Trip to Bodhgaya
Untold HISTORY of MAHABODHI Temple I wish I Studied in My School | 100 ft Tallest Buddha | Dalai Lama Visit to Bodhgaya
Recently, I had the privilege to visit the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya, India, which was truly an unforgettable experience. The Mahabodhi Temple is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites, as it is believed to be where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment.
My journey to the temple started with a Motorcycle ride from Patna, followed by a three-hour drive to Bodhgaya. As I approached the temple, I was amazed by its grandeur and size. The temple complex encompasses over 15 acres and features various shrines, meditation gardens, and temples.
How to reach Mahbodhi Temple
Bodh Gaya (in Gaya district) is about 130 km from Patna, Bihar state, India. It has very good road connectivity with good state highways. If you want to come via TRAIN then you have to board down to Gaya Junction railway station. Bodhi temple is 10 km from Patna railway station.
Upon entering the temple, I was struck by the peaceful and serene atmosphere. The main attraction for visitors is the inner sanctum, where the famous Bodhi tree stands. It is said to be the direct descendant of the tree where Buddha attained enlightenment over 2,500 years ago.
While I sat in the temple’s courtyard, I watched pilgrims from around the world pay their respects to the Buddha. The sounds of chanting and meditation filled the air, and the atmosphere was one of reverence and introspection.
In addition to the Bodhi tree, the temple complex has several other important shrines and temples. One of these is the Animeshlocha Stupa, where Buddha is believed to have meditated for a week after attaining enlightenment. The complex also features a temple dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, reflecting the fusion of Buddhist and Hindu traditions that characterize the site.
Outside of the temple complex, Bodhgaya is also worth exploring. The town has many small shops and restaurants and is an excellent place to try traditional Indian cuisine.
Overall, visiting the Mahabodhi Temple was a moving and inspiring experience. The temple’s history, beauty, and spiritual significance make it a must-see destination for anyone interested in Buddhism or Indian culture. I strongly recommend this place to anyone seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.
Significance of Mahabodhi Temple
The Mahabodhi Temple is not only significant for Buddhists, but it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple complex has a rich history dating back to the 3rd century BC when Emperor Ashoka, a follower of Buddhism, built a shrine at the site. Over the centuries, the temple was destroyed and rebuilt several times until its current form was established in the 19th century.
The temple is a popular pilgrimage site, attracting millions of visitors every year from around the world. Many visitors come to meditate under the Bodhi tree, which is said to have a calming and enlightening effect. Some also come to take part in Buddhist rituals or to learn more about the religion.
Bodhgaya is not only home to the Mahabodhi Temple but also to many other important Buddhist sites. The town is part of the Buddhist Circuit, a network of pilgrimage sites associated with the life of Buddha in India. These include Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon, and Kushinagar, where he passed away.
Bodhgaya also has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its traditional handicrafts. Visitors can find a range of handmade items such as textiles, pottery, and jewelry. The town is also home to a number of festivals throughout the year, including the Bodhgaya Festival, which celebrates Buddha’s enlightenment.
In conclusion, the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya is not only a place of spiritual significance but also a fascinating destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and art. With its serene atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and rich traditions, it is a must-visit destination in India.
Dalai Lama Visits regularly during the winter season here. The city is alive mainly in the winter season. The site contains a 4th Generation descendant of the Bodhi Tree. The temple complex includes two large straight-sided shikhara towers, the largest over 55 meters (180 feet) high.
This is a stylistic feature that has continued in Jain and Hindu Sanatan temples to the present day, and influenced Buddhist architecture in other countries, in forms like the pagoda.
Places in Temple :
1. Muchlidra sarovar
2. Bodhi tree
3. Ratan ghar
4. Chakraman Palace
5. Main Buddha Temple
6. Sanatan Temple
