Gaya to New York Flights

  About Gaya

Located in the state of Bihar is Gaya, popularly known as Bodh Gaya, for its spiritual significance. The city of Gaya is a popular pilgrimage in the state and attracts Hindus and Buddhists from around the world.

One of the key reasons behind Hindus visiting the Gaya is to make funeral offerings to give the deceased's soul solace. Known as Pind Daan, the puja is only performed here in Gaya and is said to have strong religious values. The Pind Daan puja is conducted by the family of the deceased to bring their ancestor's souls to peace. The rituals are said to help the ancestors and their wandering souls find some peace and harmony in the nether worlds, after death. To perform this puja, people come from around the world as the beliefs are strong.

Hills surround the city of Gaya as the Himalayan range continues to sprawl across the expanses of Bihar as well. The Vishnupad temple, located at the heart of the Gaya city, holds tremendous religious significance. It is believed that the temple was originally built by Maratha princess Ahliyabai, back in the 18th century. Much like the city, even the hills that surround Gaya are known to be sacred and places of sanctity. The temple city has important shrines located in different directions from the centre of the city.

Gaya is also of spiritual significance to Buddhists as it is believed that Gautama Buddha attained Enlightenment in this small town of Bihar. Bodhgaya has a vast expanse of Buddhist temple constructed with various spiritual significance. The city of Gaya holds importance for the Hindus and Buddhists for two impactful incidences are related to the place.

With the demand the city of Gaya has, the flight connectivity for domestic routes as well as international routes is quite high. There are numerous flights available from within the country and international destinations. The spiritual haven attracts Buddhists and Hindus every year to perform prayers and seek blessings. Ensure to book hotels well in advance during peak season as you might have trouble finding accommodation.

Best time to visit Gaya

Pitrapaksh month, also known as the period of ancestors in Hinduism, is considered to be the ideal time to visit Gaya. During this time, pilgrim activities are performed by families to help the souls of their ancestors to attain salvation. The Pitripaksh month falls in the monsoon season. The months September and October are observed as Pithru months, and during this season, various pilgrims arrive to seek blessings and help their ancestors. Another favoured month is during Buddha Purnima, which falls in the summer months of April-May. Buddhist monks and followers arrive at the Gaya to observe the teachings of Gautama Buddha and to seek his blessings. In terms of weather, Bodhgaya sees a spike in temperatures during summer, especially May. However, since the month is observed as Buddha Purnima, tourists don't mind the excess heat.

Places to see in Gaya

Mahabodhi Temple complex

South from the Brahmayoni hill is the temple of Bodh Gaya. The site is said to be a pilgrimage to the Buddhists and has the Mahabodhi Temple Complex. The site is often visited by His Holiness the Dalai Lama as it is the land where their guru, Gautama Buddha, attained Enlightenment. Not just Buddhists but even Hindus flock over to the temple complex as it has a calm and serene vibe that helps people find peace. Buddhists, as well as Hindus, venerate Bodh Gaya.

Vishnupad Temple

The ancient Hindu temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located beautifully along the banks of the Falgu river. Legend states that Lord Vishnu observed Gaya as the place of attainment of salvation for wandering souls. Whoever wishes to seek moksham on behalf of them and their ancestors, should make Pind Daan and perform some rituals for the same.

Kushinagar

Kushinagar is believed to be a civilisation built by Lord Rama's son King Kush with Kushvati as the capital. Although many Hindus believe that the pilgrimage town is the capital of the Kosala Kingdom, which was led by King Kush, the Buddhists think otherwise. According to their traditional beliefs, Kushvati was a name given to the land even before the Ramayana happened. In this village, you will find some important structures that are pivotal to Buddhism.

Some of the incredibly beautiful structures in Kushinagar involve the Parinirvana Stupa, Nirvana Chaitya, Ramabhar Stupa and Matha Kuar Shrine. The entire complex is actually believed to be the shrine of Gautama Buddha after he attained Enlightenment. The Parinirvana Stupa is a fancy structure that represents the 'dying Buddha' as the statue is in a reclining position. The statue is placed on top of a large brick with pedestals. The temple is sacred and pious and what drives Buddhists to the city of Gaya.

The Matha Kuar Shrine is yet again a huge statue of Lord Buddha which has been carved out of one block, to represent the Buddha being seated under the Bodhi tree in a 'bhumi sparsh mudra'. Every attribute about these structures hold a deeper meaning and should be explored.

Bakraur

Bakraur or Bakrour is another village located closely towards the east of Bodh Gaya. It is believed that Sujata, residing in this village, offered Guatam Buddha milk and rice before he reached Enlightenment. A statue has been erected to honour Sujata for catering to the Buddha.

Deo Surya Mandir

The Hindu temple of Deo Surya Mandir is a shrine of the Sun God. Located in the small town of Deo, the temple is often decorated for Chhath Puja, and devotees who visit the temple during the same are blessed.

