Places to Visit in Gaya

Gaya is a holy city beside the Falgu River, in the northeast Indian state of Bihar. It’s known for 18th-century Vishnu pad Mandir, a riverside temple. The city is known to have belonged to the Magadh Empire and is surrounded on three sides by hills, creating a picturesque and lovely location. Gaya is a spellbinding location with a long history associated with royalty and spirituality and is connected to the rest of India as well as the other main towns of Bihar through different means of transportation.

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Things To See & Do

Vishnupad Temple Near Gaya

Vishnupad Temple Near Gaya

A spiritual and peaceful hill in Gaya
The temple was built by Queen Ahilyabai in 1787. A lovely religious site, surrounded by water on three sides and craggy rocks on three sides, is set on the banks of the gushing Phalgu River. A 40-centimeter-long footprint of Lord Vishnu is located in the temple.

1 to 2 hours

Suggested Time

Ramshila Hill Near Gaya

Ramshila Hill Near Gaya

The holiest hill in Gaya
The most sacred location of this town is Ramshila Hill, which is located on the southeast side of Gaya and is said to be the site of Lord Rama's "pinda" offering. There are a number of antique stone carvings on and around the hill that attest to the presence of prior buildings or temples associated with the bygone era.

3 to 5 hours

Suggested Time

Nirvana School Of Thai Massage & Yoga Gaya

Nirvana School Of Thai Massage & Yoga Gaya

Where your mind and body rejuvenate
This is a location where people may learn how to use ‘Thai Yoga Massage, Clinical Bodywork, and Meditation’ to attain the deepest level of relaxation.

1 to 2 hours

Suggested Time

Mangla Gauri Temple

Mangla Gauri Temple

The temple of Goddess Shakti
Goddess Shakti, also known as Sati, is worshiped in this temple. The temple is one of the "Shakti Peethas' ' built on top of Mangla Gauri Hill. There are further temples dedicated to Maa Kali, Lord Ganesha, Lord Hanuman, and Lord Shiva inside this well-kept temple complex.

3-4 hrs

Suggested Time

Ramshila Hill

Ramshila Hill

The holiest hill in Gaya
The most sacred location of this town is Ramshila Hill, which is located on the southeast side of Gaya and is said to be the site of Lord Rama's "pinda" offering. There are a number of antique stone carvings on and around the hill that attest to the presence of prior buildings or temples associated with the bygone era.

3 to 5 hours

Suggested Time

Akshya Vat

Akshya Vat

Where a Banyan Tree got the blessing to be immortal!
In close proximity to the VishnuPad Temple lies the well-known Akshya Vat, a Banyan Tree. As per folklore, it is believed that the Akshya Vat received Sita Devi's blessing to be everlasting and never shed its leaves throughout any season. It is a venerable Banyan tree that is said to have existed before Lord Ram's reign and has many intriguing legends connected to it.

6 to 7 hours

Suggested Time

Barabar Caves

Barabar Caves

Cave Dwellings with a fascinating past
Barabar Caves, located close to Gaya, are known to have an interesting history and dates back to the 2nd century. The caves are a set of 7 rock-cut caves and it is believed that the Maurya Empire produced the earliest rock-cut caverns in India.

2-3 Hours

Suggested Time

Royal Bhutan Monastery

Royal Bhutan Monastery

Magnificent Buddhist monastery with a vast history
Royal Bhutan Monastery is a monastery in Bodhgaya known for its vast history and stories related to the life of Lord Buddha. Numerous significant scenes from the life of Gautam Buddha are shown in clay sculptures at the monastery, drawing millions of Buddhists from all over the world. This monastery was built as a homage to Lord Buddha by the King of Bhutan.

5 to 6 hours

Suggested Time

Thai Monastery

Thai Monastery

An exceptional architecture delight in the heart of Gaya
The Thai monastery at Bodh Gaya stands out for its unique construction and breathtaking beauty. It has a sloped roof with golden tiles on it and is said to contain a 25-meter-tall bronze statue of Lord Buddha.

2-3 Hrs

Suggested Time

Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple

Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple

The art and culture of Japan
The Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple is an ideal example of how Buddhist culture and Japanese architecture can co-exist. The temple is constructed completely out of wood and resembles a standard Japanese shrine. A variety of Japanese-style artworks that illustrate many major occasions in Buddha's life are also on display in the temple. The Lord Buddha idol, which is venerated daily by monks and followers, is also kept in the sanctuary.

