The Mahabodhi temple complex in Gaya is one of the four sacred places associated with the life of Lord Buddha. (Image: Shutterstock)
As the world commemorates this holy day, immerse yourself in the spiritual aura by visiting one of these iconic Buddhist monasteries and temples across India.
The birth anniversary of Gautama Buddha is commemorated as Buddha Purnima or Buddha Jayanti. It is a crucial festival for people who believe in Buddhism and Hinduism. The day is celebrated in most of East Asia. According to the Hindu calendar, Buddha Purnima falls every year on the full moon date of the Vaishakh month.
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It is believed that Lord Buddha also attained enlightenment on this day. Furthermore, Hindus consider Lord Buddha to be the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This year, Buddha Purnima is celebrated today, May 23. As the world commemorates this holy day, immerse yourself in the spiritual aura by visiting one of these iconic Buddhist monasteries and temples across India.
Mulagandhakuti Vihara
Located in Sarnath of Varanasi, the temple complex is one of the most sacred sites. After attaining Enlightenment in Bodhgaya, it was here in Sarnath, where Lord Buddha preached his First Sermon (Middle Path to Nirvana), sanctified as Maha Dharma Chakra Parivartan. Sarnath contains some of the most notable stupas, such as the Great Dhamekha Stupa. Tourists can also witness the remains of the Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath.
Mahabodhi Temple Complex
The Mahabodhi temple complex is one of the four sacred places related to the life of Lord Buddha. Located in Bodh Gaya of Bihar, the Mahabodhi temple complex was built by Emperor Asoka in the 3rd century BC. C. This has extreme meaning as here it is said that Lord Buddha attained enlightenment.
Hemis Monastery
Located in Ladakh, Hemis Monastery is one of the largest and most popular monasteries in the country. It is well known for its colorful festivals, ancient thangkas and rare Buddhist artifacts. This is a Buddhist monastery of the Drukpa Buddhist lineage. It is located in Hemis village of Ladakh, which is about 45 km from Leh city.
Tawang Monastery
Located in the Tawang region of Arunachal Pradesh, this monastery is one of the largest and most important Buddhist sites in India. It is popular for housing the imposing golden statue of Lord Buddha. In addition, it also includes ancient writings and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Ramadan Stupa Temple
The Ramadhan Stupa temple, which is located near the Mahaparinirvana temple, occupies a special position among believers. This is because it is built on the cremation site of Lord Buddha. The temple features a majestic 49-foot-tall stupa, renowned for its architectural grandeur. Needless to say, the appearance of this stupa is quite glorious and attractive.
