In the search of inner peace and religious awakening, IRCTC's Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train offers a one-of-a-kind tour across India and Nepal's most important Buddhist places of worship, promoting pilgrimage tourism in India. This expedition lead the souls to enlightenment, following the footsteps of lord Buddha. This journey's key Buddhist sites are more than simply historical landmarks; they are vibrant centres of calm, teaching, and meditation that continue to inspire many people on their spiritual journeys. Let us guide you through these enchanting Buddhist Circuit places.

Bodhgaya, India: The Path to Enlightenment

The pilgrimage begins with visiting Bodh Gaya, an important Buddhist Circuit place that commemorates the Buddha's path to enlightenment. The Mahabodhi Temple, with the renowned Bodhi Tree in its centre, invites pilgrims to reflect on the very site where the Buddha attained enlightenment. Bodh Gaya is a living testament to the pursuit of understanding and compassion, capturing the spirit of Buddhist pilgrimage sites.

Rajgir: Gridhakut Hills and Venuvana Monastery

The journey then takes you to Gridhakut hills (Vulture Peak,) a holy place located in the calm hills of Rajgir, is where Buddha is said to have delivered his lotus sermon. It is one of the favourite places of Buddha to meditate. The Venuvana Monastery on the other hand, is one of the first sites presented to Lord Buddha by Bimbisara, the king of Magadha at the time. As you walk through these old gardens, you feel the knowledge of the centuries surrounding you like a calm wind. There is a large artificial lake and a Buddha sculpture created by Japanese devotees next to the lake where visitors can relax in the tranquil ambiance.

Nalanda: The Seed of Wisdom

Nalanda was a well-known Mahavihara in India's ancient kingdom of Magadha (now Bihar.)The site, located around 95 kilometers southeast of Patna in the town of Bihar Sharif, was a center of learning from the fifth century CE to 1200 CE. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.Explore the remains of the legendary Nalanda University. Explore the depths of Buddhist philosophy by following the whispers of the past that lead you through the passage of time.

Varanasi: Sacred Ghats and Memsrising Ganga Aarti

Experience Varanasi's spiritual resonance, where life and death combine along the Ganges' ancient ghats. Witness the heavenly vision of the Evening Aart at Dasaswamedh ghat.

Sarnath: the first sermon

The Buddha delivered his first speech after obtaining enlightenment in Sarnath, near Varanasi, therefore putting in motion the wheel of Dharma. This holy place of buddhism is home to the Dhamekh Stupa, where pilgrims can reflect on the teachings that have formed Buddhism. Sarnath's peaceful settings and rich historical past make it one of the most important Buddhist places to delve deep into Buddhism.

Lumbini: The Birthplace

After Sarnath, the train of peace reaches another important Buddhist place, Lumbini in Nepal. This is the place where it all began - Siddhartha Gautama, often known as the Buddha was born. The sacred Mayadevi Temple and the ancient Ashokan Pillar identify this Buddhist site, establishing a deep connection to the Buddha's early days. Lumbini is a strong reminder of one of humanity's most respected spiritual leaders' modest beginnings, making it a key destination for pilgrimage tourism in India and Nepal.

Kushinagar: A Final Farewell

The journey then leads to Kushinagar, where the Buddha attained Paranirvana. The peacefulness of the Mahaparinirvana Temple, with its reclining Buddha statue, provides an opportunity to reflect on the flux of life and the everlasting existence of the soul. Kushinagar's importance in the Buddhist tradition emphasises the depth of understanding the Buddha's teachings provide for the world.

Sravasti: The Road to Nirvana

In Sravasti, where Buddha performed miracles and established the road to nirvana, find refuge among the remains of a bygone period. Explore the relics of Jetavana Monastery, where traces of Buddha's teachings may still be heard, and relax in Pakki Kutti and Sahet Mahet's peaceful surroundings. In the heart of Buddhist pilgrimage, learn the eternal wisdom that illuminates the road to enlightenment.

Agra: The epitome of love & Peace

Conclude your spiritual trip with the timeless grandeur of Agra, where the immortal Taj Mahal serves as a tribute to eternal love. Admire the ethereal beauty of this architectural marvel, with each marble grain reflecting the purity of devotion. As you stare upon this emblem of eternal love, may the essence of your journey remain inside you, lit by the light of wisdom.

Disclaimer: All information provided on this website is in good faith. While we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we suggest everyone refer to the official website www.irctcbuddhisttrain.com for updated packages and offers. 

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