The Sacred Buddhist Circuit – India & Nepal
Overview
For Buddhist pilgrims and travellers interested in spirituality and history, the Sacred Buddhist Circuit connects the four most important sites associated with the life of Lord Buddha. The journey takes visitors across northern India and into Nepal, following the key stages of Buddha’s life—from his birth and Enlightenment to his first teaching and final passing.
Bodh Gaya
Bodh Gaya is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage destinations in the world. It was here, under the Bodhi Tree, that Prince Siddhartha attained Enlightenment and became the Buddha. The Mahabodhi Temple is the centre of the pilgrimage site, while the Vajrasana (Diamond Throne), Great Buddha Statue, and international monasteries add to the spiritual atmosphere.
Must-See Highlights in Bodh Gaya
Visit the Mahabodhi Temple, the sacred Bodhi Tree, and the Vajrasana, where Buddha attained Enlightenment. The Great Buddha Statue and international Buddhist monasteries offer further opportunities for reflection and cultural discovery.
Sarnath
Located near Varanasi, Sarnath is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining Enlightenment. The site is an important place of pilgrimage, with the Dhamek Stupa, ancient monastery ruins, and the Sarnath Museum providing insight into the history of Buddhism in India.
Must-See Highlights in Sarnath
Visit the Dhamek Stupa, explore the ancient ruins, and discover the history of Buddhism at the Sarnath Museum. Sarnath offers a peaceful and meaningful experience for Buddhist pilgrims and cultural travellers.
Kushinagar
Kushinagar is the place where Lord Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana, marking his final passing. The Parinirvana Temple and its reclining Buddha statue are the main highlights of the pilgrimage site, which remains an important destination for Buddhists from around the world.
Must-See Highlights in Kushinagar
Visit the Parinirvana Temple and its reclining Buddha statue, and explore the surrounding Buddhist temples and monuments connected with the final days of Buddha’s life.
Lumbini – Nepal
Across the border in Nepal, Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Buddha and one of the world’s most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites. The Maya Devi Temple marks the traditional birth site, while the Ashoka Pillar and Sacred Garden provide further insight into the history of the site. International monasteries built by Buddhist communities from around the world add to Lumbini’s peaceful atmosphere.
Must-See Highlights in Lumbini
Visit the Maya Devi Temple, the Ashoka Pillar, and the Sacred Garden, and explore the international Buddhist monasteries around Lumbini.