E-Book-Buddha

A journey for the soul

Calm, composed and collected, REEMA LOKESH visit to the Maha Bodhi temple being one of
is what we mortals feel in EDITOR the primary highlights. The place that
general when we think of denotes peace and prayer had earlier in
Buddha. Treading on tough 2013 fallen prey to tension and terror, but
terrains, he travelled long thankfully is now recovering slowly but
distances and attained Nirvana. India and steadily from the shock. In life’s journey of
her connect with Buddha is indissoluble. pain and peace, most people seek Buddha
His presence, both tangible and intangible, to rejuvenate the soul. The world comes to
is felt across the country, wherein he finally India for some soul searching spiritual
attained a soulful awakening under the experiences as some vouch for the fact that
Bodh Gaya tree. Buddha in the present India has a healing effect, which is subtle.
time and age is a force to be reckoned with
and a power that can rejuvenate the Come to the Land of Buddha and
pilgrim tourism experience that India has journey with us through 13 states of India,
to offer. where every place has its own unique story
and experience to relive and reveal the life
The fourth International Buddhist and times of Buddha, and the spread of
Conclave which took place in Bodh Gaya, Buddhism in the country. By the end of this
Bihar, India in September 2014, witnessed journey, we hope you would have
participation from around 21 nations, the discovered your hidden spiritual side.

October 2014 The Land of Buddha | 3

08 14 42
52 62 32 90

74 Contents

4 | The Land of Buddha October 2014

08 Maharashtra The Land of Buddha | 5
14 Gujarat
24 Himachal Pradesh
32 Sikkim
42 Bihar
52 Madhya Pradesh

October 2014

62 Uttar Pradesh October 2014
68 Jammu & Kashmir
74 Andhra Pradesh
80 Chhattisgarh
84 West Bengal
90 Arunachal Pradesh
94 Odisha

6 | The Land of Buddha

Chairman of the Board DESIGN MARKETING Express TravelWorld
Reg. No.-MH/MR/SOUTH156\2013-15
Viveck Goenka National Art Director Regional Heads RNI Reg. No.MAHENG/2005/15993
Printed by The Indian Express Limited and published by Ms
Editor Bivash Barua Harit Mohanty - West Vaidehi Thakar on behalf of The Indian Express Press, Plot No.
Prabhas Jha - North EL-208, TTC Industrial Area, Mahape, Navi Mumbai - 400710
Reema Lokesh* Deputy Art Director Sanghamitra Kumar - East and Published from Express Towers, 2nd Floor, Nariman Point,
Dr. Raghu Pillai - South Mumbai - 400021. (Editorial & Administra-tive Offices:
Chief of Product Surajit Patro Express Towers, 1st Floor, Nariman Point, Mumbai – 400021)
Marketing Team
Prabhas Jha Chief Designer The Land of Buddha | 7
Sunil Dcosta
Assistant Editor Pravin Temble Gunjan Chauhan
Baljinder Singh
Steena Joy Senior Graphic Designerr Ajanta Sengupta

Sr. Associate Editor Rushikesh Konka CIRCULATION

Sudipta Dev Senior Artist Mohan Varadakar

CONTENT TEAM Ratilal Ladani, Kiran Parker PRODUCTION
Mumbai
SCHEDULING & General Manager
Kahini Chakraborty
Rituparna Chatterjee COORDINATION B R Tipnis
Akshay Kumar
Sr.Executive Manager
Delhi
Rohan Thakkar Bhadresh Valia
Archana Sharma
Photo Editor
Kolkata
Sandeep Patil
Joy Roy Choudhury

October 2014

The vihara in Ajanta caves in Aurangabad

Maharashtra

F religion. Often it was the Buddha. Bhaja is another proves its name as it lies in the
or a remote areas which the monks important Buddhist centre of form of black caves in the
thousand years Maharashtra and nuns found favourable for Hinayana faith in Sanjay Gandhi National Park,
was home to Buddhism in their contemplative lifestyles. Maharashtra. The caves are 40 km from Mumbai. These
India. Though Lord Buddha One of the most impressive located on a hill near Bhaja caves date back to the second
had come from the north, monuments from that era can village, Maval taluka in Pune. century BC to ninth century
presently Nepal, and spent be found near the Mumbai- These caves are mainly viharas AD. Originally constructed as a
much of his life in Bihar, after Pune road. Known as the Karla and chaityas. There is a place of rest for travellers on
his death Buddhism spread caves, one can see here a waterfall near the cave where the way to Sopara-Kalyan, the
across to different parts of cathedral sized temple carved tourists often go to take a dip. Kanheri caves, 109 in numbers,
India and for about 1,000 out of a rock face. Inside there soon turned into the Buddhist
years, the Western Ghats of is a sculpture of a giant sized The word 'Kanheri', which viharas, used by Buddhist
Maharashtra went on to means the black mountain,
provide support for this

October 2014 The Land of Buddha | 9

monks for their residential and stone. Vegetable paintings The Pandavleni Buddhist temple, situated in
meditation purposes. Its cover the four walls of the hall. caves, located Kamptee, Nagpur. It is
location in the midst of a dense In the temple, there is a marble approximately dedicated to Lord Buddha and
forest en route to the ancient statue of Lord Buddha which is eight km from south boasts of striking architecture
cities of Kalyan, Nashik, 6.5 feet in height in a sitting of Nashik, and picturesque landscape.
Sopara and Ujjain made the position inside a small room. consists of a The temple was founded by the
place more popular among collection of Mother Noriko Ogawa Society
Buddhist travellers all around, The Pandavleni caves, caves believed to be of Japan, in association with
and soon became famous as the located approximately eight a part of Hinayana Sulekha Kumbhare, a former
Buddhist caves. The km from south of Nashik, Buddhist caves minister. A unique temple, it
Nipponzan Myohoji temple in consists of a collection of caves which is more has emerged as one of the most
Mumbai is another temple believed to be a part of than 1,200 years old popular attractions for
dedicated to the Buddhist Hinayana Buddhist caves travellers coming to Nagpur.
faith. This is also the oldest which is more than 1,200 years Sprawled over an area of
Buddhist temple in the capital old. These caves were created approximately 10 acres,
city of Maharashtra. This by ancient Buddhist kings for Dragon Palace Temple
temple was founded in the year popular saints so that they comprises of a Buddhist prayer
1956. The main hall of this could live and meditate centre. Enshrined on the first
temple where the devotees peacefully there. These caves floor of the Meditation Hall of
gather to offer prayer have emerged as a popular the temple is a colossal statue
possesses two huge Japanese Buddhist pilgrimage of Lord Buddha. The idol is
or Thomas drums made of destination. The name is said to have been carved out of
wood. The prayer hall is associated with the legend of a single block of sandalwood.
supported by 10 pillars made of Pandavas of the Mahabharata. Sometime ago, Dragon Palace

