The Buddhist Circuit in India is an initiative by the Indian government to promote Buddhist tourism in India. The Circuit is a unique route that takes travelers on a journey to eight prominent Buddhist pilgrimage sites in India and Nepal. The aim of the initiative is to attract Buddhist pilgrims from around the world and provide them with a chance to explore the life of Lord Buddha and follow his teachings.
Overview of the Buddhist Circuit
The Buddhist Circuit includes eight pilgrimage sites – Bodh Gaya, Vaishali, Rajgir, Kushinagar, Sarnath, Shravasti, Kapilavastu, and Lumbini. These sites are significant in the life of Lord Buddha, as he spent a considerable amount of time in these locations. The circuit is designed to provide an immersive experience for pilgrims and tourists, who can follow in the footsteps of Lord Buddha, understand his teachings, and gain spiritual insights.
The initiative is expected to attract Buddhist pilgrims from countries like Japan, China, Korea, Thailand, and Sri Lanka, among others. The Circuit provides an opportunity for these pilgrims to connect with their roots and experience the spiritual essence of Buddhism. The government aims to promote Buddhist tourism as a significant source of revenue and employment for the country.
The Significance of the Circuit
India is the birthplace of Buddhism and has seven of the eight main pilgrimage sites. However, it receives less than one percent of the world’s Buddhist pilgrims. This is primarily due to a lack of infrastructure, awareness, and promotion. The government aims to improve facilities, promote awareness, and generate revenue and employment with the Buddhist Circuit.
The Buddhist Circuit is expected to boost tourism and create employment opportunities in the region. The Circuit is being developed in a phased manner, with each site receiving attention and funding for its development. Over Rs 300 crore has been allocated for various circuit sites, with the government investing in the development of infrastructure, accommodation, transport, and other facilities.
Bodh Gaya site
Bodh Gaya is the centerpiece of the Circuit, as it is the place where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. The site is home to the Mahabodhi temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple attracts thousands of pilgrims every year, making it an essential part of the Buddhist Circuit.
Other sites on the Circuit include Vaishali, where Lord Buddha gave his last sermon, Rajgir, where Lord Buddha spent several years, Kushinagar, where Lord Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana, and Sarnath, where he gave his first sermon. Shravasti, Kapilavastu, and Lumbini are also significant sites in the life of Lord Buddha, with each location having its unique significance.
Challenges and the Way Forward
The development of the Buddhist Circuit faces several challenges, such as the lack of proper infrastructure, limited accommodation, and inadequate transportation. The government aims to overcome these challenges by investing in the development of infrastructure and providing better facilities for tourists and pilgrims. The government is also taking steps to improve connectivity to the Circuit by developing airports and improving road and rail connectivity.
