If you are a devotee of Lord Buddha, then you must be intrigued by the places he visited in his lifetime. The idea of embarking on a pilgrimage is deeply rooted in various cultures, especially in India. The aura and energy that can be experienced at these pilgrim sites and places of worship just cannot be found elsewhere. India is adorned with numerous holy sites associated with the life and teachings of Lord Buddha. For those seeking to embark on a spiritual journey, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Limited (IRCTC) offers a unique and enriching experience through the Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train. This remarkable journey takes travellers on a pilgrimage to the sacred places visited by Lord Buddha, providing a deep insight into his life and teachings.
The Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train, a unique tourist train by IRCTC, aims to offer a seamless and comfortable pilgrimage experience for Buddhist devotees and enthusiasts. The train covers some of the most revered Buddhist destinations in India, allowing travellers to retrace the footsteps of Lord Buddha. The journey begins in the capital city of New Delhi and takes passengers to Bodhgaya, Nalanda, Rajgir, Varanasi, Sarnath, Kushinagar, Lumbini, Sravasti, and Agra. want to take a look at these places in a little more detail? Here are some of the destinations that are included in this soul-soothing itinerary.
The Mahabodhi Temple Complex,
One of the most famous Buddhist Temples in Bodhgaya, Bihar, it is a well-known UNESCO World Heritage site and the ideal place for meditation because of its tranquil surroundings.
The Nalanda University,
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site located in South Bihar, Nalanda was the ancient centre of learning during Lord Buddha’s time.
The Gridhakuta Hill or Vulture’s Peak,
One of the most ancient sites in Buddhism, it is believed that Lord Buddha delivered his Lotus sermon here.
The Dhamek Stupa
A massive archaeological structure in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, the Dhamek Stupa is a much revered Buddhist pilgrimage site.
The Ashoka Pillar
A symbol of Buddha’s teachings as well as India’s civilization, the Ashokan Pillar in Sarnath is the site of Buddha’s First Sermon where he shared the Four Noble Truths (the dharma or the law).
The Mahaparinirvana Temple
A significant Buddhist Temple in Kushinagar, the Mahaparinirvana Temple marks the place where Lord Buddha breathed his last and attained moksha or freedom from the cycle of rebirth.
The Ramabhar Stupa
Also known as the Mukut-Bandhan Chaitya, The Ramabhar Stupa in Anrudhwa, Uttar Pradesh is built over a portion of the Buddha’s ashes on the spot where he was cremated by the ancient Malla people.
The Maya Devi Temple
One of the most ancient Buddhist temples in Lumbini and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is the spot where Maya Devi gave birth to Gautam Buddha.
Sravasti
Well known for its association with Lord Buddha’s miracles and teachings, this quaint town features several ancient stupas and monasteries.
Taj Mahal
An architectural masterpiece that needs no introduction, a symbol of eternal love, the Taj Mahal in Agra is a must-visit destination for every tourist.
The Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train is not just a mode of transportation but a transformative experience. It provides a unique opportunity for travellers to immerse themselves in the sacred aura of these holy sites and gain a deeper understanding of Buddhism and its teachings. The train is equipped with comfortable accommodations, delectable vegetarian meals, and knowledgeable tour guides who enhance the spiritual journey with their insightful narratives.
If you want to experience the best of Gautama Buddha travel and visit sites beyond the Gautama Buddha Stupa, then this journey by IRCTC’s Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train is made just for you! Embarking on the Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train allows one to witness the timeless wisdom of Lord Buddha, discover the rich history of Buddhism, and experience the profound spirituality that continues to inspire millions around the world. It is a pilgrimage of self-discovery and offers the path to enlightenment by taking pilgrims across places Lord Buddha visited or Gautam Buddha places in India.