Mahabodhi Temple – Bodh Gaya, Bihar

The Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, stands as one of the most important and sacred landmarks of Buddhism. Revered by millions across the world, it is the place where Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment and became Lord Buddha. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the temple attracts pilgrims, historians, and spiritual seekers from every corner of the globe.

About Mahabodhi Temple

The Mahabodhi Temple, located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Buddhists worldwide. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the temple marks the location where Siddhartha Gautama, later known as Buddha, attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and spiritual significance, the Mahabodhi Temple attracts devotees and tourists from all over the world.

Description & Speciality

Ancient Architectural Wonder: Built in 3rd century BCE by Emperor Ashoka, the temple showcases Gupta-style architecture with a 50-meter-tall pyramidal spire.

Bodhi Tree: A descendant of the original Bodhi Tree under which Buddha meditated and attained enlightenment.

Vajrasana (Diamond Throne): The sacred spot where Buddha sat in deep meditation.

Seven Weeks of Meditation: Within the temple complex are seven sacred sites, each representing a place where Buddha spent time after enlightenment.

A Global Pilgrimage Hub: Devotees from India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Tibet, Myanmar, Japan, and Nepal visit for spiritual enlightenment.

Temple Details

Address: Bodhgaya Temple Management Committee, Post Office-2, Bodhgaya, Gaya, Bihar - 824231.

Location (Latitude & Longitude): 24.6959° N, 84.9915° E.

Temple Timings: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM.

Sevas & Rituals:

Morning Chanting & Meditation: 5:00 AM – 6:00 AM

Offering of Kheer: 10:00 AM

Evening Chanting & Meditation: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Pradakshina (Circumambulation) around the temple by devotees.

Travel Facilities

How to Reach Mahabodhi Temple

By Air:

Nearest Airport: Gaya International Airport (17 km) (flights from Delhi, Kolkata, Varanasi, and Thailand).

Alternative Airport: Patna Airport (96 km) for better connectivity with major Indian cities.

By Train:

Nearest Railway Station: Gaya Junction (16 km).

Major Trains: Mahabodhi Express, Howrah-Gaya Express, Poorva Express.

From Gaya to Bodh Gaya: Taxis and auto-rickshaws available.

By Bus & Road:

Regular Bus Services: From Patna, Varanasi, Ranchi, and Kolkata.

Nearest Bus Station: Gaya Bus Station (16 km from the temple).

Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and e-rickshaws available for local transport.

Accommodation & Food

Where to Stay in Bodh Gaya

Budget Stays & Dharamshalas: Myanmar Monastery, Bhutan Monastery, Tibetan Monastery, Thai Monastery Guest House.

Mid-Range Hotels: Hotel Bodh Vilas, Hotel Sujata, Hotel Tathagat International.

Luxury Hotels & Resorts: The Royal Residency, Maha Bodhi Hotel, Resort & Convention Centre.

Meditation & Retreat Centers: Root Institute for Wisdom Culture, Vipassana Meditation Center.

Food Options

Restaurants offering Indian, Tibetan, Thai, and Chinese food.

Must-Try Dishes:

Litti Chokha (Bihar’s famous dish).

Khichdi with Kadhi.

Tibetan Momo & Thukpa.

Kheer & Thekua (sweet delicacies).

Mango sweets & Lassi.

Nearby Places to Visit

Great Buddha Statue (1 km) – A 25-meter-tall statue of Buddha.

Thai Monastery (1.5 km) – Built in traditional Thai architectural style.

Dungeshwari Cave Temples (12 km) – Where Buddha meditated before enlightenment.

Muchalinda Lake (2 km) – Sacred lake protected by the serpent king Muchalinda.

Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple (1.5 km) – A peaceful Japanese Buddhist temple.

Festivals Celebrated at Mahabodhi Temple

Buddha Purnima (April-May): Celebrating Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and Nirvana.

Kathina Ceremony (October-November): A Theravada Buddhist tradition marking the end of the monastic rains retreat.

Magha Puja (January-February): Celebrating Buddha’s teachings on the full moon day.

Bus & Train Routes to Mahabodhi Temple

From Patna to Bodh Gaya:

By Bus: Regular buses available (Approx. 3 hours).

By Train: Trains to Gaya Junction, then taxis/auto-rickshaws to the temple.

From Varanasi to BodhGaya:

By Train: Varanasi to Gaya Junction (~6 hours).

By Bus: Direct buses (~8 hours).

From Kolkata to Bodh Gaya:

By Train: Howrah-Gaya Express (~8 hours).

By Air: Flight to Gaya Airport.

Best Time to Visit Mahabodhi Temple

October to March: Pleasant weather, best for visiting.

December to February: Peak season for international Buddhist pilgrims.

April-May: Buddha Purnima Festival (significant but can be hot).

Shopping in Bodh Gaya

Best Souvenirs:

Buddha Idols & Statues (Bronze, sandalwood, and marble).

Prayer Beads (Rudraksha & Tulsi Mala).

Buddhist Thangka Paintings.

Tibetan Singing Bowls (For meditation).

Handmade Paper Items & Silk Scarves.

The Mahabodhi Temple stands as a timeless symbol of peace, enlightenment, and devotion. Its historical and spiritual essence continues to inspire millions, making it a cherished landmark in the Buddhist world. A visit to this sacred site offers not only a glimpse into ancient architectural brilliance but also a deep sense of tranquility and spiritual awakening.