| Funny how one can find a place as peaceful as this right in the middle of chaotic Bihar.
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| Bodhgaya is, naturally, full of bodhi trees, its avenues are shady and the snout of the Mahabodhi temple rises awe-inspiringly amidst the green canopy.
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| Serenity apart, the little town is perhaps the most popular of all the holy sites linked to Buddhism and is much more of a working Buddhist centre than an archaeological site.
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| Visit the 3rd century Mahabodhi temple early in the morning and sit under the bodhi tree, just like Gautama did.
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| Perfect for watching the world go by. Take a look at the numerous monasteries – Tibetan, Thai, Japanese and Burmese – and should you have the time, sign up for courses on meditation and Buddhism conducted by various organisations usually between October and February.
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| Bodhgaya is 445 km from Kolkata on NH2, the Grand Trunk road. Till the Bihar border, it's a superb stretch, after which it deteriorates a bit. After the village of Dobbi, take the turn-off to Bodhgaya. Just remember to stay off the roads after dusk, since Bihar is still a bit unsafe. Hotel Niranjana (Ph: 0631 2400475) and The Embassy (Ph: 0631 2400711) are safe acco bets.
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| Don’t know where to go? pablo@business-standard.com |
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