The sacred tree under which enlightenment was attained
The Bodhi Tree in Bodhgaya is not just a tree—it is the living symbol of spiritual awakening. Situated within the Mahabodhi Temple complex, this sacred fig tree marks the exact spot where Siddhartha Gautama meditated for days and finally attained enlightenment to become the Buddha. The tree you see today is believed to be a direct descendant of the original, making it one of the most important pilgrimage destinations for Buddhists around the world. Pilgrims and travelers gather under its shade to meditate, chant, or simply sit in peace. The calmness surrounding the tree is almost magnetic, offering a sense of serenity and spiritual connection. Whether you are deeply spiritual or just exploring world heritage, visiting the Bodhi Tree is a powerful and humbling experience you won’t forget.
Important Timings
|
Temple Premises Open |
5:00 AM to 9:00 PM |
|
Ideal Time to Visit |
Early Morning or Sunset |
Booking and Entry Fees
|
General Entry |
Free |
|
Camera (still) |
₹100 (approx.) |
|
Meditation Access Pass |
Available on request |
History and Legacy
The Bodhi Tree stands as a spiritual beacon tracing back to around 528 BCE, when Siddhartha Gautama chose this very spot to meditate and seek truth. After days of deep meditation, he attained enlightenment under this fig tree, making it the most sacred site in Buddhism. Emperor Ashoka, a great patron of Buddhism, visited Bodhgaya in the 3rd century BCE and is said to have built the first temple and protective structures around the tree.
Over centuries, the original tree faced destruction and regrowth multiple times. However, a sapling of the original tree was taken to Sri Lanka by Ashoka’s daughter, Sanghamitra, and planted in Anuradhapura. In a beautiful turn of history, a sapling from that Sri Lankan tree was later brought back and replanted in Bodhgaya, continuing the sacred lineage. Today, the Bodhi Tree is surrounded by railings, prayer flags, and offerings, welcoming pilgrims from all over the world.
Nearby Destinations
|
Mahabodhi Temple |
0.1 km |
2 mins walk |
Walk |
|
Thai Monastery |
1.5 km |
5 mins |
Walk / Auto |
|
Great Buddha Statue |
1.2 km |
5 mins |
Auto / Rickshaw |
|
Royal Bhutan Monastery |
1.8 km |
6 mins |
Auto |
|
Gaya Railway Station |
12 km |
25–30 mins |
Cab / Auto |
Tourist Guidelines & Tips
- Maintain silence and behave respectfully near the tree
- Footwear not allowed in the sacred zone
- Photography allowed, but avoid flash near rituals
- Early morning visits offer peace and beautiful light for photography
- Carry a water bottle and hat during hot months
- Meditation under the tree is open to all, but space is limited
Top Things to Buy Near Gaya / Bodhgaya
- Bodhi Tree leaf souvenirs
- Bronze and stone Buddha idols
- Tibetan prayer wheels and flags
- Spiritual books and meditation guides
- Local Buddhist art and crafts
Top Things and Places to Eat Nearby
- Be Happy Café – Popular for its breakfast and Western menu
- Tibetan Om Restaurant – Known for authentic Tibetan momos
- Maya Heritage Restaurant – Indian, Thai, and continental dishes
- Bodhgaya Regency Café – Relaxed space with fusion food
- Street Food Stalls – Try local litti-chokha and masala chai