10 Famous Buddhist Temples in India You Should Visit!

Posted on Friday, May 16th, 2025 by Neha Sharma Leave a Comment

Remember that feeling of complete calm you had on your last vacation…or was it even earlier than that? It’s easy to lose touch with the peace within. Sometimes, a change of scenery is all you need to reconnect. If you’re craving peace, look no further than the beautiful Buddhist temples across India. Want to find that inner stillness? Pack your bags & prepare to be amazed: these 10 temples are waiting to welcome you.

1. Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya, Bihar

The Mahabodhi Temple stands as a beacon of spiritual enlightenment, marking the very spot where Siddhartha Gautama attained Buddhahood under the sacred Bodhi Tree. Originally established by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, the current structure dates back to the 5th-6th century CE. 

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is characterized by its towering pyramidal spire, intricate carvings, & the revered Vajrasana or “Diamond Throne.” 

Pilgrims from around the world flock here to meditate and pay homage to the Enlightened One. The pilgrims from around the world flock here to meditate & play. 

Feature	Description
Bodhi Tree	A direct descendant of the original tree under which Buddha meditated.
UNSCO Status	Declared a World Heritage Site in 2002
Daily Rituals	Hosts daily chants and meditation sessions led by international monks.
Architectural Style	Exemplifies Gupta period architecture with influences from various cultures.

2. Mahaparinirvana Temple, Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh

This temple is situated in Kushinagar. The Mahaparinirvana Temple commemorates the place where Lord Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana (final nirvana) after his demise. The temple houses a 6.1-meter-long reclining statue of Buddha, carved from monolithic sandstone, depicting his serene transition into nirvana. Surrounded by gardens & ancient ruins, the temple offers a peaceful environment for reflection & devotion.

Feature	Description
Reclining Buddha Statue	Dates back to the 5th century CE, and was discovered in 1876.
Pilgrimage Significance	Attracts thousands during Buddha Purnima for commemorative ceremonies.
Archaeological Importance	Part of the Buddhist Circuit promoted by the Ministry of Tourism.

3. Ramabhar Stupa, Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh

Located near the Mahaparinirvana Temple, the Ramabhar Stupa is believed to be the cremation site of Lord Buddha. This 49-foot-high stupa, constructed over a large mound, stands as a solemn monument marking the final rites of the Enlightened One. The simplicity of the structure underscores its profound spiritual significance.

Feature	Description
Alternative Name	Also known as Mukutbandhan Chaitya
Historical Excavations	Archaeological digs have revealed ancient brick structures beneath the stupa.
Pilgrimage Practices	Devotees perform circumambulation as a mark of respect.

4. Wat Thai Temple, Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh

The Wat Thai Temple, constructed by the Thai government, is a symbol of international Buddhist solidarity. Reflecting traditional Thai architectural aesthetics, the temple features golden-tipped roofs, intricate carvings, and serene gardens. It serves both as a place of worship and a center for cultural exchange between India and Thailand.

Feature	Description
Cultural Significance	Built to commemorate King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s accession to the throne.
Festivals Celebrated	Hosts Thai festivals and ceremonies, fostering cultural ties.
Meditation Facilities	Offers meditation halls and accommodations for visiting monks and pilgrims.

5. Dungeshwari Cave Temples, Gaya, Bihar

Nestled in the hills near Bodh Gaya, the Dungeshwari Cave Temples are believed to be the site where Siddhartha Gautama practiced severe asceticism before attaining enlightenment. The caves house statues of a fasting Buddha, symbolizing his intense penance. The serene ambiance of the caves provides an ideal setting for meditation and introspection.

Feature	Description
Historical Relevance	Marks the transition of Buddha from extreme austerity to the Middle Path.
Pilgrimage Route	Often included in the Buddhist pilgrimage circuit in Bihar.
Natural Surroundings	Located amidst peaceful hills, enhancing the meditative experience.

6. Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh

The Dhamek Stupa in Sarnath marks the spot where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, setting in motion the Wheel of Dharma. This massive cylindrical structure, adorned with intricate carvings, stands as a testament to this pivotal moment in Buddhist history. The surrounding area is filled with ancient ruins & monasteries, reflecting Sarnath’s significance as a major Buddhist center.

Feature	Description
Historical Significance	Built initially in 249 BCE by Emperor Ashoka, later expanded in 500 CE.
Architectural Details	Stands at 43.6 meters high and 28 meters in diameter.
Nearby Attractions	Close to the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, Housing important relics.

7. Nalanda Mahavihara, Nalanda, Bihar

Nalanda Mahavihara was an ancient center of learning & one of the world’s first residential universities. Established in the 5th century CE, it attracted scholars from across Asia. The extensive ruins include stupas, monasteries, & temples, reflecting the grandeur of this historic institution. Nalanda played a crucial role in the development of Mahayana Buddhism.

Feature	Description
UNESCO World Heritage Site	Recognized for its historical and educational significance.
International Influence	Attracted students from Tibet, China, Korea, and Central Asia.
Destruction	Suffered decline after invasions in the 12th century.

8. Thiksey Monastery, Leh, Ladakh

Perched atop a hill in the Indus Valley, Thiksey Monastery is one of the largest & most architecturally impressive monasteries in Ladakh. Resembling the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet, it has numerous stupas, statues, and thangkas. The monastery is known for its 15-meter-high statue of Maitreya Buddha, the largest in Ladakh.

Feature	Description
Annual Festival	Hosts the Gustor Festival, featuring sacred mask dances.
Monastic Education	Function as a center for Buddhist learning and meditation
Tourist Attraction	Offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley.

9. Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple), Bylakuppe, Karnataka

Namdroling Monastery, also known as the Golden Temple, is the largest teaching center of the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism in the world. Established in 1963 by His Holiness Pema Norbu Rinpoche, the monastery is home to over 5,000 monks & nuns. The temple’s ornate architecture, vibrant murals, and golden statues make it a visual and spiritual delight.

Feature	Description
Educational Programs	Offers comprehensive Buddhist education and monastic training
Cultural Hub	Hosts various Tibetan festivals and ceremonies.
Visitor Experience	Welcomes tourists and provides insights into Tibetan monastic life.

10. Ghoom Monastery, Darjeeling, West Bengal

Ghoom Monastery, officially known as Yiga Choeling Monastery, is the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Darjeeling. Established in 1850, it houses a 15-foot-high statue of Maitreya Buddha. The monastery’s collection of rare Buddhist manuscripts & its serene ambiance make it a significant spiritual site in the region.

Feature	Descriptipon
Architectural Style	Reflects traditional Tibetan design elements
Cultural Importance	Plays a pivotal role in the spiritual life of the local Buddhist community.
Accessibility	Easily reachable from Darjeeling town, it attracts numerous visitors.

For detailed travel advice, bookings, or any queries related to monastery visits and local guidelines, connect with our experts at +91-869-999-5345. 

At Travanya, we’re here 24×7 to help you plan a peaceful, hassle-free spiritual trip to India’s most revered Buddhist temples.