Gaya

Nestled along River Phalgu, in south-central Bihar, Gaya city is considered to be the commercial and pilgrimage centre of the state. Surrounded by small rugged hills on its three sides, Gaya lies at the convergence of the Chota Nagpur Plateau and the Gangetic Plain. The second-largest city of Bihar, Gaya has its name in the epics of Mahabharata and Ramayana. It is the place where Lord Ram and Lakshman offered pind-daan to their father Dashrath.

Gaya holds great significance in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. The age-old shrines with intricate carvings and paintings take the beauty of Gaya to an entire next level. The thick sugarcane plantations also contribute to the charm of this city. Gaya is packed with numerous colleges and libraries, which makes it an excellent attraction for tourists, who want to learn about the educational facilities available in the city. 

Location: The city of Gaya lies at a distance of 98.1 KM from Patna.

Historical Facts:

- The name of this city has been mentioned in various ancient manuscripts including the Ramayana, The Great Epics, and The Mahabharata. 

- This place is considered to be the spot where Shri Ram, Mata Sita, and Lakshman came to do the sermons of “Pind Daan” of their father, Maharaja Dashrath along the river stream.

- Gaya was known as “Gayapuri” in the past and has seen the rise and decline of various different dynasties.

Places to Visit:

- The city also has a myriad of majestic ancient temples, including the Vishnupada temple.

- You can also mark a stop at Lord Yama Temple, Dungeshwari Cave Temples, and Mangla Gauri Temple

- Places like the Chinese Temple and Vishnupad Temple are also major attractions among tourists.

Activities to Do:

- On your visit to Gaya, you can seek blessings at the various pilgrimage sites of the city, including Hindu and Buddhist temples. 

- You can also relish the famous local snacks, including Kesaria Peda, Aloo Kachalu, Tilkut, and Bhunja.

Best Time to Visit:

Gaya, in general, experiences a humid subtropical climate. The most comfortable weather is experienced in the city during the winter months of October to March. This is also the best time to enjoy sightseeing in Gaya.