Top Places Where Buddhism Flourished in India

One among the prime religions in the world, Buddhism has become one of the greatest philosophies worldwide. The religion originated in India but was spread across the globe by the disciples of Lord Buddha. At present, Buddhist is the moral support for the most of the east and Southeast Asian countries. There are several destinations in India where Buddhism emerged, nurtured and flourished. Each destination has a distinct place for this religion, which is home to a number of tourist attractions telling different legends related to the birth and growth of Buddhism in India. EaseMyTrip.com will help you to make a pilgrimage trip

Lumbini: Although in Nepal, Lumbini is among the most significant Buddhist site as it is the birthplace of Lord Buddha. In 249 BCE, King Ashoka visited Lumbini and constructed a stupa. However, the influence of Lumbini reduced with the time and was neglected for many centuries. In year 1896, the stupa was discovered by Nepalese archeologist that brought Lumbini back into the limelight of Buddhist patronage. It received the status of World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997. to know more about Nepal tour

Bodh Gaya or Bodhgaya: It is the place where prince Siddhartha turned into Lord Buddha after gaining enlightenment. Situated 10 km away from popular Hindu holy city of Gaya, Bodh Gaya is a small place on the bank of River Niranjana. Bodh Gaya is the most sacred place for the followers of the Buddhism faith from all across the world. The town has now turned into a real multi monastic zone city where one can find monasteries from several Buddhist countries. The place enjoys wonderfully developed infrastructure and features a number of classy hotels that make it a perfect tourist spot Along with a magnificent Mahabodhi temple and Bodhi Tree inside, the town also owns an 80-feet huge idol of Lord Buddha and many other attractions.

Sarnath: Situated 13 km North-East to the holy city of Varanasi, Sarnath is a popular Buddhist city positioned close to the confluence of the Ganges and Gomati rivers. The deer park in Sarnath is the place where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon and taught about the Dharma. In Sarnath, Buddhist Sangha came into existence through the clarification of Kondanna. Lord Buddha saw his six rainy season at this place. Emperor Akbar constructed three memorial stupas at this place and made this a popular pilgrimage spot for Buddhism followers.

Rajgir: The city of Rajgir is equally important for the followers of Jainism, Hinduism and Buddhism. Gautama Buddha spent here several months while meditating and sermonizing at Gridhra-kuta, ('Hill of the Vultures'). He delivered here some of his famous sermons and spread Buddhism. It was the first activity center of Buddism. Pippala Cave is a popular spot for the devotees of Buddhism. There is another popular Buddhist attraction in Rajgir – Shanti Stupa, which is located at an altitude of 400 meters. A ropeway connects it with the ground and helps people in reach there.