Buddhism is one of the world’s major religions, and it has a rich history and culture that continues to influence millions of people around the globe. As such, it has become a popular travel circuit for those seeking spiritual enlightenment, cultural immersion, and historical exploration. If you are someone who is looking for a holistic Buddhist experience, then here are seven must-visit Buddhist travel destinations that you should consider adding to your itinerary.
- Bodhgaya
Bodhgaya is considered to be one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage destinations in the world. It is where the Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree over 2,500 years ago. The Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the focal point of the area and attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. Visitors can also explore other significant sites in the area, including the monasteries of various Buddhist countries such as Tibet, Japan, and Thailand.
- Rajgir & Nalanda
Located in the Indian state of Bihar, Rajgir, and Nalanda are two essential Buddhist sites in close proximity to one another. Rajgir was the capital of the Magadha Empire and is where the Buddha gave many sermons. Visitors can explore the Gridhakuta Hill, where the Buddha is said to have delivered the famous Lotus Sutra, and the Vulture’s Peak, where he gave the Heart Sutra. Nalanda, on the other hand, is home to one of the world’s oldest universities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was a significant center of Buddhist learning and attracted scholars and students from all over the world.
- Varanasi
Varanasi, also known as Benares, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a significant center of Hinduism. However, it also has a significant Buddhist history and is home to several important sites. Sarnath, located just outside of the city, is where the Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins, the Dhamek Stupa, and the Sarnath Museum, which houses a collection of Buddhist artifacts and sculptures.
- Lumbini
Located in southern Nepal, Lumbini is the birthplace of the Buddha and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area is home to several significant sites, including the Maya Devi Temple, which marks the spot where Gautama Buddha was born. Visitors can also explore the Sacred Garden, which includes the Ashoka Pillar and several other temples and monasteries built by different countries such as China, Thailand, and Japan.
- Kushinagar
Kushinagar, located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, is where the Buddha is believed to have passed away and attained Parinirvana, the final release from the cycle of rebirth. The Mahaparinirvana Temple, which houses a reclining Buddha statue, is the main attraction for visitors. Other sites in the area include the Ramabhar Stupa, where the Buddha’s cremation took place, and the Mathakaut Temple, where the Buddha gave his last sermon.
- Sravasti
Sravasti is a small town in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh and a significant Buddhist pilgrimage destination. It is where the Buddha spent much of his monastic life and performed many miracles. Visitors can explore the ruins of Jetavana Monastery, where the Buddha is said to have spent several rainy seasons, and the Anandabodhi Tree, where he is said to have spent several months in meditation.
These are some of the most significant and sacred Buddhist travel destinations across India and Nepal. If you want to experience the best of Buddhist travel in India, then look no further than IRCTC’s Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train. Bringing together the gems of Buddhist Circuit Tours, this Buddha tour and travels by IRCTC is as comfortable a journey as it gets. Want to know more? Visit the official website at www.irctcbuddhisttrain.com.