Gaya

Gaya is a city and the administrative headquarters of Gaya district in the Indian state of Bihar. It lies on the banks of the Phalgu River in south-central Bihar, about 100 kilometers south of Patna. The city functions as a regional commercial and cultural center, serving as a transportation and market hub for surrounding rural areas.

Gaya has historical and religious significance. Nearby Bodh Gaya is a major Buddhist pilgrimage site where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment and is home to the Mahabodhi Temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Gaya city itself, the Vishnupad Temple is a prominent Hindu shrine reputed to house a footprint of Lord Vishnu and a focus of pilgrimage.

The district’s economy blends agriculture, trade, and tourism, with revenues tied to pilgrimage traffic to Bodh Gaya and other religious sites. Gaya is connected by rail via Gaya Junction, a major node on the East Central Railway, and by air through Gaya Airport near Bodh Gaya, which handles domestic flights.

Demographically, the region is predominantly Hindu, with Buddhist communities present around Bodh Gaya. Local languages include Hindi and Magahi, with various dialects in daily use. Major festivals include Chhath Puja and Buddha Purnima.

Education and administration: The district hosts several colleges and institutions. Magadh University is located in Bodh Gaya, serving the district, while Gaya operates as the district headquarters with municipal governance.