Bodh Gaya, a quaint city in Bihar, positioned on the banks of the Neranjana River is revered as a pious site especially for Buddhists from all across the globe. With an array of Buddhist monasteries and pilgrim sites, Places to visit in Bodh Gaya offer a perfect vacation for the ones seeking a soul soothing experience. From the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mahabodhi Temple to the colossal 80-ft. Great Buddha Statue, and the sacred Bodhi Tree, there are numerous elements that make Bodh Gaya a perfect destination to spend a few days. Check out the best attractions to add in your itinerary and experience the best of Bodh Gaya.
5 Places To Visit In Bodh Gaya
While planning a trip to this tranquil place, stop by these intriguing places and enjoy a vacation like never before.
1. Mahabodhi Temple
Famously known as the “Great Awakening Temple”, Mahabodhi Temple is a major Buddshist site showcasing the excerpts from Lord Buddha’s Life. The attraction features great remnants from 5-6th century AD. The gigantic 170 ft. temple stands as a cylindrical pyramid, called shikhara on the 48 sq. ft. basement. Atop the temple are the Chataras depicting sovereignty of religion. You can visit the temple any day of the week between 5:00 am to 9:00 pm.
2. Thai Monastery
Positioned just 650 meters away from Mahabodhi Temple, Thai Monastery or Wat Thai Buddhagaya exhibits a perfect blend of Thai and Buddhist architecture. The 25-meter high bronze statue of Lord Buddha inside is the epicenter of the monastery. The sloping roof embellished with golden tiles is an epitome of classic Thi architecture. To imbibe the tranquil aura of this monastery, attend meditation classes that are every morning and evening.
3. Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple
Built in 1972, Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple is an epitome of Japanese architecture. Having a great semblance with Japanese shrines, Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple is carved out of wood. Besides this, the temple features numerous Japanese paintings illustrating the life of Buddha. The prime goal to construct this temple is to preserve Buddhism and spread its teachings including the spiritual thoughts of Lord Buddha. The temple is open throughout the week from 6:00 am to 12:00 pm and from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm.
4. Barabar Hill Caves
Built during the Mauryan Empire 322–185 BCE, Barabar Caves is among the best tourist places near Bodh Gaya which is around 43.1 km from it. The cave takes pride in being the oldest surviving rock-cut caves in India. The USP of the caves is their state-of-the-art architecture with sharp cuttings of the rock giving a fair competition to today’s high-end structures. Barabar Hill is a cluster of four hills including Karan Chaupar, Sudama, Visvakarma, and Lomas Rishi. Although these are hill caves, you will also find a few Jain and Hindu sculptures.
10. Royal Bhutan Monastery
Constructed as a homage to Lord Buddha by the King of Bhutan, the Royal Bhutan Monastery stands as a prominent attraction in Bodh Gaya. This monastery offers a glimpse into Gautam Buddha’s life through captivating 3-dimensional clay carvings. The remarkable architecture, a seven-feet-tall Buddha structure, and the tranquil ambiance surrounding the monastery are truly noteworthy. Besides exploring the monastery, you can take a moment for meditation, immersing yourself in the peaceful atmosphere within.
