Bodhgaya
A place where Lord Buddha left his foot steps nearly 2500 years ago while
travelling in the quest of enlightenment, Bodh Gaya resonates the silent
vibes of those sacred steps. Lord Buddha arrived here at the end of his
search of the most tranquil and serene place to start his meditation that
eventually led him to enlightenment.
Situated by the river Phalgu, the village is a complete isolation from
the world, dotted with lush green forests, paddy fields and the silent
scintillating atmosphere. The serenity of the atmosphere remains in the
subconscious soul of any visitor who takes the village as a pilgrimage
that the Lord himself had chosen for meditation.
Location
At a distance of 7 miles from Gaya, this highly revered pilgrimage is
in Bihar. From the capital, Patna, it is 105 km away.
Temples & Monasteries
Mahabodhi Temple - The temple is an immense attraction to the Buddhists,
and stands near the Maha Bodhi tree under which Tathagat, or Gautama attained
enlightenment. It is a must visit not only due to its importance but also
for the architecture and the art objects. The Shiva Lingam inside the
temple was installed on 9th century beginning, is a splendid piece of
sculpture.
Mahabodhi Tree - The tree is considered holy since Lord Buddha
attained enlightenment under it. Anyone, who likes an ambience of serenity,
would understand this place's surroundings to be perfectly weathered for
meditation.
Vajrasana - The stone platform, where Lord Buddha sat in meditation
while he attained enlightenment is known as Vajrasana. The place is restricted
for any tourist activity on it; however, even the sight doesn't fail to
excite the spirituality of the watcher.
Excursions
Rajgir - Rajgir was the capital of the mighty Magadhas, described
in Mahabharata, during the 6th century BC. The attractions include the
hot water springs and the forestry. There is an aerial ropeway for adding
charm to the tour.
Nalanda - The place where an ancient university, famous all over
the world existed, Nalanda is a place to understand the cultural richness
of India during 5th century AD. The excavations have revealed some very
interesting facts regarding the ancient university, and the artifacts
obtained are naturally a must for every visitor.
Gaya - Gaya is a Hindu pilgrimage and is especially important for
the post death rituals, as it's believed that the rituals lead to a peaceful
"moksha" of the dead soul.
How to reach
Air - Patna Airport is the nearest at a distance of 112 km.
Rail - Gaya (16 km) is the nearest railhead.
Road - Well connected by concrete roads to Gaya and Patna.
Where to stay
ITDC Hotel Bodh Gaya Ashok, BSTDC Siddhartha Vihar and BSTDC Buddha Vihar
are good places to stay.
Bodhgaya, Buddhist Major Destinations Reservation Form
