It was in the Indian town of Bodh
Gaya that prince Siddharta attained enlightenment and later came to
known as Buddha. So this country is very often called land of Buddha. In
the later year another Indian King, Ashoka, after a bloody battle at
Kalinga in Orissa, denounced violence and took refuge in the Buddhism.
He sent various emissaries to different parts of world to spread
Buddhism which led to its popularity in the Asian region.
Important Buddhist pilgrimage destinations are Lumbini, Bodh Gaya,
Sarnath, Kushinagar etc. Lumbini is a popular Buddhist holy town located
in Nepal. It is believed that lord Buddha was born here. Located in the
foothills of Churia range, Lumbini and its adjoining areas have been
bestowed with rich flora and fauna. It is most holiest of all the
Buddhist pilgrimage destinations. Bodh Gaya , a small town located in
Bihar state of India is another important Buddhist pilgrimage centre. It
here that Prince Siddhartha attained his enlightenment and became
popular as Buddha. Mahabodhi temple which is located at the spot where
Buddha attained his enlightenment is the most popular travel attraction
of this town.
Sarnath is the place where Buddha started teaching his principles after
the attaining enlightenment. This place has been visited by Buddhists
followers from all over the world and they have built different temples
here. The main Buddhist temple of Sarnath is Mulagandhakuti Vihara,
where Buddha is considered to have lived during his stay in this town.
Kuhshinagar is the place where Buddha finally died. It is a very
important place for Buddhist pilgrimage. Emperor Ashoka has built many
Buddhist temples during his reign.
