Bodh Gaya is an integral part of Bihar tourism, as here, Lord Buddha attained the attainment level of Nirvana—enlightenment. Thus, this pious city has many sacred sites that belong to the Lord Buddha and attract many Buddha devotees and travellers from different geographies.
Being a settlement of the ancient era, this city has many heritage and UNESCO-listed sites. Hence, tourist attractions in Bodh Gaya will take you back in time and allow you to experience the Old era of India. If you are looking for those places that surely deserve a spot on your bucket list, your search ends here. Here we have provided a list of the best places to visit in Bodhgaya, along with how to reach them, travel tips, and the best time to visit. Read this complete guide and plan your trip.
List of Top 7 Famous Tourist Attractions in Bodhgaya
1. Mahabodhi Temple
The Mahabodhi Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple in Bodh Gaya near the Muchalinda Pond. It is one of the oldest and most significant Buddhist temples in India, and it was originally built by the emperor Ashoka.
The temple is a breathtaking sculptural masterpiece constructed entirely from bricks. It is a spiritual hub where devotees can gain insight into Lord Buddha’s life and teachings.
Best time to visit: Visit early morning or late evening to avoid crowds. The opening hours are from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
How to reach: You can reach them through both airways or roadways. The nearest railway station is Gaya Junction, and the nearest airport is Gaya Airport. From here, take a bus or cab to reach the temple.
Tips: Choose to wear something ethereal, remove your footwear before stepping in the temple, and maintain silence.
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2. Bodhi Tree
The Bodhi Tree is a huge significance in Buddhism, located right beside the Mahabodhi temple is best places to visit in Bodh Gaya. It is the site where Lord Buddha got enlightenment. Every 8th of December, Buddhist followers around the globe celebrate Bodhi Day.
Best time to visit: Early morning for meditation, and if you prefer a peaceful and quite reflection then late evening is the suitable time to visit.
How to reach: It is located in the mahabodhi Temple complex itself. You can easily visit here once you are in Bodhgaya.
Tips: Try meditating under the bodhi tree to experience the ultimate detoxification of mind and soul.
3. Thai Monastery
Popularly known as Thai Monastery or Wat Thai Buddhagaya, it offers a perfect blend of Thai and Buddhist culture. It was established in 1956 by the government of Thailand at the request of India’s first Prime Minister to strengthen the cultural and diplomatic ties between both countries.
When making your list of famous places to visit in Bodhgaya, don’t forget to include the Thai Monastery to experience its peaceful and spiritual ambience. You can aslo attend the Meditation Classes that are typically held every morning and evening.
Best time to visit: Morning and Evening
How to reach: The Monastery is located about 1km away from the Mahabodhi Temple. You can reach it by walking or taking a rickshaw or auto.
Tips: You can stay there, as they provide a guest house on the monastery premises for the convenience of pilgrims. You are allowed to take photographs, but avoid disrupting the serenity of the space.
4. Great Buddha Statue
The Great Buddha Statue is the first Buddha statue ever built in India. With an impressive height of 80 ft, the great Buddha Statue is one of the most beautiful and top attractions in Bodh Gaya that serves as a great devine significance.
The statue in the open air represents Buddha in a deep state of meditation, which indicates peace and harmony.
Best time to visit: You can visit there early in the morning or in the evening from 7 AM to 12 PM and from 2 PM to 5:30 PM.
How to reach: The Great Buddha Statue is situated approximately 1.3 kilometers from the Mahabodhi Temple. You can get there by walking or by using a rickshaw or an auto.
Tips: Visit there during winter at October or November for a more comfortable experience
5. Chinese temple
The Chinese Temple is a spectacular Buddhist temple built by Chinese-Buddhist monks in collaboration with the chinese government in 1945. The architecture of this temple is the Combination of both Indian and Chinese sculptural designs.
There is a 200-year-old Buddha statue in the temple, believed to have been imported from China, which makes it a major tourist attraction in Bodhgaya. The temple also has rich and detailed travelogues of Chinese scholars who travelled to India to seek spirituality and wisdom.
Best time to visit: You can visit from early morning until evening. The visiting hours are 8 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 5 pm.
How to reach: The Chinese Temple is in walking distance from the Mahabodhi Temple, you can go there by foot or rickshaw.
Tips: Meditation sessions are often held here, so take assistance from those who are in charge and check for timings if interested.
6. Japanese Nippon Temple
Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple is an epitome of japanese architecture built in the year 1972. The intention to build the temple was to preserve and propagate Buddhism and the beliefs of Lord Buddha. The temple has numerous Japanese paintings illustrating the life journey of lord Buddha.
Best time to visit: The temple is open throughout the week from 5:00 am to 12:05 pm and from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm.
How to reach: Bodhgaya bus stand is 1km away from temple. You can easily walk their from the bus stand or take a taxi or rickshaw for a quicker journey.
Tips: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and have a peaceful experience.
7. Tergar Monastery
The last destination on our list of famous places to visit in Bodhgaya is Tergar Monastery, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Make sure to visit this monastery when in Bodhgaya.
Best Time to Visit: It is best to visit there between October and March when the weather is cool and windy. Early mornings or late afternoons are better for a peaceful experience.
How to Reach: The monastery is only 1.8 km away from Bodhi Temple; you can take auto rickshaws to reach it.
Tip: Take your time and meditate in the fresh air or sit in the peaceful courtyard to fully absorb the beautiful environment.
Each attraction deserves a place in your itinerary and offers a chance to explore different sides of this city. Thus, add these top attractions of Bodhgaya while planning your trip here. For a hassle-free experience, you can read our Bodh Gaya travel guide, which informs you about how to reach, the best time to visit, travel tips, and many more.
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