Situated in the Gaya District of Bihar, Bodh Gaya holds profound significance as a Buddhist pilgrimage site. Attracting visitors from far and wide, it is most renowned for the Mahabodhi Temple, a sacred place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the shelter of the Bodhi tree. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bodh Gaya has garnered support from various foreign countries, including Japan and China, in developing facilities to cater to the needs of Buddhist pilgrims. Throughout the year, the site bustles with pilgrims arriving from India and abroad, eager to pay homage and find solace amidst the monasteries, temples, and remnants of the revered Bodhi Tree.
Originally known as Uruwela, this spiritual haven rests near the tranquil river Neranjana. Over the centuries, it has been referred to as Sambodhi, Vajrasana, or Mahabodhi. As one of the four pivotal Buddhist sites, alongside Kushinagar, Lumbini, and Sarnath, Bodh Gaya stands as a testament to the profound legacy of Buddhism and its enduring influence on the world.
The tallest statue of Lord Buddha in India, installed by the XIV Dalai Lama in 1989, portrays a serene meditating Buddha seated atop a colossal lotus. This magnificent sculpture is meticulously crafted from intricately carved sandstone and red granite, symbolizing the deep spiritual significance of the revered figure it represents.
The Mahabodhi Temple has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As a sacred Buddhist temple, it stands as a poignant reminder of the location where Lord Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment. In the religious history of India, Lord Buddha occupies a significant place, regarded as the 9th and most recent incarnation of Lord Vishnu to have graced the earth. The temple itself sprawls across a vast expanse of 4.8 hectares and soars to an impressive height of 55 meters. To the left of the temple stands the revered Bodhi Tree, believed to be a direct descendant of the very tree under which Lord Gautam Buddha meditated, found enlightenment, and laid down the foundation of his life philosophy.
The temple's origins trace back to Emperor Ashoka, who, upon embracing Buddhism, sought solace and inner peace as a respite from the ravages of war and conquests. His original construction of this temple reflects the profound influence of Buddhism and the enduring legacy of Lord Buddha's teachings.
Located approximately 100 kilometers south of Patna in the Indian state of Bihar, the Bodhi Tree holds a place of utmost prominence and reverence in Buddhism due to its rich historical significance. This revered tree marks the very spot where Prince Siddhartha Gautama, the spiritual teacher who would later be known as the Buddha, achieved enlightenment. Legend has it that Prince Siddhartha spent seven days in deep meditation under this sacred tree, leading to his profound awakening. As a testament to this momentous event, a shrine named Animisalocana Cetiya was constructed at the precise location where he sat. In the 7th century, a small temple was also erected close to the Bodhi Tree, further enhancing the sanctity of the surroundings and providing a place for pilgrims and devotees to pay their respects. Today, the Bodhi Tree remains an iconic symbol of spiritual enlightenment and continues to draw countless visitors who seek inspiration and tranquility in this hallowed space.
For the avid shopping enthusiast, this market is an absolute paradise. Here, visitors can find a wide array of winter wear, exquisite handicrafts, charming souvenirs, and much more to indulge their shopping desires.
Bihar
Gaya
Enursa, Tilkut, Khaja, Lai, and Kesariya peda all of which are exclusive to Bihar are must-try delicacies here. Other Bihari dishes like Sattu ka roti, Litti-chokha, Pua, Marua ka roti, Chana Bhuja, Aaloo Kachalu, etc. are also easily available here.
Bhojpuri is widely spoken in Bodh Gaya but tourists can communicate with locals in Hindi and English.
Bodh Gaya can be visited throughout the year but to avoid hot weather conditions tourists can visit around October to March.
