Mahabodhi Temple in Bihar

The Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya is a sacred pilgrimage place for the Buddhists. The Bodh Gaya city is located 405 km far from Patna and 7 miles south of Gaya. The platform below the Bodhi tree is called Vajrasana where Lord Buddha used to meditate.

The Mahabodhi Temple Complex of Bodh Gaya, has recently entered into UNESCO's list as one of the sites of the World Cultural Heritage which is one of the holy sights and is related directly to the life of the Lord Buddha. This temple was constructed by emperor Ashoka during the 3rd century BC. The Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya is one of the earliest Buddhist temples of India made completely in brick and exists from the late Gupta period.

It is believed that Lord Buddha got enlightenment in this place. The diamond throne that is lying between the Bodhi tree and the Mahabodhi temple shows the real spot of Buddha's enlightenment. There is an eye catching image of the Buddha placed on the wall of the temple and his footsteps are curved in hard stone. Visitors come here not only to visit this sacred place but also to enjoy the architectural beauty of the temple.

A description about the Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya can be found in the writings of Hiuen Tsang, a Chinese traveler. Tsang came down in India in 637 AD and wrote about this temple describing its beauty. The Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya is a representation of the architectural genius. This temple stands as one of the rare examples of India which are made of complete brick walls. The site of the walls and the temple will reveal stories related to the life of the Buddha.

This is not only a holy Buddhist pilgrimage but also a representation of the architectural beauty of the 3rd century BC.