Things to do in Gaya

You can take this as an opportunity to trek up the Bragmayoni. The highest hill, called Brahmayoni, is at the height of 450 ft above the Gaya plains. It is said that on this very hill, Buddha preached the Adittapariyaya Sutta (fire sermon) to a thousand ascetics. Enlightened by Buddha's teachings, the former fire-worshipping monks accepted the new discourse set by him. The hill has spiritual relevance in Buddhism and is often visited by Buddhist monks and believers.

Food and Restaurants in Gaya

Even though the place is a spiritual haven for pilgrims, there are some quaint cafes and fusion food joints that cater to all kinds of travellers. While you are in Bodh Gaya, you can spend a day relishing the simple but sublime food provided by the temples. There are various restaurants close to the temples which have basic but soul-satisfying food. Other restaurants and cafes that you can explore in Bodhgaya are Be Happy cafe, Zera Coffee Company, Fusion Food Factory, Taj Darbar Restaurant, Gautam Lassi Corner, Rose Apple Cafe, Tirupathi South Cafe, Mohammed's restaurant and more. These places offer appetising food that isn't necessarily void of flavour. Plus, the ambience of the joints is also quite good and definitely memorable. You can also spend some time investing in street food as there are a plethora of options in that department.

How to reach Gaya (Transportation)

By Air

Gaya is a spiritual centre and hence is well-connected to domestic as well as international cities. The Gaya Airport has regular flight connectivity from Yangon, Delhi, Kolkata and Varanasi. While you can opt for these domestic routes to reach Gaya, for travellers from Mumbai, Chennai and other metropolitan cities in the West and South, Delhi and Kolkata are the best choices. As for tourists from abroad, there are international routes from Thailand, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Japan, Myanmar, Vietnam and many more countries, that are directly connected to the Bodhgaya airport. Travellers often go to Gaya for Pind Daan and hence, book flights in advance. Not to mention, the international crowd often heads to the city to seek Enlightenment at the Buddhist monastery.

The city does not have luxury stays as such. However, there are some decent hotels in Gaya that you can book ahead of your visit. Another alternative for travellers opting flight is to book flight tickets to Patna and transit from there. Often this domestic route is considered as it is easier to reach Patna from different parts of the country.

By Rail

Many trains from metropolitan cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Patna have regular trains passing through Bihar. You can book your tickets to Gaya and opt for the railway as an option. The connectivity within Gaya is also quite good as there are rickshaw and buses available. Taxi cabs and tuk-tuk rides are also prevalent, making the intercity travelling a tad bit easier. If you book your hotels in Gaya before travelling to the city, you will receive shuttle services from the accommodation.

By Road

The bus services to Gaya are aplenty from significant cities in Jharkhand Uttar Pradesh and more states. In fact, there are daily transport facilities from cities such as Patna, Hazaribag, Ranchi, Jamshedpur, Dhanbad, etc. You can book AC or non-AC buses that will take you to the city. The travel service providers ensure to offer services to Gaya for its spiritual significance and demand.

  About New York

Songs about the city of dreams, New York, have been sung by celebrated artists such as Frank Sinatra, Jay Z and Alicia Keys, Billy Joel and even Sting. But nothing compares to the real deal that the city is. Touted to be the financial hub of the world, New York City is nestled on top of the Hudson River and has a cluster of five boroughs.

Best time to visit New York

There is no specific good time for a visit to New York. The city is always bustling with life and enthusiasm that is so contagious that no season can take it away from a traveller. Right from the crisp breeze of the early fall to the snowy merry winter, the city is so alluring that it befits the title that has been given to it by the world. At any time during the year, the streets of New York are always packed with New Yorkers and festivities. The months from September to November is probably the one time the hotel rates skyrocket. However, considering how it is fall and the temperatures are agreeable, often people don't mind spending extra bucks. In fact, the temperatures vary between 12 degree Celsius to 23 degree Celsius, which is quite pleasant. Besides, the city also comes with a slew of festivals and events such as the New York Film festival, Lighting at Rockefeller Centre, New York City Marathon, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and Haunted Halloween Carnival. Everything about the city is just too lovely and worth exploring.

Christmas and New Year's in New York is an experience that simply cannot be missed. Sadly though, the vacation time comes with exorbitant hotel prices. Getting cheap accommodation in New York, especially during their festive season, is definitely going to be tough. From December to February, the flight tickets to New York are also expensive. However, it shouldn't be missed so as long as you are able to save up on some money, the trip is worth every penny.

The warm months from March to May are also quite appealing as the city celebrates St. Patrick's Day Parade and even holds various other festivals. In fact, the city's venerated Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET) also hosts the Hollywood and fashion industry's stalwarts at the Met Gala. The city also faces light showers during these months. Booking a cheap hotel room in New York City in these months is also possible.

