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Mahabodhi Temple Complex

Bodh Gaya, Bihar, India
The Mahabodhi Temple Complex is the spiritual heart of Bodh Gaya and is the primary site of pilgrimage. This UNESCO World Heritage Site stands on the very spot where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment. The temple complex is a serene and magnificent space that includes the main temple, the sac red Bodhi Tree, and several other sites associated with the Buddha's enlightenment. The central temple is a towering structure, rising from a beautifully manicured garden. Its intricate carvings and historical significance are breathtaking. The complex is a place of profound reverence and devotion, where monks, pilgrims, and tourists from all over the world come to meditate, pray, and walk around the temple in peaceful circumambulation. The area is filled with smaller stupas and shrines, each with its own story, adding to the spiritual ambiance. The ancient stone railings that surround the temple complex, some dating back to the Sunga period, are adorned with beautiful carvings, offering a glimpse into early Buddhist art.

General information

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    Ideal Duration:
    2-3 hours for a basic visit, but can spend an entire day for deeper meditation and exploration.
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    Place Type:
    Buddhist Temple, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pilgr
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    Entry Fees:
    Entry is free. However, there is a camera fee. ...
    Entry is free. However, there is a camera fee.
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    Timing:
    The temple complex is open from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM. ...
    The temple complex is open from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
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    Special Events:
    The main special event is Buddha Jayanti (Vesak), the celebration of the Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and death. It is celebrated with great fervor in Bodh Gaya, with thousands of pilgrims and monks gathering for prayers, processions, and special rituals. The Mahabodhi Mahotsav is a three-day fe...
    The main special event is Buddha Jayanti (Vesak), the celebration of the Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and death. It is celebrated with great fervor in Bodh Gaya, with thousands of pilgrims and monks gathering for prayers, processions, and special rituals. The Mahabodhi Mahotsav is a three-day festival of dance and music held every year in January, attracting artists from around the world.
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    Best Photo Spots:
    The best photo spots are the main temple with the Bodhi Tree in the background, the serene lotus pond within the complex, and the intricate carvings on the temple's walls and railings. Capture the vibrant colors of the prayer flags and the peaceful expressions of the meditating monks. The golden s...
    The best photo spots are the main temple with the Bodhi Tree in the background, the serene lotus pond within the complex, and the intricate carvings on the temple's walls and railings. Capture the vibrant colors of the prayer flags and the peaceful expressions of the meditating monks. The golden statue of the Buddha inside the main temple is also a prime photo subject.

Photo Gallery

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Queen of Hills • Tea Gardens

Things To Do

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    Inside the temple complex, you can meditate under the descendant of the original Bodhi Tree, circumambulate the temple and the Bodhi Tree, and light candles or incense as an offering. Explore the seven sacred spots within the complex, which mark the places where the Buddha spent a week each after his enlightenment. Participate in morning and evening prayers, and simply sit in quiet reflection to soak in the serene and spiritual atmosphere. ...

Resturants

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Information

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    Why Famous:
    The Mahabodhi Temple is famous for being the exact location where Siddhartha Gautama achieved enlightenment and became the Buddha. It is one of the oldest brick Buddhist temples still standing in India and is a symbol of the profound spiritual awakening that gave birth to a major world religion. I...
    The Mahabodhi Temple is famous for being the exact location where Siddhartha Gautama achieved enlightenment and became the Buddha. It is one of the oldest brick Buddhist temples still standing in India and is a symbol of the profound spiritual awakening that gave birth to a major world religion. Its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site further solidifies its global importance. The temple's fame also stems from its living heritage, with centuries-old traditions of offerings, chanting, and meditation continuing to thrive here.
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    Architecture:
    The Mahabodhi Temple is a masterpiece of Indian brick architecture from the late Gupta period (5th-6th centuries CE). The central tower, a majestic structure, rises to a height of approximately 55 meters (180 ft). It is surrounded by four smaller towers, built in the same architectural style, crea...
    The Mahabodhi Temple is a masterpiece of Indian brick architecture from the late Gupta period (5th-6th centuries CE). The central tower, a majestic structure, rises to a height of approximately 55 meters (180 ft). It is surrounded by four smaller towers, built in the same architectural style, creating a grand and symmetrical composition. The temple's design is an early example of the architectural form known as Nagara style. The complex is enclosed by a stone railing that is about two meters high, which is a mix of original and reconstructed parts. The main temple houses a gilded statue of the seated Buddha.
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    How To Reach:
    The Mahabodhi Temple is centrally located in Bodh Gaya. It is easily accessible from Gaya International Airport (12 km away) and Gaya Junction Railway Station (16 km away) by taxi or auto-rickshaw. It is about 2 km from the Bodh Gaya bus stand, a short walk or auto-rickshaw ride away. ...

Tourism Tips

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    Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. Remember to remove your shoes and socks before entering the temple complex and other sacred sites. Maintain silence and a respectful demeanor, especially in meditation areas. Stay hydrated, and be prepared for a spiritual experience rather ...

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Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.

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