Bodh Gaya: A Travel Guide to the Land of Enlightenment

Set off on a delightful journey to Bodhgaya, Bihar, where the aura of enlightenment beckons! Dive into this colourful itinerary that introduces you to the best things to see in Bodhgaya. Marvel at the historic splendours of the Mahabodhi Temple and the timeless ruins of Nalanda University, key places to see in Bodhgaya. Satisfy your taste buds with the authentic food of Bodhgaya and unwind in the comfort of the serene resort in Bodhgaya, Club Mahindra Associate’s Marasa Sarovar Premiere. Get ready for an enriching experience in this spiritual city!

Best Time to Visit Bodhgaya

The best season to visit Bodhgaya is winter, from October to March, when the weather is ideal for exploring the top places to visit in Bodhgaya, such as the Mahabodhi Temple and the Bodhi Tree. The best month to visit Bodhgaya is during Buddhist festivals, which typically fall in this period. Some must-see Bodhgaya tourist places include the Great Buddha Statue and monasteries. In addition to spiritual landmarks, the food of Bodhgaya offers unique local flavours. You can enjoy your stay at Marasa Sarovar Premiere, a Club Mahindra associate resort in Bodhgaya, for a relaxing experience.

How to Reach Bodhgaya

Here’s a detailed guide on how to reach Bodhgaya via various modes of transport:

1. By Air:

The nearest airport to Bodhgaya is Gaya International Airport, located around 12 km away. It operates direct domestic flights from cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Varanasi, and a few international flights from Southeast Asia, catering primarily to Buddhist pilgrims. For better connectivity, you can fly into Patna Airport, 130 km from Bodhgaya, and take a taxi or bus.

Gaya to Bodhgaya: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available outside the airport. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes. Marasa Sarovar Premiere is 10 minute ride from the Bodhgaya bus stand.

Patna to Bodhgaya: From Patna, regular buses, shared cabs, or private taxis can take you directly to Marasa Sarovar Premiere, Bodhgaya, with a travel time of around 3-4 hours.

2. By Train:

Gaya Junction is the nearest railway station, located 16 km from Bodhgaya. It’s a major railhead and has direct trains connecting to cities like New Delhi, Kolkata, Varanasi, and others.

From Gaya Junction to Bodhgaya, you can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw. The drive takes about 25 minutes. Marasa Sarovar Premiere Resort in Bodhgaya is 10-minute ride from the Bodhgaya bus stand.

Train Connectivity: Trains like the Mahabodhi Express (from Delhi) and Kolkata Mail (from Howrah) have regular services to Gaya.

3. By Road:

Bodhgaya is well connected by road to nearby cities in Bihar and neighbouring states. National and state highways link the town, making road travel convenient.

From Patna (130 km): Regular buses and private taxis operate between Patna and Bodhgaya. The journey takes around 3-4 hours.

From Varanasi (255 km): Buses and taxis are available. It’s a 6-7 hour drive. Marasa Sarovar Premiere resort in Bodhgaya is 10 minute ride from the Bodhgaya bus stand

From Ranchi (200 km): The travel time by bus or taxi is around 5 hours.

Local buses and shared cabs are also available from nearby cities like Rajgir and Nalanda.

4. Local Transport:

Once in Bodhgaya, you can explore the places to visit in Bodhgaya using auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, or rental cars. These modes of transport are convenient for visiting Bodhgaya tourist places like the Mahabodhi Temple, the Bodhi Tree, the Great Buddha Statue, and nearby monasteries.

3-Day Itinerary Of Bodhgaya: Places To See In Bodhgaya, Things To Do And Food To Eat

Day 1: Arrival in Bodhgaya & Temple Exploration

Morning: Check-in at Marasa Sarovar Premiere, Bodhgaya

• Arrival: Reach Marasa Sarovar Premiere, one of the finest resorts in Bodhgaya, ideally located to explore Bodhgaya’s tourist places.
• Breakfast: Start your day with local dishes like poori sabji and jalebi at the resort.

Late Morning: Mahabodhi Temple

• Mahabodhi Temple

How to Reach: The Mahabodhi Temple is located 2.5 km from Marasa Sarovar Premiere. You can take an auto-rickshaw, which costs around ₹50-₹100, and the ride takes approximately 10 minutes.

Opening Hours: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Entry Fee: Free for general entry, ₹100 for camera photography.

About the Temple: The Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most sacred places to visit in Bodhgaya. It marks the location where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree, a key attraction for visitors. Built in the 5th century CE, this temple is a major Bodhgaya tourist place, featuring stupas, shrines, and the sacred Bodhi Tree. As a symbol of peace and spirituality, the temple complex is a must-visit for anyone exploring things to see in Bodhgaya.

Tips: Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and meditate peacefully. The best time to visit is from November to February, during the best season to visit Bodhgaya, when the weather is cooler. Carry a water bottle and consider bringing your own meditation cushion for comfort.

