DM, Campos BB, Sanjurjo-Sánchez J, Costa R (2022b) Heritage Stone of São Tiago de Folhadela Romanesque church (North of Portugal). Petrography, glyptography, construction phases and deterioration of its historic ashlars by pyrite oxidation. Constr Build Mater 350:128904. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2022.128904

Freire-Lista DM, Campos BB, Ramil MP, Rego A, Lopez Díaz MJ (2023) Building Granite characterisation, construction phases, mason’s marks and glyptography of Nossa Senhora de Guadalupe Church, Mouçós e Lamares, Galicia-North Portugal Euroregion. Geoheritage 15:24. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12371-023-00790-4

Freire-Lista DM, Becerra Becerra JE, Simões de Abreu M (2022a) The historical quarry of Pena (Vila Real, north of Portugal): associated cultural heritage and reuse as a geotourism resource. Resour Policy 75. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.resourpol.2021.102528

Frey ML, Martini G, Zouros N (2001) European Geopark charter. In: Frey ML (ed). EuropeanGeoparks magazine 1:28

Ghosh AR, Mukherjee A (2002) Arsenic contamination of groundwater and human health impacts in Burdwan District, West Bengal, India. Geol Soc America (Abstracts) 34(2):107

Ghosh A, Mukhopadhyay S, Chatterjee S (2021) Assessment of geoheritage and prospects of geotourism: An approach to geoconservation of important geological and geomorphological sites of Puruliya district, West Bengal, India. Int J Geoheritage Parks 9(2):264–283. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijgeop.2021.03.001

Gogoi B, Saikia A, Ahmad M, di Mineralogia P (2017) Titanite-centered ocellar texture: a petrological tool to unravel the mechanism enhancing magma mixing. Periodico Mineral 86:245–273

Gray M (2004) Geodiversity – valuing and conserving abiotic nature. Wiley, Chichester

Grover AK, Mahanta BN (2018) Geotourism potential in Arunachal Pradesh—a preliminary appraisal. Indian J Geosci 72:345–360

Halbouni D, AlRabayah O, Rüpke L (2022) A Vision on a UNESCO Global Geopark at the Southeastern Dead Sea in Jordan—Geosites and Conceptual Approach. Land 11:549. https://doi.org/10.3390/land11040549

Hall CM, Zeppel H (1990a) Cultural and heritage tourism: the new grand tour? Historic Environ 7(3/4):86–98. https://doi.org/10.3316/informit.870765828978406

Hall CM, Zeppel H (1990b) History, architecture, environment: cultural heritage and tourism. J Travel Res 29:54–55. https://doi.org/10.1177/004728759002900212

Ibrahim K (2003) Conservation geology – protecting hidden treasure of Malaysia. Academy Science of Malaysia Inaugural Lectures 2003. Academy Science of Malaysia and Lestari UKM Publications. Bangi 51:27–36

Insua Pereira D, Pereira P, Brilha J, Santos L (2013) Geodiversity ASSESSMENT of Paraná State (Brazil): an innovative approach. Environ Manag 52:541–552. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00267-013-0100-2

IUCN (2021) Geodiversity, World Heritage and IUCN. https://www.iucn.org/theme/world-heritage/our-work/global-world-heritage-projects/geodiversity-world-heritage-and-iucn . Accessed 03 Jun 2021

Kaur G (2022) Geodiversity, geoheritage and geoconservation: a global perspective. Journ Geol Soc India 98(9):1221–1228

Khoukhouchi M, Errami E, Hassou N, Irzan M (2018) The geomorphological heritage of the Oualidia and Sidi Moussa lagoons: assessment and promotion for a sustainable human and socioeconomic development. J Sci Res 5(4):73–87

Kozłowski (1999) Programme of geodiversity conservation in Poland. Pol Geol Inst Sp Papers 2:15-18

Kozłowski S (2004) Geodiversity. The concept and scope of geodiversity. Przegl Geol 52:833–837

Kubalíková L, Bajer A, Balková M (2021) Brief notes on geodiversity and geoheritage perception by the lay public. Geosciences 11:54. https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences11020054

Kuhn CES, Santos FRP, de Jesuz CR, de Andrade KA, Augusto Gomes Vieira Reis F (2022) Public policies for geodiversity in Brazil. Geoheritage 14:74. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12371-022-00705-9

Lahiri N (2015) Ashoka in ancient India. Harvard University Press, Harvard

Book   Google Scholar  

Le HP (2010) Buddhist Architecture. Book Publication, Grafikol

Mahadevan TM (2002) Geology of Bihar & Jharkhand. Geological Society of India, Bangalore

