Within India - Best Places of Interest

April 16, 2019 Travel, Within India

10 Buddhists Pilgrimage Sites in India

Wat Thai Temple, Kushinagar, pilgrimage site

India is a land of diversity where diverse religions can be found within the same state and the country. Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Islam, and Christianity are some of the widespread religions in India but nowadays Buddhism is quite popular among youths as its wonderful teachings of life inspire every youth. Its teaching ranges from separation from the materialistic delights of the world, truth, and non-violence.

A number of monasteries are located at the different corners of India which can be explored on your Buddhist pilgrimage tour in India, starting from Mahabodhi Temple in Gaya which is the most famous and acclaimed Buddhist Monastery in the country.

1- Mahabodhi Temple (Location- Bihar)

Mahabodhi Temple (Location- Bihar), pilgrimage site

One of the most divine Buddhist places in India which is established in Bodh Gaya, Bihar and was built by the great King Ashoka in the 3rd century. This 180 feet high huge pyramid architecture reflects the teachings, custom, culture, and tradition of Buddhists. A huge and gorgeous idol of Lord Buddha is standing majestically in this yellow stoned structure.

Specialty- the sacred Bodhi tree under which Lord Buddha attained self-enlightenment.

2- Mahaparinirvana Temple (Location- Kushinagar)

The second holiest Buddhist places in India which are not only famous for its religious significance but also for its tourism rate. This Buddhist site is not only visited by Indian tourists but also by international tourists with the same level of enthusiasm. The beautiful architecture and the spiritual aura of this site are quite appealing to the visitors.

Specialty– A huge sleeping postured statue of Lord Buddha (6 meters high) which symbolizes Buddha’s highest state of salvation.

3- Wat Thai Temple (Location-Kushinagar)

Also called as the Buddhist treasures in India, Wat Thai Temple is known for its tranquil aura. The atmosphere inside the temple makes it a perfect place for meditation as the ambience is filled with complete serenity and peace. It’s impossible for the visitors to ignore the natural charm of this Buddhist site which is studded with greenery all around.

Specialty– Designed with a beautiful combination of Buddhist and Thai architecture and its green environment all around the temple.

4- Sarnath Temple (Location-Varanasi)

The place where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon on wisdom after attaining the enlightenment and the architecture was constructed during the 3rd century BC by the great King Ashoka. Presently, it is counted among the top 5 Buddhist religious places in India.

Specialty– The first spiritual discourse was delivered by Lord Buddha after gaining the enlightenment. It also houses some other Stupas which enhance the charm of this site.

5- Sanchi Stupa (Location- Madhya Pradesh)

It is believed to be the most ancient stone monument in India built by the great emperor Ashoka. This magnificent architecture represents very beautifully the glory of Buddhism architecture and also the arts. The intricate carvings on the walls, pillars, and the gate of Stupa makes it one of the most visited Buddhist sites in the country.

Specialty– Beautiful relics of Lord Buddha, exquisite carvings on the gateways, and the huge spherical dome.

6- Rumtek Monastery (Location- Sikkim)

Rumtek Monastery (Location- Sikkim), pilgrimage site

Nestled beautifully on the hilltop in Sikkim, Rumtek Monastery was known as the Dharma Chakra Centre originally. Besides being a spiritual place, Rumtek is also known for its growing tourism rate due to its beautiful location and surrounding landscapes comprised of green mountains which gives a visual treat to the visitors coming to this place.

Specialty– Its fine architecture is quite famous in the world and the breathtaking view of the entire Gangtok town.

7- Theravada Buddhist Temple (Location- Itanagar)

Theravada Buddhist Temple (Location- Itanagar), pilgrimage site

One of the most prime Buddhist destinations in East India, Theravada is considered to be an ideal place for seeking meditation due to its serene ambience. The place holds great religious significance in Buddhism and is also known for its surreal natural beauty.

Specialty– Verdant greenery, comfortable, positive, and peaceful vibes and also the cleanliness of the structure makes it unique and special.

8- Kapilvastu (Location- Siddharth Nagar, Uttar Pradesh)

Kapilvastu (Location- Siddharth Nagar, Uttar Pradesh), pilgrimage

This Buddhist site holds a great religious and historical significance and also famous for housing numerous Stupas. Kapilvastu is believed to be the place where Lord Buddha was grown up and lived up a happy life with his son Rahul and wife before leaving for Nirvana.

