Varanasi to Bodhgaya Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Varanasi to Bodhgaya? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 255km journey. Watch the interactive route animation above to visualize your journey, then explore detailed information about travel options, costs, attractions along the way, and insider tips to make your trip memorable.
analytics Travel Comparison: Varanasi to Bodhgaya
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 5h 30m | ₹2,435 Fuel & Tolls |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹227 – ₹695 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹363 – ₹2,815 |
How to Travel: Varanasi to Bodhgaya
Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.
By Car
Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips
lightbulb Our Recommendation
At 255km, both driving (5h 30m) and trains are excellent options. Choose driving for flexibility and scenic stops, or trains for comfort and relaxation.
Local Food Guide Coming Soon
We're working on adding local food recommendations for Varanasi. In the meantime, explore local restaurants and street food when you arrive!
Worth Stopping: Cities Along Your Route
These cities are within 50km of your Varanasi to Bodhgaya route and offer excellent attractions worth a brief detour:
Bodh Gaya
Sarnath
Sarnath is a significant Buddhist site located near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India. It is where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma after his enlightenment, delivering his first sermon.
attractions Top Attractions
Dhamek Stupa
The Dhamek Stupa is a massive stone structure believed to mark the spot where Buddha delivered his first sermon to his five disciples. It is the most prominent structure in Sarnath and a major pilgrimage site.
Sarnath Archaeological Museum
The Sarnath Archaeological Museum houses a rich collection of Buddhist artifacts excavated from the Sarnath site. It includes sculptures, relics, and inscriptions dating back to the 3rd century BC.
Mulagandha Kuti Vihara
The Mulagandha Kuti Vihara is a modern Buddhist temple built by the Mahabodhi Society. It houses beautiful frescoes depicting the life of Buddha and a golden statue of Buddha.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Baigan Bharta - A smoky eggplant dish, best tried at local dhabas.
Gaya
Gaya, located in Bihar, is a significant Hindu pilgrimage center, especially known for the ritual of 'Pind Daan,' performed for the deceased to attain salvation. The city is closely associated with the nearby Bodh Gaya, where Buddha attained enlightenment.
attractions Top Attractions
Vishnupad Temple
The Vishnupad Temple is the most important temple in Gaya, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It houses a footprint of Vishnu imprinted on a rock.
Falgu River
The Falgu River is a sacred river where Hindus perform Pind Daan rituals. It is believed that Lord Rama performed the Pind Daan for his father, King Dasharatha, on the banks of this river.
Mangla Gauri Temple
The Mangla Gauri Temple is dedicated to Goddess Sati and is one of the Shakti Peethas. It is believed that a part of Sati's body fell here.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Litti Chokha - A traditional Bihari dish made of wheat balls stuffed with roasted gram flour and served with mashed potatoes and eggplant (try it at local dhabas).
Mirzapur
Mirzapur, a city in Uttar Pradesh, is known for its carpet weaving industry and proximity to the Vindhyachal temple. Situated on the banks of the Ganges River, it offers a blend of cultural and natural attractions.
attractions Top Attractions
Vindhyavasini Temple
One of the most important Shaktipeeths in India, dedicated to Goddess Vindhyavasini. It is believed that the goddess fulfills the wishes of her devotees.
Ashtabhuja Temple
Dedicated to Goddess Ashtabhuja, another form of Durga. The temple is situated on a hill, offering scenic views of the surrounding area.
Kali Koh Temple
A cave temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. The idol is housed inside a natural cave formation.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Baati Chokha - A traditional dish made of wheat balls baked in cow dung fire, served with mashed potatoes and eggplant (try at local dhabas)
Explore Bodhgaya
Bodhgaya offers a unique travel experience. For detailed information about local attractions, dining options, accommodations, and insider tips, visit our comprehensive destination guide.
Frequently Asked Questions: Varanasi to Bodhgaya
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