The Shri Gaya Ji Dham Yatra is a highly revered pilgrimage for Hindus, especially for performing pind daan—a sacred ritual for the salvation of ancestors’ souls. Located in the state of Bihar, Gaya is mentioned in several ancient texts as one of the holiest places for offering ancestral prayers. The city is known for its spiritual importance, with the Vishnupad Temple at its center, where pilgrims come to seek Lord Vishnu’s blessings and offer rites to ensure peace for departed souls.
The main ritual of the Gaya Ji Dham Yatra is the pind daan, which is performed on the banks of the Falgu River, near the Vishnupad Temple. It is believed that Lord Vishnu left his footprint here, and offering pind daan at this spot ensures that the souls of one’s ancestors attain salvation, or moksha. This practice has been followed for thousands of years and is said to free the departed from the cycle of rebirth. Pilgrims from all over India visit Gaya to perform this ritual, especially during the auspicious periods of Pitru Paksha.
Apart from its spiritual importance for ancestral worship, Gaya is also significant in Buddhism, as it is close to Bodh Gaya, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. The Shri Gaya Ji Dham Yatra thus offers a deeply spiritual experience, not only for the performance of ancestral rites but also for those seeking inner peace and enlightenment. The ancient temples, rituals, and historical significance make Gaya a must-visit destination for devotees and spiritual seekers alike.