Places to visit in New York

You would most certainly need a map and a guide book to peruse through while you stroll around New York City to visit some of their tourist attractions. Before engaging in their foodie delights or nightlife, you should most certainly visit some of their intriguing tourist sites. From sites for an art patron to a history enthusiast, there is an attraction for all types of tourists. When in New York City, the first thing that you should certainly take up is to check out Central Park. Sprawled across 843 acres of land in the middle of a bustling city is this haven of tranquillity. It is in proximity with Guggenheim Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History, you can further extend your day trip within the city. These places will pique your interest not just because of the historical relevance but also thanks to the pop culture references in movies and TV shows. The Rockefeller Centre is another iconic location in New York. Do visit the Top of the Rock Observation Deck to get a bird's eye view of the city from atop

Touted to be an architectural pilgrimage is the St. Patrick's Cathedral, a must-visit structure which is quaint instead of chaotic. The Empire State Building, located in midtown Manhattan, is a total crowd-puller for its cultural relevance and contribution to making the Big Apple a hot spot. Other New York City landmarks include the Statue of Liberty, New York Public Library, Times Square, Chrysler Building, Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Fifth Avenue, Coney Island, Brooklyn Bridge, Bronx Zoo, Metropolitan Opera House, etc. These places have defined the New York City stature in the United States as well as the world

Things to do in New York

The top-most things to do in New York City is to explore their food. The city's thriving food culture beckons you, and you cannot decline the offer. Aside from the delicious meal voyage, don't forget to swing by some of the breweries too. Take a tour if necessary but do check out some of New York City's best beers and breweries. You can also take up Ice Skating as one of the activities to do in the city. If you're loaded enough and have reserved a ticket to watch plays on Broadway, do not miss it. Perhaps Cats or Hamilton? They will blow your mind!

Food and Restaurants in New York

New York City's staples, pizza and bagels, and the top sellers when it comes to food in the big city. They take their pizzas and bagels rather too seriously, especially since they need to compete with Chicago in the race for best pizzas. While both are at neck and neck when it comes to pizzas, their styles certainly define them to be apart. NYC favours pizzas with thin crusts and fewer toppings with layers of tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. You'll find the best of New York-style pizza at Joe's Pizza and Grimaldi's Pizzeria. These two places will not disappoint. As for the doughy delights popularly known as bagels? Head straight to Bagel Bob's, Ess-a-Bagel and Tompkins Square Bagels to get the best ones. Don't fill your heart and stomach with just their staple meals. Expand your taste buds and introduce them to international cuisine, which you will find here aplenty. The Big Apple does offer exemplary dining experiences that don't limit to good pizzas and bagels.

With multitudes of flavours and international cuisine at your perusal, it is advised that you make your reservations ahead of time. New York City restaurants are known to be notoriously crowded and expensive. To treat yourself with some multicourse meals, head to Eleven Madison Park, located at the heart of Manhattan. You can further expand your list to places such as Le Bernadin and Daniel for exquisite fine dining experience. If you have budgetary constraints but want to indulge in some fine dining scene, you can check out Scarpetta, Butter, Marc Forgione along with some celebrity chef-founded food joints and eateries. Aside from posh dining experiences, the city also boasts a plethora of breweries and bars. In fact, to soak in the best views of New York, make reservations at Pod 39 Rooftop, 230 Fifth and Top of the Strand. You'll be delighted to know that these places have views of the towering skyscrapers, Empire State, Chrysler buildings and more.

How to reach New York (Transportation)

Flight connectivity to New York from India is excellent. The state has about four important airports such as New York John F. Kennedy airport, New York Newark, Stewart International and New York LaGuardia, all located in perfect locations. There are regular flights flying to New York from India as there is a high demand for the state and even the city. In fact, major Indian cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, have flights to New York, some of them even direct. Turkish Airlines has direct flights to New York from India. Despite the convenient flight duration, often people do not resort to purchasing direct flight tickets to New York. Thanks to the expensive ticket prices to New York, people often opt to choose a cheaper alternative. There are many international route alternatives taken to reach New York from India. Depending on which route is chosen by you, the flight ticket prices to New York are determined. They usually stand approximately at 60K to 70K for a one-way trip.

It takes close to 16 hours to reach New York from India. The distance from New York and New Delhi is around 11,765 km, and it takes close to 15 hours and 5 mins to reach the cities. From Delhi, there are direct flights to New York serviced by Emirates and United Airlines. In general, airlines such as Air India, Etihad Airways, etc., also have dedicated flights to New York from India. Travelling is not a concern for New York because there are many available flight options. In fact, a majority of important international cities are connected to New York because it is the financial hub of the world. Not to mention how it also is the 'city of dreams'.

Flights to New York from India are usually expensive because it is one of the most popular cities with an array of regular travellers visiting from around the world. However, a little bit of scouting on the internet might lead to you getting your hands on some cheap flight tickets to New York. The international route to New York taken by the airlines as well as the layover/connecting flights should be taken into consideration here. Usually, the flights with longer durations are comparatively cheap.