Buddha Purnima 2024: Must-Visit Buddhist Monasteries and Temples in India
The birth anniversary of Gautam 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. As per the Hindu calendar, Buddha Purnima falls every year on the full moon date of Vaishakh month.
It is believed that Lord Buddha also attained enlightenment on this day. In addition, Hindus consider Lord Buddha to be the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This year, Buddha Purnima is being celebrated today on May 23. As the world commemorates this sacred day, immerse yourself in the spiritual aura by paying a visit to one of these iconic Buddhist monasteries and temples across India.
Mulagandhakuti Vihara
Located in Varanasi’s Sarnath, the temple complex is one of the most sacred sites. After attaining Enlightenment at Bodhgaya, it was here at Sarnath, where the Lord Buddha preached His First Sermon (Middle Way to Nirvana), sanctified as Maha Dharma Chakra Parivartan. Sarnath contains some of the more remarkable stupas, such as the Great Dhamekha Stupa. Tourists can also witness the remains of the Ashoka Pillar in Sarnath.
Mahabodhi Temple Complex
Mahabodhi Temple Complex is one of the four holy sites related to the life of the Lord Buddha. Located in Bihar’s Bodh Gaya, the Mahabodhi Temple Complex was built by Emperor Asoka in the 3rd century B.C. This holds extreme significance, as here, Lord Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment.
Hemis Monastery
Located in Ladakh, Hemis Monastery is one of the largest and one of the most popular monasteries in the country. It is well known for its colourful festivals, ancient thangkas, and rare Buddhist artefacts. This is a Buddhist monastery of the Drukpa lineage of Buddhism. It is located in Hemis village of Ladakh, which is about 45 km away 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 towering golden statue of Lord Buddha. In addition, it also includes ancient scriptures and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Ramadhan Stupa Temple
Ramadhan Stupa Temple, which is located near the Mahaparinirvana Temple, holds a special position amongst the believers. This is because it is constructed at the place of the cremation of Lord Buddha. The temple features a majestic 49-foot-high stupa, recognised for its architectural grandeur. Needless to say, the appearance of this stupa is quite glorious and appealing.