Hastimalji M (1971) Jain Dharma ka Maulik Itihas Part-1, ed., Jain Itihas Samiti, p 739–742

Mallik AK (1968) Mineralogy and Temperature of Formation of Titaniferous Magnetite Ores Associated with Gabbro in the Moulabhanja Parbat Area, Dhenkanal District, Orissa; Geological Survey of India. Unpublished Report, Kolkata

Mathur S (2020) Concept of geoheritage: a review in Indian context. J Water Clim Chang 7:1–17

Mazumdar MK (2010) Sustainable use of lanscapes through geo-conservation promotion: The Geoparks approach with particular reference to Northeast India. In: Islam S, Barua P, Das KC (eds) Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Development. Commerce College, Guwahati, pp 137–166

Medina-Viruel MJ, Fuentes Jiménez PA, Pérez-Gálvez JC, González Santa Cruz F (2019) The role of gastronomy in trips: types and motivations. J Soc Sci Res 5(512):1758–1767. https://doi.org/10.32861/jssr.512.1758.1767

Mehrotra N (2022) Why India needs UNESCO global geoparks. In: Land, water and people, the society of earth scientists. Lucknow, India, pp 39–42. http://earthses.org/?page_id=1988 . Accessed 23 Aug 2024

Mohammad A, Prasad AK, Wetsah K-u, Azad M, Aryan V, El-Askary H (2022) Titaniferous-vanadiferous, magnetite-ilmenite mineralization in a mafic suite within the chhotanagpur gneissic complex, Bihar, India. Minerals 12(7):860. https://doi.org/10.3390/min12070860

Mukherjee D (2010) Report on tectono-magmatic evolution of gaya-sudamakund area in Gaya and Jehanabad districts, Bihar and Associated Magnetite-Ilmenite Mineralization; Geological Survey of India, Kolkata, India

Mukherjee S, Dey A, Sanyal S, Sengupta P (2019) Proterozoic crustal evolution of the Chotanagpur granite gneissic complex, Jharkhand-Bihar-West Bengal, India: Current status and future prospect. In: Mukherjee S (ed) Tectonics and structural Geology: Indian context. Springer Geology International Publishing AG, Cham, pp 7–54

Chapter   Google Scholar  

Mukhopadhyay P, Ray S, Saran R, Huin AA (2011) Status Report on the Geology, Structure, Metamorphism, Petrology, Mineral Chemistry, Petrochemistry, Geochemistry and Geochronology and Economic Potentiality of the Major Units of Chhotanagpur Gneissic Complex in West Bengal, Jharkhand and Bihar, Eastern India (SER/ER/HQ/2008/013); Geological Survey of India. Kolkata, India.

Panizza M (2001) Geomorphosites: concepts, methods and examples of geomorphological survey. Chin Sci Bull 46(Suppl 1):4–5. https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03187227

Pereira P, Pereira D, Caetano Alves MI (2008) Geomorphosite assessment in Montesinho natural park (Portugal). Bol AGE 47:397–399

Phani PRC (2016) Geological Excursion to Eparchaean Unconformity at Namalagundu, Anantapur District, Andhra Pradesh, India. J Earth Sci India 1:1–8

Pijet-Migoń E, Migoń P (2022) Geoheritage and cultural heritage—a review of recurrent and interlinked themes. Geosciences 12(2):98. https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences12020098

Ranawat PS, George S (2019) Potential geoheritage & geotourism sites in India. Int J Sci Res 9(6):9016. https://doi.org/10.29322/ijsrp.9.06.2019.p9016

Raza MA, Shareef M, Badireddi V, Suryavanshi H, Baswani SR, Dora ML, Meshram T, Akhter P, Kumari S, Panda B, Saha SK (2020b) Multiple sulfur sources for the volcanic hosted massive sulfides in Betul Belt, Central India: evidence from the sulfide ore chemistry and sulfur isotope geochemistry. Geochemistry 80(4):125632

Raza AA, Awungshi R, Bishwapriya A (2020a) Rajgir-Bodh Gaya- Barabar Geotourism Spots: A Unique Geological and Historical Heritage of Bihar. ER004 pre-congress Field Trip guide, 36 International Geological Congress, Delhi (NCR), p 1–52

Reynard E, Panizza M (2005) Geomorphosites: definition, assessment and mapping. An introduction. Géomorphologie 3:177–180