Dragon Palace Temple is a

10 | The Land of Buddha October 2014

Rock sculptures in Ajanta caves

Temple of Kamptee was sites such as Ajanta, Ellora and Pitalkhora caves are a unique caves cuts into the curved
felicitated with an Pitalkhora. Pitalkhora, located combination of temples and mountain side above the
International Award for the in Gautala Wildlife Sanctuary monasteries. The caves, which Waghora river and consists of
best concrete structure of the on Satmala hills, has numerous comprises mainly of viharas, 29 Buddhist caves dating from
world. Buddhist caves, which dates are the largest structures 200 BC to 650 AD. These caves
back from the second century related to the early Theravada were used by Buddhist monks
Situated along the right BC to first century AD. sect of Buddhism. Lying deep to teach and perform the
bank of river Kham in Situated at a distance of 78 km within the Sahyadri hills near rituals related to Buddhism.
Maharashtra, Aurangabad is a from Aurangabad, the Pitalkhora, the Ajanta group of Located 40 km from
gateway to several Buddhist

October 2014 The Land of Buddha | 11

Pitalkhora, the Ellora caves before ending at Dikshabhoomi In a bid to attract called Lord Buddha to
are 34 in number and in Nagpur. more tourists to the inaugurate the Buddh Vihar,
represents all three major state, the and Lord Buddha had visited
faiths in ancient India - Nalasopara was a major Maharashtra Tourism the place along with 500 of his
Buddhism, Jainism and port town whose trade had Development disciples and stayed at
Hinduism. linked ancient India to Corporation (MTDC) Nalasopara for a week. Much
Mesopotamia, Arabia, Greece, has developed its later when Emperor Ashoka
DEVELOPING CIRCUITS Rome, Africa among others. own Buddhist circuit embraced Buddhism, he built a
In a bid to attract more The town’s rich historical, tours with 25 major stupa at Nalasopara. Ashoka
cultural and traditional destinations. The had also written 14
tourists to the state, the heritage dates back to 2600 circuit starts from inscriptions, eight of which
Maharashtra Tourism years when Purna the Sanchi stupa was found by Pandit
Development Corporation Maitrayaniputra, a rich replica adorning the Bhagwanlal Indrajit near
(MTDC) has developed its own merchant and trader from port town of Bhatela lake. While the ninth
Buddhist circuit tours with 25 Sunaparanta in ancient Nalasopara in Thane inscription was found in the
major destinations. The western India now Nalasopara, district year 1956 from Bhuigaon.
Buddhist circuit starts from on his visit to Shravasti in
the Sanchi stupa replica Uttar Pradesh embraced The Buddhist circuit
adorning the port town of Buddhism. Maitrayaniputra proceeds from Thane to
Nalasopara in Thane district. attended a preaching of Lord Mumbai, which has several
The stupa in Nalasopara was Gautam Buddha, renounced major Buddhist religious and
chosen because it was from his wealth to become a tourist attractions. These
here that Emperor Ashoka's Buddhist monk. include the Kanheri caves, the
son Mahendra and daughter world's tallest pagoda in Gorai
Sanghamitra are believed to When he decided to spread (both in Borivli suburb), the
have left for Sri Lanka to Lord Buddha’s teachings, he Chaityabhoomi in Dadar and
spread the faith. The journey came back to Sopara and built the Elephanta Island Buddhist
continues to Chaityabhoomi in a ‘Buddh Vihar’ which had caves, 10 km off Mumbai in the
Dadar, Pagoda in Gorai and eight gates made out of Arabian Sea.
other Buddhist destinations sandalwood. History states
that Maitrayaniputra had The next attractions would

12 | The Land of Buddha October 2014

be in Raigad, Satara, Pune, month i.e. April or May. This ‘THE MIND IS
Nashik, Aurangabad, and day commemorates three EVERYTHING.
Nagpur (besides Thane and important events of WHAT YOU
Mumbai), covering 25 major Buddha's life – his birth, THINK YOU
destinations spread across enlightenment and attainment BECOME’
eight districts. After Thane of Nirvana.
and Mumbai, the Buddhist
circuit covers Ajanta and Celebrated every year in the
Ellora caves in Aurangabad month of December, the Ellora
and other prominent sites in Festival is organised by MTDC.
surrounding districts before The site of this festival is the
terminating at Dikshabhoomi Ellora caves near Aurangabad,
in Nagpur. where well-known artistes
perform. These music and
FESTIVE SPIRIT dance performances attract
Buddhism is the third tourists from all over the
world. The Kalidas temple,
largest religion in the state. sculptured out of one huge
Most Marathi Buddhists are rock, provides a perfect
followers of the Dalit Buddhist backdrop for this event. The
movement, a 19th and 20th Elephanta Festival is
century Buddhist revival celebrated in the month of
movement in India. Hence February every year and is
Buddha Purnima is one of the again organised by MTDC. The
most important festivals in the festival is celebrated in the
state. Elephanta Island Buddhist
caves. Special performance by
Buddha Purnima is the most renowned dancers and
sacred day in the Buddhist musicians is the highlight of
calendar. It falls on the full the festival.
moon of the fourth lunar

October 2014

Buddhist remains in Uparkot, Junagadh

Gujarat

T Indriya Jataka, Petavatthu. prominent Buddhist centre — The caves in the Uparkot Fort
he most During his visit to India in 640 right from the times of at Junagadh have three storeys
ancient archeological AD, renowned Chinese Emperor Ashoka’s reign. It is of cell-like rooms set around a
evidences of Buddhism in Buddhist scholar and pilgrim dotted with stupas, rain water tank. The caves
Gujarat dates back to the reign Hiuen Tsang had noticed the monasteries and exquisite rock reflect the advanced drainage
of Emperor Ashoka (269–232 presence of over 200 cut caves. Located around 102 system and water utilisation
BC). The excavations and monasteries which provided km from Rajkot, Junagadh has prevalent during that time and
carvings on pillars, stupas, shelter to more than 2000 the third century BC rock the cells are also well-
viharas and a range of rock cut monks. inscriptions of Emperor ventilated. To the opposite of
caves indicate the presence of Ashoka housed in a building Uparkot Fort is another three
Buddhism in this state. TRACING THE PAST with the English translations of storey cave complex with 13
Gujarat has been mentioned in Junagadh district has been a each displayed on the walls. cells cut into the rock face
several Buddhist books and
literature like Milinda Panha,

October 2014 The Land of Buddha | 15

called Baba Pyara or Bawa Bordevi, Mandor Caves and
Pyara. A third cave cluster the caves near Prabhas Patan
called Khapara Khudiya has and Savni-Gir. Most of these
cells set in L-shape and has a caves, carved from monolithic
rainwater reservoir. Most of rocks, are famous for their art
the caves around Junagadh forms and symbolic
date between second and inscriptions.
fourth century AD. The
Junagadh Museum showcases Amongst all the Buddhist
Buddhist findings from the caves located at Uparkot, the
region including the remains of most popular are the ones to
the bone stupa discovered near the north-west of Jami Masjid.
Girnar hills which has a solid This group of caves is
brick core. Another Buddhist constructed in three tiers. Two
monument found in Junagadh storeys have regular floors
is a vihara at Minya in Girnar while the upper tier is marked
hills which dates back to the by the presence of a large tank.
reign of Rudrasen. Some of the This tank is covered on three
other prominent Buddhist sides by balconies and
places of interest in and Kakshasana on the north-west
around Junagdh are and western sides. The ground
Panheswer caves, Mai floor presents several
Gadechi, Matri, Intawa, exquisitely carved pillars with
Vajrapanat, Sana caves, prominent ground bases,
shafts and crown in place.

