Bodh Gaya, one of the most significant Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world, is where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. Located in the Gaya district of Bihar, it attracts thousands of monks, spiritual seekers, and travelers from across the globe Now describe how to travel Bodh Gaya from Varanasi.
For those traveling from Varanasi, another major spiritual city in India, reaching Bodh Gaya is relatively easy, with multiple travel options available. Whether you choose road, train, or air travel, this guide provides a detailed breakdown of the best routes, estimated travel time, costs, and practical travel tips to help plan a smooth journey.
Where is Bodh Gaya Located?
Bodh Gaya is in eastern India, approximately 255 kilometers southeast of Varanasi. The closest major city is Gaya, which is about 16 km away and serves as the main transport hub for Bodh Gaya.
Distance Between Varanasi and Bodh Gaya
- By Road: 255 km (takes around 5.5 to 7 hours)
- By Train: 250 km (fastest trains take 4 to 6 hours)
- By Air: No direct flights; requires travel via Gaya or Patna
Best Ways to Reach Bodh Gaya from Varanasi
There are three main ways to reach Bodh Gaya from Varanasi:
- By Road (Private car, taxi, or bus) – Best for Flexible Travel
- By Train (via Gaya Junction) – Most Affordable & Convenient Option
- By Air (via Gaya or Patna) – Fastest but Requires Additional Travel
Let’s explore each option in detail.
1. Varanasi to Bodh Gaya by Road
Traveling by road is one of the most convenient ways to reach Bodh Gaya, especially for those who enjoy long drives and scenic countryside routes. The roads between Varanasi and Bodh Gaya are mostly well-maintained, passing through small towns and villages in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
Best Road Routes from Varanasi to Bodh Gaya
Option 1: Varanasi – Mohania – Sasaram – Gaya – Bodh Gaya (NH19 Route)
- Total Distance: 255 km
- Travel Time: 5.5 to 6.5 hours
- Road Condition: Good, with a well-paved highway
- Best For: Faster travel time and smooth road conditions
Option 2: Varanasi – Chandauli – Bhabhua – Gaya – Bodh Gaya (Via NH19 & NH120)
- Total Distance: 260 km
- Travel Time: 6 to 7 hours
- Road Condition: Moderate, with some rough patches near Bihar border
- Best For: Exploring smaller towns along the way
Suggested Itineraries for Bihar tour:
- Explore Bihar: 6-Day Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour
- Spiritual Journey: 5-Day Bodhgaya, Rajgir & Nalanda Tour
- Discover Heritage: 4-Day Varanasi, Bodh Gaya & Patna Tour
Transport Options for Road Travel
| Travel Option | Approximate Cost | Travel Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Drive Car | ₹2,500 – ₹4,000 (fuel) | 5.5-7 hours | Families & groups |
| Private Taxi | ₹6,000 – ₹9,000 | 5.5-6.5 hours | Comfortable travel |
| State Transport Bus (UP & Bihar Roadways) | ₹500 – ₹800 per person | 7-8 hours | Budget travelers |
| Luxury AC Bus | ₹1,000 – ₹1,500 per person | 6-7 hours | Comfortable budget travel |
Pros and Cons of Road Travel
Advantages:
- Most flexible and comfortable travel option.
- Allows for scenic stops at small towns and eateries.
- No need to worry about train schedules.
Disadvantages:
- Can be tiring for long-distance travelers.
- Some stretches in Bihar may have uneven roads.
2. Varanasi to Bodh Gaya by Train
The fastest and most affordable way to reach Bodh Gaya is by train via Gaya Junction (GAYA), which is about 16 km from Bodh Gaya. Gaya is well-connected to Varanasi Junction (BSB), with multiple daily trains available.
Best Trains from Varanasi to Gaya
| Train Name | Train Number | Departure (Varanasi) | Arrival (Gaya) | Duration | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mahabodhi Express | 12398 | 6:30 AM | 11:00 AM | 4.5 hours | Daily |
| Kolkata Express | 13152 | 10:15 PM | 3:30 AM | 5 hours | Daily |
| Patna Jan Shatabdi | 15125 | 4:20 PM | 9:00 PM | 4.5 hours | Daily |
| Vibhuti Express | 12333 | 6:15 PM | 12:10 AM | 5.5 hours | Daily |
| Doon Express | 13010 | 9:35 AM | 3:10 PM | 5.5 hours | Daily |
Plan Smart: Your Guide to Booking Train Tickets in India
How to Reach Bodh Gaya from Gaya Junction
- Auto-Rickshaw: ₹100-₹150 (takes 30 minutes)
- Taxi: ₹300-₹500 (takes 20-25 minutes)
- Local Bus: ₹20-₹50 per person (takes 40 minutes)
Pros and Cons of Train Travel
Advantages:
- The most budget-friendly travel option.
- Multiple train choices available.
- Comfortable for solo travelers and backpackers.
Disadvantages:
- Requires an additional journey from Gaya to Bodh Gaya.
- Trains may be crowded during peak season.
3. Varanasi to Bodh Gaya by Air
Bodh Gaya has a small international airport (Gaya Airport – GAY), but there are no direct flights from Varanasi. Travelers must fly via Patna (PAT) or Delhi (DEL), which adds extra travel time.
Flight Options from Varanasi to Gaya via Patna
| Airline | Route | Duration | Approximate Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| IndiGo | Varanasi → Patna → Gaya | 5-6 hours (including layover) | ₹5,000 – ₹8,000 |
| Air India | Varanasi → Delhi → Gaya | 7-9 hours | ₹7,000 – ₹12,000 |
How to Reach Bodh Gaya from Gaya Airport
- Taxi: ₹600-₹800 (takes 30 minutes).
- Auto-Rickshaw: ₹300-₹400 (takes 40 minutes).
Pros and Cons of Air Travel
Advantages:
- Fastest option for long-distance travelers.
- Convenient for international tourists arriving from Bangkok, Colombo, or Kathmandu.
Disadvantages:
- Expensive compared to train or bus travel.
- No direct flights from Varanasi, requiring layovers.
Which Travel Option is Best for You?
| Travel Option | Best For | Travel Time | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car/Taxi | Road trip lovers | 5.5-7 hours | ₹2,500 – ₹9,000 |
| Train | Budget travelers | 4-6 hours | ₹200 – ₹1,500 |
| Air | Fast but requires additional road travel | 5-9 hours (including layovers) | ₹5,000 – ₹12,000 |
Final Thoughts
The best way to reach Bodh Gaya from Varanasi depends on your budget, time, and comfort preference. Train travel via Gaya Junction is the most affordable and efficient option, while road travel provides flexibility for those who enjoy scenic drives. Flights are best for international travelers but require additional road transport. Regardless of how you travel, Bodh Gaya’s spiritual and historical significance makes the journey worthwhile.
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