Bodh gaya temple

The Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, one of India's top spiritual destinations, is not just a temple that marks the spot where the Buddha was enlightened. This elaborately crafted and immaculately maintained complex has a very soothing and serene ambiance, which people from all walks of life can soak up and appreciate.

After more than a three hour drive from Patna to Bodh Gaya, during which my driver honked the car's horn almost non-stop all the way, I was desperately in need of relaxation. But would I be able to find the kind of peace I was looking for?

The closest town to Bodh Gaya, called Gaya, was a loud and seething jumble of people, animals, roads, and traffic of all kinds. Hence, I had fears that Bodh Gaya, only 12 kilometers away, might have a similar environment. Fortunately, my concerns were unfounded. I even had a profound mediation experience at the Mahabodhi Temple.

History of the Mahabodhi Temple

The Mahabodhi Temple was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002. Impressive as it is, the temple complex didn't always look this way. Prior to 1880, when it was restored by the British, all accounts indicate that it was a sadly neglected for and partially collapsed ruin.

It's believed that the temple was first built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century. Its current form dates back to the 5th or 6th centuries. However, much of it was destroyed by Muslim rulers in the 11th century.

Even the existing bodhi (fig) tree at the temple complex is not the original tree that the Buddha became enlightened under. Apparently, it's likely to be the fifth succession of the original one. The other trees were destroyed, over time, by man-made and natural disasters.Recently, a new meditation garden was created in the southeast corner of the temple complex, to provide additional meditation space. It has two huge prayer bells, fountains, and plenty of room for groups.

Many people wonder about the vibrations of the Mahabodhi Temple complex. What are they really like? In my view, those who take the time to be silent and reflective will be able to feel that the energy is very soothing and uplifting. It's positively influenced by the great deal of spiritual activity, such as chanting and meditation, taking place on the temple grounds.

Opening Hours and Entrance Fees

The Mahabodhi Temple complex is open from 5 a.m. until 9 p.m. There's no entry fee. However, the charge for cameras is 100 rupees, and 300 rupees for video cameras. The meditation park is open from sunrise until sunset. A small entry fee is payable.

30 minute chanting sessions take place at the temple at 5.30 a.m. and 6 p.m.

In order to maintain peace inside the temple premises, visitors must leave cell phones and electronic devices at the free baggage counter at the entrance.

Meditating at the Mahabodhi Temple Complex

As the sun was setting, with monks beside me, I finally sat down to meditate on one of the boards. As I've previously studied Vipassana meditation, it was an experience that I was very much looking forward to. The overhead tree branches were alive with bird chatter, while gentle chanting in the background and the waft of incense helped lull me into quiet contemplation. Away from the rest of the noisy tourists, many of whom didn't venture into the area, I found it so easy to leave worldly concerns behind. (Until mosquitoes started attacking me, that is!)

Recently, a new meditation garden was created in the southeast corner of the temple complex, to provide additional meditation space. It has two huge prayer bells, fountains, and plenty of room for groups.

Many people wonder about the vibrations of the Mahabodhi Temple complex. What are they really like? In my view, those who take the time to be silent and reflective will be able to feel that the energy is very soothing and uplifting. It's positively influenced by the great deal of spiritual activity, such as chanting and meditation, taking place on the temple grounds.