Bodh Gaya
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Our most recommended things to do in Bodh Gaya

BODHGAYA FULL DAY TOUR

BODHGAYA FULL DAY TOUR

Mahabodhi Temple One of the four holy sites related to the life of Lord Buddha, and marks the spot where he attained enlightenment. Standing in the middle of Bodh Gaya town, set amid lush green lawns. With intricate engravings and arch motifs on its shikhara (tower), it is a spectacular sight. Inside the temple, a gilded statue showcases Lord Buddha in his famous bhumisparsha mudra, with one finger touching the earth, asking it to witness his enlightenment. A chamber at the top houses a statue of Mayadevi, Lord Buddha’s mother. The Mahabodhi Temple, destroyed in the 12th century was resurrected in the 14th century and excavated in 1811. It is truly a sight to behold. Thai monastery It is known for its unique architectural design which marks the gracious presence of Thai architecture in India. Offering a tranquil atmosphere, it is a place where visitors can immerse themselves in meditation and spirituality. The centrepiece of the monastery is a beautifully carved bronze statue of Buddha. Royal Bhutan monastery This monastery is a tribute from the Kingdom of Bhutan to Lord Buddha. It stands out for its exquisite traditional Bhutanese architecture, featuring detailed carvings and beautiful depictions of the life of Gautama Buddha. Inside, there is a splendid 7-foot tall gold-plated Buddha statue, which is a major attraction for both devotees and tourists. The monastery not only provides a tranquil environment for meditation but also serves to strengthen the cultural ties between Bhutan and India. Indoson Nippon Japanese temple This Japanese Buddhist temple stands out with its architectural beauty, serene environment, and intricate woodwork. It was built in 1972 and features Japanese-style design and construction, quite distinct from other buildings in the area. The temple's calm ambiance is conducive to meditation and reflection. Inside the temple, visitors can see beautiful Japanese paintings depicting various events from the life of Lord Buddha. Great Buddha statue The Great Buddha was possibly the largest Buddha statue in India at the time and was consecrated on 18 November 1989 by the 14th Dalai Lama. The foundation stone for the statue was laid in 1982. Mix of sandstone blocks and red granite. Metta Buddha ram temple The temple is appealing with an outer shell of stainless steel and a decorative mosaic using mirrors. The temple sees the Thai Temple style of architecture. The main temple floor is made of wood. Underneath the temple is the marble-floored meditation room offering a perfect environment to the devotees for meditation. The temple is decorated with numerous sculptures, which are handmade, from a mixture of white cement, clay, and epoxy.

Varanasi to Bodhgaya : A day trip of Enlightment exploration

Varanasi to Bodhgaya : A day trip of Enlightment exploration

Embark on a spiritual odyssey from the ancient city of Varanasi to the sacred grounds of Bodhgaya, where the air resonates with the echoes of enlightenment. This one-day tour is meticulously crafted to offer you a glimpse into the profound tranquility and historical significance of Bodhgaya, all within the span of a single day. Your journey commences before dawn breaks, as you depart from the Varanasi/ from hotel / airport . The stillness of the early hours is the perfect prelude to the serenity that awaits. Scenic Drive to Bodhgaya As you traverse the countryside, witness the landscape transform with the rising sun, painting the sky in hues of gold and crimson. The drive is an opportunity to reflect and prepare for the spiritual experience ahead. Arrival at Bodhgaya Bodhgaya greets you with its peaceful ambiance as you arrive at the heart of Buddhist pilgrimage. The Mahabodhi Temple Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a beacon of peace and spirituality. Here, beneath the sacred Bodhi Tree, Siddhartha Gautama attained supreme enlightenment and became the Buddha. Exploration of the Mahabodhi Temple Immerse yourself in the profound energy of the temple complex. The intricate carvings and the meditative atmosphere offer a connection to the divine. Take a moment to sit in quiet contemplation or join the monks in their rhythmic chants. Post-lunch, embark on a tour of the surrounding temples and monasteries. Each structure tells a story of faith and community, from the towering Great Buddha Statue to the tranquil monasteries representing various countries and Buddhist traditions. Vishnupad Temple and the Falgu River (optional) A short drive takes you to the ancient Vishnupad Temple in Gaya, a site revered by both Buddhists and Hindus. The nearby Falgu River, with its sacred significance, offers a space for introspection and reverence. **Return Journey to Varanasi ** As the day draws to a close, you begin your return to Varanasi. The experiences of Bodhgaya linger in your thoughts, a reminder of the timeless teachings of compassion and mindfulness that the Buddha imparted. **Reflective Drive Back**: The journey back is a time for reflection on the insights gained and the peace experienced. The setting sun accompanies you, signaling the end of a day that has offered a deeper understanding of spiritual heritage.

From Varanasi: Private Same Day Bodhgaya Tour

From Varanasi: Private Same Day Bodhgaya Tour

In the morning, our driver will pick you up from your hotel in Varanasi and drive to Bodh Gaya, which is approximately a 4-5 hour drive. After reaching Bodh Gaya, head to one of the most significant Buddhist pilgrimage sites, the Mahabodhi Temple. Discover the temple complex and see the revered Bodhi Tree, which is thought to be the location of Gautam Buddha's enlightenment. See the Animesh Lochana Chaitya, a tiny shrine where it is said that Buddha gazed gratefully at the Bodhi Tree for a week. Explore the 80-foot-tall Great Buddha Statue, which portrays Lord Buddha in a meditative stance. See the serene Bodhi Sarovar, where it is said that the Buddha spent a week following his enlightenment. Wander through the serene meditation centres and monasteries at Bodh Gaya, including the Tibetan Monastery, Japanese Temple, and Thai Monastery. Take in the calm environment while discovering various Buddhist customs. At a nearby restaurant, indulge in a vegetarian meal while appreciating classic flavours and cuisine. Spend some time introspecting and meditating while taking in the spiritual aura of Bodh Gaya. Drive back to Varanasi from Bodh Gaya in the late afternoon. Reach Varanasi in the evening and end the excursion the same day.

