Located at a 96-kilometer drive from Patna, the capital of Bihar, Bodhgaya is an important Buddhist pilgrimage destination.
In fact it was in Bodhgaya that Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Mahabodhi tree that along with the temple is among the four most important Buddhist sacred sites in India.
Located on the left bank of River Falgu i.e. a tributary of River Ganga - Bodhgaya is known for its yoga and meditation centers. Thousands of pilgrims travel to Bodhgaya every year and experience different facets of this wondrous land.
History
Several Buddhist inscriptions and ancient texts mention incidents from the life of Gautam Buddha that form an integral part of Bodhgaya's history.
History records indicate that Lord Buddha reached the scenic banks of River Falgu during his Days as a wandering monk. He attained enlightenment under the Mahabodhi tree that has grown out of the sapling of the original Mahabodhi tree.
Buddhist scriptures indicate that Bodhgaya is treated as the 'navel of the universe' and devouts staunchly believe that this is the place where one can attain true knowledge.
Information on Bodhgaya is also available in notes left by the great Chinese scholar and explorer Fahien, who visited Bodhgaya almost 400 years after Lord Buddha passed away.
Tourist Attractions
The Mahabodhi Temple is one of the most important tourists attractions in Bodhgaya. With a spire that stands 50 meters high the Mahabodhi Temple houses a statute of Lord Buddha. Historians believe that the stone railings around the Mahabodhi Temple complex were constructed during the Sunga period.
Also meditate on the banks of the ancient Lotus Tank that is of immense Buddhist importance as Buddha is said to have meditated on the banks of this ancient water pond.
Visit Ratnagar that is supposedly the place where five colors emanated from Lord Buddha's body.
Tour Itineraries for Bodhgaya :
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