THE HILLS OF GAYA: A PART OF ITS SACRED GEOGRAPHY
Gaya is a city in the Indian state of Bihar that is surrounded by hills and mountains. These hills not only add to the scenic beauty of the city but also hold significant cultural and religious importance. In this article, we will explore the hills of Gaya and their significance.
1. Mangla Gauri Hill:
Mangla Gauri Hill is located in the heart of Gaya and is considered one of the most sacred hills in the region. According to legend, the hill was the site where the goddess Shakti's breast fell after Lord Shiva performed the Tandava dance while carrying her dead body. The hill is home to the Mangla Gauri temple, which is dedicated to the goddess Shakti. The temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Gaya and is visited by thousands of devotees every year.
2. Brahmayoni Hill:
Brahmayoni Hill is located to the south-west of Gaya and is considered to be the site where Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe, performed a yajna (sacrifice) to create the world. The hill is home to the Brahmayoni temple, which is dedicated to Lord Brahma. The temple is believed to have been built during the Gupta period and is considered one of the most important temples in Gaya.
3. Pretshila Hill:
Pretshila Hill is located to the north of Gaya. The hill is home to the Pretshila temple, which is dedicated for Pind daan rituals. The temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Gaya and is visited by thousands of devotees every year.
4. Ramshila Hill:
Ramshila Hill is located to the north of Gaya and is considered to be the site where Lord Rama performed his father's pind daan rituals. The hill is home to the Ramshila temple, which is dedicated to Lord Rama. The temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Gaya and is visited by thousands of devotees every year.
5. Vishnupad Hill:
Vishnupad Hill is located to the east of Gaya and is considered to be the site where Lord Vishnu's footprint is imprinted on a rock. The hill is home to the Vishnupad temple, which is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Gaya. The hill is very low highted and is now covered with the dense settlements of Andar Gaya. The Vishnupad temple is visited by lakhs of devotees every year, who come to offer prayers and seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu.
6. Murli Hill:
Murli hill is in north of Gaya city very near to the Ramshila Hill. The hill offers a panoramic view of the city of Gaya and its surrounding areas. From the hilltop, visitors can see the Vishnupad Temple, the Falgu River, and the Brahmayoni Hill. The hill is surrounded by lush greenery and is a perfect spot for a picnic with family and friends. There are also several food stalls and shops selling souvenirs and religious items near the hill.
7. Dungeshwari Hill:
The hill is in the south west of Gaya city and the hill is famous for both Hindu and Buddhist Pilgrims. The hill houses a cave, in which the idol of skeleton Buddha and Goddess Dungeshwari is placed. It is believed thet before enlightenment, Gautam Buddha spent few years on this hill in meditation.. Currently, the site is an important tourist destination for both buddhists and Hindus pilgrims. The site has also been developed under HRIDAY scheme.
8. Ramgaya Hill:
This sacred hill is situated opposite of Vishnupad temple along the east bank of river Falgu. The temple dedicated to Maa Sita is situated in the foothills along with other temples in the Sita Kund Temple Complex.
Conclusion:
The hills of Gaya are not only important from a religious and cultural perspective but also hold significant historical importance. These hills have played a key role in shaping the cultural and religious landscape of the region and continue to be an important pilgrimage site for devotees from all over India. The hills of Gaya stand as a testament to the enduring power of human spirituality, creativity, and devotion.
Author: Abhishek Kumar, Dated 07th day of March 2023.
Copyright @ Abhishek Kumar
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