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Bihar Tourism – The Pious Town of Bodh Gaya

By Manoj

Bodh Gaya is a religious place for the Buddhists, as it is here where Gautam Buddha attained his enlightenment. This town is considered the birthplace of Buddhism and attracts Buddhists followers and monks from all corners of the world.

If you were to flip through the pages of history you would see that this place was known by various names like Uruvela, Sambodhi, Vajrasana and Mahabodhi before it was christened as Bodh Gaya. You will find many monasteries here housing Buddhist monks and followers.

Bodhi Tree

Bodhi Tree

The Bodhi Tree stands outside the Mahabodhi Temple. It is underneath this tree that Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Buddhist devotees and monks come from far and wide to pay homage to the holy tree.

Photo Courtesy: Eugene Kim

Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid

The Jama Masjid was constructed by the Royal Family of Muzaffarpur around 180 years ago. The mosque is the hub of the Muslim community and on Fridays the entire lane is blocked during the prayers. This is also the place to be during various Muslim festivals, as the place comes alive with music and mouth-watering dishes.

Photo Courtesy: Chanchal Rungta

Vishnupad Temple

Vishnupad Temple

The Vishnupad Temple is believed to have been built around the footprints of Lord Vishnu. The temple is located on the banks of river Falgu and is said to be over 220 years old. Devotees flock this temple to take the blessing of the Lord and also to pay their respects. Tourists coming here can enjoy the scenic surroundings of the river bank and also go on a boat ride.

Photo Courtesy: BPG

Mahabodhi Temple

Mahabodhi Temple

The Mahabodhi Temple was built by King Asoka and is dedicated to Lord Buddha. This is the hub of Buddhism and you will find the place crowded by monks and devotees. Tourists come here to marvel the beauty of the architectural structure of the temple and also to pay their respects at this holy place.

Photo Courtesy: Andrew Moore

Dungeshwari Cave Temples

Dungeshwari Cave Temples

The Dungeshwari Cave Temples also known as the Mahakala Caves is a soulful place. These caves are believed to be the place where Gautam Buddha served his penance before moving on to Bodh Gaya. The caves consists of small shrines containing both Hindu and Buddhist deities. Tourists come here to explore these caves and also to enjoy the solitude it offers.

Photo Courtesy: Chanchal Rungta

Barabar Caves

Barabar Caves

The Barabar Caves are believed to be the oldest rock cut caves in the country. There are four major caves here namely; the Karan Chaupar, Lomas Rishi, Sudama and Visva Zopri which have very big arches. Tourists come here to marvel at the beauty of these ancient caves and also to explore them.

Photo Courtesy: Photo Dharma

How to Reach Bodh Gaya

How to Reach Bodh Gaya

By Air: The Gaya International airport is 7 kms from Bodh Gaya. It is an International Airport and is well-connected to Asian Countries like China, Japan, Sri Lanka as well as major Indian cities.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Gaya Railway Station and trains from all major cities are connected here. Buddha Parikrama Train caters exclusively to Buddhist spiritual tourism by linking all major hubs of Buddhism

By Road: Bodh Gaya's main bus stop is located near Sujata Bridge on the Falgu River. Frequent bus services are operative from Gaya, Patna, and other major cities. Bodh Gaya is roughly 12 km from Gaya City and is connected by the NH-83.

Photo Courtesy: Smeet Chowdhury

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