It would not be wrong to say that Buddhism is one of the most loved religions in the world. The roots of Buddhism which have spread all over the world are rooted in India. It was founded by Lord Gautam Buddha. Gautam Buddha walked on the path of truth till the end of his life and inspired people to always follow the truth and choose the right path. Today, there are many monasteries, stupas, monuments, and other Buddhist sites associated with Gautam Buddha across the country which is known all over the world. If you are also eager to know about the priceless words, secrets, and philosophical and spiritual teachings of Gautam Buddha, then you must visit these places. These places are of great importance for history lovers. Let's know about these places...
Mahabodhi Temple, Bihar
Mahabodhi Temple is located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar. People who believe in Buddhism consider it very sacred. This is the place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment while sitting under the ancient Bodhi tree. The texture of the temple is very beautiful. The most special thing about this temple is that the image will be seen through the artifacts of different religions. Bodh Gaya is considered by Buddhists to be one of the holiest cities in the world, as it was at this site that Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. The Mahabodhi Temple located in Bodh Gaya was given World Heritage status by UNESCO in the year 2002.
Sarnath Temple, Varanasi
Sarnath Temple does not need any introduction. One of the Buddhist pilgrimage sites, Sarnath is the place where Buddha delivered his first sermon to his disciples. This temple located in Varanasi was built by King Ashoka. Sarnath is a city of historical marvels with many Buddhist stupas, museums, ancient sites, and beautiful temples that prove to be a cause of great wonder and awe for tourists. You can visit Chaukhandi Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, Dhamekh Stupa, Archaeological Museum, Mulgandha Kuti Vihar, Chinese, Thai Temple, and Math in Sarnath tour.
Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh
Located near Gorakhpur in the northeastern region of Uttar Pradesh, Kushinagar is a major Buddhist pilgrimage site. Lord Buddha is believed to have died in Kushinagar after which Emperor Ashoka built a stupa here to mark the site of parinirvana. The stupa contains a resurgent Nirvana image of the Buddha, with a recumbent image of the "dying Buddha" set to the right. Kushinagar is a religious town that attracts a large number of tourists and especially followers of Buddhism. Other major sites of Kushinagar include Chaitya, Rambhar Stupa, Math, and some popular small temples.
Kesariya Stupa, Bihar
Kesariya Stupa is an ancient heritage, which is famous as the world's largest ancient Buddhist stupa. According to the information, this stupa was built by Emperor Ashoka the Great. This is an important site for those interested in history and art, many important aspects of Indian history can be understood here. According to the date recorded in the records, this huge stupa belongs to the third century. This ancient site was discovered in 1958 by the Archaeological Survey Department. The entire work of the survey was carried out by the archaeologist K. under the supervision of Muhammad. Before the survey, this site was believed to be an ancient Shiva temple, but during the excavation, many other ancient things were found here. Statues of Buddha, copper items, Islamic coins, etc., since then it has been considered as Buddhist stupa.
Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang is one of the most famous Buddhist sites in India as well as a major tourist destination of Arunachal Pradesh which attracts tourists immensely with its beauty. Situated at an altitude of about 3048 m, Tawang is famous for many important and beautiful monasteries and is the birthplace of the Dalai Lama. Tawang Monastery is the largest monastery in India and the second largest monastery in the world, which is popularly known as a rich center of spirituality and knowledge. Tawang Monastery is also known as Golden Namgyal Lhase by the local people. The library of the monastery also houses a vast collection of some of the most sacred and important scriptures. And also the Buddhist India Cultural Studies Center is established here for Buddhist monks. Which is known as a shelter for more than 300 monks.
Red Maitreya Temple, Leh
The temple is set in one of the most spectacular Indian locations. Right in the middle of sky-touching mountains and soothing landscapes. This shrine is a part of the Thiksey Monastery and is famous for the 49 feet high statue of Lord Buddha. Pilgrims and travelers from all over the world come here for the beauty and spiritual significance of the place.
Sanchi Stupa, Madhya Pradesh
Sanchi Stupa is located on the banks of the Betba River in the northeast at a distance of 46 km from Bhopal, the capital of the state of Madhya Pradesh. Sanchi Stupa is one of the most prominent Buddhist sites in India. The Sanchi Stupa was established in the 3rd century BC by the order of Emperor Ashoka of the Mauryan dynasty. Where the relics of Lord Buddha are kept. And a good glimpse of Buddhist art and architecture can be seen in the sculptures and monuments present at this place. For your information, let us tell you that the world-famous Sanchi Stupa for its attractive artworks has been included as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO on 15 October 1982.
