Bodh Gaya Gourmet Delight

Almost all hotels have restaurants featuring international cuisine, often at fancy prices. At one of the 3-star hotels, a typical Japanese or Thai meal would set the diner back by Rs 800-1,200. The Lotus Nikko Hotel even has duck and oyster on its menu though this writer was told that not too many visitors ask for such items on a regular basis. Om Restaurant, close to the main temple on Bodh Gaya Road, is particularly popular with backpackers. They specialise in Japanese and Tibetan cuisine, besides a variety of snacks, vegetarian and tofu dishes. Try the momos , thukpas (soup-style noodles) and Chinese fast food dishes. A plate of five steamed momos, chicken or vegetable, costs approx Rs 45-60. The place, however, is quite run down and crowded.

Mahamaya Restaurant, adjacent to the Mahabodhi Society, is part of the Mahamaya Guest House, and has an elegant ambience and friendly staff. The Indian food is excellent. The malai kofta and the chicken shahi korma are a must here; a meal would cost Rs 75-200, depending on what is ordered. Royal Residency, also on Bodh Gaya Road and part of the Royal Residency Hotel, has relatively low prices (Rs 50-150 per meal) given its posh setting. Their Chinese fare is the best. The soups and the noodles, and chicken dishes, cooked up in a variety of sauces ' garlic, ginger, chilli ' are highly recommended.