Chinese Temple
The Chinese Temple of Bodh Gaya, also known as the Mahabodhi Chinese Temple, was built in 1945 by the Chinese government and Buddhist monks. It stands as a magnificent example of traditional Chinese architecture, featuring a distinct pagoda-style roof and vibrant red and gold color schemes. The tem ple houses a 200-year-old statue of the Buddha brought directly from China, along with three other exquisite golden statues that are the main attraction of the prayer hall. Historically, the temple was a primary residence for Chinese pilgrims, but it also contains fascinating written records and travelogues of ancient Chinese travelers like Fa-Hien and Hiuen Tsang who visited India centuries ago. The interior is decorated with intricate Chinese artwork, scriptures, and murals that tell the story of the spread of Buddhism from India to the East. Unlike the more crowded Mahabodhi Temple, the Chinese Temple offers a quiet, contemplative space where one can admire the fusion of Indian spiritual themes with Chinese aesthetic sensibilities. It remains a symbol of the long-standing cultural and religious ties between the two great civilizations of Asia.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
45 to 60 MinutesPlace Type:
Religious & CulturalEntry Fees:
Free Admission: There is no entry fee for the Chinese Temple, making it accessible to all budget travelers and pilgrims.
Photography Charge: Usually, there is no fee for mobile photography, but professional cameras may require a small donati...Free Admission: There is no entry fee for the Chinese Temple, making it accessible to all budget travelers and pilgrims.
Photography Charge: Usually, there is no fee for mobile photography, but professional cameras may require a small donation of 50-100 INR.Timing:
Regular Timings: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM and then from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM after the midday break.
Ideal Visit Time: The best time to visit is at 8:00 AM when the sunlight directly hits the golden roof, making it sparkle. ...Regular Timings: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM and then from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM after the midday break.
Ideal Visit Time: The best time to visit is at 8:00 AM when the sunlight directly hits the golden roof, making it sparkle.Special Events:
Chinese New Year: During January or February, the temple is decorated with red lanterns, and special feasts are prepared for the community.
Ullambana Festival: A traditional event focused on filial piety and making offerings to the deceased,...Chinese New Year: During January or February, the temple is decorated with red lanterns, and special feasts are prepared for the community.
Ullambana Festival: A traditional event focused on filial piety and making offerings to the deceased, celebrated with great solemnity.Best Photo Spots:
The Entrance Lions: The stone lions at the gate make for an excellent foreground subject for a wide-angle shot of the temple.
Red Lanterns: During festival seasons, the hanging red lanterns provide a vibrant pop of color against the golden t...The Entrance Lions: The stone lions at the gate make for an excellent foreground subject for a wide-angle shot of the temple.
Red Lanterns: During festival seasons, the hanging red lanterns provide a vibrant pop of color against the golden temple roof.
Interior Glow: The golden statues inside the hall, when lit by butter lamps, offer a serene and majestic photography subject.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Admire the Golden Statues: Spend time observing the three primary golden Buddha statues which represent different aspects of enlightenment.
Read the Scriptures: Look for the translated scriptures on the walls that provide insight into Chinese Mahayana Buddhist philosophy.
Photography of the Gateway: Capture the traditional Chinese "Paifang" (gateway) which is one of the most colorful structures in Bodh Gaya.
Meditate in the Hall: Take advantage of the temple's quietude to engage in a session of silent meditation away from the main temple's crowds.
Learn History: Read the plaques and displays that detail the contributions of Chinese scholars to the rediscovery of Buddhist sites in India.
Ring the Pray...
Information
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Why Famous:
Ancient Buddha Statue: It is famous for housing a rare 200-year-old bronze Buddha idol that was carefully transported from mainland China.
Traveler Records: The temple is renowned for preserving the legacy of medieval Chinese monks who mappe...Ancient Buddha Statue: It is famous for housing a rare 200-year-old bronze Buddha idol that was carefully transported from mainland China.
Traveler Records: The temple is renowned for preserving the legacy of medieval Chinese monks who mapped the original Buddhist circuit in India. -
Architecture:
Pagoda Style: The architecture is defined by its multi-tiered roofs with curved eaves, typical of the Han Chinese architectural tradition.
Dimensions: The main temple structure stands about 40 feet high, situated within a beautifully landsca...Pagoda Style: The architecture is defined by its multi-tiered roofs with curved eaves, typical of the Han Chinese architectural tradition.
Dimensions: The main temple structure stands about 40 feet high, situated within a beautifully landscaped courtyard of approximately 0. 5 acres.
Artistic Details: The entrance is guarded by two traditional Chinese stone lions, and the interiors feature high-quality wood carvings and silk tapestries. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Reach Gaya International Airport and take a 20-minute taxi ride directly to the temple located on Buddha Road.
By Train: From Gaya Junction, hire a private taxi or a shared auto-rickshaw to reach Bodh Gaya in about 30 minutes. -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Japanese Temple (0. 4 KM), 2. Thai Monastery (0. 5 KM), 3. Royal Bhutan Monastery (0. 6 KM), 4. Great Buddha Statue (0. 8 KM), 5. Mahabodhi Temple (1 KM), 6. Archaeological Museum (0. 7 KM), 7. Tibetan Monastery (0. 9 KM), 8. Vietnam Temple (1. 1 KM), 9. Muchalinda Lake (1. 2 KM), 10. Sujata Kuti (2. 5 KM).
Tourism Tips
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Footwear Rule: Like all temples in Bodh Gaya, you must leave your shoes at the entrance gate before stepping onto the temple grounds.
Health & Safety: Be cautious of the high steps at the entrance; use the railings if available to ensure a ...
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