Specialty– The inscriptions of Deoputra in the Stupa Complex, Palace site, and the ruins of the palace of Prince Gautam’s father King Suddhodhan.

9- Ghum Monastery (Location- Darjeeling)

Ghum Monastery (Location- Darjeeling), pilgrimage site

It is believed to be the oldest Buddhist site in the city of Darjeeling which is elevated at a great height of 8000 feet. This highly elevated monastery was established by Lama Sherab Gyatso in the year 1850. One can witness many ancient manuscripts of Buddhists inside the premise of this structure.

Specialty- the clay used to design the huge statue of Buddha in the monastery was brought from Tibet. The view of imposing Kanchenjunga is an additional treat to the eyes.

10- Ajanta Caves (Location- Maharashtra)

Ajanta Caves (Location- Maharashtra), pilgrimage site

Included in the list of World Heritage Sites as declared by UNESCO, Ajanta Cave is a beautiful Buddhist architecture which was constructed during 650 CE and 2nd century BC. The paintings and the sculptures depicted on the walls of the cave tell many stories and also numerous things about the Buddhist culture. The serenity and tranquillity of the cave is an additional feature of this Buddhist site in India.

Speciality– set of 3 rock-cut structure, the greenery of the surrounding areas, and the huge meditations halls.

Places to visit in Badrinath

Badrinath is a naturally blessed pilgrimage nestled between the beautiful Nar and Narayan mountain ranges. The unspoiled beauty and the breathtaking surroundings add more glory to this spiritual place dedicated to Lord Vishnu. One of the most revered stopovers of Char Dham pilgrimage circuit, and like other pilgrimages in the circuit Badrinath holds a great religious significance in Hinduism and Hindu devout. This ancient holy town of Badrinath is located in the Chamoli district in Uttarakhand at an altitude of 3133 meters above the sea level. The temple name has been derived from the word Badri as the region is much abundant in yielding berries. With myriads of holy legends and the myths associated with the place, Badrinath holds a prominent place in the list of Hindu pilgrimage sites.

Places to visit around Badrinath-

Despite being reckoned as a revered place in Uttarakhand, Badrinath is surrounded by numerous interesting traveling destinations which can give you an exciting and awe-inspiring traveling experience. This article has compiled the list of all the tourist destinations in and around Badrinath which can be explored by opting Badrinath Yatra Package.

1. Badrinath Temple

Also called as Badrinarayan Temple, Badrinath Temple is situated at the right side of the Alaknanda River. The temple stands at an altitude of 3133 meters above the sea level in the Chamoli district in Uttarakhand and is dedicated to Lord Badri (Vishnu). The temple is believed to be constructed during the 8th century by the great philosopher Adi Shankaracharya. “Singh Dwar” which is the main entrance of the temple is the major attraction of the temple. A 3.3 meter tall and black-stoned statue of Lord Vishnu which is installed in the Garbhagriha of the temple along with the idols of other gods and goddesses. Devotees cannot pay their homage and cannot do the philosophy of Lord Vishnu during winter as this divine temple is closed during the winter season which gets opened with the commencement of summer season.

2. Vasudhara Falls

This beautiful waterfall in Uttarakhand is one of the most charming traveling destinations near Badrinath. The water of this stunning waterfall falls from a great height of 400 feet above the sea level and is a perfect example of nature’s ethereal beauty. It is believed that the cascading water falling from the height turns away from those who are not pure at heart and can only be savored by the people with pure and clean heart. Despite being a remote location, the cool and salubrious ambiance of the atmosphere and the unadulterated beauty Vasudhara waterfalls is a heavily crowded and a must visit place in Badrinath.

3. Satopanth Lake

A triangular lake which contains crystal clear green water is situated at an elevation of 4600 meters above the sea level and is reckoned as the highest altitude lake located in Uttarakhand. The lake is established near the divine Badrinath Temple. The trekking trail of this pea-green lake is quite appealing and inviting to the adventure enthusiasts to gear up themselves for an enrapturing and lifelong trekking experience. The beautiful landscape of the surrounding that includes snow-clad mountains, lush green meadows, and the imposing mountain peaks negotiates the tiredness and keeps you refresh and motivated during the trek.

