The Great Buddha Statue is one of the most famous religious monuments in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, India. It is a giant statue of Lord Buddha in the meditation pose or 'Dhyana Mudra' seated on a lotus in open air. Inaugurated by the 14th Dalai Lama in 1989, it stands at a height of around 80 feet (24 meters) and is a significant landmark and place of pilgrimage for Buddhists worldwide.
Bodh Gaya is well connected by road and rail to major cities in India. The nearest airport is Gaya International Airport, about 17 kilometers away. From Gaya, you can hire taxis or take local transportation to reach the site. Bodh Gaya is also accessible by train and long-distance bus services.
The best time to visit Bodh Gaya, and hence the Great Buddha Statue, is from October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant. The peak pilgrimage season is from November to February when many Buddhist festivals and rituals take place.
No, there is no entry fee to visit the Great Buddha Statue. It is open to the public, and visitors can admire the statue and the surrounding gardens without any cost.
The Great Buddha Statue is open to visitors throughout the year. The general visiting hours are from sunrise to sunset. However, these timings might slightly vary, so it's recommended to check the latest timings before planning a visit.
Yes, photography is generally allowed at the Great Buddha Statue for personal, non-commercial purposes. However, visitors should always be respectful and avoid disturbing others while taking photographs.
Bodh Gaya has numerous attractions in addition to the Great Buddha Statue, including the Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhi Tree, various monasteries belonging to different countries, and the Archaeological Museum. Visitors can explore the rich cultural and religious heritage of the area.
Yes, there are many accommodation options in Bodh Gaya catering to different budgets and preferences, ranging from guesthouses to luxury hotels. Some accommodations are within walking distance of the major attractions, including the Great Buddha Statue.
While the Great Buddha Statue itself may not host regular ceremonies, it is situated in Bodh Gaya, where many Buddhist temples and monasteries hold regular prayers and meditation sessions. Visitors can participate in these activities to immerse themselves in the spiritual environment.
Visitors are expected to dress modestly and behave respectfully at the Great Buddha Statue and other religious sites in Bodh Gaya. Revealing clothing is generally frowned upon, and it's advisable to remove shoes before entering certain areas as a sign of respect.
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