How to get to Gaya

Gaya is an important historical and religious centre in the state of Bihar, where thousands of pilgrims flock annually to touch the ancient traditions of India. The city is located in a picturesque valley and is open to guests, offering convenient logistics options from various parts of the country. When planning how to reach Gaya, tourists can choose a quick flight, a comfortable train journey, or a bus ride, depending on their available time and budget.

The fastest way to reach the destination is to use air travel and fly directly to Gaya Airport (GAY). This aviation hub is well connected to the country's major metropolises and receives regular flights, making it an ideal starting point for your journey.

If direct tickets are unavailable, you can consider flying to neighbouring major cities. The nearest airport is located in the city of Patna (90 km), while Ranchi (163 km) or Deoghar are also convenient alternatives from where it is easy to continue the journey by ground transport.

Rail transport is one of the most popular ways to reach the city, as the major junction station Gaya Junction is located here. The station receives many direct trains, including high-speed expresses from Delhi, Kolkata, and other metropolises of India, ensuring a comfortable arrival right in the centre of events.

In case tickets for direct routes are unavailable, one can travel to major stations in neighbouring cities, such as Patna or Ranchi. However, thanks to its status as an important pilgrimage centre, Gaya's own railway network is excellently developed, and transfers are rarely required.

Bus routes connect the city with neighbouring regions, offering travellers a budget-friendly and immersive way to travel. The most convenient route departs from the city of Patna: the bus covers the distance of about 100 km in approximately 4 hours, allowing you to observe life in the Indian countryside.

For those departing from the city of Ranchi, the 182 km journey will take about 7 hours. The route from the city of Deoghar is suitable only for the most resilient tourists: covering 363 km may take more than 25 hours due to traffic specifics and road conditions.

Travelling by car or booking a taxi ensures maximum flexibility and comfort, especially when travelling with luggage. The fastest route runs from the city of Patna: the distance of 101 km can be covered in just about 2 hours in the absence of traffic jams.

A trip from Ranchi (225 km) will take approximately 5 hours, while the road from the city of Deoghar (213 km) will require about 5.5 hours of driving. It is better to book a taxi through verified services or counters at the airport, agreeing on the total cost of the trip in advance.

A trip to this spiritually significant city requires a little preparation so that the journey goes smoothly and leaves only positive emotions. Here are some practical recommendations that will help you adapt to local features more quickly.

1. Clothing and Dress Code. Since this is a sacred place, wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Prefer light, natural fabrics to endure the heat comfortably.
2. Transport. For trips around the city, it is most convenient to use auto-rickshaws (tuk-tuks). Be sure to bargain and agree on the price before starting the trip.
3. Finances. Keep a supply of cash in small denominations. Cards are not accepted everywhere, especially in small shops and markets.
4. Health. Drink only bottled water and avoid street food that has not undergone thermal processing. It is useful to carry hand sanitiser with you.
5. Etiquette in Temples. Always remove your shoes when entering shrines. It is customary to walk around religious objects in a clockwise direction, showing respect to those praying.
6. Communication. Many locals in tourist areas understand basic English, but a couple of phrases in Hindi, such as "Namaste," will always bring a smile and build rapport.
7. Caution. Avoid intrusive "guides" and helpers at train stations. Use the services of official tourist bureaus only.

Observing these simple rules will help you avoid misunderstandings and fully focus on the unique atmosphere and cultural wealth of this ancient city.