Whether it’s for pilgrimage, to discover more about the history of Buddhism or to take a vacation to some of the most magnificent sights, one just can’t skip India. India has several heritage sites and monuments related to Buddhism, many of which are also sacred pilgrimage sites. Many of the Gaya tourism places alone are examples of Buddhist wonders.
The IRCTC-operated Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train takes you on a journey to the most important cities and sites relates to Buddhism and its history. The train is equipped with top-class facilities to ensure absolute comfort as you strive to find tranquillity on the Buddhist Circuit.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE BUDDHIST CIRCUIT TOUR
Mahaparinirvana Temple (Kushinagar)
The Mahaparinirvana Temple features the main stupa and a shrine built upon a single platform that’s 2.74 metres high. The shrine features a 6.1-metre-long statue of the Buddha in a reclining position to represent his demise.
Mahabodhi Temple (Bodhgaya)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site that marks the location of the Buddha gaining enlightenment, the Mahabodhi Temple is quite the architectural wonder and one of the best tourist places in Gaya with its cylindrical pyramid shape and Chatras on top.
Gridhakuta Hill (Rajgir)
The Gridhakuta Hill was a favourite spot of the Buddha to meditate. He would also give many inspiring sermons on the hill that resembles a vulture’s head.
Thai Temple (Bodhgaya)
A popular stop on Gaya tourism packages, the Thai Monastery is well known for its stunning architecture, especially its sloping roof with golden tiles. The famous site also features a 25-metre-tall bronze statue of Lord Buddha.
Bimbisara Jail (Rajgir)
It is named after the Magadhan King Bimbisara, a staunch disciple of the Buddha. Bimbisara is said to have been imprisoned here by his son Ajatshatru according to Buddhist literature.
Japanese Temple (Bodhgaya)
The Japanese Temple is one of the best places to visit in Gaya for those who want to see a fine example of Japanese architecture and Buddhist culture. The temple was built using wood and features a gallery with paintings of some of the most significant events of the Buddha’s life.
Ruins Of Nalanda University
Once the epicentre of learning in ancient India, the ruins of the university in Nalanda date back to the 5th century CE. The university flourished for 700 years since then, teaching a plethora of subjects including Buddhist literature.
Buddha Statue (Bodhgaya)
The 80 ft tall statue of the Buddha was consecrated by the 14th Dalai Lama on 18 November 1989. Built using a mix of sandstone blocks and red granite, it is among the popular Gaya tourism places.
Dhamek Stupa (Sarnath)
Built around 500 CE to replace an earlier structure constructed by the Mauryan Emperor Asoka in 249 BCE, it represents the Rishipattana (deer park) where the Buddha’s first sermon after attaining enlightenment took place.
Maya Devi Temple (Lumbini)
Located in the city of the Buddha’s birth, the Maya Devi Temple Complex contains the pond where his mother used to take a bath before giving him birth. Siddharth Gautama’s first bath also took place here.
WHY TRAVEL WITH IRCTC’S BUDDHIST TRAIN
World-Class Amenities
Travelling by IRCTC’s Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train is a one-of-a-kind experience that stays with you. The train features comfortable AC cabins for passengers, two restaurants serving multiple cuisines, a separate area for seating, a mini-library, a kitchen and a foot massager.
Offers
The ongoing offer includes a 20% Discount Special Promo Offer for Indian Nationals (including NRI, PIO, OCI) for 21st Oct 23, 04th Nov 23 & 16th Dec 23 departures.
Explore Buddhist Heritage
Buddhist heritage sites are spread throughout India. IRCTC’s Buddhist Train helps you travel to the most important sites across India and even to Lumbini in neighbouring Nepal in one unforgettable trip. Visit the official website www.irctcbuddhisttrain.com to book your spot or find more information.