Achi news desk-
The Mahabodhi Temple Complex in Gaya is one of the four holy sites associated with the life of Lord Buddha. (Image: Shutterstock)
As the world commemorates this sacred day, immerse yourself in the spiritual mood by visiting one of these iconic Buddhist monasteries and temples across India.
Gautam Buddha’s birth anniversary is commemorated as Buddha Purnima or Buddha Jayanti. It is an important 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 the month of Vaishakh.
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It is believed that the 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 celebrated today on May 23. As the world commemorates this sacred day, immerse yourself in the spiritual mood by visiting one of these iconic Buddhist monasteries and temples across India.
Mulagandhakuti Vihara
Located in Sarnath 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 (The 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 see the remains of the Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath.
Mahabodhi Temple Complex
The Mahabodhi Temple Complex is one of the four holy sites associated with the life of Lord Buddha. Located in Bodh Gaya Bihar, the Mahabodhi Temple Complex was built by Emperor Asoka in the 3rd century BC This is very significant, because 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 known for its colorful festivals, ancient thangkas, and rare Buddhist artifacts. This is a Buddhist monastery of the Drukpa lineage of Buddhism. It is located in Hemis village in 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 huge golden statue of Lord Buddha. In addition, it also contains ancient scriptures and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Ramadhan Stupa Temple
Ramadhan Stupa Temple, located near Mahaparinirvana Temple, has a special position among the believers. This is because it was built in place of Lord Buddha’s cremation. The temple contains a majestic stupa 49 feet high, which is recognized for its architectural grandeur. Needless to say, the appearance of this stupa is quite glorious and appealing.