16 | The Land of Buddha October 2014



Khambalida caves, situated first cave has a cell with a In 2009, the Gujarat significance have been
about 21 km south of Gondal, shrine door that has a Buddha State Archeological displayed at Museum of
are one of Gujarat's most figure. On the eastern side is a Department Archaeology at Maharaja
impressive Buddhist caves. recess from where the image discovered remains Sayajirao University,
The entrance to one of the has disappeared but there are of a Buddhist Vadodara. The recent
caves is flanked by sculptures noteworthy flying figures. monastery and excavations have brought to
of Bodhisattvas identified as residential caves at light a Buddhist monastery
Avalokiteshvara, who is In 2009, the Gujarat State Vadnagar. It is said belonging to a period between
revered by Buddhists as an Archeological Department that Hiuen Tsang, a second and seventh century
embodiment of compassion discovered remains of a Chinese Buddhist AD, within the fortified area of
and Vajrapani is one of the Buddhist monastery and scholar and pilgrim Vadnagar. The monastery had
earliest Bodhisattvas of residential caves at Vadnagar. visited the site in two votive stupas and an open
Mahayana Buddhism It is said that Hiuen Tsang 640 AD central courtyard around
iconography. The cave site is of visited the site in 640 AD and which initially nine cells were
historical importance since it described it as a wealthy place constructed. The arrangement
is the only one in Gujarat with with 1000 Buddhist monks and of cells around the central
perfectly identifiable carvings 10 Buddhist monasteries. The courtyard creates a
of Bodhisattvas, beings who site contains remains of swastika-like pattern.
assist people to achieve several viharas, rock cut caves
complete enlightenment. and other centres. Over 2,000 Around 20 km away from
Another Buddhist site near artefacts, including an idol of Vadnagar, Taranga hills have a
Gondal is at Dhank where Buddha, amphora, a crucible profound Buddhist connection.
tourists can find Buddhist and jewellery items were found Locally known as Jogida ni
caves hewn into a ravine. The at various places in this site. Gufa, the recently excavated
These objects of archeological caves trace the presence of

18 | The Land of Buddha October 2014

‘DO NOT DWELL IN The Land of Buddha | 19
THE PAST, DO NOT
DREAM OF THE
FUTURE,
CONCENTRATE THE
MIND ON THE
PRESENT MOMENT’

October 2014

rock cut monastery used by back, Devni Mori is known to
Buddhist monks thousands of be an important monistic
years ago. Also, the hills have centre for followers of
Buddhist sculptures carved in Buddhism. Located on the
stone that resemble the frills of river Meshwo near
Bodhivriksha or Kalpavruksha Shamlaji, this site boasts of
and other Buddhist motifs. several viharas, stupas, small
Broken terracotta images of caves and chaityas. This village
Buddha, four carved images of came into the limelight after
Dhyani Buddha on a stone excavations in the area
plate, stone and brick walls revealed the presence of a
inside rock shelters, etc, were substantial Buddhist site with
excavated from the treasure a stupa where a relic casket
trove here. was found which is currently
housed in Vadodara. According
Talaja is located on NH 8E to the inscription on the
running south from Bhavnagar copper basket it contained
to Srunnath. The site has 28 relics of Lord Buddha, gold
caves on a cone shaped hill bottles, burnt sandalwood,
with Jain temples on its beads, gold, silver foil and silk.
summit. The most impressive A replica of the casket and a
is Ebhala Mandapa with a model of the stupa with its
large hall fronted by four elongated dome have been
octagonal pillars. The other exhibited at the nearby
important cave here is the Shamlaji Museum along with
ruined chaitya-griha with a some of the Buddhist
stupa that has a primitive sculptures found in
version of the vedika and Sabarkantha district. Tourists
chaitya-window. travel from near and wide to

Dating over 1,600 years

20 | The Land of Buddha October 2014

Khambalida caves in Gondal



have a look at its relics cast in in Lakhpat taluka of Kutch and A monolithic iron language.
stone. are one of the most prominent pillar and seven Ancient references indicate
Buddhist caves in Gujarat. caves dot the
Sana caves offer remnants These caves have been Buddhist presence in that in the seventh century AD,
of a Buddhist establishment mentioned in the writings of Kadia Dungar, which Vallabhi University was one of
and are located near Rajula in Hiuen Tsang. According to is located in Bharuch the significant Hinayana
Amreli district. These caves local folklores these caves were district. These caves Buddhist universities and was
are believed to be the most erected at the site of a Shiva are situated at a high comparable to Nalanda’s
ancient of all Buddhist caves temple and were later elevation and have Mahayana Buddhist
situated across western India. occupied by followers of engravings of University. In Vallabhi, Hiuen
In these hills, more than 60 Buddhism. Brahmi monkeys, elephants Tsang had confirmed presence
caves have been found. They inscriptions and seals have and other of about 100 monasteries
are believed to date from the been found at this cave site. inscriptions in accounting for around 6000
first century BC to the second This may have been one of the Brahmi language Buddhist monks and also found
century AD. The largest is the 80 sites that Chinese travellers foreign students in Vallabhi
Ebhal Mandap, which is about reported seeing in the seventh University.
22 m wide, five m high and 20 century at the mouth of the
m deep. The Bhimchory cave, river Indus. There is a The Lalbhai Dalpathbhai
sometimes called Bhima- primitive rock step well at Institute of Indology,
Chauri, has octagonal pillars walking distance from the site. Ahmedabad was started in
and a stone bench. Near this 1956, to preserve a repository
cave, is a chaitya-griha which A monolithic iron pillar and of rare art, manuscripts and
has a plain stupa and an seven caves dot the Buddhist archaeological objects of India.
apsidal rear. A Sitaram presence in Kadia Dungar, In 1984, a museum was opened
Bapu temple has been which is located in Bharuch to cover topics ranging from
built on a hill which has district. These caves are Buddhism, Jainism and its
many caves connected to situated at a high elevation and expressions, grammar, tantra
each other by rough hewn have engravings of monkeys, and poetry, Vedas and other
rock steps. elephants and other different branches of Indian
inscriptions in Brahmi philosophy.
The Siyot caves are situated

