Gaya

The city of Gaya is considered as an important pilgrimage site not only for the Buddhists but for Jains and Hindus as well. The city is the site of the great Pitrupaksha Mela which occurs on the prescribed dates every September. The city of Gaya is old and has many ancient shrines and places of significance. The Dungeshwari Hills, located 32 ms from Gaya was the place from where Lord Buddha headed to Bodh Gaya to attain enlightenment. There are 7 Ashokan Stupas in ruined form and a Buddhist temple atop the mountain; and Brahmayoni Hills (where Emperor Ashoka constructed a stupa in memory of Lord Buddha and the holy footprints are present) are sites of importance to the Buddhist Pilgrim. The ancient shrine of Vishnupada Temple (whose current structure was built in the late 18th century by Maharani Ahalyabai Holkar of Indore) on the banks of the river Falgu, Ramshila Hill and Pretshila Hill are revered by Hindu pilgrims. 

 

How to reach

Road – Gaya is connected with highways and is located at a distance of 15 kms from Bodh Gaya, 80 kms from Nalanda, and 102 kms from Patna. Bihar State Road Transport Corporation buses and private buses/taxis are easily available to these destinations.
Rail – Gaya has its own railway station from where major trains link it to all major cities in India like New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai e.t.c.
Air – Gaya has its own domestic airport with flights to Colombo, Bangkok and Thimphu. The nearest international airport is at Patna (102 kms).

Climate

The climate is pleasant during winter months of October to March and is hot and humid from the months of April to Mid June until monsoons arrive. The rainy season is from Mid June to September.