The Bodhi Treemahabodhi-temple
The Tree of Enlightenment
Overview
A direct descendant of the original Peepal tree under which Buddha sat in meditation for 49 days to attain supreme enlightenment.
What To Expect?
A profound atmosphere of silence and devotion. You will see monks in maroon and saffron robes chanting sacred verses, pilgrims performing prostrations, and the golden 'Vajrasana' (Diamond Throne) marking the spot of enlightenment. The air is thick with the scent of incense and the energy of centuries of prayer.
Tips
- Leave your mobile phone in your hotel or the locker counter outside the gate; security is extremely strict.
- Wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
- If you want to meditate, find a quiet spot in the outer gardens away from the main walking path.
- Join the evening circumambulation (Kora) with the monks around 6:00 PM for a moving experience.
- Buy a camera pass if you wish to take photos; video cameras have a higher fee.
Exploring The Bodhi Tree
More About The Bodhi Tree
The current Bodhi Tree (Ficus religiosa) is believed to be the fourth descendant of the original tree. It is situated directly behind the main temple. According to legend, Ashoka's daughter Sanghamitta took a sapling of the original tree to Sri Lanka, and when the tree in Bodh Gaya died, a sapling was brought back from Sri Lanka to replant it.
Beneath the tree lies the Vajrasana, a sandstone slab established by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. It is called the 'Diamond Throne' because it is believed to be the stable center of the universe, the only place capable of supporting the weight of a Buddha's enlightenment.
Exploring a destination...
The joy of travel comes in exploring new things. Planting your feet somewhere you’ve never been before brings with it the rush of discovery and the joy of pushing back on the boundaries of your world.
Discover a new city through a food tour. Food tour’s are the easiest way to take a tour, learn about the local delicacies, and the best of all, get great tips.
Use Public Transportation. In Bodh Gaya, cycle rickshaws are the most authentic way to see the various international monasteries.
Find a local festival. Visit during Buddha Purnima to see the temple decorated with thousands of lamps and flowers.
How to reach The Bodhi Tree
Located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar. It is 15 km from Gaya Junction Railway Station and 12 km from Gaya International Airport. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available from both locations.
Tips for Visiting The Bodhi Tree, mahabodhi-temple
- Leave your mobile phone in your hotel or the locker counter outside the gate; security is extremely strict.
- Wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
- If you want to meditate, find a quiet spot in the outer gardens away from the main walking path.
- Join the evening circumambulation (Kora) with the monks around 6:00 PM for a moving experience.
- Buy a camera pass if you wish to take photos; video cameras have a higher fee.