October 2014 The Land of Buddha | 23

Kalachakra temple, Dharamshala

Himachal Pradesh

B these alliances that laid the Tibet made Dharmashala his Tibetan Buddhism. The most
uddhism in foundation of Buddhism in home, Buddhism became a sacred site in the town is the
Himachal Pradesh has Tibet, Ladakh, Lahaul and Spiti. mainstay in the Himalayan Dalai Lama's temple, called
traditionally been concentrated Buddhism got a fillip when a state, attracting visitors from Tsuglagkhang. It has statues of
around Lahaul, Spiti and century later, Tibetan king around the world. Today Shakyamuni, Avalokitesvara
Kinnaur valley. The history of Trison Detsen adopted McLeod Ganj, a suburb in and Padmasambhava (Guru
Trans Himalayan Buddhism Buddhism. On account of his Dharamshala is the Rinpoche). Dalai Lama's
can be traced back to the initiatives, the great teacher headquarters of the exiled residence is opposite this
seventh century AD, when Padmasambhava, travelled from Tibetan government. Also temple. The impressive
Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo India to Tibet to spread called 'Little Lhasa' or Dhasa, it Namgyal Monastery is the
married the Napalese Mahayana Buddhism. attracts those people who are personal monastery of His
princesses Bkrikuti Devi and interested in knowing about Holiness the Dalai Lama, and
Wen Cheng from China's Tang After the 14th Dalai Lama of
dynasty. It was the influence of

October 2014 The Land of Buddha | 25

also includes Namgyal Tantric dance performances to folk from Mandi); Kullu (70 km from journey to spread Buddhism.
College. The monastery that operas to concerts and plays. Mandi); Manali (45 km from There are three monasteries in
houses nearly 200 monks There is also a Tibetan Kullu); Rohtang (50 km from the area around a lake. Floating
continues its programmes of handicraft centre in McLeod Manali); Koksar (15 km from reed decorated with prayer flags
studies and ritual practices Ganj and a market is organised Rohtang); Keylong (35 km from on the lake symbolise the spirit
under the guidance of the Dalai every Sunday, which is popular Koksar); Jispa; Sarchu (114 km of Padmasambhava.
Lama. It is here that young among visitors and locals alike. from Keylong); Leh (246 km
monks study Buddhist from Sarchu). The popular tourism
scriptures and tantras, along KEY CIRCUITS destinations of Kulu and Manali
with modern studies. There are two Buddhist Circuit II: Shimla (120 km have recent monasteries. The
from Chandigarh); Rampur (135 Tibetan market in Manali is a
The Tibetan Institute of circuits in Himachal Pradesh. km from Shimla); Reckong Peo great draw for tourists for
Performing Arts (TIPA) in The first circuit starts from (100 km from Rampur); Rarang, different bric-a-bracs. Shashur
McLeod Ganj was set up by the Chandigarh and ends at Leh via Jangi, Lippa, Kanum and Pooh; monastery belonging to the
Dalai Lama to preserve Tibetan Sarchu. The second circuit Nako (88 km from Reckong Drugpa sect is located 37 km
artistic heritage, especially originates from Shimla and ends Peo); Tabo (70 km Nako); from Manali. The monastery
opera, dance, and music. The at Koksar. Both these circuits Dhankar Gompa (32 km from derives its names from the blue
institute was set up in 1959 and are associated with places that Tabo); Kaza (29 km from pines found in its vicinity, Sha-
is the home of the Tibetan folk are linked to Padmasambhava Dhankar); Ki Monastery; shur means blue pines in the
opera Lhamo. The institute also and other monasteries. Kibber (11 km from Ki); Koksar. local dialect. This monastery
houses a modern theatre group has large Thangka paintings,
for contemporary plays. TIPA Circuit I :Chandigarh; There are a number of some being more than 15 feet
organises an annual Folk Opera Swarghat (88 km from important Buddhist sites in high, along with wall paintings
Festival in April, with Chandigarh); Bilaspur (40 km these circuits. It is believed that depicting the 84 siddhas of
programmes ranging from from Swarghat); Mandi (60 km it was from Rewalsar that Buddhism.
from Bilaspur); Rewalsar (22 km Padmasambhava started his

26 | The Land of Buddha October 2014

Ki Monastery

Keylong, the district instruments and old weapons. Kardang monastery Sanjauli. The nearby town of
headquarters of Lahaul and Tayul Gompa is located six km is perched on a ridge Rampur has an old Buddhist
Spiti, has many Buddhist from Keylong. Established in the at an altitude of temple.
monasteries. The oldest of 17th century, Tayul means 'the 3,500 metres on the
which is the Guru Ghantal chosen one' in Tibetan language. bank of Bhaga river. About 100 km from Rampur
monastery, which houses idols It is believed that the is Reckong Peo, which is the
of Padmasambhava and Other important monasteries monastery was headquarters of Kinnaur
Brajeshwari Devi. Every June, include those at Triloknath. constructed in the district. There are as many as
on a full moon night the festival, About 22 km from Keylong is 12th century 33 Buddhists monasteries and
Ghantal, is celebrated here. The Jispa, which is considered as a temples in Kinnaur. In 1992, the
other important monasteries new tourism centre with its Dalai Lama had conducted a
near Keylong are at Tayul, monasteries of Yarji and 'Kalachakra' ceremony at a
Gemur and Kardang. The last Photang. The Bhaga river is gompa in Reckong Peo.
being a sacred place for the popular here among anglers, Rarang, Jangi, Lippa, Kanum
Drug-pa sect. Kardang particularly for its catch of trout and Pooh are small villages
monastery is perched on a ridge during the summer months. with many Buddhists
at an altitude of 3,500 metres on Juniper plantation can also be monasteries and temples. Two
the bank of Bhaga river. It is found near the village. of the temples in Lippa house
believed that the monastery was the sacred Kangyur and
constructed in the 12th century. Among the many attractions Tangyur texts. While Kanum is
Renovated in 1912, it has an of Shimla as a tourist a monastic village, Pooh has a
enviable collection of scriptures destination, are the two recently big Drugpa gompa. Built
in Bhotia language along with built monasteries. The around a lake the village of
Thangka paintings, musical Nyingma-pa sect has a Nako has four Buddhist
monastery at Kasumpti while temples with large prayer
the Gelukpa sect has one at

