From enlightenment to nirvana, 8 famous Buddhist monasteries of India, know the history behind them!

The Mahabodhi Temple in Gaya, Bihar is a massive symbol of Buddhism, marking the spot where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment and became the Buddha some 2500 years ago. This UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Bodh Gaya is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists around the world.

Mahaparinirvan Temple located in Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh is one of the most important pilgrimage sites of Buddhism. It is believed that this is the same place where Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana, the final liberation in 482 BC. The most special thing about this temple is the 20 feet long huge reclining statue of Buddha, which symbolizes his liberation from the cycle of birth and death. The temple is surrounded by stupas and monasteries, including the Rambhar Stupa, which is believed to be the cremation site of Buddha.