Famous Buddhist Temples And Buddhist Sites of India

Famous Buddhist Temples, Buddhism is one of the ancient religions of India, founded by Lord Gautam Buddha. Gautam Buddha is revered as the founder of the world religion of Buddhism. who expanded these teachings for 45 years by emphasizing truth, philosophical education, Vedic meditation and spiritual education. Gautam Buddha walked on the path of truth till the last time of his life and always inspired people to follow the truth and choose the right path. He came to be known as Buddha a few centuries after his death.

Today there are many monasteries, stupas, monuments and other Buddhist sites associated with Gautam Buddha across the country. Those who hold the teachings of Buddhism, culture, Vedas, their precious words within themselves. And this Buddhist temple remains a center of attraction for Buddhist followers as well as tourists. If you are also curious to know about Gautam Buddha's priceless words, mysteries, philosophical and spiritual teachings, then you must read this article completely where we are going to tell you about the most famous Buddhist temples and Buddhist sites in India. Where even today there are many evidences related to Buddha-

LIST

1. Bodh Gaya
2. Sarnath
3. Lumbini
4. Kushinagar
5. Sravasti
6. Dharamsala
7. Tawang monastery
8. Sanchi Stupa
9. Rumtek Monastery
10. Vaishali
11. Mindrolling Monastery
12. Hemis Monastery leh
13. Golden Temple
14. Rajgir
15. Spiti Valley
16. Dhamma Setu
17. Stupa of Sariputra
18. Ghoom Monastery Darjeeling
19. Ajanta Caves
20. Bojjannakonda
21. Karla caves

1) Bodh Gaya

The Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in India. Bodh Gaya is located about 100 km to the south east of Patna, the capital of Bihar. Bodh Gaya Situated on the west side of the Phalgu River, a tributary of the Ganges, Bodh Gaya was earlier known as Uruvela. It was also known as Sambodi, Vajrasana or Mahabodhi until the 18th century. It is one of the four important Buddhist sites.

Bodh Gaya is considered by Buddhists to be one of the holiest cities in the world, as it is where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. The Mahabodhi Temple located in Bodh Gaya was given the status of World Heritage by UNESCO in the year 2002. Apart from those who believe in Buddhism, people of other religions also come here to meditate and see ancient tourist places.

2) Sarnath

Sarnath, situated at a distance of 13 km from Varanasi, is one of the famous Buddhist pilgrimage centers in India. This is a very special place among the places to visit around Varanasi. After roaming the ghats and streets of Kashi, you can come to this place and experience peace in solitude. It is believed that after attaining enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, Lord Buddha came to Sarnath in search of his former companions and gave his first sermon here.

Sarnath is a city of historical wonders with many Buddhist stupas, museums, ancient sites and beautiful temples that prove to be a cause of great wonder and awe for the tourists. On a trip to Sarnath, you can visit Chaukhandi Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, Dhamekh Stupa, Archaeological Museum, Moolgandha Kuti Vihar, Chinese, Thai temples and monasteries.

3) Lumbini

Lumbini, a beautiful place in the lap of the Himalaya Mountains, is the birth place of Gautam Buddha. This place is located near the border of India in the Rupandehi district of Pal, which is very quiet and a major pilgrimage site of Buddhism. Lumbini is a UNESCO World Heritage Site whose stupas and monasteries make it very special, which are believed to be about 2000 years old. The place is also known for the memorial pillar of Emperor Ashoka.

People traveling to Nepal visit this beautiful place to study Lumbini scriptures, learn about religion. There is also a temple in Lumbini named after Maya Devi, mother of Gautam Buddha, which is called Mayadevi Temple. The architecture of each monastery here is distinctive with beautiful architecture and Buddhist paintings.

4) Kushinagar

Located near Gorakhpur in the north-eastern region of Uttar Pradesh, Kushinagar is a major Buddhist pilgrimage site. Lord Buddha is believed to have died in Kushinagar after which Emperor Ashoka built a stupa here to mark the site of Parinirvana. The stupa houses the resurrected Buddha's Nirvana statue, with a recumbent statue of the "Dying Buddha" installed on the right. Kushinagar is a religious city which attracts a large number of tourists and especially the followers of Buddhism. Among other major sites of Kushinagar you can find Chaitya, Rambhar Stupa, Math and some popular small temples.

5) Sravasti

A holy land of importance to Hindus, Jains and Buddhists alike, Shravasti is a cultural paradise, located in the heart of Uttar Pradesh. The monasteries of Shravasti are similar to the monasteries of Thailand, Tibet and Korea, which make every architect's dream come true. And the city is also the birthplace of Tirthankara, the founder of Jainism. Thus, the area holds great importance for devotees of the three religions, and annually attracts a large number of tourists, Buddhists and Jains. The word Shravasti comes from “Sabtam Ashti”, which stands for peace and prosperity.

