How to Plan Your 2-Day Enlightening Bodhgaya Tour from Varanasi

Looking for a unique and enlightening experience in India? Look no further than this 2-day tour of Bodhgaya from Varanasi. Bodhgaya is a spiritual center for Buddhists, where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. This tour will provide you with a deeper understanding of Buddhism and its teachings, while also allowing you to experience the vibrant culture of India.

Overview

This 2-day tour is the perfect way to experience Bodhgaya, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. Your tour will start from Varanasi, where you will be picked up from your hotel or the designated meeting point. From there, you will embark on a journey to Bodhgaya, where you will spend two days exploring the city and surrounding areas.

What’s Included

• Breakfast
• Entry Tickets to Monuments
• Lunch
• Gratuities
• Air-conditioned vehicle with a driver

Meeting and Pickup

You can head directly to the meeting point or request pickup. The meeting point is Taj Ganges Varanasi, located at Nadesar Palace Grounds, Nadesar Chaukaghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221002 India. The IML Travel representative will hold a placard with your name for easy identification. Pickup points are also available upon request.

Start Time and End Point

The scheduled start time is 7:30 AM, and the activity will end back at the meeting point. The guest is requested to be ready at the hotel lobby or pickup point 15 minutes before the pickup time. The IML Travel representative will get in touch with you to inform you of the exact pickup time.

What to Expect

The tour will take you to visit the Mahabodhi Temple, the most important Buddhist temple in Bodhgaya, where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. You will learn about the history of the temple and the significance it has for Buddhists worldwide. In addition, you will visit several other important Buddhist sites in the area, including the Bodhi Tree, where Buddha attained enlightenment, and the Great Buddha Statue, known for its impressive height and beauty.

On the second day of the tour, you will visit the nearby town of Rajgir, which was a prominent center of Buddhism during the Buddha’s time. Here, you will visit several important sites, including the Venuvana Vihara and the Gridhrakuta Hill, where Buddha gave many of his important teachings. You will also have the opportunity to interact with local people and learn about their culture and way of life.

Throughout the tour, you will be accompanied by an experienced and knowledgeable guide who will provide you with detailed information about each site you visit. You will also have the opportunity to sample local cuisine at authentic Indian restaurants and markets.

Additional Info

• Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
• Infants must sit on laps
• Most travelers can participate
• Stroller accessible
• Transportation is via an air-conditioned vehicle with a driver

So, if you’re looking for a unique and enlightening experience in India, book the 2-day Enlightening Bodhgaya Tour from Varanasi today!

Book the tour here to start your journey to enlightenment.

Insider’s Guide: Discover the Hidden Treasures of Bodhgaya

Bodhgaya is a small town in Bihar famous for being the place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. Every year, thousands of tourists flock here to witness the beautiful monasteries, temples, and historical artifacts. However, this city has a lot more to offer than just the typical tourist spots. In this insider’s guide, we will take you on a journey that will introduce you to the lesser-known but equally fascinating facets of Bodhgaya.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems to Explore

While the main attractions of Bodhgaya are worth visiting, there are plenty of lesser-known gems in the city that are just as mesmerizing. For instance, the Royal Bhutan Monastery is a hidden gem that is often missed by tourists but is truly worth a visit. The monastery has a peaceful and serene atmosphere, and visitors can participate in meditation and teachings conducted by the monks. Another gem that is often overlooked is the Archaeological Museum of Bodhgaya. It houses rare artifacts, antiques, and sculptures dating back to the 1st century BC. The museum is keepers of Buddhist heritage and showcases the evolution of Buddhism.

Dining Spots: A Taste of Authentic Bodhgaya

When it comes to food, Bodhgaya is famous for its vegetarian offerings. Experience local cuisine at Green Ginger, a popular vegetarian restaurant in the city. Don’t miss out on trying the famous Litti Chokha- a traditional delicacy that you can find at any street vendor in the city. For dessert, you must try the sweet delicacy called Khaja, a crispy pastry perfected over generations in Bodhgaya.

Cultural Experiences: Festivals and Customs

Bodhgaya is a city that celebrates its traditions and customs with great passion. The city comes alive during festivals like Buddha Purnima, when thousands of Buddhist pilgrims flock to the town. The festival is celebrated in May, which marks the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha. You can witness colorful processions and rituals during the festival. The daily ritual of filling water in the Pipal tree in the Mahabodhi temple is also unique and fascinating to observe.

Local History: Captivating Stories of the City

Bodhgaya has a rich history that can fascinate any history lover. The city has seen several dynasties and has been a prominent center for Buddhism since ancient times. The legend of the 1000 Lotus Blooms tells the tale of Bodhisattva Vow, located just behind the famous Mahabodhi Temple. This legend takes you back in time and is sure to charm you. You can also visit The great Buddha statue and marvel at its intricate design and architecture.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to experience something unusual, head to Dungeshwari Cave Temples, a sacred site associated with Lord Shiva. Here you can indulge in a short and scenic trek up the hills to the caves which are carved out of the rock. Another option is to visit the Sujata village. A village made famous by Sujatha who fed Buddha with milk rice before he achieved enlightenment. You can experience rural life and authentic Indian hospitality in the village.

In conclusion, Bodhgaya has so much to offer beyond its historical and religious significance. By going off the beaten path and discovering the city’s hidden gems, you will experience the authentic and unique spirit of Bodhgaya. This insider’s guide barely scratches the surface of the scenic beauty, cultural and historical significance, and diversity that the city has to offer. With an open heart and curious mind, you are bound to have an unforgettable experience that you will cherish forever.