4. Brahma Kapal

This traveling destination of Badrinath holds a great significance in Hinduism and is known to be the place where people come to pay respect and homage to the departed souls of their ancestors. Brahma Kapal is located around 2 km away from the Badrinath shrine and there is a deep belief among Hindu devout that if they perform the Shraddha rituals of their ancestors at this sacred place then the departed souls of their ancestors and their loved ones get liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Festivals in Badrinath:

• Mata MurtiKaMela

There is a grand celebration organized every year on the day when the idol of Lord Uddhavji is brought to the Mata Murti Temple which is approx. 3 km away and the idol is brought back to its place on the same day.

• Badri Kedar Festival

This auspicious festival is celebrated in the month of June and the festival is organized in the temples of Badrinath and Kedarnath. The festival continues for eight days and through this Badri-Kedar festival, numerous greatest artists come under the same platform.

Highlights of itineraries of Deccan Odyssey

What are the Itineraries Highlights of Deccan Odyssey?

Deccan Odyssey is tagged as the blue limo on wheels. It stands up to its name with the long list of amenities, superlative services and royal hospitality. The train does not just moves around through iconic attractions of the land. It focuses on giving you a taste of every slice of India, as much as possible. For this, the train has six unique itineraries.

Are you confused about choosing one among those?

Here are the highlights of each itinerary of Deccan Odyssey.

1. Maharashtra Splendor

Cost Of Ticket – From USD 6,100 per cabin

Destinations – Nashik, Ajanta and Ellora caves, Kolhaur, Goa and Sindhudurg

Starting and Ending Point – Mumbai

Duration – 8 days and seven nights

Ajanta Ellora, Maharashtra Splendor, Deccan Odyssey — Ajanta Ellora, Maharashtra Splendor

This itinerary will take you through the colourful side of the country, covering pilgrimage sites, party destinations, heritage locations and most importantly the wine capital of the land. You get to explore the heritage sites of Ajanta and Ellora caves, history of Kolhapur and seek blessings at many ancient temples. To understand the culture of the land, you will witness several rituals. This trip provides equal importance to the natural beauty by adding a vineyard trip in Nashik and the Konkan Coast stroll.

Choose winter Deccan Odyssey departure dates to enjoy nature is the most beautiful level.

2. Indian Odyssey

Cost Of Ticket – From USD 6,100 per cabin

Destinations – Sawai Madhopur, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, Vadodara, Aurangabad and Ellora Caves

Starting and Ending Point – New Delhi and Mumbai

Duration – 8 days and seven nights

This trip covers the two main cities of Golden Triangle, Agra and Jaipur. Along with these heritage sites, it takes you through the natural beauty of Sawai Madhopur and an architectural paradise of Ellora. You get to enjoy the culture of the land at Jaipur, Udaipur and Agra. The historic lands of Aurangabad and Vadodara are the best to experience raw India.

Best Places of interest in Pondicherry

Pondicherry, also known as Puducherry, is a city and capital of the Pondicherry union territory of Southern India. Though the place is small in geographical size this place was the largest French Colony in India. The city has a long and interesting history of trade and war.

A colonial touch blended with the robust Tamil culture, Pondicherry is just a two-hour picturesque drive away from Chennai. Blossoming bougainvilleas, crumbling cathedrals on leafy boulevards and 18^th century colonial buildings color the former French colony of Pondy, which sits on the Bay of Bengal.

This photo of Pondicherry is courtesy of TripAdvisor

Pondicherry, a destination that promises travellers sanctity and serenity. It is indeed one of the most charming and mesmerising places to visit in South India

Below are the best places of interest in Pondicherry –

1. Paradise Beach, Pondicherry:

There are a few decent beaches to the north and south of town. Quiet, Reppo and Serenity beaches are all north of the Centre, within 8 km of Pondicherry. Chunnambar, 8 km south has Paradise beach (also known as the Plage Paradiso) water sports activities and backwater boat cruises. This is a little-isolated beach and in order to reach here, you must take a ferry which takes around 20–30 minutes.

2. Water Sports in Pondicherry:

Pondicherry is quickly becoming every beach lovers favourite hideout. Several water sports along its white sandy beaches are another reason for travellers to love Pondy.

Water sports activities like scuba diving, parasailing, banana boat rides but also its unique cultural traits, excellent food varieties and innumerable sightseeing options, Pondicherry is a true delight to travellers who long for an off-beat travel experience.

3. Auroville Ashram:

Founded in 1926 by Sri Aurobindo and a French woman known as “the Mother”, a place where you can relax and calm your inner being. The best way to experience Auroville ashram is to just sit in one of the cafes and talk to some of the residents about their experience of living in the city. The architecture of the city is as interesting as the concept.

