Gaya Tourism | Places to Visit | Things To Do

Gaya, Bihar's second largest city, is synonymous to Bodh Gaya – the site where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Gaya, a city of historic and mythological significance is a major attraction in the state of Bihar.

But Gaya is also a holy place for Hindus and Jains, along with Buddhists. The city has found mention in many holy texts, travelogues of ancient pilgrims and numerous lores and legends. Buddhists from world over visit Bodh Gaya in search of their inner peace. Hindus visit Vishnupad temple during the month of 'shraadh' to offer 'mukti' to the departed souls of their loved ones. Believed to be the heart of Buddhism the main attraction is the Mahabodhi temple, located at the east of Bodhi tree where the main sanctum embodies a colossal image of Buddha in sitting posture touching the Earth by his right hand, the posture in which he achieved supreme enlightenment. Pilgrims can also visit Ratnagarh where Buddha spent a week and five colors appeared out of his body. Gaya is also home to an artistic Chinese Monastery and an astounding 80 feet statue of Buddha and other numerous sacred sites evolved through the years.

A niche of Gaya city became place of convergence for the Buddhists especially on Buddha Purnima that falls in the month of Vaishakh (April-May). However, the temperature sore to an average of 41 degrees in contrast to its comparatively pleasant winters. A 15 kilometer drive away from Bodh Gaya is the Dungeshwari Caves around River Phalgu. The cave-like structure is surrounded by several shrines and stupas. The legend states that it was this cave where Lord Buddha stayed for 6 years before heading to Bodh Gaya for enlightenment.

Jains visit Gaya to worship Bhagwan Vardhaman Mahaveer and visit Parasnath Hills and Rajgrahi.

The Om restaurant is quite famous for serving mouthwatering optional delicacies. However, the local food stalls also provide a riche variety of options to choose from. So if you've decided to plan a trip to Gaya expect to be welcomed with a perfect blend of architectural spectacles and ancient wonders,

Gaya is well-connected with all major cities in Bihar and through rest of the India by road and railways. Gaya International airport is the only operating international airport in Bihar and Jharkhand. Enjoy local Bihari delicacies in Gaya, such as sattu, litti-chokha, and their famous chaat. Satisfy your sweet tooth by eating kesaria peda, khaja and tilkut.