Travel Date: April 11, 2018 Vaishali Vaishali, located in present-day Bihar, India, is a significant sacred site in Buddhist history. It was an important place during the later years of Shakyamuni Buddha’s life, where he announced his impending parinirvana and engaged in several teachings and discussions on Dharma. Vaishali is also recognized as the site of the First Buddhist Council, marking the beginning of the systematic compilation of Buddhist scriptures. Additionally, it is one of the eight major Buddhist pilgrimage sites and is famous for the Ashokan pillar erected there, with its lion capital symbolizing the dissemination and stability of the Dharma. Kesariya Stupa Kesariya Stupa, located in Bihar, India,…

Travel Date: April 12, 2018 Ramabhar Stupa The Ramabhar Stupa, located in Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh, India, is a renowned Buddhist site. According to Buddhist scriptures, this stupa marks the place where Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, was cremated after attaining Mahaparinirvana. Following his cremation, the Buddha’s relics were distributed among eight kingdoms for veneration, and the Ramabhar Stupa is believed to be the exact location of the cremation. Standing approximately 15 meters tall, the stupa was historically a flourishing center for pilgrimage. The name “Ramabhar” may be derived from local traditions or geographical features. Today, it serves as an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists, attracting devotees and visitors from around the…

Trvavel Date: April 13, 2018 Lumbini Lumbini, located in southern Nepal, is the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, and one of the Four Great Buddhist Holy Sites. According to Buddhist scriptures, Buddha was born here in 623 BCE under a sal tree while Queen Maya was strolling in the garden. Lumbini holds immense religious and historical significance as the origin of Buddhist faith. Key attractions in Lumbini include:Maya Devi Temple,Ashoka Pilla,Sacred Pond.Lumbini is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, drawing countless Buddhist devotees and visitors for pilgrimage and reflection. It stands as a vital symbol of global Buddhist culture. Kapilavastu Kapilavastu, an ancient city in northern India, is…

Travel Date: April 14, 2018 Jetavana Monastery Jetavana Monastery, formally known as Jetavana Anathapindika Arama, was the first officially established Buddhist monastic community in history. Located in the ancient city of Shravasti (present-day Uttar Pradesh, India), it was built on land purchased by the wealthy benefactor Anathapindika (Sudatta) from Prince Jeta, hence its name. Jetavana Monastery was one of the most frequented and long-lasting places where Buddha taught, with many significant scriptures, such as the Diamond Sutra and Lotus Sutra, being expounded here. Jetavana served not only as a residence and teaching center for Buddha but also as a crucial base for the Sangha to practice, observe monastic discipline, and…

Travel Date: April 15, 2018 New Delhi New Delhi is the capital of India and the first stop on the pilgrimage to the sacred mountains.New Delhi serves as the political hub of India and the seat of the central government. As a cultural and economic center, it boasts a wealth of historical landmarks, museums, and iconic structures, such as the India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential Palace), and the Lotus Temple. Moreover, New Delhi is renowned for its cultural diversity and thriving economy, making it one of the most prominent metropolitan cities in the world.