The Maha Bodhi temple of Bodh Gaya is one of the important
places of worship for the Buddhists. Apart from being a
vital Buddhist centre, it is also a significant archaeological
site. Devout Buddhists and tourists from all over the world
visit Bodhgaya, to study Buddhism and the art of meditation,
or to simply absorb the aura of solemn splendour that surrounds
the place.
Marking the holy spot of the enlightenment of the Master,
this site is looked upon with greatest sanctity and became
a flourishing Buddhist establishment with numerous temples,
stupas and monasteries.
According to tradition a large number of shrines and memorials
were erected at the site to commemorate the incidents before
after enlightenment but only few now can be recognised.
Of the earliest shrines, traditionally attributed to Asoka,
only vajrasana or the sandstone throne with the characteristic
Mauryan polish and decorative designs has survived and is
seen beneath the holy Bodhi tree.
Prime Attractions
Bodhi Tree
Towards the West of the Maha Bodhi temple, is the tree
where Gautam Buddha did his meditation and attained enlightenment.
Bodhi Sarovar
Before going in for meditation, Buddha took bath in this
pond. This pond is situated towards the west of Bodhi temple.
The pond is situated in a very attractive place and is worth
visiting.
Chankamana
Towards North of the Bodhi Temple, is a platform with
foot impressions of Buddha. Apart from these ponds and platforms,
there are many temples built by the people of various nations
like the Tibet temple, the Japanese, the Thai, the Lankan
and the Bhutan temple. These temples are also a major attraction
for the tourists and devotees, who visit Bodh Gaya.
Shopping In Bodh Gaya
Apart from sweets, one can buy some handicraft items and
decorative pieces made out of stone. Though sea is very
far from this place, do not be surprised if you find items
made from sea shells. Behind the Bodhi Mandir in Bodh Gaya
is a huge market for foreign goods. But before buying any
thing here, make sure that you are buying the original and
not a forged item. There are no such markets in Gaya, which
can be suggested for shopping.
How to Get There
Rail:
The Railways Department has provided Gaya, the neighbouring
city, with a number of trains which connect the city with
all the parts of India. The Rajdhani and Kalka Mail have
their stoppages here. Gaya is a junction and one can change
trains for the other train routes.
Road:
Bodh Gaya is on the Grand Trunk Road and thus, is well connected
by road, with all the parts of the country.
