Buddhist Circuit : Complete Bodh Gaya to Rajgir, Nalanda and Sarnath Pilgrimage Itinerary

by Ananth Kumar Iyengar
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Plan your Buddhist Circuit pilgrimage with our expert guide connecting Bodh Gaya to Rajgir, Nalanda, and Sarnath. Discover sacred sites, detailed itineraries, transportation options, and spiritual practices to transform your journey through Buddha’s footsteps.

The Buddhist Circuit radiates from Bodh Gaya like spokes from a sacred wheel, connecting pilgrims with the Buddha’s profound journey of awakening. While most visitors know Bodh Gaya as Buddhism’s holiest site, the surrounding sacred landscape of Rajgir, Nalanda, and Sarnath forms an interconnected pilgrimage route that reveals the complete arc of the Buddha’s life and teachings. Having guided spiritual seekers through this circuit for over fifteen years, I’ve witnessed how experiencing these sites as an integrated journey rather than isolated destinations transforms a tourist trip into a life-changing pilgrimage.

Buddhist Circuit

My first complete circuit in 2007 left me speechless as I traced the Buddha’s footsteps from his enlightenment in Bodh Gaya to his first sermon in Sarnath. The profound sense of connection with the historical Buddha and the living tradition that has flowed from his teachings for over 2,500 years simply cannot be replicated through books or videos. This article draws from my extensive experience to help you create a meaningful journey through the Buddhist Circuit, connecting Bodh Gaya with nearby sacred sites that played pivotal roles in the Buddha’s life and the development of Buddhism.

The Spiritual Geography of the Buddhist Circuit

The complete Buddhist Circuit encompasses all major sites associated with the Buddha’s life, from his birthplace in Lumbini (Nepal) to his parinirvana (death) in Kushinagar. However, this article focuses on the interconnected sites most easily visited from Bodh Gaya: Rajgir, Nalanda, and Sarnath. These locations form a natural pilgrimage route that follows the Buddha’s journey immediately after his enlightenment.

Bodh Gaya: The Epicenter

Bodh Gaya, where Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment beneath the Bodhi tree, forms the spiritual heart of the Buddhist world. The UNESCO World Heritage Mahabodhi Temple Complex marks this transformative spot, drawing pilgrims from every Buddhist tradition.

During my first visit to the Mahabodhi Temple at dawn, the tangible sense of reverence as monks and laypeople circumambulated the temple struck me deeply. A Thai monk I met had traveled on foot for three months to reach this sacred site, demonstrating the profound importance Bodh Gaya holds for Buddhists worldwide.

Key sites in Bodh Gaya include:

  • Mahabodhi Temple and Bodhi Tree
  • Sujata Village and Stupa
  • Dungeshwari/Mahakala Caves
  • International monasteries representing diverse Buddhist traditions

For a comprehensive guide to Bodh Gaya itself, see our detailed Bodh Gaya pilgrimage guide.

Rajgir: Where the Buddha Taught the Dharma

Approximately 70 kilometers northeast of Bodh Gaya lies Rajgir (ancient Rajagriha), the capital of the Magadha kingdom during the Buddha’s time. After his enlightenment, the Buddha spent several rainy seasons here, delivering numerous important teachings that form the foundation of Buddhist doctrine.

When I first climbed Gridhrakuta (Vulture’s Peak) in 2009, following the ancient stone path the Buddha himself would have walked, I was overcome with emotion. Standing at the simple platform marking where the Buddha delivered the Heart Sutra and gazing out over the valley below created a profound connection across time—as if the echoes of those teachings still resonated through the hillsides.

Nalanda: Buddhism’s First University

Just 15 kilometers from Rajgir stands Nalanda, site of the world’s first residential university and once the greatest center of Buddhist learning in Asia. Though established after the Buddha’s time, tradition holds that he visited this area several times, recognizing its future importance.

Walking through the extensive ruins during my visits always inspires awe—imagining the 10,000 monks and students who once studied here, the vast libraries containing thousands of manuscripts, and the intellectual vibrancy that attracted scholars from across Asia. Nalanda represents Buddhism’s scholarly tradition and the sophisticated development of Buddhist philosophy and practice in the centuries following the Buddha.

Sarnath: First Turning of the Wheel of Dharma

Located near Varanasi, approximately 250 kilometers from Bodh Gaya, Sarnath marks where the Buddha delivered his first teaching after enlightenment. It was here in the Deer Park that he taught the Four Noble Truths to his five former companions, establishing the Buddhist community (Sangha).

