The most revered and sacred site of the Buddhist world, the Mahabodhi Temple (Mahabodhi Mahavihara) is undergoing hydro-cleaning work.
The chemical-free cleaning process uses only water under controlled pressure to gently and carefully remove dirt and other growth from the temple façade.
According to the Facebook page of the Mahabodhi Temple Bodhgaya, the cleaning work has been undertaken by devotees from Thailand under the banner of “Chobtham”. The work, that began on February 17, 2026, is expected to be over before Buddha Purnima, which is falling on May 1, 2026.
Visitors to Bodh Gaya will find non-invasive bamboo scaffolding erected around the temple to “facilitate safe and careful access”. The Thai volunteer group is working in close collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) due to the significance of the temple structure and premises. A team from the ASI is monitoring the works and ensuring that the delicate structure is cleaned without any damage.
As of March 16, 2026, the volunteers have successfully cleaned 60% of the surface with the work on track.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, India, the first temple was built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century B.C. The present temple premises dates back to 5th or 6th Century and gets more than 2 million pilgrims and tourists both domestic and foreign visitors every year.
The deep spiritual significance of the Mahabodhi Temple attracts Buddhists from across the world and the cleaning process is being appreciated by one and all visiting the sacred site
