Vishnupad Temple, Gaya | Bihar Tourism | Sacred Vishnu Temple on Phalgu River

Overview

Perched on the banks of the sacred Phalgu River in Gaya, the Vishnupad Temple enshrines a 40-cm basalt footprint believed to be that of Lord Vishnu. Pilgrims come to perform pind-daan rites for departed ancestors, making it one of Hinduism’s holiest sites.

Discover more about the region on our Gaya page or explore other Famous Temples.

Historical Significance

Mythical Origin: Footprint marks spot where Vishnu subdued demon Gayasura.
12th Century: Early shrine erected by local rulers.
1787 CE: Current granite temple built by King Bhim Singh of Gaya.
1933 CE: Restored by British-era archaeologists.

Architectural Features

The square sanctum is topped by a 16-m high pyramidal shikhara borne on 12 ornately carved granite pillars. A circular corridor surrounds the footprint slab, protected under a golden canopy.

40 cm basalt footprint slab covered with gold plate
12 granite pillars supporting ornate eaves
Pyramidal shikhara rising 16 m above the sanctum
Circular pradakshina path with engraved reliefs

Spiritual Importance

Renowned for pind-daan rituals during Pitru Paksha, Vishnupad Temple is believed to grant peace to departed souls. Devotees also worship for prosperity and blessings from Lord Vishnu.

Phalgu River Ghats

Ritual bathing spots for pilgrims performing ancestral rites.

Learn More

Dungeshwari Caves

Meditation caves where Buddha spent time before enlightenment.

Learn More

Bodh Gaya

Site of Buddha’s enlightenment, just 13 km away.

Learn More

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

05:00 AM – 09:00 PM

Entry Fee

Free (Donations Welcome)

Best Time to Visit

September – February & Pitru Paksha

How to Reach

By Air: Gaya Airport (17 km)
By Train: Gaya Junction (1 km)
By Road: Regular buses & taxis from Gaya city center

Travel Tips

Dress modestly; cover shoulders and knees out of respect.
Remove shoes before entering the sanctum area.
Carry offerings like rice and sesame seeds for pind-daan.
Visit early morning to avoid midday crowds and heat.

Nearby Attractions

Mahabodhi Temple

UNESCO World Heritage Site marking Buddha’s enlightenment.

Learn More

Barabar Caves

Ancient rock-cut caves dating to Mauryan period.

Learn More

Karni Lake

Scenic lake offering boating and riverside walks.

Learn More

Accommodation & Dining

Hotel Bodh Vilas

Comfortable rooms & restaurant, 2 km from temple.

Ginger Gaya

Budget-friendly hotel with basic amenities.

Riverfront Café

Tea, snacks & light meals overlooking the Phalgu.

Testimonials

“Performing pind-daan here gave me deep solace.”

— Sunita Devi

“The footprint shrine is profoundly moving.”

— Rakesh Kumar

“A sacred experience on the banks of the Phalgu.”

— Priya Singh

FAQs

Pind-daan is a ritual offering rice balls to satisfy ancestors’ souls.

No—shoes must be removed before approaching the sanctum.

Photography is allowed outside but flash is prohibited near the footprint.

Vishnupad Temple

Overview

Historical Significance

Architectural Features