During my Sarnath visits, I make a point to sit quietly in the Deer Park during the evening hours when most tourists have departed. The Dhamek Stupa rises majestically against the twilight sky, and in that moment, it’s possible to feel connected to that pivotal moment when Buddhism began its journey into the world.

Designing Your Buddhist Circuit Journey

Based on my experience guiding hundreds of pilgrims, there are several approaches to experiencing the Buddhist Circuit, depending on your time availability, interests, and spiritual focus.

Option 1: Bodh Gaya Base with Day Trips (4-5 Days)

For those with limited time, establishing a base in Bodh Gaya and making day trips to nearby sites offers efficiency while maintaining a connection with Buddhism’s most sacred site.

Sample Itinerary:

  • Day 1-2: Explore Bodh Gaya thoroughly
  • Day 3: Day trip to Rajgir and Nalanda (combined)
  • Day 4: Optional day trip to Sarnath (long day)
  • Day 5: Final day in Bodh Gaya for integration and reflection

This approach works well for those who wish to maintain a daily practice at the Bodhi Tree while still experiencing the broader circuit. In 2018, I guided a group of Thai pilgrims who followed this model, practicing morning meditation at the Mahabodhi Temple before departing for day trips and returning each evening for closing practices.

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Option 2: Sequential Circuit (7-8 Days)

For a more immersive experience, travel sequentially through the circuit, staying overnight at each location to experience its unique energy without rushing.

Sample Itinerary:

  • Days 1-3: Bodh Gaya
  • Days 4-5: Rajgir (with Nalanda day trip)
  • Days 6-7: Sarnath
  • Day 8: Return to Bodh Gaya or depart from Varanasi

This approach allows deeper engagement with each location. During my 2016 pilgrimage following this itinerary, I discovered that each site reveals its character at different times of day—Rajgir’s hills are magical at sunrise, while Sarnath’s Deer Park has a special quality at dusk that’s missed on hurried day trips.

Option 3: Buddhist Circuit with Extended Meditation Retreat (10-14 Days)

For serious practitioners, combining the circuit with a meditation retreat at one of the locations creates a profoundly transformative experience.

Sample Itinerary:

  • Days 1-3: Bodh Gaya
  • Days 4-8: Meditation retreat at Thai Monastery (Bodh Gaya) or Root Institute
  • Days 9-10: Rajgir and Nalanda
  • Days 11-13: Sarnath
  • Day 14: Departure

I’ve observed that pilgrims who include a structured retreat within their circuit journey often report the deepest transformations. The combination of sacred geography with sustained practice creates a powerful container for insight and spiritual development.

Transportation Between Sites

Bodh Gaya to Rajgir/Nalanda

By Private Car/Taxi The most convenient option for visiting Rajgir and Nalanda is hiring a private car or taxi for the day. Travel time from Bodh Gaya to Rajgir is approximately 2-2.5 hours each way, allowing both Rajgir and Nalanda to be visited in a single day trip.

During peak season (November-February), expect to pay approximately:

  • ₹3,500-4,500 ($42-55 USD) for a full-day taxi to Rajgir/Nalanda
  • Additional ₹1,000-1,500 if you wish to include Nalanda in the same trip

Most hotels and travel agencies in Bodh Gaya can arrange this service, though I recommend booking at least one day in advance during busy periods. During my 2022 visit, I used Bihar Tourism’s taxi service, which provided reliable transportation at standard rates.

By Public Transport For budget travelers, public transportation options exist but require more time and flexibility:

  1. Take a shared jeep or bus from Bodh Gaya to Gaya city (₹30-50)
  2. From Gaya railway station, catch a train to Rajgir (approximately ₹60-120 depending on class)
  3. Local buses connect Rajgir and Nalanda (₹30-40)

This approach demands at least 4-5 hours of travel time each way, making it impractical for day trips but workable if staying overnight in Rajgir.

Bodh Gaya to Sarnath

By Train The most practical way to reach Sarnath from Bodh Gaya:

  1. Travel from Bodh Gaya to Gaya railway station (30 minutes)
  2. Take a train from Gaya to Varanasi (4-5 hours)
  3. From Varanasi, take an auto-rickshaw to Sarnath (30-40 minutes)

Several trains operate daily on this route, with the Vibhuti Express (#14258) being particularly convenient, departing Gaya at 13:40 and arriving Varanasi at 18:10. Booking through the Indian Railways website is recommended, especially during peak season.

By Private Car For those preferring door-to-door service, a private car from Bodh Gaya to Sarnath takes approximately 5-6 hours and costs ₹7,000-9,000 ($85-110 USD) one way. While expensive, this option offers flexibility to stop at points of interest along the way.