2 to 4 hours

Suggested Time

Surya Kund Near Gaya

Surya Kund Near Gaya

Hot Springs in India
Tourists go to Surya Kund, one of Gaya's top attractions, two times a year when fairs are conducted there. It is a widely held belief that taking a holy plunge in the kund will absolve one of all past misdeeds.

2-3 Hrs

Suggested Time

Muchalinda Lake

Muchalinda Lake

Lake of the Snake King, Muchalinda
The Muchalinda lake is considered as a significant place of worship owing to a folklore related to the lake. It is believed that the snake king Muchalinda, also known as SheshNaga, guarded Lord Buddha at this lake from a violent thunderstorm, as it is also believed that Buddha is an avatar of Lord Vishnu.

2 to 4 hours

Suggested Time

Mahabodhi Temple

Mahabodhi Temple

A Timeless Architectural Masterpiece
In the third century B.C., Emperor Asoka constructed the first temple in the Mahabodhi Temple Complex; the current temple was constructed between the fifth and sixth centuries. The current Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya consists of the 50 m high grand Temple, the Vajrasana, the sacred Bodhi Tree, and other six sacred sites related to Buddha's enlightenment.

2 to 3 hours

Suggested Time

Vishnupad Temple

Vishnupad Temple

A spiritual and peaceful hill in Gaya
The temple was built by Queen Ahilyabai in 1787. A lovely religious site, surrounded by water on three sides and craggy rocks on three sides, is set on the banks of the gushing Phalgu River. A 40-centimeter-long footprint of Lord Vishnu is located in the temple.

1 to 2 hours

Suggested Time

Best Time To Visit Gaya

All Year Round Destination

  • OCT-MAR

    Peak Season

  • JUL-DEC

    Moderate Season

  • MAR-JUN

    Off-season

  • What To Expect:Pleasant weather with clear skies
  • Things You'll Love:Spiritual meet-ups, culture, and temples

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

1/2

Makar SankrantiJanuary

Buddha Purnima MahotsavApril or May

Bodhgaya Buddha JayantiMay

Book Your Trip to Gaya

From

Travel Options to reach Gaya

Our Recommendations

Flight to Gaya Airport

2h 0m . One way

Booking Options Starting From

₹6,720

BOOK NOW

Train to Gaya

19h 45m . One way

Booking Price

₹505

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Stay in Gaya

Recommended Options

VIEW ALL

3 STAR HOTELS

Recommended For You

Average Price

₹2,695

EXPLORE
Hotel M.K. Plaza

Hotel M.K. Plaza

Sujata Bypass Rd, Bodhgaya

3.9/5

₹1,855

Onwards

DIVINE HOTEL AND RESORTS

DIVINE HOTEL AND RESORTS

Sikahar, Gaya

3.8/5

₹4,095

Onwards

HOTEL KUSUM PALACE

HOTEL KUSUM PALACE

Gol Bagicha, Gaya

4.2/5

₹2,135

Onwards

4 STAR HOTELS

Recommended For You

Average Price

₹6,898

EXPLORE
Bodhgaya Regency Hotel

Bodhgaya Regency Hotel

Mastipur, Bodhgaya

4.1/5

₹2,867

Onwards

The Bodhi Palace Resort

The Bodhi Palace Resort

Bodhgaya, Bodhgaya

4.1/5

₹2,578

Onwards

Hyatt Place Bodh Gaya

Hyatt Place Bodh Gaya

Bodhgaya, Bodhgaya

4.5/5

₹15,250

Onwards

5 STAR HOTELS

Recommended For You

Average Price

₹20,447

EXPLORE
Marasa Sarovar Premiere-Bodhgaya

Marasa Sarovar Premiere-Bodhgaya

Newataur, Bodhgaya

4.4/5

₹36,799

Onwards

Nirvana Grand Hotel & Resort

Nirvana Grand Hotel & Resort

Bodhgaya, Bodhgaya

₹4,095

Onwards

Tourist Places to Visit in Gaya


Gaya is an enchanting city located in the northeastern state of Bihar in India . Known for its rich cultural heritage, sprawling landscapes, and fascinating history, it holds great importance in the realms of spirituality and ancient architecture. Here are some exceptional places to visit in Gaya.


Best Places to Visit with Family:


Vishnupad Temple:

Vishnupad Temple is a historic temple that houses the footprint of Lord Vishnu, it offers a unique spiritual experience.


