Bodhgaya in India

This small town of Bihar is one of the most revered pilgrimages in Buddhism. The place where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment, Bodh Gaya is revered destination for Buddhists from all over the world. The place holds a mystique charm that makes the soul content and the mind peaceful. Bodh Gaya also houses some of the most respected sculptures of Buddhism. Stupas, Chaityas and Monastery give the town a deeply- religious look, and many new Buddhist institutions in addition to those built many years ago have been established in this region. The most famous attractions of Bodh Gaya include the Maha bodhi temple, the Bodhi Tree and the magnificent Vajrasana statues of Lord Buddha.

The best time to visit this place is during the Buddha Jayanti festival which is held each year to commemorate the day of enlightenment of Lord Buddha.

Location :
This town, in Bihar is at a distance of nearly 7 miles from the revered Hindu pilgrimage Gaya, which is 105 km from the state capital Patna.

What to see :
The Maha Bodhi temple: the Maha Bodhi temple is one of the most sought after temples in Buddhism and represents the splendid and unique Buddhist culture successfully. The temple is huge and is recognized from far due to its 50-m high tower. Moreover, there are distinct Buddhist images sculptured on the walls which gives it a pristine religious look. Re built after being destroyed due to the Muslim invasion in India, the temple still houses some very ancient railings, which are held high in religious point of view.

The temple also serves as a link between Buddhism and Hinduism, and a Shiva Lingam inside the temple proves the fact. There is also a huge statue of Buddha in vajrasana Mudra that is very attractive.

Maha Bodhi Tree :
The tree under which Lord Buddha had meditated while attaining enlightenment is also a major attraction to the Buddhist pilgrims. The tree is looked after well by the Buddhist monk's society and is considered very sacred. The leaves and branches of the tree are considered collectibles, but only when it is discarded by the tree itself.

Vajrasana :
"Asana" means seat and the place at which Buddha sat during his meditation under the tree is strictly preserved and revered by the Buddhists. The look of the seat creates a naturally respectful feeling in the mind due to its distinct appeal.

Chankaramana :
This place signifies the sacred meditative pre ambulations of Lord Buddha during the third week of his meditation while attaining enlightenment. Again, it has different and mystiques appeal to the devotee's eyes.