Here’s a complete and reliable guide on Travel Safety, Tips, and Important Contacts in Gaya, perfect for tourists and first-time city visitors. This content covers everything from health and emergency assistance to cultural etiquette and essential helplines—ensuring you don’t need any other resource!
1. General Safety
- Gaya is generally safe for tourists, especially around Bodh Gaya and major temples.
- Avoid walking alone late at night, especially in poorly lit or secluded areas.
- Police presence is strong around tourist zones.
2. Health & Hygiene
- Always drink bottled or purified water (avoid tap water).
- Eat food from hygienic places or trusted restaurants.
- Carry a basic first-aid kit and common medicines (for fever, stomach upset, etc.).
- Use mosquito repellent, especially during the monsoon.
3. Cultural Etiquette
- Remove footwear before entering temples.
- Ask permission before clicking photos of monks or religious ceremonies.
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious places.
4. Transport Safety
- Use prepaid taxis or app-based rides (Ola) from the airport or railway station.
- Always agree on auto-rickshaw fare before the ride or ensure the meter is running.
- Share your live location with a trusted contact while traveling at night.
5. Money & Scams
- Use ATMs from reputable banks only (preferably inside branches).
- Avoid street money changers—go for authorized Forex outlets.
- Be cautious of “temple guides” or donation scammers near Vishnupad or Mahabodhi Temple.
Essential Travel Tips
| # | Tip Category | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Language | Hindi, Magahi, and English are commonly understood in tourist areas. |
| 2 | Internet & SIM | Buy a local SIM (Airtel/Jio) at Gaya Airport or railway station kiosks. |
| 3 | Power Adapter | Standard Indian plug (230V, Type C/D/M) – carry a universal adapter. |
| 4 | Currency | INR (₹); exchange at banks, Forex outlets, or reliable hotels. |
| 5 | Local Timing | IST (GMT+5:30); sunrise around 5:15 AM, sunset around 6:30 PM. |
| 6 | Dress Code | Comfortable cotton clothes; modest attire at temples. |
| 7 | Tipping Culture | Not mandatory, but ₹10–₹50 is appreciated in restaurants & taxis. |
| 8 | Safe Zones | Bodh Gaya, Kalachakra Ground, Sujata Temple, Vishnupad Temple area. |
| 9 | Emergency Exit | Note the nearest hospital or police station from your hotel. |
Important Emergency & Tourist Contact Numbers in Gaya
| Department | Contact Number | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Police Helpline | 1363 / 1800-11-1363 | Toll-free, multilingual support |
| Gaya Police Control Room | 100 / 112 | For reporting crimes/emergencies |
| Fire Services | 101 | |
| Ambulance Services | 102 / 108 | Dial 108 for private ambulance as well |
| Railway Inquiry (Gaya Jn) | 139 / 0631-2220227 | For live train updates |
| Gaya Airport (GAY) | 0631-2210129 | For flight status or lost baggage |
| Mahabodhi Temple Office | 0631-2200735 | Opening hours, rules, or guided tours |
| Bodh Gaya Tourist Info | 0631-2201676 | Bihar Tourism official counter |
| Nearest Hospital | Magadh Medical College – 0631-2221010 | 24×7 emergency services available |
| Lost & Found (Railway) | 0631-2220143 | For lost luggage at station |
| Women’s Helpline | 181 / 1091 | Confidential assistance for female tourists |
Nearby Safe Zones for Tourists (Landmarks)
- Gaya Junction Railway Station – with security presence & CCTV
- Vishnupad Temple Complex – safe, but avoid late-night visits
- Mahabodhi Temple Complex – patrolled regularly, ID check at entry
- Kalachakra Ground – peaceful during meditation festivals
- Bodh Gaya Main Market – tourist-friendly shopping zone
Final Pro Travel Tips
- Keep a hard copy of your passport and visa.
- Save offline maps of Gaya (Google Maps / Maps.me).
- Download Indian emergency apps like 112 India.
- Register at your embassy (optional) in case of long stays.