Deekshabhoomi Stupa – Nagpur, Maharashtra

Deekshabhoomi Stupa in Nagpur is one of the most significant Buddhist pilgrimage centers in India. It is a place of historical, spiritual, and cultural importance where Dr. B. R. Ambedkar and his followers embraced Buddhism in 1956. Today, it attracts millions of visitors every year, making it a landmark of peace, equality, and enlightenment. About Deekshabhoomi

Deekshabhoomi, located in Nagpur, Maharashtra, is one of the most significant Buddhist pilgrimage sites in India. It holds immense historical importance as the place where Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution, embraced Buddhism along with 600,000 followers on October 14, 1956. This event marked a monumental moment in India's social and religious history, symbolizing liberty, equality, and fraternity. The site is revered by millions of Buddhist devotees and social reformers, making it an important center for spiritual learning and meditation. The grand Dhamma Chakra Stupa, inspired by the Sanchi Stupa, is one of the largest hollow stupas in the world, attracting visitors for its architectural beauty, historical significance, and peaceful ambiance. Buddhist Temple Description & Speciality

Deekshabhoomi Stupa is one of the largest hollow stupas in the world.

It was designed by architect Sheo Dan Mal, with construction starting in 1978 and completing in 2001.

Inspired by the Sanchi Stupa, it has a 120-ft circular base and a 60-ft high dome.

The inner sanctum houses a sandalwood idol of Gautama Buddha and Buddhist relics.

Four entrances symbolize the Four Noble Truths of Buddhism.

The site is a center for meditation and Buddhist teachings.

The premises include a library, a museum, and a photo exhibition showcasing the life of Dr. Ambedkar and Lord Buddha. Address & Location

Address: South Ambazari Road, Abhyankar Nagar, Nagpur, Maharashtra 440020, India.

Coordinates: Latitude: 21.1325° N, Longitude: 79.0656° E Temple Timings & Sevas

Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Daily)

Entry Fee: Free

Rituals & Sevas: Visitors can meditate, offer prayers, and participate in Buddhist discourses and special ceremonies. Facilities at Deekshabhoomi

Traveling Facilities

Public Transport: Well connected by city buses, auto-rickshaws, taxis, and app-based cabs (Ola, Uber).

Parking: Available for private vehicles and tour buses. Food Facilities

Nearby restaurants serve vegetarian, Maharashtrian, and South Indian food.

Special Buddhist Satvik food is available at some local eateries.

Nagpur’s famous Orange sweets, street food, and snacks can be found in markets nearby. Stay Facilities

Buddhist guesthouses and Dharamshalas are available at affordable rates.

Budget & Luxury Hotels Near Deekshabhoomi:

Hotel Hardeo

Radisson Blu (5-star)

Hotel Centre Point

Gautam Buddha Vihar Guest House (for pilgrims) How to Reach Deekshabhoomi

By Road (Bus Routes)

From Nagpur Bus Stand: City buses towards Bajaj Nagar, Sitabardi, and Ambazari stop near Deekshabhoomi.

From Other Cities: Luxury sleeper buses operate from Mumbai (840 km), Pune (850 km), and Hyderabad (500 km). By Train (Train Routes)

Nearest Railway Station: Nagpur Junction Railway Station (5 km) Direct trains from:

Mumbai (Vidarbha Express, Sewagram Express)

Delhi (Sampark Kranti Express, Dakshin Express)

Chennai (Tamil Nadu Express)

Kolkata (Gitanjali Express)

Bangalore (Sanghamitra Express) By Air (Flight Routes)

Nearest Airport: Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur (8 km)

Direct Flights Available From: Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Dubai, Bangkok.

Taxis and cabs are available at the airport. Nearby Cities to Visit

Wardha (80 km) – Known for Sevagram Ashram (Mahatma Gandhi's residence).

Amravati (150 km)

Chandrapur (150 km)

Bhandara (75 km) Nearby Attractions & Temples

Ambazari Lake & Garden (2 km) – Ideal for evening relaxation.

Raman Science Centre & Planetarium (6 km) – Interactive science museum.

Maharaj Baug Zoo (5 km) – A botanical garden & zoo.

Futala Lake (7 km) – Famous for illuminated fountains and street food.

Dragon Palace Temple (18 km, Kamptee) – A beautiful Buddhist monastery.

Sitabuldi Fort (6 km) – A historic British-era fort.

Zero Mile Marker (6 km) – The geographical center of India. Best Time to Visit

October – March (Pleasant weather)

October 14th (Dhamma Chakra Pravartan Din) – Grand celebrations marking Dr. Ambedkar's conversion.

Avoid April – June due to hot summer temperatures (~40°C). Shopping & Specialties in Nagpur

Nagpur Oranges – The city is famous for its sweet and tangy oranges.

Handicrafts & Artifacts – Traditional wooden and bamboo crafts.

Maharashtrian Sweets – Orange Barfi, Santra Goli, and Anarsa. Best Shopping Markets:

Sitabuldi Main Market – Clothes, electronics, and handicrafts.

Sadar Bazaar – Authentic Maharashtrian spices and sweets.

Dharampeth Shopping Street – Jewelry and branded showrooms. Summary

Deekshabhoomi is a sacred Buddhist site and a social reform symbol.

Architecture: One of the world’s largest hollow stupas inspired by Sanchi Stupa.

Location: Nagpur, Maharashtra.

Timings: 6 AM - 8 PM, Free Entry.

Facilities: Meditation hall, library, museum, guesthouses, food stalls.

Transport: Well connected by road, rail, and air.

Nearby Attractions: Dragon Palace, Ambazari Lake, Futala Lake, Zero Mile.

Best Time to Visit: October - March.

Shopping: Famous for oranges, handicrafts, and traditional sweets.

Deekshabhoomi stands as a beacon of social transformation and spiritual enlightenment, embodying the principles of Buddhism and social justice. It is not just a monument but a living testament to Dr. Ambedkar’s vision of an equal and just society. Visitors to this sacred site experience a sense of peace, reflection, and inspiration, making it a must-visit for Buddhists, history enthusiasts, and travelers seeking spiritual and cultural depth. Whether exploring the magnificent stupa, meditating in its tranquil surroundings, or learning about Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy, Deekshabhoomi offers a profound experience that resonates beyond religion and history. A trip to this iconic landmark, combined with nearby attractions and the vibrant city of Nagpur, promises an enriching journey of knowledge, devotion, and cultural exploration.