By Bus Regular bus services connect Gaya and Varanasi, taking approximately 6-7 hours. While this is the most economical option (₹300-400), road conditions can make for an uncomfortable journey.

Accommodation Options Across the Circuit

Rajgir

Mid-range: Hotel Gautam (₹2,000-3,000/night) Located near the hot springs, this hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms and reliable service. During my 2019 stay, I appreciated their knowledge of the local sites and assistance with transportation to Nalanda.

Budget: Hotel Nalanda Regency (₹1,000-1,500/night) Simple but clean accommodations within walking distance of several sites.

For a unique experience, the Indo Hokke Hotel (₹3,500-4,500/night) is operated by a Japanese Buddhist organization and offers Japanese-style accommodations with a spiritual atmosphere.

Nalanda

Most visitors stay in Rajgir and visit Nalanda as a day trip, as accommodation options in Nalanda itself are limited. For those wishing to stay in Nalanda:

Mid-range: Hotel Nalanda Regency (₹1,500-2,500/night) Located near the archaeological site, this simple hotel caters primarily to pilgrims.

The Nav Nalanda Mahavihara Guest House occasionally accepts visitors with advance booking, offering basic rooms within an academic Buddhist institution.

Sarnath

Mid-range: Hotel Suryaa (₹2,500-3,500/night) Conveniently located near the archaeological zone, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving both Indian and international cuisine.

Budget: Several dharamshalas (pilgrim rest houses) operated by Buddhist organizations offer simple accommodations for pilgrims at minimal cost (₹500-1,000/night), including:

  • Thai Monastery Guest House
  • Burmese Vihara Guest House
  • Dhammachakka Guest House

During my stays in Sarnath, I’ve found the dharamshalas provide not just economical lodging but also opportunities to connect with fellow pilgrims and participate in evening ceremonies at the attached monasteries.

Exploring Rajgir: Buddha’s Favorite Retreat

Rajgir (ancient Rajagriha) served as the capital of the Magadha kingdom during the Buddha’s time and became one of his favorite places for retreat and teaching. The landscape itself—dramatic hills rising from the plains—creates a natural sanctuary that continues to inspire contemplation.

Essential Sites in Rajgir

Gridhrakuta (Vulture Peak) The most significant site in Rajgir, this mountain was the Buddha’s favorite retreat and the location where he delivered many important discourses, including the Prajnaparamita (Perfection of Wisdom) sutras.

Visitors can reach the peak either by:

  • Walking the ancient stone path (approximately 45 minutes up)
  • Taking the aerial ropeway/chair lift (₹60 round trip)

I strongly recommend walking up at least once if physically able—following the same path the Buddha and his disciples would have used creates a powerful connection to history. During my visits, I’ve found that arriving at the summit by 7:00 AM provides both cooler hiking conditions and precious quiet time before other visitors arrive.

The simple meditation platform at the summit marks where the Buddha sat. During my 2022 visit, I witnessed Korean pilgrims chanting the Heart Sutra here—the very teaching believed to have been delivered at this spot—creating a profound continuation of tradition across time.

Venuvana (Bamboo Grove) The first land donated to the Buddha and his Sangha, this peaceful park was given by King Bimbisara and became the Buddha’s residence during rainy seasons. Today, a small stupa and modern temple mark this historical site.

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While less visually dramatic than other Rajgir sites, Venuvana holds special significance as the first formal monastery in Buddhist history. During my visits, I’ve found this a perfect place for quiet reflection away from larger tourist groups.

Saptaparni Caves These natural caves in the southern hills of Rajgir served as shelter for the Buddha and his disciples during monsoon seasons. More significantly, they later hosted the First Buddhist Council shortly after the Buddha’s passing, where his teachings were collected and recited.

The climb to these caves is moderately challenging but rewards visitors with both historical significance and panoramic views of Rajgir valley.

Jivaka’s Mango Grove Named after the Buddha’s physician, this site is where Jivaka Komarabhacca maintained a medical center and treated the Buddha and his disciples. Though little remains of the original structures, the site connects visitors to the early Buddhist medical tradition.

Hot Springs (Tapodharma) These natural hot springs were known for their healing properties even in the Buddha’s time. Today, visitors can bathe in the renovated tanks, believed to help various ailments.

The nearby Hindu-Buddhist Spiritual Center explores the intertwined development of these traditions in ancient Rajgir, offering visitors insights into how these faiths shared sacred geography in early India.

Practical Tips for Rajgir

  • Best Time to Visit: October to March provides comfortable temperatures for exploring the hillside sites.
  • Recommended Duration: Allocate at least one full day for Rajgir’s sites.
  • Local Transportation: Auto-rickshaws are the primary mode of transportation between sites (approximately ₹300-400 for a half-day tour).
  • Considerations: Most sacred sites involve uphill walking; wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially for the Vulture Peak hike.

