Bodhgaya Pilgrimage Tour Packages

Spiritual and Historical Significance

Attainment of Enlightenment: Around 2,600 years ago, Gautama Siddhartha meditated under a peepal tree (now known as the sacred Bodhi Tree) for several weeks and attained supreme knowledge or Bodhi. This event marked the birth of Buddhism.

UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Mahabodhi Temple Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its exceptional testimony to the events of Buddha's life and its architectural influence.

Emperor Ashoka's Influence: The first temple structure at Bodhgaya was built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century B.C. to mark the holy spot. The current magnificent brick temple complex dates from the 5th–6th centuries and is one of the earliest surviving brick temples in India.

Major Attractions and Places to Visit

Mahabodhi Temple Complex: The central attraction, featuring the 50-meter-high grand temple, the sacred Bodhi Tree (a direct descendant of the original), and the Vajrasana (diamond throne) which marks the exact spot of Buddha's meditation.

International Monasteries: Many countries with Buddhist populations, including Thailand, Japan, China, Bhutan, and Myanmar, have built monasteries in Bodhgaya, each reflecting their unique architectural style and culture. Notable examples include the Royal Bhutan Monastery, the Thai Temple, and the Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple.

Great Buddha Statue: An impressive 80-foot (25-meter) statue of the Buddha in a meditation pose, consecrated by the Dalai Lama in 1989. Dungeshwari Cave Temples: Located about 22 km away, these are the caves where Lord Buddha spent several years performing austerities before heading to Bodhgaya for enlightenment.

Muchalinda Lake (Lotus Pond): A peaceful pond where, according to legend, the serpent king Muchalinda sheltered Buddha with his hood during a severe storm while he meditated.

Archaeological Museum: Houses a collection of Buddhist and Hindu artifacts and sculptures found during excavations in the region.