Bodh Gaya, in Bihar's Gaya district, is one of the most sacred destinations in the Buddhist world. It is where Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment beneath the Bodhi Tree and became the Buddha. Marked by the towering Mahabodhi Temple and centuries of devotion, this site draws pilgrims, monks and spiritual seekers from across the globe. Within this spiritually resonant landscape lies a lesser-known, yet deeply, revered corner—Muchalinda Sarovar, or the Lotus Pond. It is believed to be the site where Buddha spent his sixth week in meditation following his enlightenment.

According to legend, a sudden storm arose during this time, and the Serpent King, Muchalinda, emerged from the waters to protect the meditating Buddha by spreading his hood over him. Today, this divine moment is immortalised in a meditative idol of the Lord Buddha, seated atop the coiled serpent, placed at the heart of the lake. The pond, framed by quiet groves, offers more than just a spiritual pause—it captivates the senses with its thriving fish, occasional lotus blooms and tranquil beauty.