Mahabodhi Temple: (The Land of Lord Buddha)
'UNESCO-listed Mahabodhi Temple' is one of the earliest Buddhist temples, located about 100 km from Patna, the capital of Bihar. It is also known as 'Mahabodhi Mahavihara', 'Bodhgaya Temple', or the 'Great Stupa'. This sacred site is one of the most revered spiritual destinations for both Buddhist and Hindu pilgrims. The temple is renowned for the majestic beauty of its gold-plated Lord Buddha statue located within its complex. As Lord Buddha attained enlightenment here, the temple is regarded as the holiest pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide.
Tourists from across the globe visit the Mahabodhi Temple to admire its architectural beauty, serene ambience, and deep meditative aura. It is believed to be one of the 84,000 shrines built by King Ashoka in the 3rd century B.C. The exact time taken to construct the temple remains unknown, though it is presumed to have undergone several restorations over the centuries.
Following are the main attractions of Mahabodhi Temple:
The Sacred Bodhi Tree: Located to the west of the temple, it is believed to be the fifth-generation descendant of the original Bodhi Tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment on the full moon day of Vaisakh Purnima (May). Its botanical name is Ficus religiosa, commonly known as the Peepal tree in India.
Animesha Lochana Chaitya: Situated to the northeast of the Mahabodhi Temple, this is the spot where Lord Buddha is believed to have gazed at the Bodhi Tree for seven days without blinking after attaining enlightenment. Hence, this site is known as 'Animesha Lochana', meaning 'open eyes'.
Vajrasan: The Vajrasan (Diamond Throne) symbolises the seat of indestructible enlightenment. Made of red sandstone, it was constructed in the 3rd century B.C. by King Ashoka. The Chinese monk Fa-Hien wrote that all past and future Buddhas would attain enlightenment at this very spot.
Cankamana: Also known as the Cloister Walk, this is the place where Buddha practised walking meditation during the third week after enlightenment. The elevated platform marked with lotus motifs indicates the spots where his feet touched the ground.
Ratanaghara: The Ratanaghara (The Jewel House), located to the northwest of the temple, is associated with the fourth week of Buddha’s meditation. It is believed that a radiant aura of six colours emerged from his body here—these colours later became the basis of the Buddhist flag.
Excursions from Mahabodhi Temple: Tourists can plan visits to Rajgir (73 km), Nalanda (90 km), and Pavapuri (100 km) from Mahabodhi.
Shopping in Mahabodhi Temple:
Finely crafted metal, marble, and wooden sculptures of Lord Buddha are widely available here. Travellers can also purchase bracelets, beads, and paintings from numerous local shops surrounding the temple.
When to Reach: The best time to visit is between November and February due to pleasant weather. Travellers can also plan their visit during Buddha Purnima (the birth anniversary of Lord Buddha), which falls in May.
How to Reach
Air: The nearest airport is in Gaya, about 10 km from the temple.
Rail: The nearest railway station is Gaya Junction, located approximately 17 km away.
Road: Direct bus services are available from Patna, Gaya, Nalanda, and Rajgir to Mahabodhi Temple.
