Vishnupad Temple — Near Glamour Palace, Bodh Gaya

The Vishnupad Temple in Gaya is one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites in India, built over a rock bearing the sacred footprint (pada) of Lord Vishnu. Thousands of Hindu pilgrims visit annually to perform pitru karma (ancestral death rites) on the banks of the Falgu River.

History & Significance

The current temple was rebuilt in 1787 by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, one of the greatest patrons of Hindu temples in Indian history. The 30-metre octagonal shikhara (spire) rises dramatically over the Falgu River. The sanctum sanctorum houses a 40-cm footprint of Lord Vishnu imprinted on solid rock, enclosed in a silver basin. The temple has been a centre of Hindu pilgrimage for over 3,000 years. Gaya is especially important as a site for pitru karma — the rituals performed for deceased ancestors to ensure their liberation. Ram, Sita and Lakshman are said to have performed such rites here for King Dasharatha. The Gaya Shraddha rituals attract hundreds of thousands of pilgrims, particularly during Pitru Paksha (the fortnight of ancestral rites, September–October).

Key Facts & Figures

Temple height30 metres

Built1787 by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore

Sacred object40-cm footprint of Lord Vishnu on solid rock

RiverFalgu River (also called Phalgu)

Significance for HindusPrimary site for pitru karma (ancestral death rites)

Timings5:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Entry feeFree

NoteNon-Hindus may be restricted from the inner sanctum

Visitor Tips

Visit early morning when the riverside ghats are active with pilgrims. The 30-metre spire is best photographed from the river bank. Dress conservatively — this is an active place of worship.