Discover Top 10 Places To Visit In Bodh Gaya In 2025
As a believer of Lord Buddha or simply a devotee, you must head to one of the most renowned pilgrimage sites of the world, Bodh Gaya. Nestled in Bihar, Bodh Gaya exudes a divine aura with an air of religiosity and peacefulness that attracts thousands of devotees every year. Discover holy places to visit in Bodh Gaya related to Lord Buddha’s life. So, this year, embark on a soul-stirring vacation that brings joy and inner peace.
10 Places To Visit In Bodh Gaya
While planning a trip to this tranquil place, stop by Bodh Gaya tourist attractions and enjoy a vacation like never before.
- Mahabodhi Temple: Major Buddhist Site
- Thai Monastery: Intricate Architecture
- Great Buddha Statue: Holy Significance
- Bodhi Tree: Where Lord Buddha Meditated
- Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple: Epitome Of Japanese Architecture
- Dungeshwari Cave Temples: Where Lord Buddha Spent 6 Years
- Bodhgaya Archaeological Museum: A Collection Of Artefacts
- Muchalinda Lake: Where Lord Buddha Meditated
- Barabar Hill Caves: Oldest Surviving Rock-cut Caves
- Royal Bhutan Monastery: Tribute To Lord Buddha
1. Mahabodhi Temple
Image Credit: saiko3p for Depositphotos
Famously known as the ‘Great Awakening Temple’, Mahabodhi Temple is a primary Buddhist site showcasing the excerpts from Lord Buddha’s Life. The attraction features significant remnants from the 5th-6th century AD. The gigantic 170 ft. temple stands as a cylindrical pyramid, called shikhara, on the 48 sq. ft. basement. Atop the temple are the Chataras, which depict the sovereignty of religion.
- Location: Bodh Gaya, Bihar 824231
- Timings: 5:00 am – 9:00 pm
Also Read: Temples In Bihar
2. Thai Monastery
Positioned just 650 meters from Mahabodhi Temple, Thai Monastery or Wat Thai Buddhagaya exhibits a perfect blend of Thai and Buddhist architecture. The 25-meter-high bronze statue of Lord Buddha inside is the epicenter of the monastery. The sloping roof embellished with golden tiles epitomises classic Thai architecture. To imbibe the tranquil aura of this monastery, attend meditation classes every morning and evening.
- Location: 700 m from Mahabodhi Temple, Sujata Bypass Road, Bodh Gaya
- Timings: 4:00 am – 10:00 pm
3. Great Buddha Statue
Image Credit: saiko3p for Depositphotos
Boasting an impressive height of 80 ft. Great Buddha Statue is one of the top attractions in Bodh Gaya and possesses tremendous holy significance. The open-air statue represents Buddha in a profound meditation on a lotus spreading peace and harmony. This colossal statue with a combination of sandstone and red granite blocks took seven years to complete with 12,000 stonemasons. Inside the statue is a hollow spiral staircase leading you up to the chest and around 16,300 small bronze images of the Buddha.
- Location: Great Buddha Campus Road, Great Buddha Rd, Bodh Gaya, Bihar 824231
- Timings: 7:00 am – 12:00 noon, 2:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Related Post: Things To Do In Patna
4. Bodhi Tree
Image Credit: RPBMedia for Depositphotos
Did you know that Buddha attained enlightenment while meditating underneath this tree for seven weeks without moving from his position? Bodhi Tree is a huge holy tree known for its sheer sacredness. It is considered the direct descendant of the original bodhi tree. There is a shrine on the same spot where he meditated, called Animisalocana cetiya. You can also meditate under the same tree to experience the ultimate detoxification of mind and soul.
- Location: MXVV+Q66, Mocharim, Bodh Gaya, Bihar 824231
- Timings: 5:00 am – 9:00 pm, Monday- 5:00 am – 12:00 am
5. Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple
Image Credit: Hiroki Ogawa for Wikimedia Commons
Built in 1972, the Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple is an epitome of Japanese architecture. It is carved out of wood and resembles Japanese shrines. It is among the must-visit tourist places in Bodh Gaya, and the prime goal of constructing this temple was to preserve Buddhism and spread its teachings, especially the spiritual thoughts of Lord Buddha. Here, you can also witness numerous Japanese paintings illustrating the life of Buddha.
- Location: MXRM+CMV, Bodh Gaya, Bihar 824231
- Timings: 5:00 am – 12:05 pm, 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Related Post: Chhath Puja
6. Dungeshwari Cave Temples
Image Credit: Hiroki Ogawa for Wikimedia Commons
Located 13.9 km from Bodh Gaya, Dungeshwari Cave Temples is another prime tourist place in Bodh Gaya that is related to Buddha’s life. Also known as Mahakala caves, Dungeshwari Cave temples are said to be the place where Buddha spent six years before descending to Bodh Gaya for enlightenment. Apart from the Hindu and Buddhist shrines, the cave captivates travelers for its peaceful aura.
- Location: Dungeshwari Hills, about 12–15 km from Bodh Gaya
- Timings: 24/7
7. Bodhgaya Archaeological Museum
Image Credit: Derivator2017 for Wikimedia Commons
Enjoying the vicinity of Mahabodhi Temple complex, Bodhgaya Archaeological Museum features a vast collection of artifacts, sculptures, and antiques based on Hinduism and Buddhism from 2nd century BC to 11th century CE. Inaugurated in 1956 by the 14th Dalai Lama Tenzin Gyatso, the museum has three prime galleries, apart from the portico and corridor. The museum’s exceptional collection, including intriguing images of Buddha, Manjusri, Maitreya, and other prominent figures from Buddhism, makes it one of the best places to visit in Bodh Gaya. As a history buff, this museum is among the must visiting places in Bodh Gaya.
