Day one is dedicated to Bodh Gaya, the place where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment and became the Buddha.
Morning (6:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Mahabodhi Temple Complex Start your day early to experience the peaceful atmosphere of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mahabodhi Temple. This is the heart of Bodh Gaya.
Mahabodhi Temple: A magnificent temple with intricate carvings and a serene atmosphere.
The Bodhi Tree: Meditate or simply sit in contemplation under the descendant of the original tree where the Buddha found enlightenment.
Vajrasana (Diamond Throne): A stone platform that marks the exact spot where the Buddha sat in meditation.
Animesh Lochan Chaitya: The spot where the Buddha is said to have spent a week gazing at the Bodhi Tree without blinking.
Lotus Pond: A tranquil pond within the complex, perfect for quiet reflection.
Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): International Monasteries and The Great Buddha Statue After lunch, explore the various monasteries built by different countries, each showcasing a unique architectural style.
The Great Buddha Statue: A towering 80-foot statue of the Buddha in a meditative posture.
Thai Monastery: Admire the elegant Thai architecture and the large bronze statue of the Buddha.
Royal Bhutanese Monastery: Known for its vibrant clay sculptures depicting scenes from the Buddha's life.
Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple: An all-wood temple that beautifully combines Buddhist culture with Japanese architecture.
Dungeshwari Cave Temples (Pragbodhi): Located on a hill, these caves are where the Buddha is believed to have meditated for several years before reaching Bodh Gaya. The climb is steep but offers stunning views.