20051217 Bodhgaya

 

 

20051217 Bodhgaya

Have never thought of visiting the place where Buddha Siddhartha Gautama achieved enlightenment. Very solemn and harmonious. Lots of faithful pilgrims around the world gathered here, no conflict among different sects but sharing the same believes in Buddhism. The holy Mahabodhi Temple is beautiful though not very grand, of course built in Indian architecture. Admission is free, Rs 20 is charged for camera. Observed the ticket seller tried to cheat tourists, but no proof. Beggars are everywhere, many are physically deformed. The Buddhist temples / monasteries here are donated by different nations, and constructed in their own cultural unique design. Visited Sajuta village, many students and teachers were asking for donations, was not possible to stay alone without being disturbed.

 

Mahabodhi Temple, night view Mahabodhi Temple, day view Monks and pilgrims from different nations "Please help!", called out the leper The Bodhi tree that sheltered Lord Buddha has been felled. This is the sibling of the Bodhi tree in Sri Lanka. sDSC013171.jpg Cankamana (cloister walk). Lord Buddha spent the 3rd week here walking up and down in meditation. On the platform, lotuses indicate the places where the Lord’s feet rested while walking. Sculptures around the temple sDSC013521.jpg Souvenir shops in front of the temple Market The farm at Sajuta Village Big Buddha statue Beggars in the town

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