Afternoon: Lunch & Thai Monastery and Japanese Temple

• Lunch: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurants, famous for food of Bodhgaya like litti chokha and sattu paratha.
• Thai Monastery

How to Reach: Located 2 km from your resort in Bodhgaya, the Thai Monastery is a quick 5-minute ride by auto-rickshaw, costing around ₹50.

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Entry Fee: Free.

About the Monastery: Built by the King of Thailand, this vibrant temple is known for its stunning golden-roofed pavilion and intricate statues of Buddha. The monastery represents the Thai influence on Buddhism and is a peaceful place to see in Bodhgaya.

Tips: Visit around midday when it's less crowded. The temple’s serene atmosphere makes it a perfect place for quiet reflection. Be sure to remove your shoes before entering.

• Japanese Temple

How to Reach: The Japanese Temple is next to the Thai Monastery, just a 2 km (5-minute) auto ride from the resort.

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Entry Fee: Free.

About the Temple: The Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple was built in 1972 by the Japanese Buddhist community. This temple’s minimalist architecture and wooden interiors reflect Japanese culture and design, creating a tranquil space for reflection. It is one of the most popular things to see in Bodhgaya.

Tips: Visit during quieter hours to enjoy some peaceful time for meditation. Don't miss the surrounding gardens, perfect for walking and taking in the calm environment.

Evening: Great Buddha Statue

• Great Buddha Statue

How to Reach: The statue is 3 km from the resort, about a 10-minute auto-rickshaw ride (₹50-₹100).

Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

Entry Fee: Free.

About the Statue: The Great Buddha Statue in Bodhgaya, standing 80 feet tall, is among the most iconic things to see in Bodhgaya. Erected in 1989, this grand statue depicts Lord Buddha in a meditative posture, symbolizing peace and enlightenment. It is one of the most significant Bodhgaya tourist places, surrounded by 10 smaller statues representing Buddha’s disciples. As a key place to visit in Bodhgaya, the statue is a highlight for pilgrims and tourists alike, offering a serene atmosphere for spiritual reflection and exploration.

Tips: Visit in the late afternoon for the best light for photography. Spend time walking around the beautifully landscaped garden surrounding the statue.

• Dinner at the Resort: After a spiritually enriching day, enjoy dinner at the hotel, which offers amazing traditional food in Bodhgaya.

Day 2: Day Tour to Rajgir and Nalanda

Early Morning: Departure to Rajgir

How to Reach: Rajgir is about 75 km from Bodhgaya. It takes approximately 2 hours by private taxi (recommended for comfort). Local taxis can be booked through the resort for ₹1,500-₹2,000.

Morning in Rajgir: Vishwa Shanti Stupa & Griddhakuta

• Vishwa Shanti Stupa, Rajgir

How to Reach: Rajgir is about 75 km from Bodhgaya. It takes approximately 2 hours by private taxi (₹1,500-₹2,000, available through the resort). Hiring a private vehicle is recommended for comfort.

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Entry Fee: ₹100 for the ropeway.

About the Stupa: The Vishwa Shanti Stupa, built by Japanese Buddhists, is a prominent symbol of peace and harmony and is among the top places to visit in Bodhgaya. This stunning white pagoda, perched on a hilltop, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Rajgir countryside. One of the unique things to see in Bodhgaya, visitors can take a scenic ropeway ride to the top, enhancing the overall experience. As a notable Bodhgaya tourist place, it provides a serene atmosphere, ideal for those seeking spiritual reflection and stunning landscapes.

Tips: Try to reach the stupa early in the morning to avoid the heat. The ropeway ride is an enjoyable experience and offers great views. Don't miss the prayer ceremonies held periodically by monks.

• Griddhakuta (Vulture’s Peak), Rajgir

How to Reach: After visiting the Vishwa Shanti Stupa, Griddhakuta is a short 15-minute walk or a brief auto ride from the base of the hill.

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours (best visited in daylight).

Entry Fee: Free.

About the Site: Griddhakuta, also known as Vulture’s Peak, is one of the most spiritually significant places to visit in Bodhgaya. It was a favourite meditation site of Lord Buddha and the location where he delivered several important sermons. For those exploring things to see in Bodhgaya, the climb to Griddhakuta offers stunning views of the Rajgir landscape and provides a deep connection to ancient Buddhist history. As a key Bodhgaya tourist place, this site offers both natural beauty and historical significance.

Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for the climb, and bring water, as there are few facilities on the way. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to visit for a peaceful experience.

• Lunch in Rajgir: Try simple local food of Bodhgaya at a roadside eatery or a restaurant like Gurudev Restaurant. Have regional dishes like dal pitha and baigan bharta.

Afternoon in Nalanda: Nalanda University Ruins & Museum

• Nalanda University Ruins

How to Reach: Nalanda is 30 km from Rajgir (about 1 hour by car). Your private taxi can easily take you there.

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Entry Fee: ₹15 for Indian citizens, ₹200 for foreigners.

