Cankamana, also known as the Cloister Walk, is a sacred pathway located in the Mahabodhi Temple complex in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, India. It is a 490-foot-long (150 m) walkway that encircles the Mahabodhi Temple, the site where Gautama Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. The Cankamana is punctuated with lotus-decorated pavings, where it is believed Buddha had stepped.
The Cankamana is considered to be one of the most sacred sites in Buddhism, and it is a popular pilgrimage destination for Buddhists from all over the world. Pilgrims walk the Cankamana as a way to pay homage to Buddha and to retrace his steps on his journey to enlightenment.
The Cankamana is open to visitors of all faiths, and it is a place of great peace and tranquility. The walkway is lined with trees and flowers, and the air is filled with the sound of birdsong. As you walk the Cankamana, you can feel the sense of history and spirituality that surrounds you.
If you are interested in Buddhism or if you are simply looking for a place to relax and reflect, the Cankamana is a must-visit destination.
Here are some tips for visiting the Cankamana:
- The Cankamana is open from 5:00am to 9:00pm, seven days a week.
- There is no entrance fee to visit the Cankamana.
- Visitors are asked to dress modestly and to remove their shoes before walking on the Cankamana.
- Photography is not permitted inside the Mahabodhi Temple, but it is allowed on the Cankamana.
- There are a number of souvenir shops and restaurants located near the Cankamana.
If you are planning a trip to Bodh Gaya, be sure to include the Cankamana on your itinerary. It is a truly special place that is sure to leave a lasting impression.