As Buddhists across the world celebrate Buddha Purnima today, we take you to some lesser-known Buddhist heritage sites in India. From monasteries to ancient stupas, here are six destinations that will leave you awestruck.
India is home to a range of renowned Buddhist sites like Sarnath, Sanchi, Amaravati and more. However, being a land rich in Buddhist heritage, India is also home to numerous other sites which draw tourists and devotees alike. This Buddha Purnima, Village Square brings to you a list of Buddhist sites to visit and experience the architectural and spiritual marvel that these places hold.
Located a little over 100 km from Patna, in the Champaran district of Bihar, stands Kesariya Stupa, the tallest Buddhist stupa ever excavated. Since its discovery in 1998, it has been estimated to be the tallest stupa in the world, standing at 104 feet high. It represents the glorious past of the Buddhist era, with its unique architectural style of employing a polygonal base. During excavations, archaeologists also discovered traces of a “Pradakshina path” around the stupa. It is said that Lord Buddha spent a significant amount of time here during his last years and this stupa housed his relics, thus making it an important Buddhist pilgrimage site.
Best time to visit: January-December
Nearest railway station: Chakia
In the Tawang chu valley of Arunachal Pradesh, perched atop a hill that is 10,000 feet above the sea level, is situated the largest monastery in India. Founded in 1681, this magnificent three-storey monastery draws tourists from all over the world. It houses a 25 feet high golden statue of Buddha, which is among the monastery’s major highlights. It also has a library which contains valuable Kangyur and Tengyur scriptures. The scenic beauty of the valley and its pleasant weather are also factors that attract tourists.
Best time to visit: March-October (Avoid during monsoon)
Nearest airport: Salonibari, Tezpur
Deur Kothar holds significant archaeological importance in Madhya Pradesh due to the three large stupas located here. Discovered in the early 1980s, these stupas are said to have been constructed during Ashoka’s rule, some 2,000 years ago. Alongside the three clay brick stupas stand several other smaller stupas made out of 46 types of stones, making this site an archaeological marvel. You can also witness Buddhist motifs, paintings and inscriptions on the stupas. This site is located on a bustling ancient trade route called Dakshinapatha which ran across the Indian subcontinent through central India.
Best time to visit: January-December
Nearest airport: Prayagraj
The peaceful Dhauli Hills, which lie near Bhubaneswar, are known for Ashokan rock edicts and a beautiful Shanti Stupa, internationally known as the Peace Pagoda. While the Shanti Stupa, a popular tourist attraction, was built in 1972 by the Kalinga Nippon Sangha and the Japan Buddha Sangha , the rock edicts are believed to be from Ashokan times. These edicts have Ashoka’s messages of peace inscribed on them, as this ancient site of Kalinga is where the great ruler renounced war and embarked on the path of Buddhism.
Best time to visit: January-December
Nearest railway station: Bhubaneswar
One of the most intriguing examples of the prominence of Buddhism and its growth in the 4th century are the Khambhalida Caves. Discovered in 1958, these caves show a shrine in the centre alongside sculptures of Bodhisattvas, Avalokiteshvaras and Vajrapani. This destination is a favourite among tourists for its historical significance and picturesque setting.
Best time to visit: November-February
Nearest railway station: Rajkot
The centuries-old site of Bojjannakonda is renowned for its intricately carved rock cut caves and stupas. Located near the small village of Sankaram are two hills – Bojjannakonda and Lingalakonda. They house ancient Buddhist rock cut sculptures, stupas and chaityas dating to the 4th century CE. On the upper storey of Bojjannakonda are figures of Lord Budhha and sculpted panels depicting Buddha and his attendants.
Best time to visit: January-December
Nearest railway station: Anakapalli
The lead image features the main attraction of the Tawang Monastery, that is the grand buddha statue. (Photo from Wikimedia Commons)
