Name Is Gaya..Bodh Gaya!

Bodh Gaya, home to UNESCO World Heritage monument that is not only the pride of India but also the whole World, attracts pilgrims from across the globe. Maha Bodhi Temple is one of the holiest sites for Buddhist. It is here under a Bodhi tree that Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment and became Buddha. A diamond throne under the tree marks the spot where Buddha became the Enlightened One.

The main temple is 170 feet tall and the inner sanctum is one of the best places to be in. The temple was built by Emperor Ashoka and this temple built entirely by brick has railings around it that still remain intact. Despite the fact that the temple is thronged by pilgrims from across the world nobody seems to rush to catch a glimpse of the deity. This is quite a rare sight and very much in contrast with the most revered religious places in India. A gentle calmness prevails throughout the temple premises and pilgrims offer prayers and respect in a calm and composed manner.

A raised platform next to the temple has stone lotuses signifying the place where Lord Buddha rested his feet while walking up and down during meditation.

The entire temple complex has a large number to stupas scattered around and these places are used by many a monks for meditation and prayers.

Early morning is the best time to visit the temple as it is engulfed in a very calm, serene and positive atmosphere. Sitting next to the Bodhi tree listening to the pilgrims recite prayers had a calm and soothing effect on us even though we could not understand the prayer recitals. We witnessed the enthusiasm and happiness sparkling in the eyes of those pilgrims who were overjoyed and collected the leaves from the Bodhi tree that fell on the ground, it was as if they were blessed by Buddha himself.

Apart from the incredible Maha Bodhi temple many recently built temples by Buddhist nations from around the world are the other attractions.

Post the bomb blasts in 2013, the temple management has ensured that there are elaborate security check points for the safety of the pilgrims. They have also made arrangements for pilgrims to deposit their valuables. Mobile phones are prohibited inside the temple. However, cameras are allowed and tickets for it are priced at Rs.100.

Bodh Gaya is 12 km from Gaya and is very easily accessible with both places offering decent stay options. We checked into Hotel Gaya Regency which is opposite the railway station - 'Gaya Junction.' A budget accommodation with basic facilities, 24 hours power backup and free WiFi. The proximity of the hotel to the railway station is a blessing and a curse. Chaos and constant honking in this area is kind of unsettling but you don't have to be worried about your mode of transport if your train is scheduled at odd hours.