28 | The Land of Buddha October 2014

wheels. There is also a rock largest one in Spiti, with nine ‘PEACE COMES
with foot impressions that is temples and 23 chortens, along FROM WITHIN.
believed to be of with chambers for nuns and DO NOT SEEK
Padmasambhava. monks. The monastery was IT WITHOUT’
founded in 996 AD by the great
LITTLE TIBET teacher Rinchensang-po, and The Land of Buddha | 29
About 70 km from Nako is celebrated its 1000th year of
existence in 1996. The
Tabo in Spiti, which has as monastery is renowned for its
many as 30 monasteries beautiful murals and statutes.
dotting its arid landscape. Spiti It is a monastery of great
is also called the 'Little Tibet' significance and religious
because its topography is sanctity to Tibetan Buddhists.
similar to that of Tibet. Spiti is Interestingly, the monastery is
connected to Ladakh and Tibet also called 'Ajanta of the
on the eastern side, and Kullu Himalayas' by many people.
and Kinnaur on the west. The Visitors can also go to the
motorable road from Shimla to nearby meditation caves and
Spiti remains open for eight to spend a few hours in
nine months in a year, via tranquility.
Kinnaur. Many of the
inhabitants of Spiti are The nearby monastery in
Buddhists. Dhankar, is 25 km east of Kaza,
and is a fort monastery.
A UNESCO World Heritage Dhangkar means fort on a cliff.
Site, the Tabo monastery is the

October 2014

Dhankar was the ancient stories and is considered a fort
capital of Spiti, the early rulers monastery. The large confines
being the Nonos. It is situated of the structure has many
at an elevation of 3,894 metres labyrinthine corridors and
in the Spiti Valley above rooms.
Dhankar village, between the
towns of Kaza and Tabo. The Kibber is one of the highest
complex overlooks the villages in the world at an
confluence of the Spiti and Pin altitude of 4205 m above sea
rivers and offers a spectacular level in a narrow valley
view. The monastery has a rich surrounded by mountains from
repository of Buddhist all sides. The village has a small
scriptures in Bhotia language, monastery. It is also famous for
along with many paintings and being the highest village in the
sculptures. world which has its own polling
station during elections.
Kaza is the capital of Spiti
and is the access route for Lhalung monastery near the
monasteries like Ki, Hikkim Lingti river in Spiti Valley is
(Tangyud), Komic and Langja. considered the second most
Located 12 km north of Kaza, important one after Tabo. It
the Ki monastery overlooks the has a complex of nine shrines
village. It is famous for its with a richly decorated chapel.
collection of scriptures and The golden hall of the temple
Thangka paintings, many of has gilded images of deities.
which are of great value. The
monastery provides training to Among other important
novice monks. The monasteries are Palpung
architectural style of this Sherabling Monastic Seat in
monastery is 'pasada' style, Kangra Valley, nestled in a pine
which is marked by multiple forest. The monastery has a
towering golden Buddha statue
30 | The Land of Buddha and many stupas. An

October 2014

interesting fact is that the include Halda festival in the festival with monks dances are the highlight of
monks in the monastery have in month of January in Lahaul performing the cham dance Gokur festival held in Dhankar
fact won a Grammy Award for region. The Tibetan New Year wearing exotic costumes, monastery in November. The
their chanting CD. is celebrated in February and including masks. last month of the year is the
March as Losar Festival. Along time for the three-day
FESTIVAL TIME with music, dancing and In August, a trade fair is International Himalayan
For tourists, the best time to processions, the highlight is organised in Kaza called La Festival in McLeod Ganj. It is
discourses by the Dalai Lama Darcha, which also witnesses marked by dance and music
visit Himachal Pradesh is at at Dharamshala. The months Buddhist sports and dances performances to promote
the time of the many festivals. of June /July see the Ki Cham along with organisation of the peace and harmony.
Some of the important ones rural marketing fair. Mask

October 2014 The Land of Buddha | 31

Pemayangtse monastery

Sikkim

I (Dharma Raja). village had its own monastery remain undimmed by the
n the 17th While Phuntsog Namgyal and these became not just passage of time.
century, three learned lamas, places of worship but also
Lhatsun Chenpo, Karthok worked on consolidating the educational centres. PEMAYANGTSE MONASTERY
Rikzin Chenpo and Ngadak kingdom, the three monks led Originally established by
Sempa Chenpo entered Sikkim by Lhatsun Chenpo Today, Sikkim has nearly 200
from three different directions concentrated on building monasteries and Lhakhangs Lhatsun Chempo, one of the
and met at Norbugang, Yuksom monasteries and shrines all over and the influence of Buddhism is three lamas to have performed
and decided to establish a Sikkim. The initial monasteries felt in nearly every corner of the the consecration ceremony of
Buddhist monarchy in the state. built in Sikkim were the ones in state. From the fluttering the first Chogyal (religious
In 1642, the three monks Dubdi and Sanga Choling (both prayer flags to the sacred caves, monarch) of Sikkim, it is one of
crowned Phuntsog Namgyal as in west Sikkim), close to lakes and stupas, the images the oldest monasteries in the
the first monarch of Sikkim, Yuksum. Soon, nearly every and symbols of Buddhism state located in west Sikkim
giving him the title of Chogyal

October 2014 The Land of Buddha | 33

belonging to Nyingmapa sect. It Gangtok and 133 km from Tashiding is famous known as Thong- Warang-Dol,
was entrusted with the task to Siliguri in West Bengal and is for the most holy and means 'Saviour by mere
perform all religious functions well-connected by road by bus Chorten (stupa) sight'. It contains the precious
of the erstwhile monarch. Inside and jeep services. The town has known as Thong- relic of Mythical Buddha 'Wod-
the monastery there is a wooden several good quality hotels and Warang-Dol, and Srung' antecedent to Buddha
structure depicting the 'Maha resorts catering to different means 'Saviour by Shakya Muni. This stupa
Guru’s heavenly palace' (sang- budgets. mere sight'. It became a sacred object for
tok-palri), a masterpiece contains the pilgrims. The most important
created by Dungzin Rinpoche. TASHIDING MONASTERY precious relic of festival which is unique to this
This monastery is located near Legend has it that Tashiding Mythical Buddha monastery is Bhumchhu, a
Pelling, on a hilltop at an altitude 'Wod-Srung' sacred holy water ceremony,
of 6300 ft. It commands a hill is the navel point of the holy antecedent to which is held annually and
magnificent panoramic view of places in Sikkim from a religious Buddha Shakya Muni attracts a large number of
the Himalayan ranges, the point of view. Guru pilgrims and devotees from
surrounding hill and country Padmasambhava had made his Bhutan and other adjoining
side. Its main festival is Guru miraculous visit to this hill in areas. Lama Ngadag Sempa
Drakmar Chham in winter eighth century AD and Chhenpo introduced Bhumchhu
corresponding to the month of recognised it as a heart of the ceremony in the 17th century
February-March. Pemayangtse holy places in Sikkim. It is a with a gift of a precious vase
is a parent monastery of all the parent monastery of the that he had brought from Tibet.
monasteries following the monasteries following Jhang- Every year, on 14th and 15th day
Mindrolling lineage in Sikkim. Ter lineage of Nyingmapa sect of the first month of the Tibetan
in Sikkim. calendar, the Bhumchhu
The nearest town is Pelling, ceremony is organised, the vase
which is about 125 km from Tashiding is famous for the
most holy Chorten (stupa)

