Explore the spiritual heart of India on a captivating 2-day tour from Varanasi to Bodhgaya. This journey takes visitors to the sacred Mahabodhi Temple, the site of Buddha’s enlightenment, along with a host of monasteries and temples that showcase the region’s rich Buddhist and Hindu heritage. From the scenic drive to comfortable accommodations and immersive cultural experiences, this tour promises an enriching experience for those seeking to deepen their understanding of these ancient traditions. With an itinerary designed to maximize exploration, travelers can expect to uncover the secrets that make Bodhgaya one of India’s most revered spiritual destinations.
Good To Know
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The 2-day Bodhgaya tour from Varanasi includes visits to the Mahabodhi Temple Complex, Bodhi Tree, various Buddhist shrines, and an evening prayer ceremony.
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The tour provides private transportation, 1-night hotel stay, English-speaking guide, breakfast, and bottled water, with a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours prior.
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Additional sights on the second day include the Dungeshwari Caves, Vishnupad Temple, and the Anirudh Vihar with an 80-foot reclining Buddha statue.
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The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, and the use of alcohol and drugs is prohibited during the tour.
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Recommended items for the tour include comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and cash for personal expenses, as the tour focuses on the spiritual and cultural richness of Bodhgaya.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The 2-day Bodhgaya Tour from Varanasi is priced from $213.76 per person.
Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot without any upfront payment.
The tour lasts 2 days and includes private transportation, 1-night hotel stay, and a professional English-speaking guide.
Breakfast, water, and round-trip transportation are also included.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, and visitors must bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and cash.
Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed during the tour.
Itinerary Details
On the first day, travelers are picked up from their location in Varanasi, whether it be the airport, railway station, or hotel. Then, they embark on a 4-hour drive to Bodhgaya. Upon arrival, they visit the Mahabodhi Temple Complex, Bodhi Tree, and various shrines. After lunch, they explore the Tibetan Monastery, Burmese Vihara, Japanese Temple, and Chinese Temple. The day concludes with an evening prayer ceremony at the Mahabodhi Temple.
Day 01 Highlights | Day 02 Highlights |
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Visit Mahabodhi Temple | Explore Dungeshwari Caves |
Discover shrines and monasteries | Tour Vishnupad Temple |
Attend evening prayer ceremony | See 80-foot reclining Buddha |
The second day begins with breakfast at the hotel, followed by visits to the Dungeshwari Caves and Vishnupad Temple along the Falgu River. Finally, they explore the Anirudh Vihar and its 80-foot reclining Buddha statue before the evening drive back to Varanasi.
Day 01: Bodhgaya Exploration
Travelers start their Bodhgaya exploration by getting picked up from their location in Varanasi – be it the airport, railway station, or hotel.
They then drive for around 4 hours to reach the spiritual hub of Bodhgaya. Upon arrival, they visit the renowned Mahabodhi Temple Complex, the Bodhi Tree, and various other shrines.
After lunch, they explore the Tibetan Monastery, Burmese Vihara, Japanese Temple, and Chinese Temple, each showcasing unique Buddhist architectural styles and traditions.
As evening falls, they attend a prayer ceremony at the Mahabodhi Temple before retiring for the night in Bodhgaya.
Day 02: Additional Sights
Guests’ second day in Bodhgaya begins with a hearty breakfast at the hotel.
After fueling up, they’ll visit the Dungeshwari Caves, also known as Brahmayoni Hills. This important site is where Buddha is said to have meditated for six years.
Next, they’ll explore the Vishnupad Temple along the Falgu River, which is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.
The final stop is the Anirudh Vihar, featuring an 80-foot reclining Buddha statue.
With these additional sights, travelers gain a deeper appreciation of the region’s rich Buddhist heritage.
Finally, it’s time for the drive back to Varanasi.
- Explore the Dungeshwari Caves, where Buddha meditated.
- Visit the Vishnupad Temple, a significant Hindu pilgrimage site.
- Marvel at the 80-foot reclining Buddha statue in Anirudh Vihar.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes a range of essential services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Travelers will receive private transportation for the entire trip, a one-night stay at a 3-star hotel, and pickup and drop-off in Varanasi.
Plus, the tour includes a professional English-speaking guide, a bottled water per person, and breakfast at the hotel.
The package also covers road tax, tolls, and round-trip transportation.
However, lunch, dinner, and tips aren’t included.
It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, and certain items like alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed.
Important Travel Information
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a towel are recommended for this tour.
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women. Travelers should also bring cash, as they may need it for personal expenses.
Plus, alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed during the tour. Visitors should be mindful of their surroundings and respect the religious nature of the sites they’ll be visiting.
Following these guidelines will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
- Bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun.
- Pack a towel in case you need to freshen up during the tour.
Experiential Highlights
Exploring Mahabodhi Temple, the sacred site where Buddha attained enlightenment, lies at the heart of this tour.
Visitors can discover shrines, monasteries, and meditation halls that reflect the diverse Buddhist traditions and architectural styles found in Bodhgaya.
The tour also includes a visit to the Vishnupad Temple along the Falgu River, offering a chance to witness the unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences.
Throughout the experience, travelers can enjoy the spiritual and cultural richness of this revered destination, gaining a deeper understanding of the region’s profound connections to Buddhism.
Booking and Cancellation
Travelers can easily book this 2-day Bodhgaya tour from Varanasi with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
The tour package offers a flexible booking process:
- Travelers can reserve their spot without any upfront payment using the "Reserve now & pay later" option.
- Cancellations are permitted up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.
- The 2-day tour is priced at $213.76 per person, including private transportation, hotel stay, guide services, and select meals.
This convenient booking and cancellation policy allows travelers to plan their trip with confidence and flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Extend the Tour to Include Other Destinations?
Yes, the tour can be extended to include other destinations. Travelers can work with the tour operator to customize the itinerary and add additional sites or activities based on their interests and available time.
Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements for the Meals?
The tour doesn’t specify any special dietary requirements for meals. However, customers can inform the tour provider about any dietary restrictions or preferences in advance to ensure the meals accommodate their needs.
Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary Based on My Interests?
The tour itinerary can be customized based on the traveler’s interests. The tour operator is flexible and willing to modify the schedule to accommodate specific requests within the 2-day tour duration.
How Accessible Are the Sites for Travelers With Mobility Challenges?
The tour sites are mostly accessible, but some may pose challenges for travelers with limited mobility. Wheelchair-accessible options are available at key locations, and the tour guide can provide assistance to ensure a comfortable experience.
What Is the Dress Code or Attire Recommended for the Tour?
The tour recommends comfortable, modest attire. Visitors should wear closed-toe shoes and avoid shorts or sleeveless tops, as many sites are religious in nature and require respect for cultural customs.
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The Sum Up
This 2-day Bodhgaya tour from Varanasi offers an immersive experience exploring the sacred Mahabodhi Temple and delving into the region’s rich Buddhist and Hindu heritage. Travelers can expect a scenic drive, comfortable accommodations, and opportunities to engage with local culture, all while gaining a deeper understanding of the spiritual significance of Bodhgaya. The tour’s inclusions and important travel details ensure a seamless and enriching journey.