The holy town of Gaya, located 100kms south of Patna, is of great
significance to Hindus. The town is on a slightly raised ground in
the valley between the Ramshila and Pretshila Hills. An essential
transit point to Bodhgaya, Gaya is a fly-blown and densely packed
town. It is believed that this place has been blessed by Lord Vishnu
with purificatory powers. Hindus traditionally come here to honour
their parents a year after death by offering 'pind' - a gift of
funeral cakes.
Legend has it that a gentle demon called Gaya, appalled by the
sorrow caused by death, complained to Vishnu, and as protest, died,
for the world. Impressed by his resolve, Vishnu blessed Gaya with
the power to absolve sinners. Like Varanasi, and many other
riverside towns, Gaya is said to be a 'tirtha' - a crossing across
the celestial divide.
Places of Interest
Akshayabat
This is the immortal Banyan tree that stands in the courtyard of
the temple. This is the tree under Buddha is said to have meditated.
Also, the final rites for the dead are held beneath it.
Archaeological Museum
This
small museum housing collection of sculptures, bronzes, terracottas,
paintings, arms and manuscripts is near the tank. It is open from 10
am to 5 pm on all days except Monday.
Vishnupad Temple
This massive temple located in the central part of the old town is
believed to have been built over the footprints of Lord Vishnu.
Inside the temple, the 40 cm long `footprint' of Vishnu is imprinted
in solid rock and surrounded by a silver plated basin. This Shikhara
style temple was constructed in 1787, by Queen Ahilya Bai of Indore,
on the banks of the river Falgu. Non-Hindus are not allowed to enter
the temple. A flight of 1000 stone steps leads to the top of the
Brahmajuni Hill, 1 km south-west of the Vishnupad Temple that
affords a splendid view of the temple.
Surya Temple
A temple of Surya, the Sun god, stands 20 km to the north at Deo.
It attracts large crowds in November, when Chhath Puja is
celebrated.