Nalanda: Cradle of Buddhist Education

Just 15 kilometers from Rajgir lies Nalanda, once the world’s greatest center of Buddhist learning. Though established centuries after the Buddha’s time, it represents the intellectual flowering of his teachings and their transmission throughout Asia.

What Makes Nalanda Special

Nalanda University flourished from the 5th to 12th centuries CE, attracting students from as far as China, Korea, Japan, Tibet, Indonesia, Persia, and Turkey. At its peak, it housed over 10,000 students and 2,000 teachers, with a vast library that reportedly took three months to burn when destroyed by invaders.

The university’s curriculum extended beyond Buddhist studies to include medicine, astronomy, mathematics, and linguistics. Famous Buddhist scholars like Nagarjuna, Aryadeva, and Shantideva taught here, helping develop the Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions that would spread throughout Asia.

Walking through Nalanda’s extensive ruins offers a tangible connection to Buddhism’s intellectual heritage. During my first visit, an elderly Tibetan pilgrim explained that his tradition’s texts and practices had been preserved because of masters who studied at Nalanda and brought those teachings to Tibet before the university’s destruction—a powerful reminder of Nalanda’s continuing influence.

Essential Sites in Nalanda

Main Archaeological Complex The excavated ruins cover only about 10% of what was once a vast university campus. Key features include:

  • The Great Stupa: A massive brick structure that served as the spiritual center of the university
  • Meditation halls and classrooms with distinctive brick architecture
  • Residential monks’ cells arranged around central courtyards
  • Temple sites with pedestals that once held Buddha images

During my visits guiding groups, I’ve found that starting at the southern entrance and working northward provides the clearest understanding of the site’s layout and function.

Nalanda Archaeological Museum This excellent museum houses sculptures, seals, and artifacts recovered from the excavations, providing context to the ruins. The collection includes exquisite Buddha images and bodhisattva figures that showcase the sophisticated Pala dynasty artistic style that influenced Buddhist art across Asia.

I recommend visiting the museum either before or after exploring the ruins to better understand what the original structures would have contained.

Xuanzang Memorial Hall This modern facility honors the famous 7th-century Chinese monk who studied at Nalanda for five years before returning to China with hundreds of Buddhist texts. His detailed accounts provide our most comprehensive description of Nalanda during its golden age.

The memorial includes exhibits on the historical connections between India and China through Buddhism. During my 2019 visit, I was moved to see Chinese pilgrims paying respects to this scholar who created an enduring spiritual bridge between their civilization and India.

Nav Nalanda Mahavihara This modern Buddhist university, established in 1951, continues Nalanda’s educational tradition in a new form. While primarily an academic institution, visitors can explore its campus, library, and occasionally attend lectures or ceremonies.

Practical Tips for Nalanda

  • Visiting Hours: The archaeological site is open from sunrise to sunset (approximately 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM)
  • Entry Fee: ₹25 for Indian nationals, ₹300 for foreigners
  • Photography: Allowed without additional fee
  • Guides: Official guides are available at the entrance gate (₹600-800 for a 1.5-hour tour)
  • Time Required: Allocate 2-3 hours to properly explore the ruins and museum

The expansive site offers little shade, so visiting in early morning or late afternoon is recommended, especially during warmer months.

Sarnath: Where Buddhism Began Its Journey Into the World

After his enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, the Buddha traveled to Sarnath (ancient Isipatana) where he delivered his first sermon to his five former companions. This pivotal moment—known as the First Turning of the Wheel of Dharma—established the core teachings of Buddhism and formed the first Buddhist community.

Though further from Bodh Gaya than the other sites (approximately 250 km), Sarnath’s significance in the Buddha’s life makes it an essential part of the circuit for serious pilgrims.

Essential Sites in Sarnath

Deer Park (Migadaya) This peaceful garden marks where the Buddha delivered his first sermon on the Four Noble Truths. While the exact spot is commemorated by the Dhamek Stupa, the entire park area is considered sacred.

During my visits, I’ve developed a practice of sitting quietly in the park during early morning or evening hours, contemplating how these teachings that began in this modest location have transformed millions of lives across time and cultures.

Dhamek Stupa This massive cylindrical structure (43 meters tall) dates primarily from the Gupta period (5th-6th centuries CE) but was built over earlier stupas marking the site of the first sermon. The lower portion features exquisite carved stonework with geometric and floral patterns.

