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.
Attractions
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 ( Hotels
-|- Temples/Monasteries )
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.