Reynard E, Panizza M (2007) Geomorphosites: definition, assessment and mapping. An introduction. Géomorphologie 3:177–180. https://doi.org/10.4000/geomorphologie.337

Rocha-Vargas DC, Becerra- Becerra JE, Benavente D, Cañaveras JC, Gilberto-Costa A (2019) Estudio preliminar de las características petrográficas, petrofísicas y comportamiento mecánico de rocas naturales tipo “piedra bogotana” y “mármol royal bronce” utilizadas en construcciones patrimoniales y recientes en Colombia. Rev UIS Ingenierías 18(3):203–222. https://doi.org/10.18273/revuin.v18n3-2019021

Saikia A, Gogoi B, Ahmad M, Ahmad T (2014) Geochemical constraints on the evolution of maficand felsic rocks in the Bathani volcanic and Volcano-sedimentary sequence of Chotangpur Granite GneissComplex. J Earth Syst Sci 123:959–987

Saikia A, Gogoi B, Kaulina T, Lialina L, Bayanova T, Ahmad M (2017) Geochemical and U-Pb zircon age characterization of granites of the Bathani Volcano Sedimentary sequence, Chotanagpur Granite Gneiss Complex, eastern India: vestiges of the Nuna supercontinent in the Central Indian Tectonic Zone. Geol Soc Spec Publ Lond 457(1):233–252

Saikia A, Gogoi B, Ahmad M, Kumar R, Kaulina T, Bayanova T (2019) Mineral chemistry, Sr–Nd isotope geochemistry and petrogenesis of the granites of Bathani volcano-sedimentary sequence from the Northern Fringe of Chotanagpur Granite Gneiss Complex of Eastern India. In: Mondal MEA (ed) Geological evolution of the Precambrian Indian shield. Springer International Publishing, Cham, pp 79–120

Salameh MM, Touqan BA, Awad J, Salameh MM (2021) Heritage conservation as a bridge to sustainability assessing thermal performance and the preservation of identity through heritage conservation in the Mediterranean city of Nablus. Ain Shams Eng J. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.asej.2021.07.007

Santos PLA, Brilha JA (2023) Review on tourism carrying capacity assessment and a proposal for its application on geological sites. Geoheritage 15:47. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12371-023-00810-3

Sarkar AN, Basu Mallick S (1979) Study of palaeodynamics in Bandhuwa- Jethian – Rajgir area, Gaya, Nawada and Nalandadistricts, Bihar. Unpublished Report. Geol Surv India FS: 1972–73

Sarkar AN, Basu Mallick S (1982) Study of palaeodynamics inthe Rajgir metasedimentary belt, Bihar: stress system crustalshortening and deformation patterns. Rec Geol Surv India 112(3):25–32

Schrodt F, Bailey JJ, Kissling WD et al (2019) Opinion: to advance sustainable stewardship, we must document not only biodiversity but geodiversity. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 116(33):16155–16158. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1911799116

Semeniuk V, Semeniuk CA (2001) Human impacts on globally to regionally significant geoheritage features of the swan coastal plain and adjoining coastal zone, southwestern Australia. Gondwana to greenhouse: Australian environmental geoscience-The Australian environment. Aust J Earth Sci 21:181–199

Sharples C (2002) Concepts and principles of geoconservation. Retrieved from: file:///C:/Users/c04qx/Downloads/Sharples2002_ConceptsPrinciplesOfGeoconservation_v3.pdf . Accessed 23 Aug 2024

Shekhar S, Kumar P, Chauhan GM, Thakkar G (2019) Conservation and sustainable development of geoheritage, geopark, and geotourism: a case study of cenozoic successions of W. Kutch, India. Geoheritage, pp 1–14

Shitole AD, Gupta V, Gidwani L, Verma V, Rajora S, Anand S, Tripathi SC (2023) Bagh Dinosaur National Park Region, Dhar District, Madhya Pradesh: a Potential UNESCO Global Geopark. Geoheritage 15(4):116

Singh RS, Ghosh P (2021) Geotourism potential of coal mines: anappraisal of Sonepur-Bazari open cast project, India. Int J Geoheritage Parks. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijgeop.2021.02.007

Swarna K, Biswas SK, Harinarayana T (2013) Development of Geotourism in Kutch Region, Gujarat, India: an innovative approach. J Environ Prot 4:1360–1372

Turner FJ (1968) Metamorphic petrology. McGraw Hill, New York

Walker B (2019) Hindu world: an encyclopedic survey of Hinduism. In Two Volumes. Volume I A-L. Routledge, p 62

Wanjari NR, Chaturvedi R, Mahanta DN (2012) Specialised thematic mapping in Munger–Rajgir Group of rocks to examine structural and stratigraphic set up in and around Gaya–Rajgir areas in parts of Gaya, Nawada and Jahanabad districts of Bihar; Unpublished report, GSI (F.S.: 2008–09, 2009–10)

Download references

Acknowledgements

Corporation from Dr. Priti Rai (Assistant Professor, Department of Geology, CUSB, Gaya) and M.Sc. Geology students Department of Geology, CUSB Gaya is highly grateful.

