One of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world is Bodhgaya.It is the place where Lord Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. Every year, thousands of tourists and pilgrims visit this sacred town in Bihar, India.
Planning your journey to Bodhgaya? Whether you’re coming from a nearby city or traveling from abroad, knowing the best way to reach Bodhgaya can make your trip smooth and stress-free. This guide will help you choose the right travel option that fits your time, budget, and comfort.
In this post, we’ll explain how to reach Bodhgaya by air, train, or road. You’ll find travel tips, nearby airports and railway stations, and the best routes to follow. Let’s get started!
By Road
Reaching Bodhgaya by road is easy and convenient.The city has good connections with major cities in Bihar and neighboring states.It is possible to travel by bus, taxi, or your own vehicle.Roads are mostly in good condition, and the journey is scenic in some parts.
Several government and private buses run daily to Bodhgaya from nearby cities. You can also hire a cab or use ride-sharing services. Here are some common road routes:
- From Gaya 12 km (approx. 30 minutes by taxi or auto)
- From Patna 110 km (approx. 3 to 4 hours by car or bus)
- From Varanasi 250 km (approx. 6 to 7 hours by car)
- From Kolkata 470 km (approx. 10 to 11 hours by road)
Make sure to check road conditions and travel during daylight for a safer trip.
By Train
Traveling to Bodhgaya by train is one of the most affordable and comfortable options. The nearest railway station is Gaya Junction, which is about 12 km from Bodhgaya. Gaya Junction is well connected to major cities across India like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Varanasi. From the station, you can take a taxi, auto, or bus to reach Bodhgaya.
Popular train routes to Gaya Junction:
- From Delhi Mahabodhi Express, Rajdhani Express
- From Kolkata Howrah–Gaya Express, Doon Express
- From Varanasi Patna–Gaya Passenger, Intercity Express
- From Mumbai Lokmanya Tilak–Gaya Express
It’s best to book your tickets early, especially during peak tourist or pilgrimage seasons.
By Air
Flying is the fastest way to reach Bodhgaya.Gaya International Airport (GAY) is located about 10 to 12 km from the city.It has limited but important domestic and international flights. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are easily available outside the airport to take you to Bodhgaya.
If you’re coming from a city without direct flights to Gaya, you can fly to Patna Airport, which is about 110 km away. From Patna, you can reach Bodhgaya by road in around 3 to 4 hours by taxi or bus.
✈️ Airports and Connectivity Table
| Airport | Code | Distance to Bodhgaya | Flight Type | Major Connections |
| Gaya International Airport | GAY | 10–12 km | Domestic & International | Delhi, Kolkata, Varanasi, Bangkok, Yangon |
| Patna Airport (Jay Prakash Narayan) | PAT | ~110 km | Domestic | Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore |
| Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Intl. Airport (Kolkata) | CCU | ~470 km | Domestic & International | Most major Indian cities, SE Asia |
| Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (Varanasi) | VNS | ~250 km | Domestic & International | Delhi, Mumbai, Kathmandu |
Travel Tips
- Plan your trip early, especially during peak season (Oct–Mar)
- Book trains, flights, and hotels in advance
- Keep copies of your ID and travel tickets
- Carry some cash for small shops and autos
- Use bottled water to stay safe from stomach issues
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around temples
- Dress modestly, especially in religious places
- Learn a few basic Hindi words – locals appreciate it
- Avoid traveling alone late at night
- Respect local customs and keep the area clean
Conclusion
Visiting Bodhgaya is a special experience, whether you’re going for peace, history, or faith. Getting there is easy when you know your travel options by air, train, or road. Choose what works best for your time and budget.
No matter how you travel, a little planning goes a long way. Keep your documents ready, pack wisely, and follow basic travel tips. Once you reach Bodhgaya, just relax and enjoy the calm and spiritual energy of this beautiful place.
FAQs
1. What is the nearest airport to Bodhgaya?
The nearest airport is Gaya International Airport (GAY), just 10 to 12 km from Bodhgaya.
2. How far is Bodhgaya from Gaya Railway Station?
By taxi or auto, it takes around 30 minutes to get to Bodhgaya from Gaya Junction.
3. What is the best time to visit Bodhgaya?
From October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing, is the best time to visit.
Hamza Ahmed is a skilled SEO expert specializing in the travel industry. He helps travel brands grow online through smart content and search strategies.