Gaya Travel Guide: All You Need To Know

Gaya is a city located in the Indian state of Bihar, in the northeastern part of the country. It is situated on the banks of the Phalgu River and is a popular destination for religious tourism. Here are some things to do and see in Gaya:

• Mahabodhi Temple: The Mahabodhi Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. It is believed to be the place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. The temple is located in Bodh Gaya, which is a suburb of Gaya.
• Vishnupad Temple: The Vishnupad Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is located on the banks of the Falgu River and is believed to have been built on the site where Lord Vishnu placed his foot.
• Mangla Gauri Temple: The Mangla Gauri Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Shakti. It is believed to have been built during the 7th century and is located on a hill overlooking the city of Gaya.
• Barabar Caves: The Barabar Caves are a group of ancient rock-cut caves located about 25 kilometers north of Gaya. They are believed to have been built during the Maurya Empire and are some of the oldest surviving rock-cut structures in India.
• Falgu River: The Falgu River is a holy river that flows through Gaya. It is believed to have the power to wash away sins, and many pilgrims come to bathe in its waters.
• Tibetan Monastery: The Tibetan Monastery in Bodh Gaya is a peaceful and serene place to visit. It is a great place to learn about Tibetan Buddhism and to meditate.
• Dungeshwari Cave Temples: The Dungeshwari Cave Temples are a group of rock-cut temples located about 12 kilometers from Bodh Gaya. They are believed to have been used by Gautama Buddha for meditation.

Gaya is a city with a rich cultural and religious heritage, and there are many things to see and do for travelers interested in history, religion, and culture. Looking for more places in Bihar? Have a look on our guide to Darbhanga here.

Best Time To Visit Gaya

The best time to visit Gaya is during the winter months between October and March when the weather is mild and pleasant. The temperature during this time ranges between 5°C to 25°C, making it comfortable for travelers to explore the city’s religious and cultural attractions. The days are sunny and clear, and the nights are cool, making it an ideal time to visit Gaya.

During the summer months from April to June, the temperature can rise up to 40°C, making it hot and humid. The monsoon season from July to September brings heavy rainfall, which can make it difficult to explore the city’s attractions. Hence, it is not recommended to visit Gaya during the summer or monsoon months.

However, if you are planning a trip to Gaya for religious purposes, you may want to consider visiting during the Pitru Paksha period, which falls in September. During this period, it is believed that the souls of ancestors visit the earth, and pilgrims come to perform rituals and offer prayers to their ancestors.

Things to Do in Gaya

Gaya is a holy city in the state of Bihar in India, famous for its spiritual and religious significance. Here are some of the things you can do in Gaya:

• Visit the Mahabodhi Temple: Mahabodhi Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. It is believed to be the place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. The temple is located in Bodh Gaya, which is a suburb of Gaya.
• Explore the Vishnupad Temple: The Vishnupad Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is located on the banks of the Falgu River and is believed to have been built on the site where Lord Vishnu placed his foot.
• Take a dip in the Falgu River: Falgu River is a holy river that flows through Gaya. It is believed to have the power to wash away sins, and many pilgrims come to bathe in its waters.
• Visit the Tibetan Monastery: The Tibetan Monastery in Bodh Gaya is a peaceful and serene place to visit. It is a great place to learn about Tibetan Buddhism and to meditate.
• Explore the Barabar Caves: The Barabar Caves are a group of ancient rock-cut caves located about 25 kilometers north of Gaya. They are believed to have been built during the Maurya Empire and are some of the oldest surviving rock-cut structures in India.
• Experience the Dungeshwari Cave Temples: The Dungeshwari Cave Temples are a group of rock-cut temples located about 12 kilometers from Bodh Gaya. They are believed to have been used by Gautama Buddha for meditation.
• Take a heritage walk: Gaya is a city with a rich cultural and religious heritage. A heritage walk through the city will take you to many ancient temples, old buildings, and monuments that have historical significance.
• Attend the Pitru Paksha Mela: If you visit Gaya during the Pitru Paksha period, you can attend the Pitru Paksha Mela, which is a fair held in Gaya during this period. The fair is famous for its various cultural programs, food stalls, and other attractions.

