A Journey to Bodhgaya: Where to Go and What to See

Gaya is a beautiful place to spend a holiday. The place is gorgeous, and the architecture is stunning regardless of your beliefs. Although some religions influence the land, it still promotes tolerance for all religions. You will be able to treasure the memories of your visit to this land rich in cultural history for many years.

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Here are Some of the Top 10 Places to Visit in Bodhgaya:

1. Mahabodhi Temple

It is located approximately 96km from Patna. King Ashoka built this temple in the 3rd Century BC. The current temple complex was built between the 6th and 5th centuries BC. The temple was made entirely with bricks. This is a stunning sculptural masterpiece. It allows devotees to gain insight into the life and teachings of Lord Buddha.

On the west side of this temple is the sacred Bodhi tree, under which Siddhartha Gautama meditated and gained spiritual knowledge. The temple has many towers, the tallest being 55 meters high. Visitors are drawn to the gold-painted idol of Lord Buddha, which is pictured in the “Bhumisparsha Mudra”. There are several smaller stupas as well as Buddha statues within the temple’s premises. Some idols could be as old as 100 years. Read Also: A travel guide to Buddha Temple, Bodh Gaya, Bihar

2. Bodhi Tree

The Bodhi Tree is a symbol of Buddhism. It is located on the left side of the Mahabodhi temple. It is the site where Lord Buddha got enlightenment. Siddhartha meditated under a sacred Bodhgaya fig tree for more than a month as Buddha was previously called. Every December 8, Buddhist followers around the globe celebrate Bodhi Day. This day marks Buddha’s enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. This Bodhi tree is likely the fifth generation of the original tree.

You will find Buddhist monks meditating or reading here, as well as chaityas and votive stupas. According to legend, Sanghamitta, or Sanghmitra, was the daughter of Emperor Ashoka and took a branch of the Bodhi tree from Bodh Gaya to Sri Lanka and placed it in Anuradhapura. The Bodhi tree, which is believed to be the oldest globally, is still living. According to legend, the Bodhi tree currently in Bodh Gaya was grown from a sapling from Sri Lanka. Read Also: 11 Best Buddhist Pilgrimage Places in India

3. Royal Bhutan Monastery

It appeals to Buddhist followers with its beautiful depictions of the life and times of Buddha. Bhutanese monks built this monastery. It is one of the most impressive monasteries.

When you first see the monastery, you will notice the influence of traditional architecture. The temple is home to a 7-foot-tall Buddha statue. It is a peaceful place where you can meditate. Read Also: Discover the First hilltop Buddhist monastery found in Bihar Lakhisarai

4. Thai Temple

The Thailand Monarch built it in 1956. This temple is an excellent example of Thai architecture. Its unique construction, with its curved roof and sloping roof, is a delight for those with an architectural eye. In sunlight, the golden tiles that cover the roof shine brilliantly.

You will find a peaceful atmosphere both inside and outside of the monastery. There is a bronze statue of Buddha in the temple. The beautiful garden surrounding the temple and monastery is enhanced by Buddha standing 25 meters tall.

5. Muchalinda Lake

It is considered a sacred place by followers of Buddhism. According to legend, Buddha was meditating at the Muchalinda Lake for the sixth week when a storm erupted.

Muchalinda, the snake-king, protected Buddha while he was deep in meditation. This temple houses the statue of Buddha and the snake. Nature lovers will love the lush green surroundings surrounding this lake.

6. Bodhgaya Archaeological Museum

It was built in 1956. You can see many relics have been found in this place. Some of these rare collections include statues dating back to the 1st Century BC, images of Hindu deities, and Buddhas made from various metals, including bronze, silver, and gold.

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7. Chinese Temple & Monastery

It is located close to Mahabodhi Temple. It is an example of Chinese architecture. It was constructed by the government of China, along with Buddhist monks from China, in the year 1945. The temple houses a 200-year-old Buddha statue. It is believed to have been imported from China.

Three golden Buddha statues are also housed in the temple. In 1997, the Chinese temple was renovated. Travelogues by Chinese scholars who have visited India at different times offer insight into India’s past culture.

8. Barabar Caves

This is a beautiful spot that will touch the hearts of all who love old things. Barabar caves date back to the Mauryan era, which spanned between 322 BC & 185 BC. It is the oldest surviving rock-cut cave in the country. Barabar caves consist of four caves, among which are the Lomas Rishi caves. Its construction is similar to the wooden huts that Buddhist monks used. Lomas Rishi caves, the oldest rock-cut caves, are also the most influential.

From 273 BC to 233 BC, the caves are home to Jain and Hindu sculptures. The walls are adorned with inscriptions that describe the history and evolution of Buddhism. These caves have a unique feature: their cuttings are so sharp they can be compared to laser cuttings. Barabar caves are a delight that stuns architectural minds.

9. Dungeshwari Cave Temples

These caves are also known as Mahakala caves. Spiritual significance as Buddha spent many years in this area before heading towards Gaya and enlightenment. You may not find anything interesting in the caves.

This could be the place for you if you’re looking to find yourself in a soul-searching effort. This is a beautiful place to meditate in a peaceful atmosphere.

10. Vishnupad Temple

It is located on the banks of the Falgu River. It is believed to have been built on Lord Vishnu’s footprints, hence its name. Rani Ahilya Bai, Indore’s queen, rebuilt this ancient temple in 1787.

It measures 40 cm in length. Images of many gods and goddesses are displayed in the temple complex. The courtyard of the Vishnupad temple houses the Temple for Lord Nrisimha. This is a perfect place to visit in Gaya.