Deity
Buddha (Gautama Buddha)
Buddhist shrine
श्री महाबोधि मंदिर
Mahabodhi Temple
Mahabodhi Temple at Bodh Gaya in Gaya district, Bihar, is a major Buddhist pilgrimage site and a UNESCO World Heritage location. The record identifies it with Gautama Buddha and notes it as the place where he attained enlightenment, with a Buddhist architectural style and Gupta-era association.
Mahabodhi Temple
Mahabodhi Temple
Mahabodhi Temple
Mahabodhi Temple
Mahabodhi Temple
Temple Summary
Quick Facts
Pilgrimage Status
UNESCO World Heritage site
Bodh Gaya
Architecture
Buddhist
Gupta-linked record
Location
Bodh Gaya, Gaya, Bihar
India
Temple Profile
History and Significance
History
- Founded
- -250
- Founder
- Emperor Ashoka
- The original shrine at Mahabodhi was founded by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, while the existing 55-meter brick temple spire dates to the Gupta era. It underwent major restorations in the 19th century by Burmese rulers and the Archaeological Survey of India. It is one of the world's oldest surviving brick temple structures.
Significance
- Mahabodhi Temple marks the exact spot where Prince Siddhartha Gautama achieved Enlightenment beneath the Bodhi Tree. The temple precinct houses the sacred Vajrasana and a direct descendant of the original Bodhi Tree. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is the primary pilgrimage destination for Buddhists worldwide.
Temple Pilgrimage Summary
Pilgrim Guide
Before You Visit
Use the full-day window wisely
Timings are approximate (05:00–21:00); early morning or later evening can be more comfortable for a focused visit.
Expect crowds on key observance days
On major Buddhist days, plan for longer entry and movement time within the complex.
Dress and conduct respectfully
Maintain a quiet tone and modest attire suitable for a major pilgrimage site.
Keep essentials minimal
Carry only necessary items to ease security checks and reduce waiting time.
Plan for heat and walking
Bodh Gaya visits often involve walking and waiting; carry water and sun protection as needed.
Temple Timings
Darshan Schedule
Opening timings
05:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Festivals
Temple Calendar Highlights
Apr/May • 1 day
Buddha Purnima (Vesak)
A major day associated with the Buddha; the temple area may see increased pilgrim footfall.
Oct/Nov • 1 day
Kathina (Robe Offering)
Observed in many Buddhist communities; gatherings and ceremonies may occur around the temple complex.
Feb/Mar • 1 day
Magha Puja
A Buddhist observance day; visitors may notice special prayers and a busier campus.
Temple Knowledge
Contribute to Mahabodhi Temple
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Community Notes
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Gyaandweep Guide
Suggested pilgrim note
Weekday mornings usually have shorter darshan queues than weekends.
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Gyaandweep Guide
Suggested pilgrim note
Carry a small cloth bag for footwear token and prasad containers.
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Gyaandweep Guide
Suggested pilgrim note
Aarti timings can shift on festival days, so check local notice boards.
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ज्ञ
श्री महाबोधि मंदिर
Mahabodhi Temple
Additional Resources
Watch
Temple Videos
Titles and links are sourced from temple JSON profile data.
Mahabodhi Temple Bodh Gaya | UNESCO World Heritage Site Walkthrough
Sacred Sites India• 14:20
Watch on YouTubeBodh Gaya Travel Guide | Visiting Mahabodhi Temple (Timings & Tips)
Pilgrim Planner• 9:05
Watch on YouTubeHistory Snapshot: Mahabodhi Temple and the Gupta Era
History Trails• 7:48
Watch on YouTube