The Reclining Buddha statue in Bodhgaya represents one of the most significant moments in the life of Lord Buddha—his Mahaparinirvana, the final departure from the physical world after attaining enlightenment. This pose symbolizes the Buddha’s peaceful transition into Nirvana, free from the cycle of birth and death (samsara). Installed near the Mahabodhi Temple complex, the 100-feet long reclining Buddha statue was inaugurated in 2022 at the International Buddhist Monastery. Crafted with great precision, the statue captures the calm and compassionate expression of the Buddha as he lies on his right side, with his head resting on his hand. This powerful image is a reminder of impermanence and the ultimate liberation that Buddha achieved. It attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists who come to pay their respects, meditate, and reflect on the profound teachings of the Buddha. The statue not only adds to the spiritual beauty of Bodhgaya but also spreads the message of peace, compassion, and liberation. Ask ChatGPT
The Reclining Buddha statue in Bodhgaya is one of the most remarkable and spiritually symbolic additions to the sacred landscape of Bihar. It represents Lord Buddha in his final moments, a posture known as Mahaparinirvana, symbolizing his peaceful departure from the world and entry into Nirvana after attaining enlightenment. This reclining posture—where the Buddha is shown lying on his right side with his head supported by his hand—is a powerful reminder of the Buddha’s last teachings about detachment, impermanence, and liberation from the cycle of birth and death. This magnificent statue is 100 feet long and 30 feet high, and is considered India’s largest reclining Buddha statue. It was conceptualized and constructed by the Buddha International Welfare Mission, an organization devoted to spreading the teachings of the Buddha. The construction began in 2019, and the statue was designed by renowned artist Mintu Paul, who crafted it in Kolkata using fiberglass and steel, ensuring durability and modern finishing while maintaining artistic authenticity. The completed pieces were then transported and assembled in Bodhgaya, near the Mahabodhi Temple complex—the site where Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment. The statue was formally inaugurated in 2023, and since then, it has attracted thousands of pilgrims and tourists from across India and abroad, especially from Buddhist-majority countries like Thailand, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Japan. It has quickly become a spiritual landmark and a symbol of peace and global Buddhist unity. More than just a statue, the Reclining Buddha of Bodhgaya carries deep spiritual, artistic, and cultural significance. It offers a space for meditation, reflection, and global harmony, and serves as a powerful reminder of Buddha’s final message: that peace and liberation come through inner wisdom, compassion, and letting go.
The inside area of the Reclining Buddha Temple in Bodhgaya is designed to offer a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere for visitors and devotees. As you enter, the central focus is the 100-foot-long statue of Lord Buddha in the Mahaparinirvana posture, lying gracefully on a raised platform. The statue is beautifully crafted, with intricate details on Buddha’s face, robes, and posture that reflect serenity and calmness. The surrounding hall is spacious and clean, allowing devotees to walk around the statue, offer prayers, and meditate in silence. Soft lighting and devotional chants playing in the background enhance the spiritual environment. On the inner walls, you may find murals and inscriptions depicting scenes from Buddha’s life, especially his final teachings and moments before Nirvana. The temple also provides areas for meditation and quiet reflection, with benches and mats for those who wish to sit and connect inwardly.
The Reclining Buddha Temple in Bodhgaya is not just a spiritual center; it is surrounded by several other attractions that enrich the experience of every visitor. One of the most prominent nearby sites is the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. Just a short walk away, this sacred temple complex offers a deeply spiritual atmosphere filled with ancient structures, prayer wheels, and pilgrims from around the world. Close to the Reclining Buddha statue, visitors can also explore various international monasteries built by countries like Thailand, Japan, Bhutan, and Tibet. These monasteries reflect diverse architectural styles and Buddhist cultures, offering a unique glimpse into global devotion. There are also beautifully maintained gardens and meditation zones around the Reclining Buddha Temple, perfect for quiet walks or moments of reflection.
The Reclining Buddha Temple in Bodhgaya is approx 14 km from Gaya Railway Station.
The Reclining Buddha Temple in Bodhgaya is approximately 10 km from Gaya Airport.
The Reclining Buddha Temple in Bodhgaya is approximately 13 km from Gaya Bus Stand,
Visiting the Reclining Buddha Temple in Bodhgaya was a truly peaceful and awe-inspiring experience. The moment we arrived, we were struck by the grandeur of the 100-foot-long Buddha statue, which beautifully captures Lord Buddha in his final resting posture — Mahaparinirvana. The statue's calm expression and artistic detailing reflect a deep sense of serenity and spiritual grace. The surroundings of the temple are clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully designed to promote quiet reflection and meditation. We appreciated the soft chanting music in the background, the landscaping around the complex, and the respectful environment maintained by both visitors and temple staff. The temple is not just a monument—it feels like a living space of devotion. The reclining posture reminds every visitor of Buddha’s final teachings about detachment and eternal peace. For anyone visiting Bodhgaya, this place is a must-see. It adds a powerful and calming dimension to the spiritual journey, and leaves you with a lasting sense of inner stillness and reverence.