DAY TRIP TO GURPA HILL FROM BODHGAYA

DAY TRIP TO GURPA HILL FROM BODHGAYA

Gurpa Hill in Bodhgaya is famous among the pilgrims of Buddhism and Hinduism. It is a place where it is believed that Lord Buddha spent time in meditation. Gurupada Giri is now known as “Gurpa Hill”. Another name for this hill is “Kukkutpada Giri”. This place is surrounded by serene natural beauty, forests, waterfalls, sunrise and sunset views, all have put Gurpa hill in great vogue making it a significant destination for Buddhist pilgrims and seekers of inner peace alike. From the top of the Gurpa peak, one can get a breath-taking view of the surrounding countryside. Note: There is 1000 steps for climbing on the hill or we can say 1 hour walk.

2 Days Bodhgaya Tour from Varanasi

2 Days Bodhgaya Tour from Varanasi

Day 01: Varanasi - Bodhgaya On arrival, our driver will pick you up from your desired location in Varanasi and drive to Bodhgaya. It will take about 4 hours. Upon arrival in Bodhgaya, start your tour with a visit to the Mahabodhi Temple Complex, the holiest Buddhist site where Buddha attained enlightenment. Explore the main Mahabodhi Temple, the Bodhi Tree, and the various shrines, monasteries, and meditation halls within the complex. After lunch, visit the Buddhist monasteries and viharas around Bodhgaya, including the Tibetan Monastery, Burmese Vihara, Japanese Temple, and Chinese Temple. Each monastery represents a different Buddhist tradition and architectural style. In the evening, attend the evening prayer ceremony at the Mahabodhi Temple to experience the spiritual ambiance of the site. overnight stay at Bodhgaya . Day 02: Bodhgaya sightseeing—depart Varanasi After breakfast, start your day with a visit to the Dungeshwari Caves, also known as the Brahmayoni Hills, where Buddha is said to have meditated before attaining enlightenment. Next, visit the Vishnupad Temple, an important Hindu pilgrimage site located along the Falgu River. After lunch, explore the Anirudh Vihar, home to the impressive 80-foot tall statue of the reclining Buddha. in evening, drive to Varanasi and drop you at hotel/airport/railway-station.

Varanasi: 7-Day Buddhist Culture Tour with Hotel & Breakfast

Varanasi: 7-Day Buddhist Culture Tour with Hotel & Breakfast

Embark on a 7-day private guided Buddhist tour in India starting in Varanasi. Enjoy an itinerary that will take you to sacred sites and magnificent monuments linked to early Buddhism. Visit historical sites in Varanasi, India, and eight other destinations in Asia that will blow your mind. Day 1: Start your tour with a pickup from the arrivals terminal in Varanasi. Jump in the car and get a convenient transfer to the hotel to settle in. Next, visit Sarnath, where the Buddha preached his first sermon in Deer Park, which contains the most impressive remains and a modern temple. Then, see the outstanding Dharmarajika, Chaukhandi, and Dhamekh stupas. Finally, return to the hotel for an overnight stay in Varanasi. Day 2: After a tasty breakfast, travel from Varanasi to Bodhgaya by car. First, arrive at your hotel in Bodhgaya to check-in. Then, head out to get some lunch. After lunch, enjoy some sightseeing in Bodhgaya. Marvel at one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites, it's dominated by the ancient brick Mahabodhi Temple Complex, built to mark where the Buddha attained Enlightenment beneath a sacred Bodhi Tree. Finally, end your day with a return ride to your hotel in Bodhgaya. Day 3: Begin your day with a delicious breakfast before leaving Bodhgaya for Patna. First, visit the magnificent Rajgir and Nalanda. Feel relaxed and enjoy the spiritual site of Rajgir, a place of great sanctity and significance for Buddhists. Rajgir is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. Next up, visit Gridhakuta Hill, Bimbisara jail. Then, drive to Nalanda to visit one of the world's oldest universities and the International Centre for Buddhist Studies. Finally, drive to Patna and enjoy an overnight stay here. Day 4: Leave Patna and drive to Kushinagar after breakfast. En route, stop at Vaishali. Walk around and admire the Buddhist pilgrimage and Lord Mahavira's birthplace. Listen as your guide tells you about Buddha, who visited this place and spent quite a long time here. Next, arrive in Kushinagar and check in at your hotel. After lunch, visit the iconic Mahaparinirvana Temple, where Buddha took his last breath, and the Rambhar Stupa cremation site of Lord Buddha. Then, return to your hotel in Kushinagar for the evening. Day 5 Kickstart your day with a tasty breakfast before you drive to Lumbini. Arrive in Lumbini and check into your hotel. Then enjoy some sightseeing. Finally, visit Maya Devi Temple and feel in awe as you see the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Walk around and admire the natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next, visit the ancient Buddhist temple, Maya Devi Temple. End your day on a high as you enjoy an overnight stay in Lumbini. Day 6 After a tasty breakfast, leave Lumbini and head to Sravasti. En route, visit the ancient city of Kapilavastu, the childhood home of Gautam Buddha. Next, head to Sravasti, where the Buddha preached most of his sermons. Feel zen as you walk around this spiritual place where Buddha is said to have performed many miracles. Next, continue to visit the Sahet Mahet and the Angulimal caves. Finally, end your day with an overnight stay in Shravasti. Day 7 Start your day with breakfast before leaving Shravasti and heading to Lucknow Airport. On arrival, you can check in and relax before you catch a flight back to New Delhi.

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