34 | The Land of Buddha October 2014

Monastery in Sillery Gaon

36 | The Land of Buddha Bhumchhu, a sacred
holy water ceremony,
is held annually and
attracts a large
number of pilgrims
and devotees from
Bhutan and other
adjoining areas.
Lama Ngadag Sempa
Chhenpo introduced
Bhumchhu ceremony
in 17th century with a
gift of a precious
vase

October 2014



is taken out and the most sacred available here. Yuksom situated at Lord Buddha), Guru Trungkar
holy water is distributed among an altitude of 1780 m Tshechu (birth anniversary of
the devotees. Tashiding is a RUMTEK DHARMA is an attractive Guru Padmasambhava) and
small village on a hilltop near CHAKRA CENTRE tourist destination Gutor Chham on the eve of
Pelling. It is accessible from and the base for Losar (the Tibetan New Year).
Yuksom which is 16 km away Rumtek Dharma Chakra some of the most Being the seat of the Gyalwa
and Pelling about 51 km. Centre is a large monastery exciting treks in the Karmapa, Rumtek Dharma
located about 24 km from region. It is also of Chakra Centre is now the
Yuksom situated at an Gangtok in east Sikkim. The great historical international headquarters of
altitude of 1780 m is an monastery is situated at an importance to the the Kagyupa sect.
attractive tourist destination altitude of about 5800 feet (1547 Sikkimese people
and the base for some of the m). It is a centre of learning of with the first ENCHEY MONASTERY
most exciting treks in the the Kagyupa sect of Tibetan Chogyal crowned Situated on a beautiful hilltop
region. It is also of great Buddhism. The XVIth Gyalwa here in 1642
historical importance to the Karmapa Rangjung Rigpe is the magnificent Nyingmapa
Sikkimese people with the first Dorjee founded this monastery monastery of Enchey in Sikkim.
Chogyal crowned here in 1642. in 1962. The architecture of this An important seat of the
There are many places of four-storied building is said to Nyingmapa order, the Enchey
religious and historical interest have been based on the original monastery is built on the site
in the area like the Dubdi and style of the Tshurphu blessed by Lama Druptok
Sangachoeling monasteries, the monastery of Tibet. The top Karpo, a tantric master known
first to be built in the state. floor of the adjacent building for his power of flying. During
Pilgrims can also visit the has a small altar where one can the reign of 10th Chhogyal
beautiful Khecheopalri lake see a Golden Stupa containing Sidkyong Tulku (1879-1914), it
considered auspicious and holy the relic of the 16th Karmapa was rebuilt in the year 1908, in
by the Sikkimese people. Lama and the statues of the its present shape, which is an
Yuksom is about 125 km Karma Kagyu Gurus and the artistic adaptation of Chinese
(approximately four hours past Karmapas. Mask dances Temple of Gyanak Riwo Tsenga.
drive) from Gangtok. Several are being performed here The monastery has its annual
accommodation options like during religious festivals like mask dance on the eve of the
hotels and homestays are Saga Dawa (birth anniversary of Sikkimese Losoong

38 | The Land of Buddha October 2014

IT IS A MAN'S OWN The Land of Buddha | 39
MIND, NOT HIS
ENEMY OR FOE,
THAT LURES HIM
TO EVIL WAYS

October 2014

corresponding to the month of structure again and repairing distress caused by an internal
December- January. Today it is it was not a feasible solution. strife, disguised himself as a
one of the major monasteries of Therefore, the lamas religious mendicant and went
Sikkim. dismantled the structure on a pilgrimage to Tibet. No one
completely and started in that country suspected his
PHENSANG SANGAG CHODING rebuilding the monastery in royal origin, until he came
MONASTERY 1985 with government aid, and before Changchhub Dorje, the
brought it to full completion in 12th Karmapa (1703-1732), who
The Phensang monastery is 1996. The monastery belongs recognised and gave him a
located about a km uphill by a to Nyingmapa sect and warm welcome. The king was
road that bifurcates from the performs all the major surprised and felt embarrassed,
north Sikkim highway, which is ceremonies with annual mask as he was totally unprepared
just nine km from north of dance. and had nothing to offer to the
Gangtok. This is one of the six lama. Therefore, he offered a
biggest monasteries having RALONG MONASTERY promise to Karmapa Lama that
largest number of monks in Ralong Karma Rabtenling he would build a monastery of
Sikkim. The third Lhatsun his sect in Sikkim and would
Jigmed Pawo (1682-1735) while monastery is the first provide befitting patronage to
travelling to the northern zone monastery of Kagyupa lineage the monastery. The monastery
in 1721 founded this monastery. built by Sikkim’s fourth ruler is located just six km from
But unfortunately, it was Chhogyal Gyurmed Namgyal in Rabong, which is a popular
gutted by fire in 1947 and was 1730 in the southern part of the tourist town in south Sikkim
reconstructed in the following state. The fourth ruler of and is connected by state
year. However, a torrential rain Sikkim, Chhogyal Gyurmed highway to other major towns in
in 1983 badly damaged the Namgyal (1707-1734), out of
October 2014
40 | The Land of Buddha

the state and lies between who also gifted her a Buddha Phodong monastery unsuitable to the holy artefacts
Pelling (58 km) and Gangtok (66 statue which was returned to is a major Kagyupa in the monastery, therefore,
km). The Tathagata Tsal this monastery after her death sect monastery. It is the religious treasures kept
(Buddha Park) is another major in 1969. The main festival is an located about 38 km here are taken out once in
tourist attraction in this area. annual mask dance fair in from Gangtok in every three years, during the
winter corresponding to the North Sikkim. This Kamsil ceremony under the
PHODONG MONASTERY month of December to monastery came into supervision of the Department
Phodong monastery is a January. international of Ecclesiastical, Government
limelight through the of Sikkim. During this
major Kagyupa sect THOLUNG MONASTERY writings of the ceremony, their blessing is
monastery. It is located about This monastery is located in famous French imparted to the devotees. The
38 km from Gangtok in North explorer Alexandra monastery follows Nyingmapa
Sikkim. This monastery came remotest part of upper David Neel sect of Buddhism.
into international limelight Dzongu, North Sikkim, which
through the writings of the is one of the most sacred There are good quality hotels
famous French explorer monasteries in Sikkim. at Mangan (956 m), the
Alexandra David Neel who Tholung literally means 'Tho' headquarters of north Sikkim
spent some years here learning or 'Thowa' meaning Areasima, district. Homestay facilities are
Buddhism in the beginning of 'Lung' or 'Lunga' means- place available at Dzongu. Mangan is
1912 under the guidance of the or country. The monastery about 70 km from Gangtok and
third Lachen Gomchen. She possesses ancient texts, falls en-route popular tourist
practised meditation in a cave invaluable art and artefacts, destinations like
near the vicinity of this which had been brought here Gurundongmar lake and
monastery. She was patronised in 1788. The cold climate and Yumthang valley in north
by Chogyal Sidkyong Tulku moisture in the area is Sikkim.