Nirvana School of Thai Massage & Yoga:

Nirvana School of Thai Massage & Yoga it offers an opportunity to rejuvenate your body and mind while learning about traditional Thai massage and yoga.


Akshya Vat:

Akshya Vat is an immortal banyan tree which has been a significant part of many historic events and continues to hold religious importance.


Royal Bhutan Monastery:

Royal Bhutan Monastery is peaceful monastery, reflecting a slice of Bhutanese culture, is a hub for Buddhist teachings and spiritual introspections.


Mahabodhi Temple:

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mahabodhi Temple is one of the holiest sites in Buddhism, marking the location where Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment.


Places to Visit with Friends:


Barabar Caves:

The Barabar Caves , the oldest surviving rock-cut caves in India, give a glimpse into the architectural skill of the Mauryan period.


Thai Monastery:

Reflecting Thai architectural style, the Thai monastery is extremely calm and serene, making it a perfect place for meditation.


Muchalinda Lake:

Named after serpent god Muchalinda , the peaceful lake is believed to have protected Buddha during his sixth week of meditation.


Surya Kund:

Positioned near the famous Vishnupad temple,Surya Kund is a sacred pond visited for performing pind-daan rituals.


Mangla Gauri Temple:

Among the most sacred temples dedicated to Goddess Shakti,Mangla Gauri Temple attracts devotees from all over the world for its spiritual significance.


Ramshila Hill:

Ramshila Hill is Known for its breathtaking views, this hill is a famous location for conducting religious ceremonies and pind-daan.


Best Time to Visit Gaya :


Gaya, known for its temperate climate, is best visited between the months of October and March. During this period, the weather is pleasantly cool, providing the perfect environment for sightseeing and expeditions.


Good Places to Visit at Night in Gaya :


Gaya's serene and tranquil ambiance is amplified at night, providing a unique experience for visitors. A walk along the Muchalinda Lake or a night-time visit to the mesmerising Surya Kund opens up a whole new side of Gaya's mystical charm.


Restaurants in Gaya


  • Blackheart Café
  • The Spice Affair
  • Paprika Fine Dine Pure Veg Restauarnt
  • Brood’s Play n Eat

Places to Visit in Gaya in 1 Day:


If you are on a quick one-day tour, the perfect itinerary includes the renowned Vishnupad Temple and the spiritual hub that is the Akshya Vat. Here you can immerse yourself in the age-old traditions and rich culture of Gaya.


Places to Visit in Gaya in 2 Days:


For those fortunate enough to enjoy a two-day stay, be sure to also include the Royal Bhutan Monastery known for its tranquillity and spiritual depth, along with the intriguing Barabar Caves which will tell stories of history and civilisation.


Places to Visit in Gaya in 3 Days:


Spend your third day in Gaya exploring the Mahabodhi Temple, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites, the historic Mangla Gauri Temple and the panoramic views from Ramshila Hill. These sites offer unique opportunities for understanding the prominence of spirituality in the city's structure.


Places to Visit Near Gaya :


Just as Gayais mesmerising, the areas in its close proximity share the same allure. Within a range of 100-300km, places like Rajgir and Nalanda , world-renowned for their historic and religious significance, are definitely worth a detour.

Tourist Places in Gaya

Akshya Vat, Barabar Caves, Royal Bhutan Monastery, Thai Monastery, Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple

State

Bihar

Best Time to Visit in Gaya

October to March

Things to Do in Gaya

Muchalinda Lake, Mahabodhi Temple, Vishnupad Temple, Ramshila Hill, Mangla Gauri Temple

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Gaya

What are the best places to visit in Gaya?

Gaya has loads of places that you can visit on your vacation. Our recommendation of the best places to visit in Gaya include - Vishnupad Temple Near Gaya, Ramshila Hill Near Gaya, and Nirvana School Of Thai Massage & Yoga Gaya. Apart from these, there are multiple other places to visit that you can explore if you are on a longer trip!

Which are the most popular shopping spots in Gaya?

The best shopping places in Gaya are Kundan Bazaar, Bodh Gaya Handicrafts and Tibetan Refugee Market. You will have an amazing time exploring and finding unique things to buy at these shopping hotspots in Gaya and will definitely come back home with a bag full of lovely artifacts and experiences.

What are the top things to do in Gaya?

Gaya is an incredibly lively place and is popularly known for its topmost things to do like Vishnupad Temple Near Gaya, Ramshila Hill Near Gaya, and Nirvana School Of Thai Massage & Yoga Gaya. You will have a great time here, then why wait? Book your trip now!