All You Need To Know About Mahabodhi Temple, A Must-Visit Destination For Peace Seekers

The Mahabodhi Temple, located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, is a sacred site for Buddhists all over the world. It is here that Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. The temple is dedicated to Lord Buddha and is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists.

The Mahabodhi Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is an architectural marvel. The temple's design is a blend of Indian and Buddhist styles, with intricate carvings and sculptures adorning its walls. Here is everything you need to know about Mahabodhi Temple: 

Architecture of Mahabodhi Temple

The Mahabodhi Temple stands in the east of the Mahabodhi Tree. Given that the main temple was mostly constructed of brick covered in stucco, a material much less durable than stone, its survival is exceptionally remarkable. Two sizable shikhara towers with straight sides are part of the temple complex; the tallest is nearly 55 meters (180 feet) high. This aesthetic element is still present in Jain and Hindu temples today, and it has impacted Buddhist architecture abroad in the shape of pagodas and other structures. 

According to the UNESCO site, it states that "The first temple was built by Emperor Asoka in the 3rd century B.C., and the present temple dates from the 5th or 6th centuries. It is one of the earliest Buddhist temples built entirely in brick, still standing in India, from the late Gupta period." 

Why To Visit Mahabodhi Temple

The Mahabodhi Temple itself is a stunning masterpiece of ancient Indian architecture. Its towering pyramidal structure, intricate carvings, and sandstone reliefs depicting the Buddha's life story are breathtaking. The temple complex is a vibrant hub of prayer, meditation, and chanting. Witnessing the devotion of pilgrims from all over the world creates a powerful and spiritual experience. 

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Best Time To Visit Mahabodhi Temple

You can visit Mahabodhi Temple throughout the year but the best time to visit the temple is from October to February. You will experience a cool and pleasant temperature during these months because during summer months the temperature gets up to 48 degrees Celsius.

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Best Places To Visit Near Mahabodhi Temple

After visiting this magnificent Mahabodhi Temple you can also explore the other tourist attractions near this temple like the Thai Monastery, Archaeological Society of India Museum, Royal Bhutan Monastery, Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple, Dungeswari Hills, and Surya Kund (as per Tripadvisor).

How To Reach Mahabodhi Temple

One can easily reach Mahabodhi Temple by road, train, and air. 

• By road: You can easily reach Mahabodhi temple via road. Regular bus services are available from several major cities to Bodhgaya. 
• By Train: The nearest railway station to Mahabodhi Temple is Gaya Junction. Then from the railway station, you can book a cab or auto to the temple.
• By Air: The nearest airport to Mahabodhi Temple is Gaya International Airport and Mahabodhi Temple. Then from the airport, you can book a cab to the temple.

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