October 2014 The Land of Buddha | 41

Buddha statue in Bodh Gaya

Bihar

B with the viharas, used as universities at Nalanda and parts of India and abroad as far
ihar abodes by Buddhist monks. much later, at Vikramshila. as Sri Lanka, Greece and
possesses one of the richest The Tathagata preached many However, the contribution of Egypt.
heritage in the context of of his sermons in different the Indian emperor Ashoka-
Buddhism, as itis the place places of Bihar like Vaishali and whose capital was at Bodh Gaya is one of the most
where a young ascetic, Rajgir or Rajgriha to name a Pataliputra, modern Patna- in sacred Buddhist sites in Bihar.
Siddhartha Gautama, attained few. Even after his the history of Buddhism cannot It was at Bodh Gaya, where
enlightenment. Gautama had Mahaparinirvana, his disciples be ignored as it was he, who Gautama in his search of the
denounced all the luxuries of carried on the doctrine of after becoming a Buddhist, reality of life, meditated under
life in search of truth. The term Buddhism in the regions of patronised Buddhism as his a peepal tree, attained
'Bihar' is derived from the Magadha or Bihar by setting up state religion and spread its enlightenment and became
Sanskrit word 'Vihara', which several monasteries and doctrine, Dhamma in different Buddha or Tathagata. Today,
means abode and this itself Bodh Gaya, home to Maha
explains the relation of Bihar

October 2014 The Land of Buddha | 43

Bodhi temple, Maha Bodhi tree India, when he left home as an and Swarna Bhandar among
and numerous monasteries, is a ascetic. Once again, it was at many others, is a holy place for
venerated place among Vaishali, where Tathagata had the Hindus and Jains as well.
Buddhists from all corners of announced his soon to arrive
the world, who visit the place to death or Mahaparinirvana. Bihar is regarded as one of
mark the enlightenment of Vaishali, has many stupas (one the many hubs for Buddhist
Buddha. contains Buddha's relics), tourism, and has many revered
monasteries and temples, and is Buddhist monuments. Maha
'Nalanda', which means the frequently visited by Buddhists, Bodhi temple is a World
place that confers the lotus, Jains (for birthplace of Heritage Site declared by
emerged as an important Mahavira) and other tourists. UNESCO. The Maha Bodhi
Buddhist university and complex in Bodh Gaya houses
religious centre in the fourth Gautama had once visited an ancient temple of Buddha,
and fifth century BC. The Rajgir (Rajgriha) during his built by Ashoka in the third
scholars of Nalanda monastic search for enduring truth and century BC. The temple houses
university such as again returned back to this a 150 feet high tower, which
Bodhidharma and others took place as Buddha, this time to further contains a gilded
Buddhism to other parts of the spend some years over here. It colossal image of the Buddha in
world like, China, Korea, Japan, is believed that two rock cut the 'bhumisparsha mudra' or
etc. Though in ruins today, caves at Rajgir were his touching the ground pose.
Nalanda is an inseparable part favourite retreats and he
of the state and its history. preached two of his sermons The Maha Bodhi tree in
here. The city of Rajgir with Bodh Gaya is the most revered
Vaishali is located in Bihar various attractions such as place for all Buddhists as it was
near Patna, and this was the Vaibhav hill, Ajatshatru's fort under one of the predecessors
first place visited by Gautama in of this ficus (peepal) tree where

44 | The Land of Buddha October 2014



a young man, to fulfill his thirst the solution of life from pain One of the most sermons by Lord Buddha
of the truth, meditated and and suffering. The site has important places to including Kandaraka Sutta,
attained the divine light of many ancient stupas along with visit is Champanagar Sonadanda Sutta, etc.
enlightenment. The 160 year a small Tibetan Buddhist in Bhagalpur district,
old Maha Bodhi tree, fifth temple. a place visited by One of the prime attractions
generation plant of the original Lord Buddha many of Champanagar is the tank
one, stands as high as 80 feet, Barabar caves is the oldest times. The site has known as Gaggara's Lotus Lake
and is a major pilgrim centre surviving rock cut caves in also witnessed some where lotuses bloom. On the
for Buddhists from all over the India; it is located on the twin of the most banks of the lake is a grove of
world. hills of Barabar and Nagarjuni. important huge Champaka trees, which is
Carved in the Mauryan times, discourses and believed to be the most
The remains of the the caves have the larger sermons by Lord favoured spot of Buddha.
Vikramshila university near Buddhist chaitya including Buddha Another lake, Sarovana talab,
Bhagalpur (50 km) is a major stupa emblems, elephant yielded a number of Buddha
Buddhist attraction of Bihar. engravings, circular vaulted statues in 1900s – this was the
Built during the eighth century chambers with rectangular time when the lake was
BC by Dharampala, the mandapa and curved cleaned.
Vikramshila learning centre architrave.
flourished as a centre for There is a legend behind
Tantric Buddhism or One of the most important Dona stupa. After Buddha’s
Tantrayana. places to visit is Champanagar Parinirvana and cremation, a
in Bhagalpur district, a place dispute ensued between four
Near Bodh Gaya, Pragbodhi visited by Lord Buddha many Buddha disciples over the
is a site where Buddha times. The site has also division of his mortal ashes.
practised self-discipline in witnessed some of the most Eventually the task of fair
order to find awakening and important discourses and division of the ashes was

46 | The Land of Buddha October 2014

ensued to a Brahmin named Gurpa enshrines the THE TONGUE
Dona. He divided the ashes into Mahakassapa, the successor of IS LIKE A
eight equal halves. The Lord Buddha who is still SHARP
disciples, satisfied by his believed to be waiting for the KNIFE... KILLS
fairness presented him the arrival of Maitreya, the future WITHOUT
vessel in which the ashes had Buddha. When Mahakassapa, DRAWING
been stored. The stupa at Dona the successor of Lord Buddha BLOOD
enshrines the very same holy himself realised that his life
vessel which is now reduced to was nearing its end, he moved
a grassy mound. A Hindu towards Kukkutapadagiri, a
temple is built over the mound mountain resort close to his
where the idol of goddess Tara heart. During the passage, the
is worshipped. group experienced various
obstacles like falling of rocks
Ghosrawan was once a very that hindered the journey
large and elaborate Buddhist further. But nothing stopped
vihara. To enshrine the him from his ultimate journey
presence of Lord Buddha in the of life. He struck all these rocks
area, the 10 feet black stone with the accompanying group
statue of meditating Buddha which paved the way for his
has been carved here. Few km journey. After he reached the
towards the south of hilltop, a hollow space was
Ghosrawan is Tetravan, where formed in the rocks where he
a temple showcases a collection immersed himself in deep
of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.

