Guided Tour of Bodhgaya Temples and Buddha Sites
Active
4h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the spiritual essence of Buddhism on this guided half-day tour of Bodhgaya. Visit the revered Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where Lord Buddha achieved enlightenment beneath the sacred Bodhi Tree. Discover stunning international monasteries showcasing diverse Buddhist architecture, including the Great Buddha Statue—one of the tallest in India. This insightful tour is tailored for those seeking cultural enrichment and historical context in a concise format.
• Visit the sacred Mahabodhi Temple and Bodhi Tree
• Explore iconic monasteries: Thai, Burmese, and Japanese
• Admire the towering Great Buddha Statue
• Get valuable insights from an expert English speaking guide
• Private hotel pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Gaya
Available options
Guided Tour of Bodhgaya Temples and Buddha Sites
Pickup included
What's included
Water bottle
Admission Ticket to Attractions
Experience English Speaking Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
We will pick you up directly from your hotel in Bodhgaya and begin a peaceful journey through the city’s most important Buddhist landmarks.
2
Stop 2
Start your tour at the sacred Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the place where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment.
3
Next, visit the Thai Monastery, admired for its calm surroundings and graceful Thai-style architecture.
4
Continue to the Burmese Vihara Monastery, known for its serene ambiance and striking Buddha statue.
5
Then head to the Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple, a beautiful symbol of Buddhist unity, featuring elegant Japanese design.
6
Stop 6
After that, stop at the iconic Great Buddha Statue, one of the tallest Buddha statues in India and a major highlight of Bodhgaya.
7
Proceed to Sujata Kuti, a simple and meaningful place connected to Sujata, who offered food to Lord Buddha before his enlightenment.
8
Stop 8
Visit the Dungeshwari Cave Temples, where Lord Buddha is believed to have spent time in meditation before attaining enlightenment, surrounded by a peaceful and natural setting.
9
At the end of the tour, we will drop you back safely at your hotel in Bodhgaya.
What's not included
Personal expenses and tips
Anything not clearly listed under inclusions
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Bodh Gaya
Bodh Gaya is a sacred Buddhist site where Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. It's a spiritual hub with ancient temples, monasteries, and a profound sense of peace. The Mahabodhi Temple Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the focal point of pilgrimage and meditation.
Top Attractions
Mahabodhi Temple Complex
The Mahabodhi Temple Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site. It includes the Bodhi Tree, where Buddha attained enlightenment, and the Mahabodhi Temple, a magnificent structure with intricate carvings.
Religious/Historical
2-3 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Great Buddha Statue
The 80-foot tall statue of Buddha in the Mahabodhi Temple Complex is one of the largest Buddha statues in India. It is a significant landmark and a focal point for meditation and reflection.
Religious/Architectural
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free (donations welcome)
Vishnupad Temple
Vishnupad Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is built on the site where it is believed that Lord Vishnu left his footprints. The temple is an example of ancient Indian architecture and is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Religious/Historical
1 hour
Moderate (donations welcome)
Sujata Stupa
Sujata Stupa marks the spot where Sujata, a village girl, offered a meal to the Buddha before his enlightenment. The stupa is a peaceful place for meditation and reflection.
Religious/Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free (donations welcome)
Thai Monastery (Wat Thai Bodhgaya)
The Thai Monastery is a beautiful example of Thai architecture and is known for its intricate carvings and golden spires. It is a peaceful place for meditation and reflection.
Religious/Architectural
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free (donations welcome)
Bodh Gaya Museum
The Bodh Gaya Museum houses a collection of artifacts related to the history and culture of Bodh Gaya. It provides valuable insights into the region's rich heritage.
Museum
1 hour
Moderate (entry fee applies)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Litti Chokha
A traditional Bihari dish made of roasted wheat balls (litti) served with a spicy mashed vegetable (chokha) made from roasted eggplant, potatoes, and tomatoes.
Main Course
Vegetarian, Gluten-free (if made with gluten-free flour)
Dal Pitha
A Bihari specialty made of lentil dumplings (pitha) cooked in a spicy tomato-based gravy.
Main Course
Vegetarian
Malpua
A sweet pancake made from flour, bananas, and sugar, deep-fried and soaked in sugar syrup.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Thukpa
A Tibetan noodle soup with vegetables, meat, or tofu, often flavored with garlic and ginger.
Main Course
Vegetarian or non-vegetarian options available
Popular Activities
Hiking in nearby hills
Exploring ancient ruins
Meditation at the Mahabodhi Temple Complex
Visiting hot springs in Rajgir
Visiting monasteries and temples
Attending Buddhist festivals
Boating in nearby lakes
Visiting during winter for pleasant weather
Best Time to Visit
October to March
The best time to visit Bodh Gaya is during the cooler months. The weather is pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Hindi, Bhojpuri
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Indian Rupee (INR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30 (Indian Standard Time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Bodh Gaya is generally safe for travelers, but it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and scams, can occur, especially in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Gaya International Airport • 12 km from Bodh Gaya
By train
Gaya Junction
By bus
Gaya Bus Stand
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are affordable and cover most areas within Bodh Gaya. They can be crowded and may not have fixed schedules.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Ola, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Temple Area
Market Area
Residential Area
Day trips
Nalanda
65 km from Bodh Gaya • Full day
Nalanda is an ancient center of learning and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to the ruins of Nalanda University, one of the world's first residential universities.
Rajgir
70 km from Bodh Gaya • Full day
Rajgir is an ancient city with a rich history and religious significance. It is known for its hot springs, ancient stupas, and the Vulture's Peak where Buddha preached.
Vaishali
80 km from Bodh Gaya • Full day
Vaishali is an ancient city known for its association with Lord Buddha and the Licchavi kingdom. It is home to several Buddhist and Jain pilgrimage sites.
Festivals
Buddha Purnima • Full moon day in May/June (varies each year)
Kalachakra Initiative • Varies (typically every few years)
Vesak (Vaisakhi) • April/May (varies each year)
Pro tips
- Visit the Mahabodhi Temple Complex early in the morning for a peaceful meditation experience and to avoid crowds
- Hire a local guide or join a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the history and significance of Bodh Gaya's attractions
- Try local Bihari and Tibetan cuisine at the many restaurants and street stalls in the market area
- Attend a meditation retreat or teachings by Buddhist monks to immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of Bodh Gaya
- Explore the international monasteries in Bodh Gaya to learn about different Buddhist traditions and practices
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
