Kushinagar
Kushinagar is another Buddhist destination, worth a sincere admiration,
due to the serenity, rich history, and the splendid structures of Buddhist
root. The excavations led by general Cunningham has revealed some antique
artifacts and structures related to all sects of Buddhism. Kushinagar also
expresses the common thread of all sects of Buddhism through its magnificent
Viharas, Chaityas, temples and Tibetan monasteries. In ancient times, the
town was also known as Kushinara and Kasia.
In this place Lord Buddha had left the world behind him after offering an
invaluable contribution to humanity, the great religion known as Buddhism
that preaches peace and brotherhood. In 543 BC, on a full moon night of
Magh the legend delivered lecture to his Sangha and declared that he is
going to leave the mortal world soon enough.
Location
Kushinagar is situated at a distance of 53 km west of Gorakhpur, in Uttar
Pradesh, in the northern part of India.
Temples & Monasteries
Nirvana Stupa and Temple - The excavations leading to the finding
of the copper vessel and the Brahmi inscription on it proving the matter
that Buddhas ashes were buried in the pace, made this place a suddenly important
destination for all Buddhists devotees. Besides, the huge reclining statue
of Buddha in the temple is also very attractive.
Wat Thai temple - The unique temple, built to celebrate the victory
of King Bhumibol's great accession of the throne, and the subsequent Golden
Jubilee, is worth a watch, especially because of the innumerable trees that
were planted here.
Besides, there's the Chinese temple, the Meditation Park and an International
Buddha trust, and the Birla temple to add charm to roaming around in the
city.
Excursions
Gorakhpur - Gorakhpur is an important Hindu destination, due to the
numerous temples, including the Gorakhnath temple, the Vishnu temple, gita
Vatika, Gita press, and the Arogya Mandir. Besides, there are important
institutions of other religions such as the Imambara. The planetarium and
the circuit house are also worth a visit.
Lumbini - This immensely important Buddhist pilgrimage, the birthplace
of Lord Buddha, is in Nepal, at a distance of 122 km from Gorakhpur, houses
some of the most important artifacts of literature and art related to the
life of Lord Buddha.
How to get there
Air - Gorakhpur is the nearest airport, at a distance of 44 km from the
place.
Rail - The nearest railway station, a convenient one, is Gorakhpur, which
is linked to important railway stations.
Road - The national highway numbered 28 connects the place with other
important destinations of the state.
Where to stay
There are accommodation facilities available, in the Dharmashalas and other
charitable trusts. In Kushinagar, there's Hotel Nikko, International Guesthouse,
Hindu brila Buddha Dharmashala, Nepalese Dharmashala etc are good places
to stay. The UP Tourism accommodation, the Pathik Niwas is also quite good.
Kushinagar, Buddhist Major Destinations Reservation Form