6) Dharamsala

Dharamsala is one of the most popular Buddhist sites in India, located in the district of Kangra, at a distance of 18 km from the city of Kangra. Dharamsala is the home of the Buddhist religious leader, the Dalai Lama, who runs his government in Dharamsala. Let us tell you, the Dalai Lama came to India with his followers in the year 1959. And turned the city of Dharamsala into Little Lhasa. What better place to be in this small town situated on the foothills of Dhauladhar, to experience the rich and regal Tibetan culture. And turned the city of Dharamsala into Little Lhasa. Dharamsala has, for many years, been a center of meditation and peace, with thousands of people and followers from all over the world flocking here in search of peace.

7) Tawang monastery

Tawang is one of the most famous Buddhist sites in India as well as a major tourist destination of Arunachal Pradesh which attracts tourists immensely with its beauty. Situated at an altitude of about 3048 meters, Tawang is famous for many important and beautiful monasteries and as the birth place of the Dalai Lama. Tawang Monastery is the largest monastery in India and the second largest in the world, popular as a rich, center of spirituality and enlightenment. Tawang Monastery is also known as Golden Namgyal Lhase by the local people. The library of the monastery also houses a vast collection of some of the most sacred and important scriptures. And at the same time, Buddhist India Cultural Studies Center is also established here for Buddhist monks. Which is known as the shelter for more than 300 monks.

8) Sanchi Stupa

Sanchi Stupa is 46 kms from Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh state. It is situated on the bank of river Betba in the north-east. Sanchi Stupa is one of the most prominent Buddhist sites in India. The Sanchi Stupa was established in the 3rd century BC on the orders of Emperor Ashoka of the Maurya dynasty. Where the relics of Lord Buddha are kept. And a good glimpse of Buddhist art and architecture can be seen in the sculptures and monuments present at this place.

And for your information, let us tell you that the world famous Sanchi Stupa for its attractive art works has been included in the World Heritage Site by UNESCO on 15 October 1982. Sanchi city is situated on top of a hill and is surrounded by lush green gardens. Due to which the tourists coming here feel peace and joy. Which hosts many thousands of tourists and followers of Buddhism every year.

9) Rumtek Monastery

Rumtek Monastery, situated on top of a hill, 23 km from Gangtok, is one of the largest and most important monasteries in Sikkim. And this Math is originally known as Dharma Chakra Kendra. Let us tell you that Rumtek Monastery belongs to the Kargiya sect of Buddhists, which originated in Tibet in the 12th century. This monastery is a beautiful shrine spreading teachings and a monastery for monks, which was established for the purpose of Buddhists around the world.

The Rumtek Monastery also serves as a storage for some of the world's unique religious scriptures. Along with this you can see the prayer hall inside the monastery which is decorated with magnificent frescoes, and sculptures. And also you can get a breathtaking view of the entire Gangtok city located right in front of the hill from here.

10) Vaishali

Vaishali holds an important place in India as a historical, cultural and religious Buddhist place. Which is known as a pilgrimage site for the followers of Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism. Where Gautam Buddha frequently visited this city, and Lord Buddha came here in the fifth year of his Enlightenment. And the second meeting of the Buddhist Council was also held here. Some relic stupas and Buddhist sites are present in Vaishali, along with many beautiful pillars of Ashoka can also be seen here. Vaishali is one of the most famous and popular Buddhist places to visit in India. Where even today many evidences related to Buddha exist. It is believed that the name of Vaishali is related to the Mahabharata period, which was named after King Vishal.

11) Mindrolling Monastery

Mindrolling Monastery was established in 1965 by Khochan Rinpoche in Clement Town, Dehradun, Uttarakhand. Also known as Buddha Temple Complex. Mindrolling Monastery is one of the largest Buddhist centers situated amidst the serene foothills of the Himalayas. Which attracts thousands of tourists and Buddhist followers from all over the country as well as abroad. Where hundreds of people get spirituality here. Being an architectural masterpiece with many squares, Mindrolling Monastery offers an amazing view. And many religious rooms, Tibetan art forms and murals can also be found here. Whereas the monastery mainly houses a tall statue of Lord Buddha. If you are planning a trip to Dehradun then definitely visit this beautiful place.

12) Hemis Monastery leh Ladakh

Hemis Monastery, situated at a distance of 45 km to the south of Leh, is a famous Buddhist monastery in Ladakh. Hemis Monastery was built by the Ladakhi king Sengge Namgyal. Which is considered as one of the Seven Wonders of India and is also a World Heritage Site of the country. Situated amidst lush green hills and magnificent mountains on the banks of the Indus River, Hemis Monastery is the largest and most popular monastery of the region making it a major tourist attraction. Let us tell you that Hemis Monastery is one of the richest monasteries in India. It houses a magnificent copper statue of Lord Buddha along with stupas made of gold and silver. Hemis Monastery is indeed a remarkable blend of ancient spiritual culture and beautiful natural surroundings. Which remains a center of attraction for tourists and Buddhist spiritual followers to visit.

