Varanasi to Bodh Gaya Road Trip Guide
- travelinluxury

- Aug 24
- 4 min read

A road trip from Bodh Gaya to Varanasi is one of the most serene and spiritual trips in India. It links two significant religious sites — Varanasi, the sacred city on the banks of the Ganga, and Bodh Gaya, the site where Lord Buddha became enlightened. It is not a journey about travel but also learning about culture, religion, and history.
Our organization DRC Services India Pvt Ltd operates Tempo Traveller Services in Bodh Gaya and Varanasi, as well as all across India, making your travel experience smooth and comfortable. For traveling with family, friends, or pilgrims in groups, this road trip is ideal for short holidays and spiritual tours.
Distance and Travel Time
Varanasi to Bodh Gaya is approximately 250 km by road. It will take around 5 to 6 hours depending upon the traffic and road conditions. Most of the time, the route is taken through NH19, which is well-connected and has numerous stops for food and rest.
Best Time to Travel
The ideal time to organize this road trip is between October and March when it is cool and pleasant weather. Summers become extremely hot, and monsoon months receive heavy rains that hinder travel. Winter is the best option as you can go sightseeing without any inconvenience.
Suggested Road Trip Itinerary
The following is a basic one-day road trip plan from Varanasi to Bodh Gaya:
Begin from Varanasi
Start early in the morning from Varanasi. You can visit a couple of popular temples before departure, like Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, and the ghats of Ganga.
En Route Stops
En route, you will be passing through towns such as Chandauli, Sasaram, and Aurangabad. It is possible to take tea, lunch, or snack breaks at local dhabas and restaurants on short stops. These towns also provide you with a preview of rural Bihar's lifestyle and culture.
Arrival in Bodh Gaya
You will be reaching Bodh Gaya by afternoon. On your arrival, proceed to Mahabodhi Temple, the major sight here. This is a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and the site where Lord Buddha sat in meditation under the Bodhi tree.
Top Attractions in Bodh Gaya

Mahabodhi Temple – The Mahabodhi Temple is Bodh Gaya's main temple. The holy Bodhi tree where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment during intense meditation, is located there.
Bodhi Tree – This tree originated from the site where the Buddha meditated. People from all around the world come here to pray and find serenity.
Great Buddha Statue – This is an 80 feet tall statue of Lord Buddha sitting in meditation. It was built with the help of Japan and is a peaceful place to visit.
Thai Monastery – A nicely laid out monastery constructed in Thai architecture with golden roofs and serene environment.
Japanese Temple and 80-feet Buddha – Another place with a serene atmosphere for meditation.
Tibetan Monastery – Famous for prayer wheels and Buddhist rituals.
Dungeshwari Hills – Also referred to as the Mahakala caves, where Buddha meditated prior to arriving at Bodh Gaya.
Food and Stay Options
Bodh Gaya has numerous restaurants that provide Indian, Tibetan and international food. You can also taste local Bihari cuisine. Accommodation can be in budget hotels, guest houses, or luxury hotels according to your requirement. Most monasteries provide basic accommodation for pilgrims too.
Why Choose a Tempo Traveller for This Trip?
Traveling in a Tempo Traveller is perhaps one of the best options for this road trip, particularly if you are traveling with a group. It provides you with comfort, ample space, and the freedom to halt at various points. Our company DRC Services India Pvt Ltd offers well-maintained Tempo Travellers along with professional drivers ensuring, that your trip is convenient.
Per Km Charges – Rs 24
Driver Charges – 600/day.
Seating Options – 9, 12, 16, 20 seater Tempo Travellers.
Amenities – Pushback seats, AC, music system, charging points.
Safety – Sanitized vehicles and experienced drivers.
Travel Tips for Varanasi to Bodh Gaya Road Trip
Begin early morning to escape traffic.
Keep a little cash handy since small shops and dhabas might not accept digital payment.
Bring water bottles and light snacks.
Respect local culture and religious sites.
Wear comfortable attire and walking shoes when going to temples.
Book your Tempo Traveller in advance during peak travel season.
Why This Trip is Special
This road trip is not just about seeing tourist spots but also about spiritual connection and peace. Varanasi is the symbol of the eternal cycle of death and rebirth in Hinduism, and Bodh Gaya is the symbol of knowledge and enlightenment in Buddhism. Together they provide you with a rich cultural and spiritual experience.
Conclusion
The road trip from Varanasi to Bodh Gaya is one you would love to undertake with family, friends, or a group of devotees. From the sacred ghats of Varanasi to the serene monasteries of Bodh Gaya, the trip is one that will leave you with some delightful memories.
Book our Tempo Traveller Services in Varanasi, Bodh Gaya or anywhere in India at the most economical price with DRC Services India Pvt Ltd. Our goal is to ensure safe, comfortable and enjoyable journeys for all trips.




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