Bodh Gaya, Rajgir & Nalanda: the Buddha trail: 3-day itinerary

Photo: Mahabodhi Temple · Bpilgrim · CC BY-SA 2.5

3 daysBest time: Oct–MarPilgrimageHeritage

Day 1

6:30 AMMahabodhi TempleCome at dawn for prayers under the Bodhi tree Map
10:00 AMGreat Buddha StatueGiant stone Buddha, a short walk from the temple Map
4:00 PMVishnupad TempleIn Gaya town, about 15 km away; dress modestly Map

Day 2

7:30 AMVulture Peak (Griddhakuta)Climb early; the Buddha taught on this hill Map
10:00 AMVishwa Shanti StupaRide the ropeway up to the white peace pagoda Map
2:30 PMCyclopean WallAncient stone wall that once ringed the city Map

Day 3

8:30 AMNalanda Mahavihara ruinsRuins of the ancient university; hire a guide Map
1:00 PMJal Mandir, PawapuriWhite Jain temple in a lotus pond at Pawapuri Map

What a 3-day trip to Bodh Gaya costs

Budget: about ₹2,800–₹5,800 per person
Mid-range: about ₹7,000–₹14,000 per person
Comfort: about ₹16,000–₹31,000 per person

A rough estimate for 2 adults sharing a room: stay, food, local travel and entry tickets, from typical price ranges (not live prices). Getting to Bodh Gaya is not included.

Before you go

Gujarat is a dry state
Alcohol is not sold without a permit. Visitors can get a temporary permit at some licensed hotels with ID.

Bihar is a dry state
Alcohol is fully banned, also for visitors. Do not carry it into the state.

Use this plan

Pick your dates in Turkart. It adds the train booking reminders, permits, checklist and group expenses for you.

Start with this plan

Timings are suggestions. Check opening days, permits and road conditions before you travel.