Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa who is on a state visit arrived in Bodh Gaya yesterday where he was met with a special welcome at the Gaya Airport with crowds lining the nearby roads to welcome him.At the Mahabodhi (Mahavihara) Temple Complex, the Prime Minister worshipped at the Sacred Bodhi Tree and the Vajrasana (Diamond Throne).The Mahabodhi Temple Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the four holy sites related to the life of The Buddha.

It is here that Prince Siddhartha Gautama attained Enlightenment.

The Bodhi Tree that stands here today is a direct descendant of the original Bodhi Tree.