About Bodhgaya
With Hollywood's celebrities preferring to attain 'nirvana' through
Buddhism, the religion has achieved a glamorous status. Bodhgaya is the
place where prince Siddharata gained enlightenment, later to be known as
Buddha, the enlightened one. Bodhgaya seems to be completely steeped in
Buddhist religion and culture. What more, there are monasteries representing
all the Buddhist countries in the world. Countries like India, Nepal,
Bangladesh, China, Japan, Burma, Tibet, Korea, Thailand, Sri Lanka and
Bhutan have got monasteries built all over the place. Ritualistic prayers
and penance are observed regularly and everyone is invited.
Climate Check
Bodhgaya has a tropical climate. Summers are searing hot with temperature
shooting up to a maximum of 48 degrees. Winter months (October- February) is
the best time to a travel to this spiritual land. Light woollens during the
winter are advisable.
Travel Attractions Around Bodhgaya
Mahabodhi Temple
It is the Mahabodhi Temple that makes Bodhgaya a much sought-after
destination for devotees, worshippers, travellers and tourists. The
square-shaped basement of the temple measures 15 metres both in length and
breadth, rising up to a height of 52 metres. The temple showcases a
brilliant style of architecture. However, not much is known about it.
Archaeological Museum
Yet another travel attraction at Bodhgaya is the Archaeological Museum that
houses a rich treasure of ancient coins, rare manuscripts and other items of
the past.
Monastery Circuit
Besides the Mahabodhi Temple, to explore are numerous Buddhist monasteries
and temples that are erected by countries like China, Japan, Burma, Sri
Lanka, Tibet, India, Korea, Nepal, Bangladesh etc. Step into this unique
world and travel this spiritual aspect of India. There is not a better place
to attain peace of mind, body and spirit.
Bodhi Tree
This peepal tree is no less than a deity, specially to the Buddhists. This
is the very tree that witnessed Buddha gaining enlightenment. Under this
tree, Buddha meditated for seven days at a stretch. The present tree is the
descendant of the original, it doesn't however diminish the grace and
sanctity of the tree in the least.
Apart from these, there are a number of other revered sites, associated to
Buddha, like the Vajrasana, the Animeshlochana, the Lotus Tank, the
Dharmachakra etc. Embark on your journey to this blessed land and appreciate
the sanctity of the place.
Reaching
The Patna Airport (112 km) is the closest airport from Bodhgaya. Gaya, 16
km from Bodhgaya, is the nearest railhead. It is well connected by rail to
almost all major cities of the country. By road too, Gaya has got good
connections.
