The life of Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, is associated with the small town of Bodhgaya. It is one of the four holiest cities of Buddhist faith. The Mahabodhi temple is the main attraction of this town and is located near the spot where Lord Buddha attained spiritual enlightenment.
Bodhgaya is not only an important Buddhist pilgrim center, but it is also an important center for the study of Buddhism.
History of Bodhgaya
The history of this small town is associated with Buddhism since ancient times. The region around Bodhgaya formed the part of the first small kingdoms of India in the 7th century BC. It came into limelight in 6th century BC, when a local prince Siddharth (also known as Gautam) renounced all material possession and, after practicing rigorous penances for years, attained Enlightenment or Nirvana under a Bodhi (Bo) tree here. After gaining Enlightenment, Gautam became Buddha (The Enlightened One) and spread his message of love and peace. To mark the spot where Gautam Buddha had attained Enlightenment, the great Mauryan ruler King Ashoka built a small shrine here in the 3rd century BC. Subsequent rulers left their mark on this shrine, which finally took the shape of the Mahabodhi temple that still stands.
Best Time to Visit in Bodhgaya
The best time to visit Bodhgaya is during winter (October-February).
How to Reach Bodhgaya
BY ROAD
Bodhgaya does not have an airport of its own. There is no railway station in Bodhgaya and it can only be reached by road. The main bus stop in Bodhgaya is located near Sujata Bridge on the Falgu River on the northeastern edge of the town. There is bus service to the town of Gaya, which is 13 km north of Bodhgaya. We would provide you all India tourist permit vehicles for the local transportations and also for the intercity drives too.
Shopping in Bodhgaya
Shopping in Bodhgaya is restricted to purchasing woolens and craftsmanship things at the nearby shops and at the Tibetan Refugee Market. Aside from woolens, the Tibetan Refugee Market has numerous things to offer including Tibetan style depictions on silk and paper, Buddha statues, and sandalwood rosaries and additionally garbage adornments.Along the way towards the Mahabodhi Temple, there are a few other nearby shops displaying different enriching things including Lord Buddha statues that are either made of metals or sandalwood.
Best Things To Do in Bodhgaya
Bodhgaya is a holy place of pilgrimage that is situated in the Gaya district of Bihar in India. It is famous for the Mahabodhi Temple and the place where Buddha is believed to have received his enlightenment. Buddhists regard Bodhgaya as one of the four key pilgrimage sites that is associated with Gautam Buddha’s life. Below are some great ways to explore this holy place.
