The term Bihar comes from "Vihar" meaning monastery as hundreds of monasteries have been excavated here due its connection to the Buddha's life. It is thought that about 2500 years ago, the Buddha obtained illumination at Bodh Gaya under a tree, what is now known as the famous "Bodhi Tree". An ancient Bodhi tree there is thought to have originated from the original tree. Presently the location of the Mahabodhi Temple marks the exact site of Buddha's enlightment.