Joanna James
Known also as the land of Supreme Knowledge, Bodh Gaya is the most sacred pilgrimage site across the whole world for Buddhist devotees and is known as the location where Siddhartha Gautama attained the supreme state of enlightenment over 2500 years ago. Here is a list of few temples of Bodh Gaya.
The initial monastery at this location was built by Mauryan Emperor Ashoka who converted to devoted Buddhist following the infamous Kalinga war. Although the original monastery ceases to exist today, today's existing pyramidal structure dates back to the 6th century, during the time of the Gupta Empire and is surrounded by numerous smaller stupas. Towards the back of the temple, one can witness the glorious Bodhi Tree under which Gautama Buddha is said to have meditated before attaining enlightenment. Saplings of this tree have made their way around the world including countries such as Sri Lanka, resembling the spread of this holy doctrine. Among the many Bodhgaya hotels that are located in close proximity, Oaks Bodhgaya is one of the most popular.
Standing majestically tall among the many other Buddhist sites of virtue in the vicinity, the 80 feet statue of Bhagwan Buddha is among the top attractions of Bodhgaya. What makes it stand out is the intricate detailing that has been incorporated into the sculpture by artists to the best of their artistic capabilities to depict the calmness in Lord Buddha's facial expression. In addition to this remarkable Buddha statue, you may also notice two sculptures of Lord Buddha's main disciples on either side. It is located approximately a kilometre away from Mahabodhi temple and is also surrounded by numerous temples of different Asian origins.
Covering an extensive area, this monastery is located very close to the great Buddha statue and houses in its compound a number of colourful stupas and a large temple. The inside of the temple is almost decorated with thousands of miniature golden Buddha statues and truly is a sight to behold.
The architecture of this temple is unique in its own way; very tranquil in composure and inner ambience set solid with intricate wooden work, this temple is the definition of peacefulness. Then there is the aroma that captivates your olfactory senses is just bonus heavenly treat.
Neighbouring the Japani Temple, the Royal Bhutan Temple is yet another exemplary dedication to the wisdom and doctrine presented to the world by Lord Buddha. The concept of the temple resonates closely with the lives of the Bhutanese locals, who place value in happiness over materialistic things on any given day. Their intrinsic happiness is well reflected by the colourful aurora that the buildings of the temple adorn. The temple also houses a Buddhist monastery which encourages people to come and learn the teachings of Lord Buddha in finer detail should that interest you, regardless of your nationality or religious faith.
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