The work was not funded by any organization.

Author information

Authors and affiliations.

Department of Geology, Central University of South Bihar, Gaya, Bihar, 824236, India

K. Milankumar Sharma & Prafull Singh

Regional Centre, Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, Ranchi, Jharkhand, 834008, India

Sapam Ranabir

Department of Geology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, 151401, India

N. Amardas Singh

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

Contributions

All authors have equally contributed in this manuscript.

Corresponding author

Correspondence to K. Milankumar Sharma .

Ethics declarations

Conflict of interest.

The authors declare that there are no conflicts of interest.

Rights and permissions

Springer Nature or its licensor (e.g. a society or other partner) holds exclusive rights to this article under a publishing agreement with the author(s) or other rightsholder(s); author self-archiving of the accepted manuscript version of this article is solely governed by the terms of such publishing agreement and applicable law.

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Sharma, K.M., Ranabir, S., Singh, N.A. et al. A Note on Spectacular Geodiversity and Cultural Sites In and Around Gaya-Rajgir Region of Bihar, India: Prospect for Geoheritage and Geotourism. Geoheritage 16 , 88 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12371-024-00994-2

Download citation

Received : 01 February 2024

Accepted : 13 August 2024

Published : 02 September 2024

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/s12371-024-00994-2

Share this article

Anyone you share the following link with will be able to read this content:

Sorry, a shareable link is not currently available for this article.

Provided by the Springer Nature SharedIt content-sharing initiative

• Geodiversity
• Geoheritage
• Cultural Heritage
• Conservation
• Gaya-Rajgir-Nalanda
• Find a journal
• Publish with us
• Track your research

Hyatt Place Bodh Gaya

Tailored for spirituality and rejuvenation

Nestled 20 minutes away from Gaya airport, within the lush landscapes of this sacred city, the hotel is conveniently located near the UNESCO World Heritage site, Mahabodhi temple, and the Bodhi tree. The minimalist design of our hotel fosters a sense of calm for Buddhist followers and those seeking a break from the city chaos.

LOOK AROUND OUR PLACE

ROOMS & SUITES

Bodh Gaya embodies holistic wellbeing. Immerse yourself in our sensory-rich ambience for a harmonious stay and embrace your own spiritual wellbeing in our rooms, which offer a glimpse of the iconic Mahabodhi temple.

The Market is an ideal place for people on the go because it offers a selection of healthy snacks or a selection of non-alcoholic beverages that will help you feel recharged. Located at the 2nd level, as a token of Bodh Gaya remembrance, Market offers a variety of local souvenirs.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Meetings & events.

Host your meeting or wedding at Hyatt Place Bodh Gaya, which features a large, open event space perfect for private ceremonies, conferences and celebrations.

Fitness Centre

Recharge at our 24-hour fitness centre, featuring the latest cardio equipment, earbuds and energy drinks.

Fitness Center

Free Breakfast

Free Internet Access

Free Parking

On-Site Restaurant

Accessibility at Our Hotel

We are committed to providing equal access and opportunity for individuals with disabilities. The features also make this hotel more accessible for older individuals with changing abilities to ensure a seamless experience. Our overall goal is to improve usability throughout the hotel for all guests.

World of Hyatt members can earn 2X points for qualifying stays completed July 9 through October 15, 2024, at 550+ Hyatt Place and Hyatt House hotels worldwide, up to 25,000 Bonus Points. Registration required.

There's more to earn—and enjoy—when you book smart, only on hyatt.com. Members can save more . Book a standard or premium room at participating hotels.

Not a World of Hyatt member? Join now or as you book your stay to enjoy exclusive member benefits like this one.

Terms and Conditions Apply.

THINGS TO DO

Our hotel is ideally located for discovering Bodh Gaya’s attractions, from the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Mahabodhi Temple, to the Bodhi Tree.

The Great Buddha Statue

0.57 Miles away

1.41 Miles away

Mahabodhi Temple

1.19 Miles away

Thai Monastery

0.89 Miles away