October 2014

meditation. Followed by this, Maha Bodhi temple in Gaya
the rock crater closed around
him. This sacred mountain After attaining
where Mahakassapa is enlightenment, as a gesture of
enshrined is known as Gurpa. keeping the promise to meet
According to scriptures, the King Bimbasara, Buddha,
future Buddha or Maitreya accompanied by a large group of
would first visit monks visited Rajgir. Hearing
Kukkutapadagiri, raise the news of Buddha’s arrival,
Mahakassapa out of the Bimbasara, his wife along with
mountain; get Buddha’s robe their royal entourage came out
from him and then begin his of the city and welcomed
journey of dispensation. Buddha. The place where both
met is the present day Jethian,
A venue for many of Lord the then village of Lativana. The
Buddha’s discourses, Hajipur is place where Buddha stayed in
a prominent Buddhist site as it Jethian had been marked as a
enshrines the mortal remains stupa, built over Supatittha
of Ananda, the very wise and Cetiya, which is now reduced to
closest disciple of Lord a large mound. Today, a large
Buddha. He also served as the statue of Buddha marks the site.
attendant of Buddha for 20
years and played a major role in The biggest Buddhist stupa
recording his teachings after at Kesariya is associated with
his death. The beautiful caves Lord Buddha, as he once stayed
at Indasala in Bihar witnessed there and preached to the
a number of sermons and natives of the area.
discourses from Lord Buddha
himself, including Sakkapanha According to legend, the time
Sutta and Dhammapada. when Buddha got the realisation
of his Parinirvana and he left
48 | The Land of Buddha Vaishali on his way to
Kushinagar, a large group of

October 2014

followers accompanied him and The Land of Buddha | 49
refused to leave him. When the
crowd reached the then
Kesaputta, Buddha urged them
to return back to their homes
and after many attempts, finally
they agreed. To console the
disappointed crowd, he gave
them his begging bowl. To
commemorate this, a stupa was
built here by Emperor Ashoka.

FESTIVALS
The Sangha day celebrates

the spontaneous gathering of
1250 Arahants at the Veruvana
monastery in Rajgaha city
after the first rains. It was here
that Buddha delivered his
sermon, or recitation of the
Patimokkha. The event took
place in the month of Magh as
per Indian calendar and hence,
it is also known as the Magha
puja. The festival, which
honours the Sangha or the
Buddhist community, is also
known as the Four Fold
Assembly.

October 2014

We want to promote Bodh Gaya as a heritage town,
so that people can come, relax and meditate here”

Bodh Gaya, a popular Buddhist destination, has been getting its fair share of international
travellers. Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, IAS, district magistrate, Gaya cum-chairman, BTMC talks
about how this destination can be further developed

What initiatives is BTMC undertak- countries so that more facilities can What governmental assistance would Sanjay Kumar Agarwal
ing to promote Bodh Gaya in the in- be developed at the temple. you be getting for the same?
ternational market?
The Bodh Gaya temple is man- The Government of Bihar will be
Bodh Gaya, being the Maha Bodhi aged by a committee chaired by the providing around two acres of land to
town has everything and we want to district magistrate, who is also the BTMC. We are also coming up with
promote it as a heritage town, so that ex-officer chairman of that commit- guest house facilities for visitors of
people can come, relax and meditate tee and we are utilising the entire do- the temple, which will have around
here. We are coming up with a new nation for the development of the 20-25 rooms. We already have one
slogan, ‘Smile, You are in Bodh Gaya. temple. We are also coming up with a guest house, but that requires upgra-
Relax, You are in Bodh Gaya, Medi- hospital and a school from the char- dation.
tate, you are in Bodh Gaya’, so that ity amount. BTMC will not only man-
people can understand the value of age the temple but will also manage How are you developing rail, road and
this town. Also we want to increase the Gandhi Smarak. BTMC will be air connectivity to increase tourist in-
their length of stay in the destination contributing to the beautification of flow?
and that is why we are looking at pro- the town and will also promote chari-
moting the Bodh Gaya temple. We table activities like schooling and Bodh Gaya has the privilege of be-
are taking donations from other medical facilities. ing well connected through rail and
road, hence for domestic tourists

50 | The Land of Buddha October 2014

there is no problem. It is on the opening more properties. Bodh Gaya The international be one of its kind. A park is being de-
Gaya-Howrah main road and Gaya has the potential to become a year- visitor footfalls to veloped for people to take part in
town is well connected with Kolkata, round destination. Presently, Bodh the destination walking meditation, and this is being
Delhi and many other towns. But air Gaya witnesses tourist footfalls for has been steadily designed by a Japanese architect and
connectivity is an issue, and al- six months, and for the lean period rising, and we should be sanctioned very soon. The
though we have the best airport in we want to develop affordable want to develop main idea behind this is to provide
Bihar, there are no domestic flights tourism products and facilities. more areas. extra facilities and help travellers en-
half of the year. We want air connec- Presently we have joy their stay.
tivity throughout the year and have How are you addressing security con- 30 hotels and are
requested the minister to look into cerns? in the process of Can you tell us three key points that
the matter. These can be either once opening more you would like international trav-
a week or twice a week but it should Security concerns are always properties ellers to know?
be scheduled flights, as people are there but now there isn’t any cause
presently using charter flights to for concern. We have created a new Three pointers for interna-
visit the destination. Even though DSP post and traffic policing for tional tourists are:
Bodh Gaya receives international Bodh Gaya. Hence we are putting a
flights from Sri Lanka and South- lot more effort on policing. PCR vans 1. We have Maha Bodhi – It is be-
east Asian countries, there are no will be deployed to take care of the yond comparison. If you haven’t vis-
domestic flights. There is a major de- security. For the night movement we ited it yet, your Buddhist pilgrimage
mand for regular flights here. Be- are also making lighting arrange- is incomplete.
sides this, we also receive interna- ments. We are keeping the temples
tional tourists from Cambodia, open till nine pm, which were earlier 2. We have lot of activities around
Vietnam, Thailand, China, Tibet, kept open only till six pm. Other the Maha Bodhi - Nalanda, Rajgir,
Japan and other places after Octo- monasteries are open till five pm but Bodh Gaya. In Gaya itself, there are
ber. The international visitor foot- we are requesting them to keep those many places which you can visit.
falls to the destination has been open till eight pm for tourists. We are These places offer affordable and
steadily rising, and we want to de- creating a walking meditation facility best facilities, and the local people
velop more areas. Presently we have in the Bodh Gaya temple campus. are also great.
30 hotels and are in the process of The project is almost ready where
people can walk and meditate. It will 3. Local tourism - We also have
airport facility. We have an affordable
and better destination for any tourist
to come and enjoy their stay.

October 2014 The Land of Buddha | 51