Mahabodhi Temple is one of the four holy sites related to the life of the Lord Buddha, and particularly to the attainment of Enlightenment. It is located in Bodhgaya, Bihar.
Lord Buddha holds a very significant place in the religious history of India as he is believed to be the 9th and the most recent incarnation of Lord Vishnu to have walked the earth. The temple spreads over an area of a whopping 4.8 hectares and is 55 meters tall.
The Mahabodhi Temple Complex is the first temple built by Emperor Asoka in the 3rd century B.C., and the present temple dates from the 5th–6th centuries.
This temple is also the oldest shrine of Lord Buddha that exist today in the world.
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Architecture of the Temple
The Mahabodhi Temple, one of the few surviving examples of early brick structures in India, has had significant influence in the development of architecture over the centuries. balustrades, and the memorial column.
The present temple is one of the earliest and most imposing structures built entirely from brick in the late Gupta period. The sculpted stone balustrades are an outstanding early example of sculptural reliefs in stone.
The Mahabodhi Temple is surrounded on all four sides by stone railings, about two metres high. The railings reveal two distinct types, both in style as well as the materials used.
The older ones, made of sandstone, date to about 150 BCE, and the others, constructed from unpolished coarse granite, are believed to be of the Gupta period.
The older railings have scenes such as Lakshmi, the Hindu/Buddhist goddess of wealth, being bathed by elephants; and Surya, the Hindu sun god, riding a chariot drawn by four horses. The newer railings have figures of stupas (reliquary shrines) and garudas (eagles). Images of lotus flowers also appear commonly.
Images of the site include Avalokiteśvara (Padmapani, Khasarpana), Vajrapani, Tara, Marichi, Yamantaka, Jambhala and Vajravārāhī, Vishnu, Shiva, Surya and other Vedic deities are also associated with the site.
Quick Facts
- Address: Bodh Gaya, Bihar 824231
- Affiliation: Budhism, Hinduism
- UNESCO World Heritage Site inscription: 2002
- Deity Worshiped: Lord Buddha
- Entry Fees: Nil
- Photography: not allowed, phones have to be submitted before entering
- Temple Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
- Dress Code: Decent clothing is highly advisable
- Festivals: Budh Purnima
- Best Time To Visit: November and March
Pooja Timings:-
Interesting Facts About Mahabodhi Temple
Bodhi Tree: The Tree of Enligthment
The main Mahabodhi Temple Complex is home to the legendary Bodhi Tree, as well as the temple itself. Besides the main shrine, walk around to discover several places of spiritual significance around the temple. Retrace the footsteps of the Buddha with the help of signs around the complex telling you exactly where you stand and where the Buddha once stood on the road to enlightenment.
The Inner Santrum
The inner sanctum houses the main shrine, which is also called the Diamond Throne, behind which stood the original Bodhi Tree. A large, gilded black-stone Buddha sits inside the sanctum.
The idol was built by the Pala Kings of Bengal in the 10th Century. The Buddha here is seen seated on a patterned cushion instead of the Lotus. His right-hand touches the earth – the posture which allowed him to reach absolute enlightenment. Next to the idol are beautifully-carved lotus flowers representing the footsteps of the Buddha.
Archaeological Museum : The Preserver of History
The wonderful Archaeological Museum is located on the main road of the Bodhgaya temple complex. The museum’s courtyard contains some of the granite and sandstone railings of the original Mahabodhi Temple.
These structures are at least 700 years older than the current temple structure. The museum also houses rare antique terracotta items and Hindu idols made of bronze, silver, and gold.
A 25m statue of a seated Buddha stands in the middle of a beautiful garden. The statue was unveiled by HH The Dalai Lama in 1989. The museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm daily except on Fridays.
How to Reach Mahabodhi Temple ?
By Air
The nearest airport is the Gaya Airport located around 17 km away.
By Rail
The nearest railhead that links the temple is Gaya situated at a distance of 16 km. One can hire an auto or txi to the temple.
By Road
Gaya is well linked by road to Patna, which is about 112 kms away.One can opt to take a private bus or travel by own car.
Where To Stay?
There are various accomodation near the temple. One can easily opt to stay as per budget.
Estimated Tarrif: 1500 INR onwards
Frequently Asked Questions?
Q Where is Mahabodhi Temple located?
The temple is located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar.
Q When was Mahabodhi temple built?
The temple was built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century
Q Mahabodhi Temple built by?
The temple was built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century
Q Mahabodhi temple world heritage site?
The main Bodhgaya Temple or Mahabodhi Temple was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002.
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