Gaya or Bodhgaya is an important pilgrimage destination for followers of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism alike. Religion here is beautifully entwined with the culture and way of life of the natives of the place. Age-old buildings, ancient temples, monuments, and some of the streets that make you feel that you are in some bygone era and have traversed back in time, mark the quaint charm and beauty of Bodhgaya. Many of the ancient monuments and structures of Gaya reflect the architectural brilliance of yesteryears. Though there are not many historical monuments in Gaya yet the given places listed outcome with some amount of historical importance and hence should be a part of your Gaya City Sightseeing Tour Itinerary. In Gaya, the mythology, history, and spiritual significance of any particular place often merge to result in importance that’s extraterrestrial. Here are some of the most notable historical places in Gaya…read on to learn more: 1. Kendui Ghat Kendui Ghat also referred to as Swarajpuri Kendui Ghat Falls within the city of Gaya in the state of Bihar. The Ghat presents amazingly scenic views to its visitors. The serene ambiance around the Ghat is appreciated by peace-loving people who come to the place to commune with nature and also to find some inner solace at the sight of the sacred Falgu flowing quietly past the Ghat. Falgu River is a very holy river and is also an ancient one. In many of the Hindu Puranic texts, we find a mention of the Falgu River. Falgu River holds special significance when it comes to Pind Daan ceremonies and the last rites performed on the banks of Falgu are sure to set the souls of our deceased ancestors free from the cycle of birth and rebirth. When you stand on the Kendui Ghat watching the reflection of the crimson rays of the setting sun on River Falgu, you feel that you have actually sensed the divine in the air! 2. Barabar Caves These are one of the most ancient caves in India. If you are in love with the old and the ancient, you’ll definitely be enchanted with the place. The age of the caves may be traced back to the Mauryan era that continued from 322BC to 185BC. The caves are among the oldest surviving rock-cut caves in India. Barabar Caves are actually a conglomeration of many small and big caves some of which resemble wooden huts and are believed to have served the purpose of Buddhist Viharas in ancient times. Among all the caves, the Lomas Rishi cave is said to be the oldest one. The walls of the caves are adorned with engravings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, Jainism, and Buddhism. The engravings on the cave walls are so sharp-edged and fine that they match the sharpness of laser cuttings. The architectural wonders spread across the walls of Barabar Caves would surely leave you stunned. 3. Rajmandir Palace Rajmandir palace bears clear testimony to the rich past of Gaya. The palace was home to the erstwhile Zamindars of the place and offers one a sneak peek into the royal vestiges associated with the holy city of Gaya. 4. Bodhi Tree The Bodhi Tree is a tree of immense sacredness and is deeply connected with the history of Buddhism. The present tree is however not the original one but the fifth-generation version of the Bodhi tree. The tree came up again every time it was destroyed and is witness to various historical events down the ages. According to historical and mythical records, the original Bodhi tree was fell by Emperor Ashoka’s wife who was envious of Buddha. After the destruction of the tree, Emperor Ashoka poured milk on the existing remnants of the tree’s roots and that revived the tree. Around 600 AD again, the tree was destroyed by the ruler, Sesaka. But, King Purnaverma came to the rescue of the tree and planted a sapling of the original Bodhi Tree around 620 AD and that again made the mighty Bodhi Tree reappear. Thus, this tree under which Lord Buddha is said to have attained his enlightenment is as eternal as a devout follower’s faith in the Buddha.
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