13) Golden Temple (Namdroling Monastery)

The Golden Temple or Namdroling Monastery, situated at a distance of about 34 km from Coorg Hill Station, is one of the most popular Buddhist sites. Which remains the center of faith among tourists and people who believe in Buddhism. Namdroling Monastery is considered to be the largest learning center of Tibetan Buddhist schools. Which presents the best example of Tibetan architecture and artwork culture. Let us tell that the Golden Temple is spread over an area of ​​80 square feet and it is known as the residence of more than 5000 people.

14) Rajgir

Rajgir is related to Jainism and Buddhism. Nestled in a green valley and surrounded by rocky hills, Rajgir is a spiritual city with natural serenity amidst dense forests, mysterious caves and waterfalls. There are many religious places in Rajgir which are dedicated to Buddhism or Jainism. For your information, let us tell you that Lord Buddha and Lord Mahavir spent some time of their lives giving sermons of spiritual and religious importance at this place. Rajgir is one of the most popular Buddhist places to visit in India where the air gives vibrant hints of spirituality and history with the fusion of Buddhism and Jainism.

15) Spiti Valley Himachal Pradesh

Spiti Valley is also known for being home to some of the oldest monasteries in India, such as the Kai Monastery, which is a fort-like structure and resembles traditional Chinese architecture. You can also include Tabu Monastery, Lahlang Monastery and Gandhola Math in your visit to the monasteries here. Apart from the beautiful landscapes of Spiti, the monasteries here are also unique and breathtaking, embellished with spiritual and cultural treasures and offer immense colors for a fascinating experience.

16) Dhamma Setu, Tamil Nadu

Located in the city of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Dhamma Setu is considered to be one of the largest meditation centers of Buddhism. This Vipassana meditation center in Chennai is the only recently established center with huge capacity and hundreds of individual meditation cells. Dhamma Setu 10-day courses are held twice every month. During which a large number of people gather at this place and meditate. The beach, along with the natural lush green beauty of the Dhamma Setu area, offers an ideal and peaceful experience. And apart from this, courses for children are also available at Dhamma Setu.

17) Stupa of Sariputra

Sariputra Stupa is one of the most important Buddhist sites in India. Let us tell you that Sariputra was one of the two main disciples of Lord Buddha. And in this stupa are the ashes of one of the two main disciples of Lord Buddha, Sariputra. Sariputra had also attained salvation by sacrificing life following the footsteps of Lord Buddha. And after his death the Sariputra Stupa was built. The stupa is of a pyramidal shape surrounded by pillars, and is typical of Buddhist structures. The seven layers of construction explain its enormous size. Which is really worth seeing.

18) Ghoom Monastery Darjeeling

Situated at a grand height of 8,000 feet, the Yiga Chawling or Ghoom Monastery is the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Darjeeling. Established in 1850 by Lama Sherab Gyatso, this shrine is part of the Yellow Hat sect known as the Gelupkas who worship the 'Coming Buddha' or 'Maitreyi Buddha'. The central hall of Ghoom Monastery houses a 15-feet tall Maitreyi Buddha statue, which is made entirely of clay. The statue was installed during the tenure of the second head of the monastery, Lama, Domo Geshe Rinpoche.

Apart from this many rare Buddhist manuscripts can also be seen within the complex. The walls of the monastery are elaborately painted with illustrations and art from Tibetan Buddhism, with various images of bodhisattvas. These beautiful paintings are placed in a symmetrical manner, to make it easy for the visitors of the monastery to understand the basics of Buddhist philosophy.

19) Ajanta Caves

Ajanta Caves is one of the most important Buddhist sites in India. The Ajanta Caves depict the Buddhist culture and their stories through various sculptures and paintings. Which are included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Ajanta Caves are Buddhist monasteries or stupas of the Buddhist era. This is the place where Buddhist monks used to live as well as study and pray here. The Ajanta Caves are a group of 3-Cuttack Buddhist caves dating back to the period between 2nd century BC and 650 AD. The Ajanta Caves are considered to be one of the most iconic monuments of India which reflect the rich cultural heritage of India.

The best examples of ancient painting and sculpture were seen in these caves, which are considered to be the best examples of Indian painting and sculpture. The Ajanta caves were first discovered in the year 1819 by a British officer in the 19th century.

20) Bojjannakonda, Visakhapatnam

Bojanakonda is a small group of six rock-cut caves that date back to the 4th century AD, when Buddhism was flourishing in the region. Bojanakonda Caves contain beautifully carved sculptures of Gautam Buddha which attract tourists and followers of Buddhism for its beauty and religious significance. There is also a stupa in the nearby caves where Buddhist monks used to meditate. And at present this area comes under the maintenance of the Archaeological Survey of India.

21) Karla caves

The Karla Caves, carved out of rocky hills, are one of the oldest Buddhist caves in India. It is located on the Pune-Mumbai highway in Karala, and if sources are to be believed, these are some of the other caves present in the Sahyadri hills. Which is believed to be about 2000 years ago. The place has a beautiful hall depicting the journey of the past and an extensive collection of viharas (monasteries), which have some intriguing stories. Apart from this, a temple made of pillars of Buddhist period at the entrance of the caves has also been built recently. Whereas tourists have to climb 150 steps to reach the caves.