Mahabodhi Temple - An Ancient Buddhist Temple in Bodh Gaya

 

The Mahabodhi Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple complex also a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bodh Gaya Indian state of Bihar. It is a place where Lord Buddha attained spiritual enlightenment. The temple complex is also known by the name Bodhimanda Vihara that means 'Position of Awakening' or the Mahabodhi Mahavihar. The temple complex contains a descendant of the Bodhi Tree under which Buddha gained enlightenment and there are two large straight-sided shikhara towers, the largest over 55 metres (180 feet) high. The complex has been a major pilgrimage destination for Hindus and Buddhists for well over two thousand years. The 4.8-hectare (11.9-acre) complex also includes ancient shrines and modern structures built by Buddhist devotees. The temple is visited in large numbers by both the Buddhist and Hindu devotees (many Hindus consider Lord Buddha as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu).

 

 

The Mahabodhi Temple is one of the oldest brick temples in India. The original structure, later replaced, was built by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka (died c. 238 BCE), one of Buddhism’s most important proselytes, to commemorate the Buddha’s Enlightenment. The temple is 55 metres (180 feet) in height. Its pyramidal shikhara (tower) comprises several layers of niches, arch motifs, and fine engravings. Four towers, each identical to its central counterpart but smaller in size and topped with an umbrella-like dome, adorn the corners of the two-story structure. The gold painted idol of Lord Buddha sitting in the 'Bhumisparsa Mudra' (Earth touching posture) captivates the attention of the visitors. Stone railings surround the temple as well as the Bodhi tree. One of the most famous of Ashoka’s many pillars on which he had engraved his edicts and understanding of religious doctrine stands at the southeast corner of the temple. The devotees can also visit seven other places located inside the temple complex where Lord Buddha used to meditate after getting enlightenment. The premises of the temple include several smaller stupas and Buddha statues. Some of the idols are believed to hundred years old.

 

 

Many of the oldest sculptural elements have been moved to the museum beside the temple and some such as the carved stone railing wall around the main structure have been replaced by replicas. The main temple's survival is especially impressive as it was mostly made of brick covered with stucco materials that are much less durable than stone. However, it is understood that very little of the original sculptural decoration has survived.

 

 

Timings: 5:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Time Required: 2-3 hrs

Entry Fee: No entry fee except the ones charged for camera and video equipment.

 

Nearest Airport is Gaya International Airport which is 10.6 Kilometers away from the Mahabothi Temple. Gaya Junnction is the nearest railway station which is 20 Kilometers away and it takes 20 minutes to reach Maha Bodhi Temple. Gaya is well linked by road from capital city Patna, which is about 112 kms away. You can even hire taxis and autos from anywhere around the city to reach Mahabodhi Temple.