OM MANI PADME HUNG…
Bihar has a rich history of panoramic culture, colourful tradition and diverse religious beliefs.
Religiously speaking, Gaya or especially Bodhgaya is one of the nerve-centres of India and the second largest city in the state of Bihar.
Gaya derives its name from “Gayasur”- a mythological demon. Gaya has its origin since The Mahabharata, and The Ramayana, while also Bodhgaya being the place where Gautama Buddha preached the Fire Sermon at Brahmayoni Hill, which was earlier called “Gayasisa”.
The city has a number of pilgrims and a great historical background for the Hindus and the Buddhists. The city encountered the rise and fall of the great Indian empires, right from the Mauryans to the Mughal leader Muhammad Bakhtiyar Khilji.
Gaya hold a great grip on Temples and Monasteries that are very popular all over the world. Followers of Buddhism from all over the world visit Gaya in quest of enlightenment as because the place comprises of Lord Buddha’s many spiritual foundations.
DELIGHTS OF THE CITY
- Pretshila Hill or Hill of Ghost
- Temples – Mahabodhi Temple, Vishnupad temple, Dungeshwari Cave Temples
- Monasteries – Chinese Temple and Monastery, Royal Bhutan Monastery, Thai Monastery
- The Boddhi Tree (or the tree of awakening)
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Pretshila Hill
This place is known for its Yama Temple (significance of death or God of Death). In this place the Hindus do pind daan (a religious ritual performed for the peace of the departed souls). The temple was initially constructed by Rani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore.
Nearby you can explore a tank called Ramkund, where it is believed that Lord Ram bathed once. People maintained a belief that taking a bath in this tank washes away all the sins of devotees.
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Mahabodhi Temple
Apart from followers of Buddhism, the Hindus also consider this temple as much as important to them, as they consider Buddha as the ninth incarnation of God Vishnu. A Shivalingam of around 9th century is also found in the temple.
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Vishnupad temple
This temple is considered to be constructed on Lord Vishnu’s footprints. This ancient temple was reconstructed by Indore’s queen Rani Ahilya Bai. Another temple of Lord Nrisimha is found in the courtyard of Vishnupad temple and the eastern side of the temple is dedicated to God Shiva.
4. Dungeshwari Cave Temples
Buddha spent many years here before he headed towards Gaya and enlightenment.
This place is a great destination for meditation.
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Chinese Temple and Monastery
The temple is a pure influence of Chinese architecture. It is managed by the government of China and Buddhist monks of China. The temple boasts three beautiful golden statues of Lord Buddha which is around 200-year-old.
The festival of Buddha Jayanti, is celebrated in a very commendable way. For travellers, this festival should not be missed out.
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Royal Bhutan Monastery
The Royal Bhutan Monastery, is another majestic monastery where one can practice Buddhism.
This monastery holds splendid architecture, serenity and the seven feet tall statue of Buddha and clay carvings depicting Lord Buddha’s life all over.
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Thai Monastery
In the year 1957, Buddhist monks in collaboration with the government of Thailand established the Thai Temple and Monastery in Gaya. This monastery comprises of Thai architecture, displayed in myriad colours depicting Thai culture and tradition.
Here, the ideologies and teachings of Lord Buddha is being spreaded. A Bronze statue of Buddha is present inside with beautiful carvings around.
Every year in the month of January, the monastery organises retreats that are held in complete silence. People practice yoga and meditation here while joining the retreat practicing to seek the ultimate truth of life. This is an ideal place for Meditation Practitioners.
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The Boddhi tree (or the tree of awakening)
Siddhartha Gautama, the spiritual teacher who became known as Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment and supreme knowledge under this tree.
During the second week, Lord Buddha practiced walking meditation. To commemorate this, a jewel walk, Chankramanar, was built as a low platform adorned with 19 lotuses which are parallel to the Maha Bodhi Temple.
Some other amazing attractions are of Bodhgaya are – Animesh Lochan Chaitya, Bodhgaya archaeological Museum and Muchalinda Lake.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
What we Offer?
We, Inbound Tours keeping in mind the magnificence, the sprituality and proper knowledge about every inch of architecture, significance of every monastery and festival in Bodhgaya will provide you the most delightful packages accordingly.
Inbound Tours will also offer and deliver you the best package according to your bucket list. Inbound Tours will also deliver you the ancient stories and truths associated with your visits as a proper guidance and speciality of the visits.
Here in this city, explore with @inboundtours the most beautiful insights together with significance of rich culture and spirituality that prevails among the people connected through both Hinduism and Buddhism.
E-Mail – info@inboundtoursindia.com
Contact us – +91-7985394164, 9695533320
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