A sacred footprint of Lord Vishnu on the banks of the Falgu River
Vishnupad Temple, located on the banks of the Falgu River in Gaya (near Bodhgaya), is a prominent Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is believed to enshrine the footprint of Lord Vishnu, imprinted in solid rock, measuring about 40 cm in length. This sacred mark is said to be where Lord Vishnu crushed the demon Gayasura into the earth. Devotees visit Vishnupad Temple to perform Pind Daan rituals for their ancestors, especially during the Pitru Paksha period. The temple’s peaceful environment, beautiful stone architecture, and religious significance make it a must-visit for spiritual travelers. Constructed in traditional Indian style with intricately carved pillars and sanctum, the temple offers a serene experience filled with chants, rituals, and devotion. Its close proximity to Bodhgaya makes it an ideal addition to any religious or spiritual itinerary in the region.
Important Timings
|
Temple Opening |
4:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
|
Pind Daan Rituals |
6:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
|
Aarti Timings |
Morning & Evening |
|
Best Time to Visit |
Early morning or sunset |
Booking and Entry Fees
|
Entry Fee |
Free |
|
Pind Daan Rituals |
Charges vary by priest |
|
Photography |
Not allowed inside temple |
|
Special Ritual Booking (optional) |
On-site only |
History and Legacy
The Vishnupad Temple holds a timeless legacy in Hindu mythology and Indian pilgrimage history. Legend states that Lord Vishnu, in his divine form, subdued the demon Gayasura by placing his foot on the demon's chest, leaving behind a sacred footprint. Gayasura, who repented, was granted a boon that anyone performing Shraddha (ancestral rites) at this spot would ensure peace for their ancestors. Thus, the site became one of the most important centers for Pind Daan in India.
The current structure of the Vishnupad Temple was rebuilt in the 18th century by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore. The temple is made from large grey granite blocks and features an octagonal shrine supported by intricately carved pillars. The footprint of Lord Vishnu is engraved in a silver-plated basin inside the sanctum. Every year, thousands of pilgrims gather here, especially during Pitru Paksha Mela, to perform rituals for their departed loved ones. The temple continues to be a confluence of devotion, tradition, and spiritual solace.
Nearby Destinations
|
Mahabodhi Temple |
10 km |
20–25 mins |
Auto / Taxi |
|
Bodhi Tree |
10 km |
20 mins |
Auto / Cab |
|
Dungeshwari Caves |
15 km |
30 mins |
Cab / Bike |
|
Falgu Riverfront |
Adjacent |
Walkable |
On Foot |
|
Mangla Gauri Temple |
2 km |
5–10 mins |
Auto / Rickshaw |
Tourist Guidelines & Tips
- Respect religious sentiments; avoid loud behavior
- Footwear not allowed beyond designated area
- Dress modestly (no shorts/sleeveless)
- Early morning is the best time to avoid crowds
- Use authorized priests for Pind Daan rituals
- No photography inside the sanctum
- Carry cash, as digital payments may not be available everywhere
Top Things to Buy Near Gaya / Bodhgaya
- Brass idols of Lord Vishnu and Lakshmi
- Pooja items and incense sticks
- Rudraksha malas and sacred thread
- Religious books and prayer offerings
- Local sweets like tilkut and peda
Top Things and Places to Eat Nearby
- Shree Ram Bhojanalaya – Authentic thali meals near temple
- Pramod Restaurant – North Indian and local snacks
- Hotel Ajatsatru Veg Restaurant – Budget-friendly meals
- Falgu Riverside Tea Stalls – Tea, biscuits, and light snacks
- Moksha Café (Bodhgaya) – If heading toward Bodhgaya