The Buddhist Circuit: An Enriching Experience

Buddhism originated in India and so the country is home to several Buddhist pilgrimage sites that makes it a dream destination for Buddhist pilgrims from across the world.  Bodh Gaya, Vaishali, Rajgir in Bihar, Sarnath, Kushinagar and Shravasti in Uttar Pradesh are some of the most popular places of religious significance. Each of these sites still has rich reminiscence of the Buddhist legacy and offers a great insight into the ancient heritage and tradition. The primary pilgrimage places of the Buddhist Circuit are associated with the life and teachings of the Lord Buddha.

Important Buddhist Places in India and Nepal:

Lumbini: Located in southern Nepal, Lumbini is the birth place of Lord Buddha. Tourists can visit the site of the birth, the Mayadevi temple, the Pashkarni pond and the Ashoka Pillar which are situated in the Sacred Garden which is a World Heritage Site and is a well-known symbol of world peace. The birth place of Buddha is the most important place for millions of Buddhists all over the world.

Bodhgaya: It is a vibrant and inspiring tourist attraction for all kinds of tourists. Located in the Indian state of Bihar, Bodhgaya is the place where Buddha become Lord Buddha after he found Enlightenment. The highlights of the destination include the famous Bodhi tree, Mahabodhi Temple, the Vajrasan Throne of King Ashoka, the Muchhalinda Lake and the Rajyatna Tree along with the spiritual home of several Buddhists and devotees from many Buddhist countries which are built in their characteristic architectural styles.

Sarnath: The famous Lion Capital Pillar, the proud symbol of India, belongs to Sarnath. Located 10 km from the ancient holy city of Varanasi, Sarnath witnessed Buddha’s first address to his followers and the introduction of his new doctrine. The splendid Dhamekha Stupa at Sarnath is a major tourist attraction of the city.

Kushinagar: In 543 BC, Lord Buddha left this world on his way to Kapilavastu at Kushinagar, hence it is a significant place for all Buddhists. Some of the most important tourist places to see here are the Mukatanabandhana Stupa and the Gupta period’s reclining Buddha statue in red sandstone.

These four places are the most significant Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. In addition, there are several other places that hold special meaning in the life of Lord Buddha.

Vaishali: It is known as the last place where Buddha preached his last sermon before his death. Situated near the capital city of Patna, it was at Vaishali where Buddha told his believer Ananda about his imminent demise.

Rajgir & Nalanda University: Located around 70 kilometers from Bodhgaya, Rajgir was an important place in Buddha’s life. The city was the venue for the First Buddhist Council, which was held to compile the teachings of the Buddha in its authentic form, after his death. The ancient world-renowned university of Nalanda is the other famous tourist spot of the region.

The great Buddhist Circuit exploration is the best way to get the insight of the splendid beauty, appeal and the depth of Buddhism. With the emergence of book domestic flight exploring this mega country has become very convenient and affordable.