India · UNESCO Heritage Sites

The Ancient Wonders of Nalanda & Rajgir Day Trip From Bodhgaya

8 Hours Round trip from Pickup service provided in Bodh Gaya. Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Visit the Nalanda Archaeological Museum
  • 02 Explore the UNESCO World Heritage ruins of Nalanda University
  • 03 Discover the historic town of Rajgir
  • 04 See Venuvana Vihara, a monastery linked to Lord Buddha
  • 05 Ride the cable car to Gridhakuta Hill for panoramic views
  • 06 Visit Saptaparni Cave, associated with the first Buddhist council
  • 07 Relax at the Hot Springs at the foothills of Vaibhava Hill
  • 08 Round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off from Bodh Gaya

Discover two of Bihar’s most important historic and spiritual destinations on this full-day trip from Bodhgaya. Travel to Nalanda to explore the Archaeological Museum and the UNESCO-listed ruins of the ancient Nalanda University, once one of the world’s great centres of learning.

Continue to Rajgir, where sacred Buddhist sites and scenic hill views bring the region’s past to life. Visit Venuvana Vihara, Gridhakuta Hill, Saptaparni Cave, and the Hot Springs, while learning the stories and significance of each stop from your guide along the way.

The ruins of the ancient university, founded in the 5th century AD, offer a glimpse into the glory days of Indian higher education.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Hours
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Bodh Gaya, Rajgir, Nalanda
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

8:00 AM - Meet your guide at your hotel lobby in Bodhgaya and start your journey towards Nalanda.9:30 AM - Reach Nalanda and visit the Nalanda Archaeological Museum. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the ancient Nalanda University. Explore the museum with your guide and learn about the rich history and culture of the region.11:00 AM - Visit the Nalanda University ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ruins of the ancient university, founded in the 5th century AD, offer a glimpse into the glory days of Indian higher education. Your guide will take you through the ruins, explaining the various structures and their significance.

12:30 PM - Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Nalanda.1:30 PM - Head to Rajgir, a historic town located approximately 25 kilometers away from Nalanda.2:00 PM - Visit the Venuvana Vihara, a beautiful monastery located amidst lush green forests. The monastery is believed to have been established by King Bimbisara of Magadha and was a favorite retreat for Lord Buddha. Explore the monastery complex and learn about its history from your guide.3:00 PM - Visit the Gridhakuta Hill, also known as the Vulture Peak. This hill is believed to be the site where Lord Buddha delivered some of his most important sermons. Take a cable car ride to the top of the hill, from where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills.4:00 PM - Visit the Saptaparni Cave, a historic cave located at the foothills of the Gridhakuta Hill. The cave is believed to be the site where the first Buddhist council was held after Lord Buddha's death. Your guide will tell you about the history and significance of the cave.4:30 PM - Visit the Hot Springs, located in the foothills of the Vaibhava Hill. The hot springs are believed to have medicinal properties and are a popular destination for pilgrims. Take a dip in the hot springs and relax amidst the serene surroundings.5:00 PM - Leave Rajgir and start your journey back to Bodhgaya.

7:00 PM - Reach your hotel in Bodhgaya, with memories of a memorable day tour of Nalanda and Rajgir.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Pickup service provided in Bodh Gaya. 3 cities · 8 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Private AC car/van for pick up and drop off from/to your hotel.
  • English speaking local guide, if option selected.
  • Entrance fees to monuments, if option selected.
  • Lunch, if option selected.
  • Bottled water in the car.
  • Government Taxes.

What's Not Included

  • Camera charges at monuments.
  • Gratuities and optional activities.
  • Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.

Know before you go

  • STROLLER OR PRAM ACCESSIBLE
  • PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION NEARBY
  • INFANT SEATS AVAILABLE
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Not suitable for pets
  • Infants must not sit on laps
  • Please provide up pick up information at least one day before the tour

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Pickup service provided in Bodh Gaya.
Tour start
Pickup service provided in Bodh Gaya.
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 8 hours finish where they began, in Pickup service provided in Bodh Gaya..

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