Burmese Vihara Monastery
Sub Place Details: The Burmese Vihara Monastery, established in 1936, is one of the oldest foreign monasteries in Bodh Gaya and serves as a vital spiritual hub for pilgrims from Myanmar. Located on the main road leading to the Mahabodhi Temple, it offers a stark contrast to the bustling streets with its quiet, meditative atmosphere and traditional architecture. The monastery was founded under the leadership of Venerable U Dhammetsara and has since evolved into a renowned center for Theravada Buddhist studies and meditation. It is famous for providing simple, donation-based accommodation and authentic Burmese meals to travelers, making it a favorite for long-term spiritual seekers. The main prayer hall houses a beautiful, serene statue of the Buddha in the Burmese style, characterized by a distinct facial expression and ornate gold leaf work. The monks here are known for their hospitality and are often willing to engage in discussions about the Dhamma and the history of the Burmese lineage in India. It acts as a bridge between the cultures of India and Myanmar, preserving the unique rituals of the Burmese people within the heart of Bihar.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 1. 5 HoursPlace Type:
Monastery & CultureEntry Fees:
Entry is Free: There is no ticket required to enter the monastery or the prayer halls, but donations are highly encouraged.
Accommodation Costs: While officially "free," most guests provide a donation of 300-500 INR per day to cover food and...Entry is Free: There is no ticket required to enter the monastery or the prayer halls, but donations are highly encouraged.
Accommodation Costs: While officially "free," most guests provide a donation of 300-500 INR per day to cover food and maintenance.Timing:
Regular Timings: The monastery is open from 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily for visitors and those wishing to pray.
Ideal Visit Time: Visit during the afternoon around 3:00 PM when the monastery is exceptionally quiet and peaceful for meditation. ...Regular Timings: The monastery is open from 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily for visitors and those wishing to pray.
Ideal Visit Time: Visit during the afternoon around 3:00 PM when the monastery is exceptionally quiet and peaceful for meditation.Special Events:
Burmese New Year (Thingyan) Celebrated in April, this event features water rituals and special food offerings to the monastic community.
Abhidhamma Day: A significant event marked by deep philosophical teachings and the lighting of many candles throughout the monast...Burmese New Year (Thingyan) Celebrated in April, this event features water rituals and special food offerings to the monastic community.
Abhidhamma Day: A significant event marked by deep philosophical teachings and the lighting of many candles throughout the monastery.Best Photo Spots:
Tiered Roofs: The best angle for photography is from the entrance gate, capturing the multi-layered Burmese roofs against a clear blue sky.
Monastic Life: Candid shots of monks walking through the courtyards provide a soulful glimpse into th...Tiered Roofs: The best angle for photography is from the entrance gate, capturing the multi-layered Burmese roofs against a clear blue sky.
Monastic Life: Candid shots of monks walking through the courtyards provide a soulful glimpse into their daily disciplined life.
Statue Close-ups: The golden Buddha statue inside the hall is a masterpiece of Burmese craftsmanship and makes for a stunning focal point.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Attend Morning Prayers: Wake up early at 4:30 AM to join the monks in their rhythmic chanting sessions in the main hall.
Stay as a Pilgrim: Experience the monastic life by staying in the simple guest rooms and following the daily schedule of the monks.
Learn Meditation: Inquire about short-term meditation retreats that are often organized for international visitors.
Explore Burmese Art: Take a close look at the intricate wood carvings and golden statues that represent Myanmar's artistic heritage.
Interact with Monks: Engage in a respectful conversation with the resident monks to understand the Theravada path.
Volunteer Service: Offer to help in the kitchen or the garden as a way of performing "Se...
Information
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Why Famous:
Heritage of Hospitality: It is famous for its "open door" policy, offering free or low-cost stay and food to pilgrims regardless of their nationality.
Theravada Learning: The monastery is a premier site for learning the Vipassana meditation ...Heritage of Hospitality: It is famous for its "open door" policy, offering free or low-cost stay and food to pilgrims regardless of their nationality.
Theravada Learning: The monastery is a premier site for learning the Vipassana meditation technique as practiced in the Burmese tradition. -
Architecture:
Traditional Burmese Style: The architecture features the classic tiered roof design known as Pyatthat, which symbolizes the different levels of spiritual attainment.
Structural Dimensions: The main hall is a rectangular structure approximate...Traditional Burmese Style: The architecture features the classic tiered roof design known as Pyatthat, which symbolizes the different levels of spiritual attainment.
Structural Dimensions: The main hall is a rectangular structure approximately 60 feet by 40 feet, featuring a high ceiling and large windows for natural ventilation.
Interior Decor: The walls are adorned with colorful paintings depicting scenes from the Buddha's life and the history of Buddhism in Myanmar. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Fly into Gaya International Airport, which is just a 15-minute drive from the Burmese Vihara.
By Train: Take a train to Gaya Junction and hire an auto-rickshaw for the 17 KM journey to the monastery.
By ... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Thai Monastery (0. 5 KM), 2. Mahabodhi Temple (0. 8 KM), 3. Tibetan Market (0. 7 KM), 4. Archaeological Museum (1. 2 KM), 5. Indosan Nippon Temple (1. 4 KM), 6. Royal Bhutan Monastery (1 KM), 7. Metta Buddharam (1. 6 KM), 8. Great Buddha Statue (1. 5 KM), 9. Muchalinda Lake (0. 9 KM), 10. Sujata Kuti (2. 2 KM).
Tourism Tips
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Respect Silence: Always maintain a low volume as many residents are in deep meditation or study.
Health & Safety: If eating at the monastery, ensure you are comfortable with the simple, traditional spices used in Burmese cooking.
Reviews
Information about New and Updated Locations(521+) of Bihar Has Been Added :-
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Kesariya StupaKumhrar ParkRohtasgarh FortRuins of VikramshilaValmiki Tiger ReserveBio-Diversity ParkFanishwar Nath Renu JungleForbesganj Mela GroundJogbaniJokihat MosqueMaata Aasawar MandirRampur Over BridgeRaniganj Vriksh VatikaShiva MandirSultan PhokherBaba Bateshwarnath TempleBaithakji Hajipur Baraila Lake More PlacesNote:-
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