Monks Praying Under The Rajayatana Tree, Where Buddha Meditated During The 7th Week After His Enlightenment, Bodhgaya Editorial Image

Bodh Gaya, situated in the Gaya district in the Indian state of Bihar, is considered to be the holiest site in Buddhism. The Bodhi Tree where Gautama Buddha is said to have attained Enlightenment is the object of pilgrimage and veneration for Buddhists and spiritual seekers from all round the world. The Mahabodhi Temple Complex was inscribed into the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2002. The Buddha is said to have spent his 7th week after enlightenment meditating under the Rajayatana tree and was visited by 2 Burmese merchants who took refuge in the Buddha and Dharma and became the first lay followers.