Operated using Airbus A320 aircraft, the flights are strategically timed to provide seamless one-stop connections for international pilgrims from major Buddhist-majority regions across Asia. The expansion underscores India’s growing focus on enhancing infrastructure for spiritual tourism, particularly along the sacred Buddhist circuit of the Indo-Gangetic Plain.


Enhanced Connectivity for Pilgrims

The new route is designed to cater to travelers from key Asian hubs, including Kathmandu (KTM), Hong Kong (HKG), Bangkok (BKK), Singapore (SIN), and Tokyo-Haneda (HND), among others. By routing through Delhi, pilgrims can now reach Bodh Gaya - where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment—with greater ease and comfort.


Flight Schedule:

- AI429 (Delhi-Gaya): Departs Delhi at 14:30, arrives in Gaya at 16:05
- AI430 (Gaya-Delhi): Departs Gaya at 16:40, arrives in Delhi at 18:00

The afternoon departure from Delhi allows international travelers ample time to connect from morning arrivals, while the evening return facilitates onward journeys to global destinations.


Bodh Gaya: A Pillar of Buddhist Heritage

Bodh Gaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the Mahabodhi Temple and a descendant of the original Bodhi Tree, under which Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment. The city draws millions of pilgrims annually, particularly from Southeast and East Asia, where Buddhism remains a dominant faith.

Air India’s new service aims to meet rising demand for accessible travel to the sacred site, reinforcing India’s role as a hub for spiritual tourism. Industry experts predict the route will significantly boost visitor numbers to Bodh Gaya’s monasteries, temples, and cultural landmarks.


The Sacred Buddhist Circuit

The Indo-Gangetic Plain, spanning northern India and southern Nepal, hosts Buddhism’s holiest sites, each tied to pivotal moments in Gautama Buddha’s life. Pilgrims worldwide visit these destinations, which include:


The Four Primary Pilgrimage Sites

1. Lumbini (Nepal): Birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama; a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. Bodh Gaya (India): Where Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree.
3. Sarnath (India): Site of Buddha’s first sermon on the Middle Way and Four Noble Truths.
4. Kushinagar (India): Where Buddha achieved Parinirvana (final nirvana).


The Extended Eight Great Places

Four additional sites, revered for miracles and teachings, complete the Attha-mahathanani ("Eight Great Places"):
- Rajgir: Where Buddha tamed the enraged elephant Nalagiri.
- Vaishali: Site of the honey-offering miracle by a monkey.
- Sravasti: Location of the Twin Miracle and where Buddha spent the most time.
- Sankassa: Where Buddha descended after teaching in Tavatimsa heaven.


A Strategic Boost for Tourism

Air India’s expansion into Gaya reflects a broader push to capitalize on India’s rich spiritual heritage. With improved air links, the airline aims to position Delhi as a pivotal transit hub for pilgrims while supporting local economies dependent on religious tourism.

As demand for meaningful travel grows, this new route not only honors Buddhist traditions but also opens doors for deeper cultural exchange—one flight at a time.