Location: MXVP+XX8, Bodh Gaya, Bihar 824231
Timings: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Closed on Friday
Related Post: Places To Visit In Rajgir
8. Muchalinda Lake
Image Credit: Chandan Singh for Wikimedia Commons
Named after the serpent King Muchalinda, Muchalinda Lake is one of the most sacred places to visit in Bodh Gaya, Bihar. As per the legend, it is the spot where Buddha spent the sixth week while attaining enlightenment. While he was meditating by the side of Muchalinda, a thunderstorm struck, and the serpent king emerged as a shield for Buddha. The central sculpture here is of Buddha and the snake around him as a protector. The clean waters of the lake and lush greenery around it make it a sight for sore eyes.
- Location: Bodh Gaya, Bihar
- Timings: Open all day
9. Barabar Hill Caves
Image Credit: Photo Dharma for Wikimedia Commons
Built during the Mauryan Empire, 322–185 BCE, Barabar Caves is among the best tourist places near Bodh Gaya, which is around 43.1 km from it. The cave takes pride in being the oldest surviving rock-cut caves in India. The highlight of the caves is their state-of-the-art architecture with sharp cuttings of the rock giving a fair competition to today’s high-end structures. Barabar Hill is a cluster of four hills including Karan Chaupar, Sudama, Visvakarma, and Lomas Rishi. Although these are hill caves, you will also find a few Jain and Hindu sculptures.
- Location: 2347+688, Barabar Hill Road, Barabar, Sultanpur, Bihar 804405
- Timings: 24/7
Related Post: Places To Visit In Patna
10. Royal Bhutan Monastery
Image Credit: Shakti for Wikimedia Commons
Built as a tribute to Lord Buddha by the King of Bhutan, Royal Bhutan Monastery is among the top places to visit in Bodh Gaya. The monastery showcases the excerpts from Gautam Buddha’s life with fascinating 3-dimensional clay carvings. The marvelous architecture, a seven feet tall structure of Buddha, and a serene aura around the monastery deserve your attention. Apart from exploring the monastery, you can indulge in some moments of meditation to feel the calm within you.
- Location: MXRM+WQ8, Bodh Gaya, Bihar 824231
- Timings: 5:00 am – 12:00 noon, 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Best Time To Visit Bodh Gaya
Image Credit: RPBMedia for Depositphotos
Winter, from October to March, is considered the best time to visit Bodh Gaya. During this time, the temperature ranges from 8 to 25 degrees Celsius, making it comfortable for all travellers to do exploration and sightseeing in Bodhgaya without the uneasiness of scorching heat and rainfall. Additionally, you can witness and participate in significant Buddhist festivals, such as Buddha Jayanti and Kalachakra Festival, thereby enhancing your overall travel experience.
You May Also Like To Read: Gaya Mandir
Replete with the serene aura of Buddhism, Bodh Gaya is a one-of-a-kind destination that instantly leaves one enthralled. Moreover, spots like Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhgaya Archaeological Museum, Thai Monastery, Muchalinda Lake, Bodhi Tree, and Great Buddha Statue allow you to explore the best of this tranquil village. So, when you plan your next trip to Bihar, don’t forget to visit these best places in Bodh Gaya and indulge in experiences that your soul will thank you for.
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Credit: AriyaBurning for DepositPhotos
Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Bodh Gaya
Which are some best places to see in Bodh Gaya?
Some of the best places to visit in Bodh Gaya are:
1. Mahabodhi Temple
2. Bodhgaya Archaeological Museum
3. Thai Monastery
4. Muchalinda Lake
5. Bodhi Tree
6. Great Buddha Statue
When is the best time to visit Bodh Gaya?
The ideal months to visit Bodh Gaya are between October to March when the weather is pleasant and the temperature ranges from 17°C to 35°C. During this time, you can enjoy visiting the best places in and near Bodh Gaya.
Which are the best hotels in Bodh Gaya?
Here is a list of some of the best hotels in Bodh Gaya:
1. Marasa Sarovar Premiere, Bodhgaya
2. Hotel Bodh Vilas
3. Maha Bodhi Hotel.Resort.Convention Centre
4. Maya Heritage
5. Oaks Bodhgaya
6. Niranjana Hotel Bodhgaya
How many days are enough for exploring Bodh Gaya?
A trip of 1-2 days would be enough to witness the best of Bodh Gaya including attractions like Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhgaya Archaeological Museum, Thai Monastery, Muchalinda Lake, Bodhi Tree, Great Buddha Statue, and more.
What are top things to do in Bodh Gaya?
Travellers can indulge in a variety of things in Bodh Gaya, such as delving into the teachings of Lord Buddha, praying and seeking blessings, marvelling at architecture, and sightseeing.
People Also Read:
Places To Visit In Jaipur Places To Visit In Himachal Places To Visit In Delhi
Embrace the essence of surreal places around the world through perfect narratives with a touch of imagination. As a content writer, I weave my ideas and words together to create a vivid picture of alluring destinations. Embark on limitless adventures as you read thrilling travel stories.
