Category Archives: Bihar Things to Do

The 8 Sacred Sites in Gaya to Discover Self

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Gaya in Bihar is the ancient city of historical and mythological importance. Gaya is the 2nd largest city in the state and one of the major tourist attractions in the country. There are plenty of hotels in Gaya to accommodate visitors. It is a place sanctified by Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain religions.

Following are the 8 sacred sites one must visit in Gaya for self-discovery, the idea getting more and more important with time:

1. Mahabodhi Temple: The temple depicts the architectural vigour of the past. Lord Buddha is the chief deity of the temple. The Chatras built at the top of the temple preach the sovereignty of religion. A Shiva Lingam from the 9th century is also present in the temple.

2. Chinese Temple And Monastery: Chinese temple is located near Mahabodhi Temple. The temple has a complete Chinese architecture influence. The 200-year-old Buddha statue found in the temple is said to be from China.

3. Bodhi Tree: Bodhi Tree is considered to be the place where Buddha attained spiritual enlightenment. The tree is the fifth generation of the original tree. The tree is recognised by its heart-shaped leaves.

4. Bodhgaya Archaeological Museum: The museum was established in 1956 and is home to several relics found from this part of the world. The collections include sculptures belonging to 1st century BC, antiques of Hindu deities and Buddha.

5. Vishnupad Temple: Vishnupad Temple is said to be constructed on Lord Vishnu’s footprints and giving the temple its name. The footprints are 40 cm in length. The temple complex is vast and displays images of many gods and goddesses. The eastern side of the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

6. Dungeshwari Cave Temples: Dungeshwari Caves are also known as Mahakala Caves. Buddha spent many years at this place before heading to Gaya. The site is the right place for those who want to discover self and meditate.

7. Thai Temple And Monastery: This is the only Thai Temple found in India. It was built in the year 1956 by Thailand Monarch. The beautiful construction with a sloping roof is a visual delight. The calm atmosphere in the temple and outside the monastery is incredible. A bronze statue of Buddha is present inside the temple.

8. Royal Bhutan Monastery: The monastery depicts the life of Buddha. Constructed by the king of Bhutan, the monastery ranks amongst the best monasteries in the land. The monastery has a conventional architecture, and it houses a beautiful temple in with a 7 feet tall Buddha statue.

Gaya is rich in natural beauty and architectural splendour. The land of Gaya is certainly tolerant towards other religions. Visit this place with rich cultural past and set out for self-discovery. There are many hotels in Gaya that offers a pleasant stay, just like the city.

11 Amazing Historical Destinations You Must Visit in India

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India is home to some of the oldest civilizations and has been ruled by several dynasties in the past. Hence, the history of this nation is elaborate and rich and you can experience it through the monuments when you travel in India. To help you out in this endeavor, we have enlisted 10 amazing historical destinations you must visit in India.

1. Taj Mahal

Beautiful is the word that crosses one’s mind on seeing or even imagining the Taj Mahal. This monument in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, was built by Shah Jahan for his wife but she died before it could be completed. Later on she was buried in the complex and Shah Jahan joined her post his death. Hordes of tourists from across the globe visit the Taj Mahal every year to have a look at the grandeur of white marbles and the intricate carvings.

Have you read these – Taj Mahal Facts – 12 Amazing Facts That Will Astonish You

2. Mysore Palace

Mysore is a place you must visit when you travel in India. It is famous for beautiful temples and the celebrated Mysore Palace. Ambavillas Palace or the Mysore Palace is a royal residence of the Wadiyar Dynasty and sits facing the Chamundi Hills. There is a light and sound show that you can check out while the palace itself flaunts an awe-inspiring architecture.

3. Hawa Mahal

Constructed by red and pink sandstones, the Hawa Mahal sits in the centre of Jaipur in Rajasthan. The Palace of Winds is constructed by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh for the women’ of royal families to sit and relax.

4. Victoria Memorial

Kolkata has a major place in Indian history and hence a visit is must when you travel in India. This city was a major trade station during the British Raj. There are many structures in Kolkata constructed by the British but Victoria Memorial is one of the most impressive. It is dedicated to Queen Victoria and is now a museum with an excellent collection of manuscripts, paintings, and sculptures. Do check our 10 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Kolkata

5. Sanchi Stupa

One of the best preserved, the Buddhist vihara at Sanchi is a famous site in India. It is located in Snachi Town in Raisen District and is worth a visit when you travel in India.

6. Gwalior Fort

Sitting on a hill in the city of Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh, the Gwalior Fort is an amazing place to come face to face with history. In existence since the 6th century, this fort is one of the oldest in India and consists of temples and palaces. It features inscriptions that are 1500 years old and is an intriguing place to visit when you travel in India.

7. Nalanda

A world famous university in Bihar, Nalanda takes you straight back in time. Now in ruins, the prestigious university hosted students from across the world. Over 10,000 students and 2000 teachers lived here during its peak and the library here is believed to have a collection of books that were burnt during a siege.

8. Konark Sun Temple

In Odisha, lies the temple shaped in the form of a chariot and is dedicated to Sun god. This temple was constructed in 1255 C.E. and features wheels and horses to depict Sun god’s chariot.

9. Tawang Monastery

Tawang Monastery in Arunachal Pradesh is the largest monastery in India and the second in the world. The 5th Dalai Lama had ordered for its construction in 1680. It sits at 10,000 ft. and overlooks the Tawang River valley. The complex features a three-storey building with an 18 ft. statue of Buddha and there is also a library, which has a collection of rare scripture from the ancient age.

10. Brihadeeswarar Temple

The Brihadeeswarar temple is located in Thanjavur, which has a status of a historic city. The construction of this temple, dedicated to lord Shiva, was completed in 1010 C.E. Many tourists visit this site every year in Tamil Nadu and are amazed by the frescoes, paintings, and sculptures that adorn its spectacular architecture.

11. Rani ki Vav

This structure was constructed by a queen in the memory of his dead king. Located in Patan, Rani ka Vav was built in the 11th century and is a step well that is alluring to look at. The structure resembles an inverted temple to highlight the importance of water.

Must Read: The Ultimate Guide to a Culinary Journey Through the Northeast India