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Bodhgaya day trip from Varanasi

5.0· 7 reviews14 hoursFrom INR 10645
Bodhgaya day trip from Varanasi — Cultural & heritage things to do in Varanasi

Guided tour to Bodhgaya from Varanasi — explore significant Buddhist sites in a single day.

This guided tour offers a same-day visit to Bodhgaya from Varanasi, the site where Siddhartha attained enlightenment beneath the bodhi tree. As a central pilgrimage destination for Buddhists, Bodhgaya draws many visitors each year seeking prayer and meditation.

The itinerary focuses on key sites, including the Mahabodhi Temple, where you can see the bodhi tree and experience the spiritual atmosphere. Expect a full day, so dress modestly and wear comfortable footwear. The tour allows ample time for reflection and exploration, making it suitable for both pilgrims and those curious about Buddhism.

FAQ

Good to know

What's included in this experience?+
• A licensed and professional tour guide • GST (Goods and Services Tax) included • All applicable taxes, fees, and handling charges • Assurance of bypassing long queues • Transportation in a private air-conditioned vehicle
What's NOT included?+
• Any items not listed in the inclusions.
What should I know before booking?+
• Infants and young children can be accommodated in a pram or stroller. • Service animals are permitted. • Nearby public transport options are accessible. • Special infant seats can be provided. • Not advisable for individuals with spinal injuries. • Not recommended for pregnant participants. • Not suited for those with cardiovascular health issues. • Appropriate for all fitness levels. • Child pricing applies only when accompanied by two paying adults.
What's the cancellation policy?+
To receive a full refund, cancellations must be made at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure time.
How does pickup work?+
Pickup will occur from your hotel at 5:00 AM. Please have your packed breakfast ready.
What's the itinerary?+
• At 05:00 AM, collect your packed breakfast from your hotel and head to Bodhgaya. You will arrive in Bodhgaya at approximately 10:00 AM. Upon arrival, visit the Maha Bodhi Temple Complex, one of the oldest brick temples in India. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Mahabodhi Temple is the site where Buddha attained enlightenment and developed his philosophy of life, serving as the spiritual center of Bodhgaya. Pilgrims and visitors from diverse backgrounds gather to worship or enjoy the atmosphere of this sacred location. A peaceful way to engage with the area is to walk around the temple compound in a clockwise direction, observing Tibetan monks as they perform prostrations on their prayer boards. Next, visit the Bodhi Tree, known as the most sacred fig tree, under which Prince Siddhartha, the founder of Buddhism, reached enlightenment. It is said that after achieving enlightenment, Buddha expressed gratitude while gazing at the tree. The 4.8-hectare (11.9-acre) complex also contains ancient shrines and modern constructions established by Buddhist followers and was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2002. Following this, see the Great Buddha Statue, a 25-meter high Japanese-style statue situated in a lovely garden at the end of Temple Street. This impressive monument was inaugurated by the Dalai Lama in 1989 and is surrounded by ten smaller sculptures of Buddha's disciples. The statue is partially hollow and is reported to contain around 20,000 bronze Buddhas. Next is a visit to Vishupad Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, which features a 40 cm long footprint of Lord Vishnu encased by a basin made of silver plates. Later, explore several notable monasteries including the Thai Monastery, Vietnamese Monastery, and Japani Monastery. If desired, you can perform Pind Daan rituals for your ancestors at an additional cost, which should be paid directly to the Pundit. Finally, return to Varanasi and transfer to your hotel upon arrival.

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