Ajapala Nigrodha Tree - Totoro Tree
Bodh Gaya, India
- Circumambulate the sacred stupa
- Explore the historical stupa
- Learn about Buddha's enlightenment
- Meditate in the peaceful atmosphere
Known for:
Description:
Animesh Lochan Chaitya, also known as the Ajapala Nigrodha Tree, is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site in Bodh Gaya. It marks the spot where Buddha spent the third week after his enlightenment, gazing at the Bodhi tree without blinking. This act of unwavering focus is commemorated by a stupa and a small shrine. The site is less crowded than the main Mahabodhi Temple complex, offering a peaceful atmosphere for contemplation and reflection. Visitors can circumambulate the stupa and appreciate the serene ambiance. The presence of prayer flags and the gentle breeze rustling through the leaves add to the spiritual aura of the place.
History:
Animesh Lochan Chaitya signifies the third week of Buddha's enlightenment. After attaining enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree, Buddha spent seven days at each of seven different spots. The third week was spent here, gazing unblinkingly at the Bodhi tree in gratitude. This unwavering gaze is known as 'Animesh Lochan,' meaning 'unflinching gaze.' The current structure, including the stupa, was built much later to mark the sacred spot. Over centuries, the site has remained a place of reverence for Buddhists worldwide, representing unwavering devotion and gratitude.