These are some of the things you can do in Gaya. The city is full of religious and cultural significance, and there are many other temples and attractions to explore.

How to Get Around in Gaya

Here are the ways to get around in Gaya:

• Auto-rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are a popular mode of transportation in Gaya. They are convenient and affordable and can take you to various places around the city.
• Taxis: Taxis are also available for hire in Gaya. They are more expensive than auto-rickshaws but are more comfortable and can be a good option for longer distances.
• Buses: Local buses are available for travel within the city and nearby areas. They are an affordable option but can be crowded and uncomfortable.
• Rental bikes: Bikes can be rented for travel within Gaya. It is a convenient and affordable option for short distances and can also be used for sightseeing.
• Walking: Walking is a great way to explore the city and its various attractions, especially in the city center where many of the main temples and landmarks are located.

It is advisable to negotiate the fare with the auto-rickshaw drivers and taxi drivers before starting your journey. Additionally, it is always best to check with locals or your hotel for the best mode of transportation for your intended destination.

Where to eat in Gaya

Gaya is a holy city in India that offers a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian food options for visitors. Here are some of the best places to eat in Gaya:

• Bodhgaya Restaurant: This restaurant offers a mix of Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine. It is located near the Mahabodhi Temple and is a great place to grab a meal after a day of sightseeing.
• Tirupati Balaji Chat and Sweets: This is a popular street food joint in Gaya that offers a variety of vegetarian street food items like chaat, samosas, and sweets.
• Annapurna Restaurant: This restaurant is known for its North Indian cuisine, especially its thalis, which offer a complete meal on a platter. It is located near the Vishnupad Temple.
• Ramana’s Garden Cafe: This is a vegetarian cafe located in Bodh Gaya, which offers a variety of healthy and organic food options. It is a great place to enjoy a healthy meal while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
• Hotel Buddha International: This restaurant offers a mix of Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine. It is located near the railway station and is a good option for those looking for a quick bite to eat.
• Kwality Restaurant: This is a popular restaurant in Gaya that offers a mix of Indian and Chinese cuisine. It is known for its biryanis and other North Indian dishes.
• Pind Balluchi: This is a restaurant that offers a mix of North Indian and Punjabi cuisine. It is located near the railway station and is known for its tandoori dishes.

These are some of the best places to eat in Gaya. However, there are many other restaurants and street food joints in the city that offer a variety of cuisines to suit different tastes and preferences.

Famous street stalls in Gaya

Gaya is known for its vibrant street food culture, and there are several street stalls that are popular among locals and visitors alike. Here are some of the famous street stalls in Gaya:

• Chaat and Dosa Stalls: There are several chaat and dosa stalls in Gaya that offer a variety of vegetarian street food options like samosas, chaats, and dosas. Some of the popular stalls include Tirupati Balaji Chat and Sweets, Prabhu Chat Bhandar, and Maheshwari Sweets.
• Litti Chokha Stalls: Litti Chokha is a popular dish in Bihar and is made from roasted wheat balls stuffed with sattu (roasted gram flour) and served with a side of mashed potatoes and brinjal bharta. Some of the popular Litti Chokha stalls in Gaya include Litti Chokha Thela, Shivam Litti and Bati, and Om Litti Bhandar.
• Kebab Stalls: Kebabs are a popular non-vegetarian street food item in Gaya. Some of the popular kebab stalls include Tandoori Kebab House, Mohd. Danish Kebab Centre, and Khana Khazana Kebab Shop.
• Kulfi Stalls: Kulfi is a popular dessert in Gaya, and there are several stalls that offer different varieties of kulfi like malai kulfi, mango kulfi, and falooda kulfi. Some of the popular kulfi stalls in Gaya include Gauri Shankar Kulfi, Sona Sweets and Kulfi, and Asha Kulfi Bhandar.
• Samosa Stalls: Samosas are a popular snack in Gaya, and there are several stalls that offer freshly made samosas. Some of the popular samosa stalls in Gaya include Alia Samosa, Rajeshwari Samosa Bhandar, and Nathu Ram Samosa Wala.

