Gaya is a major city in the state of Bihar. The city is historically very significant as Lord Buddha became enlightened under a tree in Gaya. After Patna, Gaya is the second-largest city in Bihar.
Gaya is mentioned in the scriptures of three religions – Jainism, Hinduism and Buddhism. The city has been mentioned in the epics of Mahabharata and Ramayana. For Hindus, Gaya is a major pilgrimage site for the Pind-daan ceremony.
Gaya is one of the four holy areas in Buddhism. The Mahabodhi temple in Gaya has attained the tag of a World Heritage Site. The primary economic activity in the city of Gaya is agriculture. Gaya also has many household-based industries.
Things to do in Gaya
You can explore the monasteries and meet Buddhist monks in Gaya. Visit the Mangla Gauri temple in Gaya which is considered to be one of the Shakti Peethas. Be a part of major festivals in Gaya such as the Buddha Purnima and the Pitru Paksha Mela. Visit the local artisans with expertise in creating products from stone. One can perform the Pind-daan ritual in Gaya for your ancestors.
Tourist attractions in Gaya
Gaya has many places of interest like historical monuments, temples and local handicrafts. Popular tourist attractions in Gaya include Great Buddha Statue, Tibetan Refugee Market, Bodhi Tree, Thai Monastery, Muchalinda Lake, Royal Bhutan Monastery and Cankamana.
Places to shop in Gaya
Gaya has lots of local handicrafts such as incense sticks, stone-work, local varieties of sweets and textiles. GB Road is the primary shopping destination in the city with stores like Kalamandir, Swadeshi Vastralaya and Ganny market. You will also find showrooms of private labels like Raymond, Adidas and Killer on this stretch.
Best time to visit Gaya
The period between October and March is the ideal time to be in Gaya. In the month of April, the Buddha Purnima festival attracts plenty of tourists.
Modes of transport
Gaya is well connected to other cities via road and rail. The local bus network is good. You can also turn to auto-rickshaws and tengas for intra city commute.
Weather in Gaya
Summers in Gaya are extremely hot with temperatures going up to 45°C. Winter temperatures can reach single digits after the sunsets but days in winter are very pleasant weather-wise. During the monsoon, Gaya receives relatively heavy rainfall.
Airport in Gaya
IndiGo operates several flights from Gaya Airport (IATA: GAY) to major cities across India. For more flight-related information, visit IndiGo’s official website.