Buddha Purnima 2023: Famous Buddhist monasteries and temples in India you must visit

By , Delhi
Updated On May 05, 2023 11:03 am IST

From Mahabodhi Temple to Sanchi Stupa, check out some of the must-visit Buddhist sites in India to help you plan your Buddha Purnima pilgrimage.

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Buddha Purnima, also known as Vesak or Buddha Jayanti, is a significant day in the Buddhist calendar as it commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha. For those looking to deepen their spiritual journey, India is home to many ancient Buddhist monasteries and temples that offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Buddhism. Here are some of the must-visit Buddhist sites in India to help you plan your Buddha Purnima pilgrimage. (Shutterstock) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Updated on May 05, 2023 11:03 am IST

Buddha Purnima, also known as Vesak or Buddha Jayanti, is a significant day in the Buddhist calendar as it commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha. For those looking to deepen their spiritual journey, India is home to many ancient Buddhist monasteries and temples that offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Buddhism. Here are some of the must-visit Buddhist sites in India to help you plan your Buddha Purnima pilgrimage. (Shutterstock)

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The Mahabodhi Temple Complex, Bodh Gaya: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Buddhism. It is home to the famous Bodhi Tree, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. (File photo) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Updated on May 05, 2023 11:03 am IST

The Mahabodhi Temple Complex, Bodh Gaya: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Buddhism. It is home to the famous Bodhi Tree, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. (File photo)

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Sanchi Stupa, Madhya Pradesh: A magnificent Buddhist monument that dates back to the 3rd century BCE. It is famous for its intricate carvings and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.(pixabay) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Updated on May 05, 2023 11:03 am IST

Sanchi Stupa, Madhya Pradesh: A magnificent Buddhist monument that dates back to the 3rd century BCE. It is famous for its intricate carvings and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.(pixabay)

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Hemis Monastery, Ladakh: One of the largest and most famous monasteries in Ladakh. It is known for its colorful festivals, ancient thangkas, and rare Buddhist artifacts.(Pinterest) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Updated on May 05, 2023 11:03 am IST

Hemis Monastery, Ladakh: One of the largest and most famous monasteries in Ladakh. It is known for its colorful festivals, ancient thangkas, and rare Buddhist artifacts.(Pinterest)

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Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh: The headquarters of the exiled Tibetan government and home to the Dalai Lama. It is a thriving center of Tibetan Buddhism and culture.(Unsplash) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Updated on May 05, 2023 11:03 am IST

Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh: The headquarters of the exiled Tibetan government and home to the Dalai Lama. It is a thriving center of Tibetan Buddhism and culture.(Unsplash)

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Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh: One of the largest and most important monasteries in India. It is known for its towering golden statue of Lord Buddha, ancient scriptures, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.(Rahul Karmakar/HT Photo) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Updated on May 05, 2023 11:03 am IST

Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh: One of the largest and most important monasteries in India. It is known for its towering golden statue of Lord Buddha, ancient scriptures, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.(Rahul Karmakar/HT Photo)

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Ajanta Caves, Maharashtra: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that features some of the most exquisite Buddhist rock-cut caves in India. The caves are adorned with stunning murals and sculptures that depict the life of Lord Buddha. (Ajay Aggarwal / HT Photo) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Updated on May 05, 2023 11:03 am IST

Ajanta Caves, Maharashtra: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that features some of the most exquisite Buddhist rock-cut caves in India. The caves are adorned with stunning murals and sculptures that depict the life of Lord Buddha. (Ajay Aggarwal / HT Photo)

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Dhamekh Stupa, Sarnath: Dhamekh Stupa in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh is a significant historical and religious site for Buddhists, particularly during Buddha Purnima. In this article, we'll explore the stupa's architecture, history, and connection to Buddhism, as well as provide information on visiting Sarnath during Buddha Purnima.(Unsplash) expand-icon View Photos in a new improved layout
Updated on May 05, 2023 11:03 am IST

Dhamekh Stupa, Sarnath: Dhamekh Stupa in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh is a significant historical and religious site for Buddhists, particularly during Buddha Purnima. In this article, we'll explore the stupa's architecture, history, and connection to Buddhism, as well as provide information on visiting Sarnath during Buddha Purnima.(Unsplash)

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    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Akanksha Agnihotri

    Akanksha Agnihotri is a lifestyle journalist with over 3 years of experience. She is a psychology graduate and holds a postgraduate diploma in Radio and Television Journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Delhi, where she graduated as a gold medalist. Originally from Bhopal, the beautiful capital of Madhya Pradesh, she draws inspiration from the city’s rich cultural heritage and layered storytelling traditions that subtly shape her narrative voice. She writes extensively about fashion, beauty, health, relationships, culture, and food, exploring everything from trending styles and runway moments to wellness routines and mindful living. Passionate about meaningful and candid conversations, she enjoys interviewing celebrities, doctors, designers, and film personalities, diving into discussions on fitness, beauty, mental health, and everything fun in between. With a keen eye for trends and a thoughtful understanding of human behaviour, she brings depth, sensitivity, and authenticity to her stories, ensuring they resonate with a wide and diverse audience. When she’s not working, you’ll usually find her lost in a book, planning her next mountain trek, or mapping out spontaneous travel escapes. She loves discovering new authors, revisiting old favourites, and spending quiet afternoons in museums soaking in art, history, and culture. An avid bird-watching enthusiast, she finds joy in early morning walks, spotting rare birds, and reconnecting with nature. Whether sipping coffee while journaling her thoughts or exploring hidden corners of a new city, she constantly seeks inspiration in everyday moments that often turn into compelling story ideas.

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