Dungeshwari Caves

Also, known as Mahakala Caves, the Dungeshwari Caves are located 12 km north-east of Bodh Gaya. Lord Buddha is believed to have meditated in this place for six years before he went to Bodh Gaya to attain enlightenment. A golden emaciated Buddha sculpture commemorating his rigid penance is enshrined in one of the cave temples. Another cave houses a large statue of Lord Buddha, about 6 ft high, to pay tribute to that phase of Buddha's life.

 

Dungeshwari Caves

Sujata Garh

An ancient stupa, Sujata Garh is believed to be the place where Lord Buddha meditated, following severe penance of fasting before he attained enlightenment. As per legend, a lady called Sujata, a cow-herder, offered Buddha a bowl of rice when she saw him emaciated from all the meditating. Buddha realised the futility of self-deprivation and accepted the lady's offer. Thus, the place has been named Sujata Garh after the lady. It is believed that the meal not only gave Buddha strength but also inspired him to follow the Middle Path. After this incident, Buddha went to the Bodhi tree under which he was enlightened. While visiting here, one can also head to Sujata Kuti, lying along the Falgu river, which marks the house of Sujata.

Sujata Garh

Pragbodhi

Around 7 km from Bodh Gaya, on a hill, is located Pragbodhi (meaning prior to enlightenment). It is believed that Lord Buddha spent seven years living an austere life in a cave in this hill before he attained enlightenment. His belief during his stay was that one can find the truth through asceticism. However, sometime later he realised he was wrong. Now known as Dungeshwari Cave, it has a small temple at the spot where Lord Buddha meditated. A short hike to the top of the hill offers stunning views of the land around and the ruins of a few stupas. One can also catch sight of the Mahabodhi Temple from here. Pragbodhi is generally a three-four hour trip from Bodh Gaya.

Pragbodhi

Sujata Kuti stupa

Situated across the Falgu river, the huge Sujata Kuti Stupa marks the house of Sujata, the cow-herder who fed Lord Buddha a bowl of rice and ended his seven years of penance. A little further away is Sujata Mandir, the actual site of the banyan tree where Sujata offered the meal to Lord Buddha.

Sujata Kuti stupa