11/18 ☼ Exploring Temples, Caves, Ghats, and an Imambara: A 3000-Mile Adventure
Recommended Sightseeing in Bodhgaya
By the power of Buddha Dhamma & Sangha may all of you be a healthy happy peaceful long life
It is said that after the intense tapasya that Buddha undertook to seek the ultimate truth, and following his enlightenment under the Bodhi tree at Bodhgaya, a local woman named Sujātā offered him a bowl of rice cooked in sweetened milk.
Gautama Buddha descended from the cave in the hills of Uruvela to meditate under a Banyan tree.
The Dungeshwari Hill (Mahakala) Caves were where Buddha practised extreme austerities and became emaciated.
A 2nd-century Ashokan stupa was recently discovered near the village, believed to be built in honor of Sujātā
Contents
The 80ft Buddha statue
Metta Budharam Thai Temple
Reclining Buddha
Miscellaneous
The 80ft Buddha Statue - Daibutsu
At the end of Bodhi Temple Street, you will find the majestic Great Buddha statue in a serene garden. This magnificent statue, consecrated by the 14th Dalai Lama in 1989, was the largest Buddha statue in India during that time. Surrounding the Great Buddha are ten smaller sculptures representing his principal disciples, five on each side. The foundation stone for this awe-inspiring statue was laid in 1982, marking the beginning of its remarkable journey.
Thai Temple
The Metta Buddharam Temple is a stunning Thai temple featuring a stainless steel exterior and a mosaic of mirrors. The temple showcases traditional Thai architecture, with a wooden main floor and a marble meditation room below, providing a serene space for devotees to meditate. The temple is adorned with unique sculptures crafted from white cement, clay, and epoxy, captivating visitors with its beauty and a prominent Lord Buddha statue. The evening lighting further enhances the temple's charm, making it stand out among other temples in the area. You can find evening light pictures on the web. If you have had the opportunity to visit Thailand, you would have noticed the countless temple structures that grace almost every street very similar to Metta Buddharam.
Reclining Buddha
The reclining Buddha symbolizes the historical Buddha in his final days, preparing to enter parinirvana. Gautama Buddha is said to have breathed his last in Kushinagar (U.P.), marking the sacred spot of his passing. The reclining statue in Bodhgaya, built by the Buddha International Welfare Mission, measures an impressive 100 feet in length and 30 feet in height. Before Mahaparinirvana, Lord Buddha preached to his disciples in this posture.
Miscellaneous
Buddhism ranks as the fourth largest religion globally, representing 6% of the world's population. It holds significant popularity, particularly among the Asian continent and its diverse communities. When you visit Bodhgaya, you'll notice the existence of Buddhist followers from various countries. With a few hours to spare, I managed to visit the Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple, the majestic Royal Bhutan Monastery, the serene Burmese Monastery, and the captivating Chinese Temple. Each of these sites offers a unique glimpse into the traditions and spirituality of their respective countries, making your visit to Bodhgaya truly unforgettable.
If you strongly believe in Advaita philosophy, I suggest visiting BodhGaya श्री शंकराचार्य मठ near Bodhi temple. I had limited time but managed to briefly explore before catching the Puroshottam Express to Puri. Stay tuned for more information on Jagannath temple, (one of Char Dham - चतुर्धाम).