Parinirvana Stupa – Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh

Parinirvana Stupa, located in the sacred town of Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. This historical and spiritual site marks the place where Lord Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana (final liberation from the cycle of birth and death). Rich in architectural, spiritual, and cultural significance, the stupa attracts thousands of devotees and tourists each year, especially those tracing the footsteps of Buddha across India. It offers a serene environment for reflection, devotion, and learning about the Buddha’s final journey.

About the Parinirvana Stupa & Temple

The Parinirvana Stupa in Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most significant Buddhist pilgrimage sites. It marks the location where Gautama Buddha attained Parinirvana, meaning his final liberation from the cycle of birth and death.The Parinirvana Temple houses a 6.1-meter-long reclining statue of Buddha, depicting him lying on his right side with his head facing north in his last moments. The temple and stupa are major attractions for Buddhist monks, historians, and travelers worldwide. Description

The Parinirvana Stupa is a large brick structure housing a reclining Buddha statue, depicting the Buddha's final moments before attaining Mahaparinirvana (ultimate liberation).

The stupa is believed to mark the spot where Lord Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana around 483 BCE.

The site features a 6.1-meter-long reclining Buddha statue, crafted from a single block of sandstone, showcasing the Buddha in a serene and peaceful state. Temple Details

Speciality: The temple marks the place where Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana.

Architecture: Traditional Buddhist design; the temple enshrines a large reclining Buddha statue carved from a single block of red sandstone.

Historical Significance: Excavations in 1876 discovered an ancient copper plate stating that a disciple named Haribala installed the Buddha statue. Location & Address

Address: Parinirvana Stupa and Temple, Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Latitude & Longitude: 26.7397, 83.8867 Timings & Sevas

Temple Timings: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Open all days).

Sevas (Rituals): Various Buddhist prayers and meditation sessions are conducted by visiting monks and pilgrims. Travel Facilities

How to Reach Parinirvana Stupa

By Air:

Nearest Airport: Kushinagar International Airport (~5 km).

Alternative: Gorakhpur Airport (~50 km).

By Train:

Nearest Railway Station: Gorakhpur Junction (~50 km).

Well-connected to Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Lucknow, etc.

By Road:

Kushinagar is accessible via National Highway 27.

Nearest Bus Station: Kushinagar Bus Stand.Regular bus services and taxis available from Gorakhpur, Lucknow, Patna, and Varanasi.

Transportation Routes

Bus Routes: Regular government & private buses operate from Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Lucknow, and Patna. Train Routes:

Board a train to Gorakhpur Junction.

Take a taxi or bus to reach Kushinagar (~50 km). Airways:

Direct flights to Kushinagar International Airport from major Indian cities.

Alternatively, fly to Gorakhpur Airport, then travel by road. Nearby Facilities

Accommodation & Stay

Multiple hotels, guesthouses, monasteries, and budget lodges are available for visitors.

Popular options include Buddhist monasteries offering free/affordable stays. Food Facilities

Restaurants serve vegetarian food, with options for Indian, Nepali, and Tibetan cuisine.Many Buddhist monasteries offer free meals for pilgrims. Nearby Attractions

Buddhist & Historical Sites

Ramabhar Stupa (~1.5 km) – The site where Buddha was cremated.

Matha Kuar Shrine (~1 km) – Houses a 3-meter seated Buddha statue.

Japanese Meditation Park – A peaceful area for meditation and reflection.

Nearby Cities

Gorakhpur (~50 km)

Varanasi (~230 km)

Lucknow (~320 km)

Patna (~240 km)

Best Time to Visit

October to March is the best season for visiting, as the weather is pleasant and cool.

Shopping & Local Crafts

Kushinagar is famous for Buddhist souvenirs, statues, prayer beads, Tibetan handicrafts, and handmade artifacts.

The Parinirvana Stupa is not just an architectural marvel but a symbol of deep spiritual significance for Buddhists and history enthusiasts alike. Its tranquil surroundings and historical importance make it a must-visit destination for those seeking insight into the life and teachings of Lord Buddha. A visit to this sacred site offers an opportunity for reflection, reverence, and a deeper understanding of the journey towards enlightenment.