About the University: The Nalanda University Ruins stand as a testament to ancient India’s reputation as a global centre of learning. Established in the 5th century CE, this historical site is one of the most significant places to visit in Bodhgaya. Scholars from all over Asia flocked to Nalanda University until its destruction in the 12th century. Among the must-see Bodhgaya tourist places, the expansive ruins feature ancient classrooms, monasteries, and temples, offering a deep connection to the rich intellectual heritage of India.

Tips: Hire a guide to gain a deeper understanding of the university’s history and significance. The ruins can be hot during midday, so bring a hat and sunscreen if you visit in the afternoon.

• Nalanda Archaeological Museum

How to Reach: The museum is located near the university ruins, about a 5-minute walk.

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Fridays).

Entry Fee: ₹5 for Indian citizens, ₹100 for foreigners.

About the Museum: The Nalanda Archaeological Museum is an essential stop for visitors exploring Bodhgaya tourist places. It houses a rich collection of artifacts from the ancient Nalanda University, including statues, sculptures, seals, and other relics. These items offer a comprehensive understanding of the university’s historical significance and its pivotal role in Buddhist education. Among the places to visit in Bodhgaya, this museum provides a fascinating insight into the region’s academic and spiritual heritage, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Tips: Visit the museum before the ruins to contextualize what you'll see at the site. Take your time exploring the artifacts, as each tells a story of Nalanda’s historical significance.

• Return to Bodhgaya: Head back in the late afternoon and arrive in Bodhgaya by evening.
• Dinner: Unwind with a meal at the resort, or try another local restaurant in town to explore more food of Bodhgaya.

Day 3: Final Temple Visits and Departure

Morning: Tibetan Monastery, Sujata Stupa and Departure from Bodh Gaya

• Tibetan Monastery

How to Reach: The Tibetan Monastery is 2 km from your resort in Bodhgaya, about a 5-10 minute ride by auto-rickshaw (₹50).

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Entry Fee: Free.

About the Monastery: This Tibetan monastery, known for its stunning Tibetan architecture and large prayer wheel, is a peaceful spiritual retreat and a must-visit Bodhgaya tourist place. Inside the monastery, vibrant murals depict significant Buddhist scenes, making it a visually captivating stop for anyone exploring places to visit in Bodhgaya. Visitors can also participate in the popular ritual of spinning the prayer wheels, which is believed to bring good fortune and blessings. This monastery offers a serene environment for reflection and connection to Buddhist traditions.

Tips: Spin the prayer wheels in a clockwise direction for good luck. Be sure to explore the small gift shop, which sells Tibetan artifacts and prayer flags.

• Sujata Stupa

How to Reach: The Sujata Stupa is 3 km from the resort, about 10 minutes by auto-rickshaw.

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Entry Fee: Free.

About the Stupa: The Sujata Stupa is a significant Bodhgaya tourist place, commemorating Sujata, the woman who offered Lord Buddha a bowl of rice milk during his time of asceticism. This act inspired Buddha to embrace the Middle Path, which ultimately led to his enlightenment. As an important place to visit in Bodhgaya, the stupa holds immense spiritual value and attracts pilgrims from all over the world, making it a must-see for those seeking a deeper connection with Buddhist history and teachings.

Tips: Visit the stupa in the late morning to avoid the heat. You can also visit the nearby Sujata Temple, which further commemorates Sujata’s contribution to Buddha’s journey.

• Departure: Check out from the resort for departure.

Club Mahindra Marasa Sarovar Premiere is the ideal place to stay in Bodhgaya

Club Mahindra Marasa Sarovar Premiere is one of the top resorts in Bodhgaya that offers a unique cultural experience inspired by the Buddhist values of simplicity, compassion, and serenity. Themed around peace and mindfulness, it’s the perfect place to unwind while visiting top Bodhgaya tourist places. With a meditation court and a relaxing spa, it combines spiritual retreats with elegance. During the best season to visit Bodhgaya, from October to March, this resort is ideal for exploring places to visit in Bodhgaya while indulging in the rich food of Bodhgaya.

Conclusion

Your three-day spiritual sojourn in Bodhgaya promises not just a visit but an expedition into the heart of Buddhist philosophy and Indian culture. From exploring iconic Bodhgaya tourist places to savouring the authentic food of Bodhgaya, and resting at the culturally themed Marasa Sarovar Premiere, an associate Club Mahindra Resort in Bodhgaya, you'll carry back more than just memories; you'll return with a renewed spirit.

Wrap up your amazing Bodhgaya adventure with a fun twist: think about joining the Club Mahindra family! With a Club Mahindra membership plan, you'll unlock the doors to the serene Marasa Sarovar Premiere and get access to more than 140 top-notch resorts around the world. Imagine holidaying in style, with exclusive experiences, ultimate comfort, and a sprinkle of cultural exploration at every turn. Each trip with Club Mahindra isn’t just a vacation; it’s a ticket to a world of bespoke holidays. Ready to elevate your travel game? Get Club Mahindra Membership today and start exploring the world in style!