Auroville Matri mandir Pondicherry ashram spiritual
IC: Pixabay

The main attraction here is the “Matrimandir”.

The best way to experience Auroville ashram is to just sit in one of the cafes and talk to some of the residents here about their experience of living in the city.

4. Botanical Garden:

A popular tourist attraction of Pondicherry, Botanical Garden was established by C.S. Perrotet in the year 1862. The garden is home to several exotic varieties of rare plants as well as an aquarium.

This photo of Pondicherry Botanical Gardens is courtesy of TripAdvisor. This wide range of plants has been collected from various parts of India and around the globe. Aquarium is an interesting place to visit which abodes diverse collection of aquatic organisms as well as fish flora.

5. French War Memorial:

French War Memorial is a stylish structure located in the Goubert Avenue and is dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives in the First World War. On 14th of July every year, an annual commemoration ceremony is held here during which the monument is beautifully illuminated. This memorial offers a pleasant experience to all visitors.

6. Pondicherry Museum:

Pondicherry Museum is in Bharathi Park, houses a fantastic collection of sculptures. It has the remains of the archaeological findings from the Arikamedu Roman settlement.

This photo of Pondicherry Museum is courtesy of TripAdvisor

Bronze sculptures of god and goddess, a wide gathering of temple lamps, handicrafts and art are also kept here. Some specimens of Chola and Pallava art from Pondicherry and Karaikal are displayed in the sculpture gallery.

7. Pondicherry Lighthouse:

The new lighthouse at Pondichery is seen in the background, the old lighthouse is seen in the foreground.
Dr. Ajay B. MD

The Lighthouse is one of the remarkable landmarks in Pondicherry. The French Riviera of the East, Pondy has two lighthouses, an old one and the new one. Where the former has been closed for public appearance the latter serves as the spot for giving its visitors the most amazing bird’s eye view of the city.

8. Seaside Promenade:

This photo of Seaside Promenade is courtesy of TripAdvisor

One of the things that do justice to Pondicherry’s French Roots is its beautiful Seaside Promenade. The area is well maintained, clean and beautiful and you can feel foam spray on your face while sipping a cooler in one of the many cafes at the promenade. Whether you’re visiting during the sunny day or the starry night, the Seaside Promenade is equally feeling good.

9. Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple:

This photo of Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple is courtesy of TripAdvisor

Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is said to have been established almost 5 centuries ago. The temple is situated behind the Raj Niwas, the sanctum is enshrined with a grand idol of Vinayaka called Vellakkaran Pillai.

10. Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus:

Traveller photo submitted by tsashi (Feb 2013) Tripadvisor.in

The Church of Sacred Heart of Jesus is situated 2.5 km away from the Pondicherry Bus Station on the south boulevard of the town. One of the most beautiful Catholic Churches of Pondicherry, the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus beautifully showcases the Gothic architecture. Biblical words can be seen engraved on the entrance in Latin along with the images of Jesus and Mother Mary on the door at the entrance. Occasions such as New Year, Christmas Eve, and Easter Day are celebrated at the church in a grand way.

11. Barathiyar Museum at Pondicherry, a hidden treasure of Pondicherry-

Interesting and absorbing. Tamil Poet & freedom fighter Subramania Bharathi’s life history showcased in a place where he lived shortly. Felt one’s trip to Pondicherry is not complete if this place is not visited. House converted into Museum is well maintained & clean. One can understand the art of communication & expression in those days. It is the elder’s responsibility to highlight to the children about our past and their struggles to retain their identity and how they connected & respected Gandhiji.

Bharathiyar House in Puducherry. He was staying there for 10 years.
Balogic

Subramanya Bharathi was a Tamil poet & a patriot. He had to flee British India due to his activities against the foreign rulers & arrived in Pondicherry in 1908 as a fugitive. He composed some of the finest patriotic & romantic compositions.

He built his home here which has been later converted into a museum honouring him & has become a place of pilgrimage for all Tamil followers.

12. Iskcon Pondicherry-

Visit this place for a spiritual peek into your inner self. ISKCON’s core beliefs are based on highly revered traditional scriptures, particularly the Bhagavad Gita and the Srimad Bhagavatam. It is a great place to meditate, and is highly recommended on your trip to Pondicherry.

Pondicherry City Bike Tour with Breakfast

Have you been to Pondicherry? What are your best places of interest in Pondicherry?