Shopping

Shop for books on Buddhist philosophy, statues of Lord Buddha and miniatures of the Mahabodhi Temple and the monasteries from the souvenir stalls at Kundan Bazaar. The Tibetan Refugee market is another famous place that lies at the heart of the city. One would be hard pressed not to be impressed by the sheer diversity of it. From exotic Tibetan and Chinese food to fashion and lifestyle products, it is teeming with curious buys. One can find a large variety of handicrafts, souvenirs, winter-wear etc. It is hard to get bored while visiting here as there are many interesting things on display like the articles of the Tibetan faith. One would particularly like the idols of Lord Buddha sitting in various poses. These idols are made in metal and sandalwood.

Shopping

Archaeological Society of India Museum

Archaeological Society of India Museum houses an excellent collection of various Buddhist and Hindu relics, mostly related to the Pala period (8th to 12th centuries). Established in 1956, the museum has two galleries and an open courtyard, along with two verandahs that boast various antiques. One can find exhibits of bronze statues, terracotta items, images of Lord Buddha and stone sculptures, along with pillars, railings, panels, rods, plaques etc. It is located inside the Mahabodhi Temple complex. The second gallery of the museum houses an idol of the varaha avatar of Lord Vishnu and visitors can also learn about the dasavatara (10-avatar) incarnation of the deity. While it is quite difficult to encapsulate the vast history of Bodh Gaya and the richness of Buddhist culture, this museum is an attempt to make research and understanding easier.

Archaeological Society of India Museum

Meditation Park

At the south-east of the Mahabodhi Temple stands the new Meditation Park, which is a world of its own. With facilities like meditation huts, congregation and discussion areas and two huge prayer bells, the park with water fountains and a lotus pond is a spot of calmness in the bustling town. Visitors are encouraged to meditate here from sunrise to sunset.

Meditation Park

Bodhgaya Multimedia Museum

At this museum, Lord Buddha's life is presented in a visual format with the help of 3D animation movies. The show, divided into four sections covering history, geographical coverage and thoughts of Lord Buddha, is comprehensive and is presented in an engaging manner. It was set up with an aim to give a glimpse of the life of Buddha in the most interesting way possible. It covers his journey from childhood to the time he attained nirvana (enlightenment).

Bodhgaya Multimedia Museum