Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya

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Mahabodhi Temple Complex

The Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, is one of the most sacred sites in Buddhism, marking the place where Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment.
It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It was originally built by Emperor Ashoka (3rd century BCE) & Later expanded by the Gupta rulers (4th–6th century CE).
It is located on the banks of the Niranjana River, also known as Phalgu River.

Bodhi Tree: The descendant of the original Bodhi tree under which Buddha meditated.
Vajrasana (Diamond Throne): A stone platform where Buddha meditated for seven days after enlightenment. It was built by Emperor Ashoka.
Chankramana Path (Buddha’s walking path).
Animesh Lochana Chaitya (where Buddha spent a week in deep contemplation).
Sacred Lotus Pond

Mahabodhi Temple – A 55-meter-tall ancient building with a pyramidal spire, adorned with intricate carvings and a central shrine housing a golden Buddha statue in a meditation position.
Bodhi Tree – A holy fig tree said to be a direct descendant of the original tree beneath which Buddha was enlightened.
Vajrasana (Diamond Throne) – A stone seat installed by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, which is where Buddha meditated.
Lotus Pond – A peaceful water feature where, in legend, Buddha rested following enlightenment.
Other Stupas and Monasteries – The compound has a number of stupas, meditation halls, and monasteries constructed by Buddhist societies from across the globe.

The ancient temple is traced to the reign of Emperor Ashoka (3rd century BCE) but was rebuilt in the 5th–6th century CE.
It is one of the four most significant Buddhist pilgrimage centers, together with Lumbini, Sarnath, and Kushinagar.
The temple complex continues to be a thriving hub for Buddhist meditation, teachings, and festivals such as Buddha Purnima.