Educational trip to Bodh Gaya
Loreto College organized an educational trip to Bodh Gaya on 12th February 2025. The trip was conducted under the guidance of Sister Nirmala and Dr. Suparna Bhattacharya. It began with visits to various Bodhi temples in Gaya, where the layers of history and culture are beautifully preserved in the walls of the Mahabodhi Temple. The city's rich history and the heritage of Buddhism inspire messages of non-violence and peace.
The Bodh Gaya trip also revealed the beauty of other cities in Bihar. We explored the hills of Rajgir and the lifestyle of rural citizens. We learned about the village of Dasrath Manji, famously known as the "Mountain Man", who dedicated 22 years of his life to cutting through a mountain to create a road using only a hammer, chisel and knife.
Additionally, we visited the Huang Sung Museum, located near the Rajgir hills, as well as Nalanda University, an ancient institution celebrated for its motto, "Learning is Being Here". This renowned Buddhist monastic center flourished from the 5th century to 1200 CE and is recognized as the world's first residential university, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It served as a home for acclaimed monks and scholars, from Nagarjuna to Aryabhata.
Our experience deepened our understanding of Buddhism's teachings on non-violence and the power of meditation. We also visited the Shakti Peeth of Maa Sati in Gaya, which added to the spiritual significance of our trip. There was a Vishnupad temple which hold the history of Gaya. In the end, our journey to Bodh Gaya became something unforgettable -not just a trip, but a story we now carry with us. Beneath the Bodhi tree and along the quiet ruins of Nalanda, we found more than lessons in history; we found meaning and connection. We made new friends, grew closer to old ones, and through shared meals, laughter, and looking out for one another, we discovered the joy of truly knowing and caring for those around us. These moments will echo in our hearts, leaving an imprint that lasts far beyond the trip itself.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
