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Maha Bodhi Tree, Bihar
Maha Bodhi Tree, Bihar
The Bodhi tree, the fifth generation plant of the original ficus tree
under which Lord Budhha attained enlightenment in 528 BCE after nine years
of ascetic life, is one of the most revered sacred places for the Buddhists.
The history tells that Sanghamitra, daughter of the Indian emperor, Ashoka,
carried a sapling of the original Bodhi tree to Anuradhapuram, Sri Lanka,
whose sapling was again brought to Bodh Gaya and planted after the original
tree died. Situated behind the MahaBodhi temple, the Bodhi tree(80 feet
high) is more than 116 years old and a centre of pilgrim for the Buddhsits
all over the world.
Location and Accessibility
The Bodhi tree, situated in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, can easily be reached. Bodh
Gaya is at a distance of 100 Kilometers from Patna, the state capital
of Bihar. One can reach the place by rail, road or air conveniently. Gaya,
12 kilometers away from Bodgh Gaya, is the main access station to reach
Bodh Gaya. By airways, it is connected directly to other Buddhist countries
like Colombo and Bangkok. Gaya has an important rail head with services
from other parts of India. Gaya and BodhGaya, both are well connected
by a proper road network to other major cities of India and Nepal such
as Patna and Ranchi(the state capital of Jharkhand). BodhGaya is connected
to Gaya by regular and frequent transport services and can easily be reached
within half an hour by covering a minimal distance of 12 kilometers.
Best Time To Visit
The sacred Bodhi tree can be seen throughout the year. But due to the
pleasant whether from October to March, its the best time to visit the
place.
