Excursions Bodh Gaya

   15 kms away, in Gaya, is the Vishnupad Mandir. Situated on the banks of river Phalgu, the temple was built by Rani Ahalya Bai Holkar of Indore in 1787. It houses the footprints of Lord Vishnu engraved in solid rock. Hindu pilgrims come here to perform the last rites of their dead ancestors.

Brahmayoni Hill or Gayasirsa is 1 km away, to the southwest of Gaya. Here in the pragbodhi caves Prince Siddhartha practiced severe austerities. He later returned to preach the Fire Sermon which extols celibacy and a lust free life.

Barabar is 42 kms from Gaya and 12 kms east of Bela railway station on the Patna-Gaya highway. It is famous for its seven rock-cut caves, in addition to the three in the nearby Nagajuna hills belonging to the Mauryan period and dedicated to the Ajivika sect. These ancient caves are hewn out of single granite rocks. Some chambers have exquisitely polished interiors. Barabar is remarkable for its sheer panoramic grandeur, rugged landscape and serene charm.

Several Hindu temples are also located in and around the complex. Many of them have Buddha statues, which are revered as Hindu deities. Here Buddha is worshiped as the ninth incarnation of Vishnu.