The Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, India, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant and revered sites in Buddhism. It marks the location where Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha, attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. The temple complex includes a 50-meter tall grand temple, which dates back to the 5th–6th century CE, although the site itself has been a place of pilgrimage for much longer. The complex also features a descendant of the original Bodhi Tree, various stupas, and shrines.
Nalanda Mahavihara, located in the Indian state of Bihar, was an ancient center of learning and one of the world's first residential universities, dating back to the 5th century CE. Renowned for its architectural grandeur and academic excellence, Nalanda attracted scholars from various parts of the world, including China, Tibet, Korea, and Central Asia. The university complex included monastic quarters, classrooms, meditation halls, and libraries filled with manuscripts covering diverse fields such as Buddhist studies, logic, grammar, medicine, and mathematics. It flourished under the patronage of Gupta and Pala emperors until its decline in the 12th century due to invasions and subsequent neglect.
Golghar is a large granary located in Patna, Bihar, India. Built in 1786 by Captain John Garstin, it was intended to serve as a granary for the British army and to prevent famines like the one experienced in 1770. The structure is a massive, dome-shaped building with a height of 29 meters and a diameter of 125 meters. Its walls are 3.6 meters thick at the base, tapering to 0.9 meters at the top. The granary has a unique spiral staircase of 145 steps, designed to facilitate the easy transportation and storage of grain.
The Great Buddha in Bodh Gaya, India, is an iconic statue that stands as a symbol of peace and enlightenment. Erected in 1989, this magnificent structure is approximately 25 meters tall and is crafted from sandstone and red granite. It depicts Lord Buddha in a meditative posture, known as the Dhyana Mudra, and is surrounded by smaller statues of his disciples.
Takht Sri Patna Sahib, located in Patna, India, is one of the five Takhts or holy seats of authority in Sikhism. It is a significant pilgrimage site for Sikhs as it marks the birthplace of the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, who was born here in 1666. The Gurdwara was built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in the 18th century and stands as a testament to the rich history and spiritual heritage of Sikhism. The complex includes a beautiful Gurdwara, a museum, and various other facilities for pilgrims.
The Bihar Museum in Patna, India, is a state-of-the-art cultural institution inaugurated in August 2015. Designed to celebrate the rich history and heritage of Bihar, the museum features a mix of modern and traditional architectural elements. It houses an extensive collection of artifacts ranging from ancient relics to contemporary art, including sculptures, coins, manuscripts, and textiles. One of its notable exhibits is the Didarganj Yakshi, a stunning example of Mauryan art.
The Tomb of Sher Shah Suri in Sasaram, India, is a magnificent 16th-century mausoleum built to honor the Afghan ruler Sher Shah Suri, who founded the Suri Empire in North India. Constructed between 1540 and 1545, the tomb is an exemplary piece of Indo-Islamic architecture. It is situated in the middle of an artificial lake, giving it a serene and majestic appearance. The structure is made of red sandstone and stands on a square stone plinth with a large dome that rises to 122 feet. The intricate carvings, the large chhatris (elevated, dome-shaped pavilions), and the surrounding garden reflect the grandeur and architectural ingenuity of that era.
Buddha Smriti Park, located in Patna, India, is a beautifully landscaped urban park dedicated to commemorating the life and teachings of Gautama Buddha. Inaugurated by the Dalai Lama in 2010, the park spans over 22 acres and features a stunning central stupa known as the Pataliputra Karuna Stupa. This stupa houses sacred relics of Buddha from various countries like Japan, South Korea, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. The park also includes a meditation center, a museum showcasing Buddhist artifacts, and lush green spaces for relaxation.
Mahavir Mandir, located in Patna, India, is one of the most significant and revered temples dedicated to Lord Hanuman. This historic temple attracts millions of devotees annually, especially during festivals like Ram Navami and Hanuman Jayanti. The temple is renowned not only for its religious significance but also for its philanthropic activities, including running hospitals and educational institutions. Mahavir Mandir Trust, which manages the temple, is one of the largest religious trusts in North India and contributes significantly to various charitable causes.
Mundeshwari Temple, located in the Kaimur district of Bihar, India, is one of the oldest functional Hindu temples in the country. Dating back to the Gupta period, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Shakti. The temple is built in an octagonal shape, which is quite rare in Indian temple architecture. The sanctum houses idols of Shiva and his consort, Shakti, in the form of Mundeshwari Devi.
Patan Devi, located in Patna, India, is one of the oldest and most revered temples in the region. Dedicated to the goddess Patan Devi, who is considered a form of Goddess Durga, the temple holds significant religious importance for Hindus. It is believed to be one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, where different parts of the goddess Sati's body are said to have fallen during the celestial dance of destruction by Lord Shiva. The temple attracts numerous devotees, especially during the Navratri festival, when it becomes a hub of spiritual activities and celebrations.
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