These street stalls are not only popular for their delicious food but also offer a glimpse into the local food culture of Gaya.

Where to stay in Gaya

Luxury accommodation

Gaya is a popular destination for both religious and leisure tourists, and there are several luxury accommodations in the city that offer comfortable and luxurious stays. Here are some of the best luxury accommodations in Gaya:

• Vivanta by Taj – Gaya: This 5-star hotel is located in the heart of Gaya and offers luxurious rooms and suites with modern amenities. The hotel also has a restaurant, bar, spa, and fitness center.
• Hotel Vishal International: This 4-star hotel is located near the railway station and offers spacious and comfortable rooms with modern amenities. The hotel also has a restaurant, bar, spa, and fitness center.
• Hotel Saraogi: This 4-star hotel is located in the heart of Gaya and offers comfortable and luxurious rooms with modern amenities. The hotel also has a restaurant, bar, spa, and fitness center.
• Hotel Lotus Nikko: This 4-star hotel is located near the Mahabodhi Temple and offers comfortable rooms and suites with modern amenities. The hotel also has a restaurant, bar, spa, and fitness center.
• Hotel Buddha International: This 3-star hotel is located near the railway station and offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. The hotel also has a restaurant and bar.

These luxury accommodations offer comfortable and luxurious stays in Gaya and are suitable for both leisure and business travelers.

Budget accommodation

Gaya is a popular destination for both religious and leisure travelers, and there are several budget accommodations in the city that offer comfortable stays at affordable prices. Here are some of the best budget accommodations in Gaya:

• Hotel Buddha Residency: This budget hotel is located near the railway station and offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities like air conditioning, TV, and Wi-Fi. The hotel also has a restaurant and offers free breakfast.
• Hotel Surya: This budget hotel is located near the Mahabodhi Temple and offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities like air conditioning, TV, and Wi-Fi. The hotel also has a restaurant and offers free breakfast.
• Hotel Lumbini International: This budget hotel is located near the railway station and offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities like air conditioning, TV, and Wi-Fi. The hotel also has a restaurant and offers free breakfast.
• Hotel Shyam: This budget hotel is located near the Mahabodhi Temple and offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities like air conditioning, TV, and Wi-Fi. The hotel also has a restaurant and offers free breakfast.
• Hotel Royal Inn: This budget hotel is located near the railway station and offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities like air conditioning, TV, and Wi-Fi. The hotel also has a restaurant and offers free breakfast.

These budget accommodations offer comfortable stays at affordable prices and are suitable for travelers on a budget. Looking for more places in Bihar? Have a look on our guide to Nalanda here.

Travel Tips Gaya

Here are some travel tips for Gaya:

• Know the best time to visit: The best time to visit Gaya is during the winter months from November to February when the weather is pleasant and cool.
• Plan your accommodation: There are many accommodation options in Gaya, ranging from budget to luxury hotels. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
• Prepare for the weather: Gaya can be quite hot and humid during the summer months, so be sure to carry light and comfortable clothing. During the winter months, the weather can get quite cold, so carry warm clothing.
• Be respectful: Gaya is a religious destination, so be sure to respect the local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and remove your shoes before entering temples.
• Hire a local guide: Hiring a local guide can be very helpful in navigating the city and learning about the local culture and history.
• Visit Mahabodhi Temple: The Mahabodhi Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is the main attraction in Gaya. It is believed to be the place where Buddha attained enlightenment and is a must-visit site.
• Try local food: Gaya is known for its delicious local cuisine. Be sure to try local dishes like litti chokha, sattu drink, and bhuja.
• Be aware of scams: Like in any other tourist destination, there may be people trying to scam you. Be aware of common scams and do not give in to any requests for money or donations.
• Carry cash: While there are ATMs and banks in Gaya, it is advisable to carry cash as some places may not accept cards.
• Be cautious of street food: While Gaya has some amazing street food, be cautious of hygiene and cleanliness when eating from street vendors. It is advisable to stick to restaurants for meals.

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