Gaya, Bihar

Bodh Gaya, located in the Gaya District of Bihar, India, is a revered Buddhist pilgrimage site. It is renowned for the Mahabodhi Temple, where Gautama Buddha achieved enlightenment beneath the sacred Bodhi tree. Historically known as Uruwela, this significant location was once nestled along the banks of the Neranjana River, now referred to as the Lilajan River. The first temple on this sacred land is attributed to Emperor Ashoka, a prominent supporter of Buddhism. According to tradition, Siddhartha, who later became the Buddha, was born in 563 BC in what is now Nepal. At the age of 29, he renounced his royal life in pursuit of ultimate truth. After years of self-discipline, he discovered the Eightfold Path, leading him to enlightenment, or 'Buddhatva.' The Bodhi tree, under which he meditated, became a symbol of this profound awakening. Over time, this site attracted many followers, transforming the village into a prominent pilgrimage destination. Emperor Ashoka, one of Buddha's most devoted disciples, constructed the famed Mahabodhi Temple. The area flourished as a center of devotion around the 13th century, marked by the establishment of numerous shrines and temples. However, the region later faced destruction at the hands of invading Turkish rulers. The arrival of British colonial rule helped restore Bodh Gaya to its sacred roots. Today, Bodh Gaya stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, supported by international efforts from countries like Japan and China, to enhance facilities for pilgrims. The town is vibrant with visitors year-round, who come to pay their respects at monasteries, temples, and the remnants of the Bodhi Tree.