Kushinagar, also known as Kusinagar or Kusinara in ancient Buddhist scriptures, holds a significant place in Buddhist history as the site of Lord Buddha’s Mahaparinirvana—his final departure from this world. Located near the rural town of Kasia in Uttar Pradesh, just 52 km from Gorakhpur, Kushinagar is a revered pilgrimage destination for Buddhists and spiritual seekers from around the globe.
At the heart of Kushinagar lies a magnificent statue of Buddha, carved from a single piece of red sandstone by the great Mauryan Emperor Ashoka. This statue stands as a symbol of peace and enlightenment, drawing visitors into the spiritual ambiance of the place. The site has been visited by three renowned Chinese scholars—Fa Hien, Huen Tsang, and I-tsing—each of whom contributed to the rich legacy of Buddhist teachings. Kushinagar is an integral part of the famous Buddhist circuit that includes significant sites in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Nepal.
Kushinagar forms a crucial link in the story of Buddha, along with three other important sites: Lumbini in Nepal, where Buddha was born; Bodhgaya, where he attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree; and Sarnath, where he delivered his first sermon to his disciples. Among these sacred sites, Kushinagar holds a unique place as the location of Buddha’s Parinirvana. The most significant festival celebrated here is Buddha Purnima, a time when Kushinagar is adorned with beautiful lights, and its temples become vibrant centers of devotion, attracting both tourists and local worshippers.
Historical Significance: Kushinagar was once a flourishing center of the ancient Malla kingdom, and it was here, near the Hiranyavati River, that Gautama Buddha attained Parinirvana and was cremated. The ruins of stupas and viharas in Kushinagar date back to the 3rd century BC to the 5th century AD, reflecting a period of great prosperity. Emperor Ashoka, a devout follower of Buddhism, is credited with significant construction at this sacred site. However, after centuries of invasions and neglect, Kushinagar fell into oblivion until its rediscovery in the 19th century. The Buddha Temple, when uncovered, was buried under a 40-foot-high mound of bricks, surrounded by dense forests.
Excavations in the late 1800s brought to light many of Kushinagar’s historical treasures, including the Matha Kuar and Ramabhar Stupa. These remnants continue to offer a glimpse into the past, inviting visitors to connect with the rich spiritual heritage of the region.
Topography, Geography, and Climate: Kushinagar is a sparsely populated area surrounded by flat, fertile agricultural land. The best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and conducive to exploring the area. Summers can be quite hot, with temperatures reaching up to 45°C, while winters are relatively cool, with temperatures around 5°C. For accommodation, the Uttar Pradesh Government offers a well-maintained hotel, Patik Niwas, and several other private hotels are available. The nearest railway station and airport are in Gorakhpur, 51 km from Kushinagar. Visitors often come as part of conducted tours or travel packages offered by various companies.
Visiting Kushinagar is not just a physical journey but an inner pilgrimage that fosters self-observation, realization, and a holistic understanding of life and the world around us.
Buddha Temples in Kushinagar:
Mahaparinirvana Temple: This temple houses a serene, reclining statue of Buddha, measuring 6.1 meters in length and made from a single block of red sandstone. The statue depicts Buddha on his deathbed, exuding a tranquil expression that embodies peace and enlightenment.
Nirvana Stupa: Adjacent to the Mahaparinirvana Temple, the Nirvana Stupa is a large brick structure symbolizing Buddha’s final liberation. Originally built during the Gupta period, it has been renovated by various Buddhist communities over the centuries.
Ramabhar Stupa: Also known as Mukutbandhan-Chaitya, this stupa marks the site of Buddha’s cremation. Standing 15 meters high, it is a significant place of meditation and reflection for pilgrims and visitors alike.
Japanese Temple: Constructed by the Japanese Buddhist community, this temple is a striking example of contemporary Buddhist architecture. It features a beautiful golden statue of Buddha, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere of Kushinagar.
Wat Thai Temple: Built by the Thai government, this sprawling temple complex includes beautifully landscaped gardens, meditation halls, and a school for Buddhist studies. It offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking solace and enlightenment.
Buddha’s Last Moments: At the age of eighty, after many years of spreading his message of realization, Buddha sensed that his time in this world was nearing its end. According to the Mahaparinibbana Sutta, he embarked on a month-long journey to Kushinagar, passing through Rajagriha, Patliputra, Vesali, Bhoganagara, and Pavanagar. In Pavanagar, Buddha was served his last meal, called sūkaramaddavaṁ, by a local named Cunda. Despite suffering from dysentery, Buddha continued his journey, eventually crossing the Hiranyavati River and reaching a grove of sala trees in Kushinagar. Here, he lay down between two trees, with his head to the north, face to the west, and feet to the south, entering a deep, final state of meditation before attaining Parinirvana.
This journey holds immense significance in Buddhism, symbolizing the end of a life dedicated to the pursuit of truth, liberation from suffering, and the attainment of enlightenment. As visitors enter the sacred site, they are greeted by the soothing chants of Buddham Sharanam Gacchami, Dhammam Sharanam Gacchami, Sangham Sharanam Gacchami (I take refuge in the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha). The air is filled with the fragrance of incense, and the atmosphere is charged with spiritual energy.
The reclining Buddha statue, with its serene and divine presence, reminds visitors of the transient nature of life and the deeper reality of samsara (the cycle of birth and death). It offers a moment of mindfulness, allowing people of all ages and beliefs to find peace in the present moment. Circumambulating the statue three times, visitors feel a connection to the divine, leaving behind the hustle and bustle of the world to experience the bliss of spiritual awakening.
In the sacred shadow of this site, visitors often engage in meditation, allowing the profound sense of peace to permeate their being. Monks in saffron robes can be seen walking around the sacred sites, chanting mantras and engaging in deep contemplation, adding to the overall sense of serenity and sanctity.
As Buddha renounced worldly attachments, this journey serves as a reminder of the value of detachment and the path to spiritual growth. It underscores the possibility of liberation from suffering through the practice of mindfulness, compassion, and wisdom.
A Local’s Perspective: As a local resident of Kushinagar, I am always happy to assist visitors in any way possible. Whether you need guidance on the best places to visit, local insights, or any other help, feel free to reach out to me. Kushinagar is a must-visit destination for Buddhist disciples and anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of India. I have always felt a deep sense of peace and awe in Kushinagar, surrounded by its cultural and architectural wonders. In the words of the Buddha:
“Buddham Sharanam Gacchami Dhammam Sharanam Gacchami Sangham Sharanam Gacchami.”
