What to Do in Bodh Gaya

One of the most serene places of sanctified glory in India is the small town of Bodh Gaya in the state of Bihar. This was the place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the famous Bodhi tree. Today the place has become the site of the famous Mahabodhi temple along with several other places and temples for Buddhist worshippers and pilgrims to the place. The place was initially known as Uruvela but after the attainment of Nirvana of the Buddha under the Bodhi tree the place was upheld as holy and consecrated.

The Mahabodhi Temple that stands today enshrines the Bodhi tree and the diamond throne or the Vajrasana. The foundation for the temple is believed to have been laid down by Emperor Ashoka after about 200 years of the enlightenment of Gautama Buddha. The striking architecture of the temple is resplendent of art and the teachings of Buddhism. You will also be able to experience the sight of the holy Bodhi tree under which the Buddha sat for his penance. The present day tree is the fifth of the original tree. There is also the Vajrasana that was the seat of the Lord when he sat down for his penance.

There is the Animesh Lochan Chaitya which is a place where Gautama Buddha sat to look at the Bodhi tree. He sat and stared at it for a week without closing his eyes even once. It was after his enlightenment and was believed to be a look of gratefulness. Chankramana is a place where the Buddha is believed to have been during the third week after his enlightenment. It is also believed that a lotus had sprung up where he had placed his feet.

The Dharma Chakra of the Wheel of Law is also a place that is popularly visited by pilgrims and tourists alike. This is located in a Tibetan monastery that is in close proximity to the Mahabodhi temple. There is also the fantastic location of the Parasnath Hills. This is a location of the rock cut caves during the ancient eras. There are intricate Buddhist and Jain carvings on the walls of these caves and are popular as a touring destination.

The city of Gaya is an ancient Hindu destination that was always held as holy. There is a cremation ground in close proximity that is held as auspicious for the attainment of salvation after death. There is also the Vishnupad temple located on the banks of the river Falgu and is a popular destination of travel by devotees.  

The best time to visit Bodh Gaya is during the months of October to March every year. You will be able to conveniently travel here with several types of accommodation options as well. There are also package tours available with guided tours of all the places of interest in the place.