Famous Buddhist Places to Visit on Buddha Purnima
12 May 2025 6:05 PM IST12 May 2025 6:05 PM IST
Here are some of the most revered Buddhist destinations to visit
A Buddha Statue and Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya. (Photos: X)
Buddha Purnima, also known as Vesak, is one of the most sacred days for Buddhists around the world. It marks the birth, enlightenment (nirvana), and death (parinirvana) of Siddhartha Gautama, who became the Buddha.
On this spiritually significant occasion, devotees and travelers often visit key Buddhist pilgrimage sites that are closely associated with the life and teachings of the Buddha.
Here are some of the most revered Buddhist destinations to visit:
1. Lumbini (Nepal) – Birthplace of Buddha
Located in present-day Nepal, Lumbini is where Queen Maya Devi gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama in 563 BCE. The site houses the "Maya Devi Temple", "Ashokan Pillar", and sacred garden. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important pilgrimage destination.
2. Bodh Gaya (Bihar, India)– Place of Enlightenment
Bodh Gaya is where Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment under the "Bodhi Tree" and became the Buddha. The "Mahabodhi Temple", also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracts devotees and monks from around the world, especially on Buddha Purnima, when prayers, chants, and meditations are held in abundance.
3. Sarnath (Uttar Pradesh, India) – First Sermon
After attaining enlightenment, Buddha delivered his first sermon at Sarnath, near Varanasi, setting in motion the Dharmachakra (Wheel of Dharma). The "Dhamek Stupa", "Ashoka Pillar", and "Mulagandha Kuti Vihar"are must-visit sites here.
4. Kushinagar (Uttar Pradesh, India)– Mahaparinirvana (Death)
Kushinagar is where Buddha took his last breath and attained Mahaparinirvana. The "Mahaparinirvana Temple" with a reclining Buddha statue and the "Ramabhar Stupa" are major attractions, especially visited during Buddha Purnima for prayers and rituals.
5. Rajgir (Bihar, India)– Spiritual Discourses
Rajgir was a favored retreat of Buddha and the site where he delivered many important teachings. The "Vulture’s Peak (Griddhakuta)", "Venuvana", and "Japanese Peace Pagoda" are significant landmarks.
6. Shravasti (Uttar Pradesh, India) – Buddha's Rainy Retreats
Buddha spent many rainy seasons in Shravasti, teaching and debating with his disciples. The "Jetavana Monastery", "Anathapindika's Stupa", and other ruins reflect a deep historical and spiritual atmosphere.
7. Nalanda (Bihar, India) – Seat of Buddhist Learning
Nalanda was once a great center of Buddhist learning and scholarship. The ruins of "Nalanda University" are a symbol of intellectual Buddhist tradition and attract scholars and tourists alike.
8. Tawang Monastery (Arunachal Pradesh, India)– Largest Monastery in India
Located in the northeastern Himalayas, Tawang Monastery is a prominent Buddhist monastery of the Mahayana tradition and offers a serene place to observe Buddha Purnima in a culturally rich setting.
Buddha Purnima is not just a day of rituals but a time for reflection on peace, compassion, and wisdom. Visiting these sacred Buddhist sites offers an opportunity to connect with the profound legacy of Lord Buddha and experience the spiritual aura of places that shaped his journey.
The article is authored by Sanjana Singh as part of her internship program with Deccan Chronicle.
( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
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