Buddhism is one of the most widespread religions in the world, with over 500 million devotees. It originated in India and has had a profound impact on the country’s culture and history. Today, India is home to some of the most noteworthy Buddhist sites in the world. If you are planning a Buddhist Tour of India, there are some must-visit sites that you should include in your itinerary. In this article, we will take a closer look at 10 must-visit Buddhist sites in India for a spiritual understanding.
Some Interesting Buddhist sites in India
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Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang is a picturesque town in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh and is known for its gorgeous monasteries. The Tawang Monastery is the most extensive in India and is a popular destination for Buddhist tour packages in India. The town is also known for its stunning natural scenery, including snow-capped mountains and pristine lakes.
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Rumtek Monastery, Sikkim
The Rumtek Monastery is located in Sikkim and is an enormous monastery in the state. It is also one of the most significant monasteries in the world and is the seat of the Karmapa. The head of the Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is known for its attractive architecture and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Buddhist history.
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Tabo Monastery, Himachal Pradesh
The Tabo Monastery is located in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh and is one of the oldest monasteries in India. It was founded in the 10th century and is known for its ancient murals and sculptures. The monastery is also known for its exquisite natural atmosphere and is a prevalent destination for trekking enthusiasts.
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Amaravati Stupa, Andhra Pradesh
The Amaravati Stupa is located in Andhra Pradesh and is one of the most influential Buddhist sites in India. The stupa is famous for its peaceful ambience and beauty among the people.
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Bodh Gaya
Bodh Gaya is the most vital Buddhist site in India and is known as the area where the Buddha attained enlightenment. It is located in the state of Bihar and is a popular destination for Buddhist tour packages in India. The Mahabodhi Temple, in Bodh Gaya, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is believed to be one of the holiest places for Buddhists.
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Sarnath
Sarnath is located in the state of Uttar Pradesh and is the place where the Buddha delivered his foremost sermon after attaining enlightenment. The Dhamekh Stupa, located in Sarnath, is one of the most important Buddhist sites in India and is a must-visit for anyone on a Buddhist tour of India.
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Kushinagar
Kushinagar is there in the state of Uttar Pradesh and is the area where the Buddha passed away. The Mahaparinirvana Temple, located in Kushinagar, is a popular destination for Buddhist tour packages in India and is considered to be one of the most important Buddhist sites in the world.
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Ajanta Caves
The Ajanta Caves are there in the state of Maharashtra and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They are known for their beautiful Buddhist rock-cut cave temples, which date back to the 2nd century BC.
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Ellora Caves
The Ellora Caves are there in the state of Maharashtra and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They are known for their beautiful rock-cut cave temples, which include both Hindu and Buddhist temples.
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Nalanda
Nalanda is there in the state of Bihar and was once a thriving Buddhist university. Today, the ruins of the university are a popular destination for Buddhist tour packages in India and are considered to be one of the most important Buddhist sites in the world.
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Rajgir
Rajgir is present in the state of Bihar and was once the capital of the Magadha Empire. It is an important Buddhist site as the Buddha spent many years meditating and preaching in the area. The Griddhakuta Hill, located in Rajgir, is where the Buddha delivered many of his famous sermons.
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Dharamsala
Dharamsala is present in the state of Himachal Pradesh and is the abode of the Dalai Lama. It is a popular destination for tour packages in India and is known for its beautiful monasteries and stunning natural scenery.
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Ladakh
Ladakh is located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir and is a popular destination for tour packages in India. The region is known for its beautiful monasteries and stunning natural scenery.
Different Regions for a Buddhist Tour of India.
- One of the most important aspects of a Buddhist tour of India is the opportunity to witness and participate in traditional festivals and ceremonies. The Leh Ladakh Festival, held annually in Ladakh, is a popular destination for tour packages in India. The festival is a carnival of Ladakh’s rich cultural legacy and features classic music, dance, and costumes. Visitors can also witness the traditional sport of archery and attend the prayer ceremonies at the Hemis Monastery.
- Another important Buddhist festival is the Buddha Purnima, which is celebrated in Bodh Gaya and other Buddhist sites throughout India. The festival monumentalizes the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha and is a time for reflection and meditation.
- Buddhist tour of India often includes a visit to the city of Varanasi, which is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world and a major pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists alike.
- The Buddhist tour package also includes the Pushkar camel fair an annual event that takes place in the state of Rajasthan. It is a popular destination for Buddhist tour packages in India and is known for its stunning natural scenery and unique cultural experiences.
Conclusion
A Buddhist tour of India is a great way to connect with your spirituality and learn about the teachings of Buddha. From the birthplace of Buddhism in Bodh Gaya to the stunning natural scenery of Ladakh, India has something to offer every traveler on a Buddhist pilgrimage. So, book your Buddhist tour of India today and undertake a journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening.
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