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Bodh Gaya Travel Guide
Exploring the Spiritual Heart of India: A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Bodh Gaya
Bodh Gaya is a small town in the state of Bihar in India, known for its historical and spiritual significance. It is the place where the Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment, and is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world.
First on our list is the Mahabodhi Temple, which is the main attraction in Bodh Gaya. This temple marks the exact spot where the Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment, and is an important religious site for Buddhists. The temple complex includes the famous Bodhi Tree, under which the Buddha is said to have meditated.
Another popular attraction in Bodh Gaya is the Great Buddha Statue, which is one of the largest statues of the Buddha in the world. The statue is made of bronze, and stands at a height of over 80 feet. You can also visit the nearby Royal Bhutan Monastery, which is one of the most beautiful monasteries in the region.
If you're interested in learning more about Buddhism and the life of the Buddha, you can visit the many museums and cultural centers in Bodh Gaya. These include the Sujata Village Museum, the Thai Monastery and Temple, and the International Buddhist Museum.
In conclusion, Bodh Gaya is a spiritual and historical destination, offering a rich cultural experience for visitors. Whether you're interested in religion, history, or culture, Bodh Gaya has something for everyone. So, if you're planning a trip to Bihar, make sure to include Bodh Gaya in your itinerary.
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MAKE AN ENQUIRYBest Places To Visit In Bodh Gaya
From historical cities to natural wonders, come see the best of Bodh Gaya.
Mahabodhi Temple
The Mahabodhi Temple, also known as the "Great Awakening Temple", is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar. It is a Buddhist temple that marks the spot where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Lord Buddha holds a very important place in the religious history of India. The temple is spread over an area of ​​4.8 hectares and the total height of the temple is 170 feet and the top of the temple has chhatras which symbolize the sovereignty of Dharma. The original temple was built by Emperor Ashoka after turning to Buddhism to seek peace and solitude from war and conquest.
Dungeshwari Hill
Dungeshwari Hills is where Lord Buddha spent a few years before travelling to Bodh Gaya in search of enlightenment. The hills are mostly known for the caves that Gautam Buddha used for shelter and meditation. The Stupas/ Buddhist shrines exist even today amidst the beautiful natural surroundings. The picturesque location of the Dungeshwari Hills is also a well-known trekking destination and draws enthusiasts in large numbers.
Bodhi Tree
To the left of the Mahabodhi Temple is the Bodhi Tree, a central symbol in Buddhism. It marks the spot where the original Bodhi tree once stood, under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. For more than a month, Siddhartha (as Buddha was earlier called) meditated under a sacred fig tree in Bodh Gaya. Every year on 8 December, Buddhist followers around the world celebrate Bodhi Day, a celebration of Buddha's enlightenment under the Bodhi tree.
Muchalinda Lake
Muchalinda Lake or Lotus Talab is a sacred lake in Bodh Gaya, Bihar. Situated to the right of the Mahabodhi Temple, it is one of the best places to visit in Bodh Gaya. Named after Muchalinda, the king of serpents, Muchalinda Lake is another peaceful place in Bodh Gaya. The structure depicting the epic story is situated in the center of Muchalinda Lake. On the border of the lake, one can find the epic legend written on the rocks. A large number of people visit the Muchalinda Lake, especially the Buddhist monks, to meditate as the lake is surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful surroundings. The water of the pond is holy and has thousands of fishes, the lake looks amazing at night due to the decoration and lighting of the banks of the lake
Archaeological Museum
This museum was established in 1956 that is located near the Mahabodhi Temple. It has an excellent collection of several Hindu and Buddhist relics, stone sculptures, terracotta items, Lord Buddha images, miniature pot, coping stones that were transported from the famous Mahabodhi Temple and copper antimony rod. In the second gallery of the museum the visitors are acquainted with the Dasavatara (Incarnation) of Lord Vishnu. The popular attractions of the museum are the huge idols of Lord Buddha in abhayamudra position and varaha avatar of Lord Vishnu. The coins of the Mughal era, antique relics and monuments belonging to the Mauryan and Gupta period are also on display for the visitors.
The Great Buddha Statue
The Great Buddha Statue is a huge statue located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar. It is one of the tallest statues in India and one of the major places to visit as part of the Buddhist circuit in India. About 25 meters tall, the Great Buddha Statue is the tallest ever built and the first Buddha statue built in India. The construction of the statue was started in 1982. Carved out of red granite and sandstone, the magnificent figure is of Lord Buddha in meditation posture atop a blooming lotus. The statue is partially hollow and contains about 20,000 bronze Buddhas. Surrounded by 10 small statues of Buddha's disciples, the peaceful surroundings and the beauty of the statue attract thousands of tourists from all over the world every year.
The Royal Bhutan Monastery
The Royal Bhutan Monastery is a magnificent Buddhist monastery and temple located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar. Situated next to Wat Thai Buddha Gaya, nestled in Bhutanese architecture, the monastery is home to a magnificent temple and a rest house for Bhutanese monks. The temple inside the monastery has a 7 feet high image of Lord Buddha, which is further engraved with Buddhist symbols and scriptures. Built by the King of Bhutan as a tribute to Lord Buddha, the Royal Bhutan Monastery is one of the notable Buddhist monasteries in the pilgrimage city of Bodh Gaya.
Vishnupad Temple
The Vishnupad temple situated on the banks of the river Falgu is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. According to historical records, the existence of the Vishnupad temple dates back to the times of Samudragupta, who ruled a vast empire during the 5th century CE. The archival source of this evidence is based on the Basar seal discovered at Vaishali. The Vishnupad temple is said to be the place where Lord Vishnu pressed his feet on Gayasur's body, leaving his footprints on the rocky surface. The footprint of the god 40 cm in length is visible in the temple and is worshiped by pilgrims daily.
Wat Thai Buddhagaya
Of all the monasteries in Bodh Gaya, the Thai monastery stands out for its exceptional architecture and stunning beauty. It has a sloping roof covered with golden tiles. Also home to a Thai Temple, the monastery has a 25-meter-high bronze statue of Lord Buddha. The place abounds with peace and serenity and is ideal for solace seekers and those looking for a break from the humdrum of city life.
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