Gaya, India: A sacred interweaving of faith and history.

Gaya, located in the Indian state of Bihar, is like a pearl blessed by time and faith, shining brightly on the South Asian continent. It is a holy place that Buddhists all over the world yearn for. The Mahabodhi Temple stands proudly here. In the temple, there is a bodhi tree under which Sakyamuni is said to have attained enlightenment and become a Buddha. The canopy stands tall, and the green leaves rustle in the wind, as if whispering the wisdom and enlightenment from more than 2,000 years ago. The ancient temple is solemn and magnificent, with exquisite carvings all over the tower. The statues of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas are lifelike, silently telling the long history of Buddhism. Every inch of bricks and stones is soaked in the devout prayers of the believers, and the incense is filled with respect for the inheritance of Buddhism. The brushstrokes of history are also rich and colorful. As an important stronghold of ancient Indian civilization, many dynasty relics are hidden in the surrounding area, witnessing the prosperity and decline of different periods. Wandering through the streets of Gaya, you’ll find the bustling traditional markets, the rich aroma of spices, and colorful fabrics. Craftsmen demonstrate wood carvings and pottery making on site, and local customs come alive in the city. The ancient and modern elements blend here, showing its unique charm.