A
place where Lord Buddha left his foot steps nearly 2500 years ago while
travelling in the quest of enlightenment, Bodh Gaya resonates the silent
vibes of those sacred steps. Lord Buddha arrived here at the end of his
search of the most tranquil and serene place to start his meditation that
eventually led him to enlightenment.
Situated by the river Phalgu, the village is a complete isolation from the
world, dotted with lush green forests, paddy fields and the silent
scintillating atmosphere. The serenity of the atmosphere remains in the
subconscious soul of any visitor who takes the village as a pilgrimage that
the Lord himself had chosen for meditation.
Location
At a distance of 7 miles from Gaya, this highly revered pilgrimage is in
Bihar. From the capital, Patna, it is 105 km away.
Attractions
Mahabodhi temple - The temple is an
immense attraction to the Buddhists, and stands near the Maha Bodhi tree
under which Tathagat, or Gautama attained enlightenment. It is a must visit
not only due to its importance but also for the architecture and the art
objects. The Shiva Lingam inside the temple was installed on 9th century
beginning, is a splendid piece of sculpture.
Mahabodhi Tree - The tree is considered
holy since Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under it. Anyone, who likes an
ambience of serenity, would understand this place's surroundings to be
perfectly weathered for meditation.
Vajrasana - The stone platform, where Lord
Buddha sat in meditation while he attained enlightenment is known as
Vajrasana. The place is restricted for any tourist activity on it; however,
even the sight doesn't fail to excite the spirituality of the watcher.
Excursions
Rajgir - Rajgir was the capital of the mighty Magadhas,
described in Mahabharata, during the 6th century BC. The attractions include
the hot water springs and the forestry. There is an aerial ropeway for
adding charm to the tour.
Nalanda - The place where an ancient
university, famous all over the world existed, Nalanda is a place to
understand the cultural richness of India during 5th century AD. The
excavations have revealed some very interesting facts regarding the ancient
university, and the artifacts obtained are naturally a must for every
visitor.
Gaya - Gaya is a Hindu pilgrimage and is
especially important for the post death rituals, as it's believed that the
rituals lead to a peaceful "moksha" of the dead soul.
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