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The architecture of this temple is unparalleled in North
India. It is believed that in the 3rd century B.C emperor Ashoka built
this temple. The canopy structure of this temple is very different and
attractive from temples usually found in North India. To maintain the
balance of the main tower there are four smaller towers.
The
king of Lanka, Meghvarn had constructed a monastery towards the North of
the Bodhi tree. This construction was done during the period of
Samudragupta. In the 12th century the fierce attack of the Muslim invaders
had destroyed the temple completely.
In 1876 the ruler of Burma in agreement with the British government of
India had rebuilt the temple on the remains of the older structure. The
Mahabodhi temple has a huge Idol of Buddha in the 'bhumisparsa mudra'. The
temple is surrounded by a small pillars and delicate lattice work. These
are a major attraction for the tourist who visit the place