Food is a major reason many people explore new destinations, so don't skip the chance to try local delicacies.
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Bodh Gaya is around $27 (₨2274) per person, with previous travelers spending from $12 to $51. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Bodh Gaya are as follows:
- Breakfast: $3 to $8
- Lunch: $4 to $11
- Dinner: $8 to $19
- Coffee: $2
- Fast Food or Street Food: $4
Om Restaurant is well-known for outstanding Tibetan food in large portions and low prices. While the atmosphere may be lacking, diners keep returning for Thukpa and Thentuk soup. Dine at Siam Thai Restaurant for a taste of Southeast Asia. With beautiful, temple-like ambiance, a clean dining room, and delicious Tom Yum soup and pad Thai, the moderate prices may be worthwhile.
Hidden away in a small alley, Mohammed's Restaurant is a simple eatery which serves a variety of quality Indian, Chinese, Tibetan, Thai, and western fare at reasonable prices. Mohammed's also offers a solid internet connection and people return for their momos, cakes and pies.
Be Happy Cafe is a breath of fresh Western air if you're missing comfort foods like pizza, salads, and cakes. Prices are higher than typical local restaurants, but you're getting a break from spicy Indian food.
Run by a Tibetan family, Tibet Om offers Chinese, Tibetan, Nepali and Indian fare at low prices perfect for the budget traveler. This restaurant is definitely a no-frills kind of place, but more importantly, it's clean with friendly service. The delicious momos and sandwiches made with Tibetan bread are must-try items.
Accommodation
Travelers who wish to enjoy luxuries such as a swimming pool and modern amenities can find these creature comforts the Maha Bodhi Hotel, Resort and Convention Center. Mid-range hotels, such as Hotel Bodhgaya Regency and Hotel Bodhgaya Gautam and Bodhgaya offer basic amenities, such as air conditioning and include delicious meals.
Besides low-range hotels, budget travelers can also take advantage of staying at one of the many monasteries in Bodh Gaya. Go easy on your wallet while enjoying an immersive cultural experience. While a monastery will not be a luxurious accommodation, it undoubtedly exposes visitors to what BodhGaya is all about - touching base with the roots of the Buddhism. Most monasteries allow visitors to stay for donations and also provide simple meals.
Some places, such as the Root Institute are the perfect retreat for meditation, offering basic rooms as well as Tibetan Buddhism, meditation and yoga courses.
Many hotels include breakfast in their pricing structure, while some charge additional fees for it. The quality and cost can vary significantly by hotel. Knowing this in advance can help you decide whether to allocate more money. It might be worth paying for the delicious hotel buffet, or you could go to a local bakery or cafe that's less expensive.
Instead of buying drinks, bring a water bottle. It's also an environmentally friendly option.
While planning your tour, it's essential to know which meals are included. You may find yourself paying for some meals, which can add to your travel budget.