Bodhi Tree
Sub Place Details: The Bodhi Tree is the most sacred site in Bodh Gaya, representing the exact spot where Prince Siddhartha Gautama attained spiritual enlightenment to become the Buddha in 589 BCE. This ancient fig tree, specifically a Ficus religiosa, is situated directly behind the main Mahabodhi Temple and serves as the primary focal point for millions of Buddhist pilgrims globally. While the original tree was destroyed several times by historical figures like King Shashanka, the current tree is a direct descendant, planted in 1881 by Alexander Cunningham from a sapling brought back from Sri Lanka. The site radiates an intense spiritual energy, with the golden Vajrasana (Diamond Throne) marking the seat of stability where the Buddha sat facing east. Visitors often witness monks from various traditions—Tibetan, Thai, and Vietnamese—chanting in a harmonious symphony of devotion under its expansive canopy. The fallen leaves of the tree are considered highly auspicious and are often collected by devotees as sacred relics.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 HoursPlace Type:
Religious & HeritageEntry Fees:
Free Entry: Access to the tree is free; however, there is a charge of 100 INR for carrying a camera and 300 INR for a video camera.
No Mobile Policy: Mobile phones are strictly prohibited inside the main complex and must be deposited at the...Free Entry: Access to the tree is free; however, there is a charge of 100 INR for carrying a camera and 300 INR for a video camera.
No Mobile Policy: Mobile phones are strictly prohibited inside the main complex and must be deposited at the free lockers outside.Timing:
Regular Timings: Open daily from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM for all visitors and practitioners.
Ideal Visit Time: The best time to experience the aura is at 5:30 AM during the morning chants or at 6:00 PM for the evening prayers. ...Regular Timings: Open daily from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM for all visitors and practitioners.
Ideal Visit Time: The best time to experience the aura is at 5:30 AM during the morning chants or at 6:00 PM for the evening prayers.Special Events:
Buddha Purnima: This massive festival in May celebrates the Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and death with grand processions and specialized prayers.
Nyingma Monlam: A major Tibetan prayer festival where thousands of monks gather to chant for...Buddha Purnima: This massive festival in May celebrates the Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and death with grand processions and specialized prayers.
Nyingma Monlam: A major Tibetan prayer festival where thousands of monks gather to chant for world peace under the tree.Best Photo Spots:
Golden Hour Glow: The best photos are taken during the late afternoon when the sun's rays filter through the leaves, creating a divine lighting effect.
Reflection in Lamps: Capture the tree through the bokeh of thousands of butter lamps lit ...Golden Hour Glow: The best photos are taken during the late afternoon when the sun's rays filter through the leaves, creating a divine lighting effect.
Reflection in Lamps: Capture the tree through the bokeh of thousands of butter lamps lit in the evening for a spiritual aesthetic.
Monks in Robes: Photograph the vibrant maroon and saffron robes of monks against the dark bark of the tree (with permission).Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Meditation Under Canopy: Spend time in silent meditation to absorb the tranquil vibrations that have accumulated over millennia.
Walking the Pradakshina: Engage in the sacred circumambulation, walking clockwise around the tree and temple to show deep respect.
Observing Monks: Watch the diverse rituals of monks who perform prostrations and light butter lamps in the vicinity.
Sutra Reading: Join a group or sit privately to read the Dhammapada or other holy texts while sitting in the tree's shadow.
Leaf Collection: Patiently wait for a leaf to fall; picking them from the tree is strictly prohibited to maintain its health.
Lighting Butter Lamps: Participate in the evening lamp-lighting ceremony wher...
Information
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Why Famous:
The Spot of Awakening: It is globally famous as the birthplace of Buddhism, where the cycle of rebirth was understood and conquered.
Living History: The tree is a rare "living monument" that has survived through saplings for over 2,500 years...The Spot of Awakening: It is globally famous as the birthplace of Buddhism, where the cycle of rebirth was understood and conquered.
Living History: The tree is a rare "living monument" that has survived through saplings for over 2,500 years, symbolizing the resilience of the Dhamma. -
Architecture:
Ancient Natural Sanctuary: The tree stands on a raised platform surrounded by a protective stone railing known as the Vajrasana enclosure, which features intricate Mauryan and Sunga period carvings.
Dimensions: The current tree reaches a hei...Ancient Natural Sanctuary: The tree stands on a raised platform surrounded by a protective stone railing known as the Vajrasana enclosure, which features intricate Mauryan and Sunga period carvings.
Dimensions: The current tree reaches a height of approximately 25-30 meters with a wide-spreading canopy that covers a significant portion of the western temple courtyard.
Stone Railings: The architectural boundary consists of ancient sandstone pillars, some dating back to 150 BCE, decorated with lotus medallions and scenes from the Jataka tales. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Gaya Airport is 7 KM away, with seasonal flights from international Buddhist hubs.
By Train: Gaya Junction is the nearest major station, located 16 KM from the site.
By Road: Well-connected to Patna ... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Mahabodhi Temple (0 KM), 2. Muchalinda Lake (0. 2 KM), 3. Great Buddha Statue (1. 2 KM), 4. Thai Monastery (1 KM), 5. Japanese Temple (1. 5 KM), 6. Royal Bhutan Monastery (1. 1 KM), 7. Sujata Stupa (2. 5 KM), 8. Dungeshwari Caves (12 KM), 9. Tergar Monastery (2 KM), 10. Metta Buddharam Temple (1. 8 KM).
Tourism Tips
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Dress Code: Wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees as a sign of respect for the sacred site.
Health & Safety: Carry bottled water and wear easy-to-remove footwear as you must walk barefoot inside the temple complex.
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