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.


Bodhgaya
Bodh Gaya, the place of Lord Buddha's enlightenment, is one of the four holiest places for the Buddhists. It was Bodh Gaya, which quietly witnessed a common young man turning into a 'Buddha'. Since the time of His enlightenment, Bodh Gaya has been a vibrant centre of faith for the sangha, Buddhists and Lamas along with people of other faiths as well.


Other Attractions

• Vajrasana : Vajrasana is a red sandstone slab under the Bodhi tree, also known as Diamond throne where the Buddha is believed to have meditated and attain enlightenment.
  
  
• Chankramanar : Chankramanar is a low platform adorned with nineteen lotuses which are parallel to the Maha Bodhi temple on its north side. It is also known as the Jewel walk, as the Buddha practiced walking meditation over here in the second week after His enlightenment. A stupa, Animeschalochana, was also built at this place to the north of Chankramanar.
  
  
• The Maha Bodhi Temple : The temple, named after the Buddha, is a sacred place for the Buddhists in Bodh Gaya. A symbol of the great Indian architecture, the temple stands in front of the Bodhi tree as if paying homage to the divine place.

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.


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.