Walking clockwise around this stupa, I often observe pilgrims from diverse traditions—Thai monks in saffron robes, Tibetans performing full-length prostrations, Japanese groups chanting sutras—all honoring the beginning of Buddhism in their own cultural expressions.

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Archaeological Museum This excellent museum houses findings from Sarnath excavations, including the famous lion capital from Emperor Ashoka’s pillar—now adopted as India’s national emblem. The museum’s collection of Buddhist sculptures spans centuries of artistic development.

The museum’s prize exhibit is the exquisite 5th-century Buddha image in the “turning the wheel of dharma” pose, capturing the exact moment being commemorated at Sarnath. During my guided tours, this sculpture always elicits profound responses from pilgrims for its artistic beauty and spiritual significance.

Mulagandhakuti Vihara This modern temple built by the Maha Bodhi Society marks the site believed to be the Buddha’s dwelling during his time in Sarnath. Beautiful frescoes depicting the Buddha’s life adorn the interior walls. The temple actively functions as a place of worship rather than merely a historical monument.

International Buddhist Temples Like Bodh Gaya, Sarnath hosts monasteries and temples from various Buddhist nations, each with distinctive architecture and practices:

  • Thai Buddha Vihar
  • Burmese Vihara
  • Chinese Temple
  • Tibetan Monastery (Karma Samphel Ling)

Visiting these institutions provides insight into how Buddhism adapted as it spread throughout Asia while maintaining connection to its Indian roots.

Spiritual Practices at Sarnath

Based on my experiences guiding contemplative tours, these practices enhance the Sarnath pilgrimage:

Dharma Contemplation Many pilgrims read or recite the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta (Setting the Wheel of Dharma in Motion)—the Buddha’s first teaching delivered at this site. Contemplating these words in their original setting creates a powerful connection to Buddhist foundations.

Several stone platforms within the archaeological park provide ideal spots for quiet meditation. Early morning (6:00-8:00 AM) and evening hours (after 4:00 PM) offer the most peaceful atmosphere for practice.

Circumambulation Walking mindfully around the Dhamek Stupa, preferably at dawn or dusk, connects pilgrims with a practice maintained for over two millennia at this site.

Evening Arati The Mulagandhakuti Vihara holds evening chanting and lamp-lighting ceremonies that visitors are welcome to join. During my November 2021 visit, the evening arati created a moving conclusion to our day of pilgrimage.

Practical Tips for Sarnath

  • Visiting Hours: The archaeological park is open from sunrise to sunset
  • Entry Fee: ₹25 for Indian nationals, ₹300 for foreigners
  • Museum Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Fridays)
  • Local Transportation: Auto-rickshaws from Varanasi to Sarnath charge approximately ₹300-400 one way
  • Time Required: A full day allows proper exploration of all sites
  • Accommodations: Staying overnight in Sarnath rather than making a day trip from Varanasi provides a more contemplative experience

Creating a Transformative Circuit Pilgrimage

Having guided numerous groups and undertaken this circuit personally multiple times, I’ve observed that the most meaningful pilgrimages combine historical understanding with personal spiritual practice. Here are approaches that transform tourism into pilgrimage:

Mindful Transitions Between Sites

Rather than rushing between locations, use transit time for reflection on the Buddha’s own journeys. The distance from Bodh Gaya to Sarnath—approximately 250 kilometers—would have taken the Buddha weeks to walk. During our 2019 circuit journey, our group practiced noble silence during longer transit segments, using travel time as moving meditation that honored the Buddha’s own foot journeys across this landscape.

Maintaining a Practice Thread

Establishing a simple daily practice that continues throughout your circuit creates continuity. Options include:

  • Morning meditation before starting each day’s exploration
  • Evening reflection journaling what you’ve experienced
  • Recitation of a meaningful text or mantra at each major site

During my circuit journeys, I maintain a practice of offering flowers at the main sacred spot of each location—a simple ritual that helps me arrive fully and connect with each site’s unique significance.

Study and Context

Reading about each site’s historical significance before visiting deepens appreciation. I recommend:

  • “In the Buddha’s Words” by Bhikkhu Bodhi for primary texts
  • “Buddhist Pilgrimage” by Chan Khoon San for site-specific information
  • “Old Path White Clouds” by Thich Nhat Hanh for an accessible narrative of the Buddha’s life

Several excellent documentaries, including the BBC’s “The Life of the Buddha,” provide visual context for these sacred landscapes.

Cultural Sensitivity

Remember that these sites remain active places of worship, not merely historical monuments:

  • Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees
  • Remove shoes when entering temples
  • Speak quietly, especially near meditating pilgrims
  • Ask permission before photographing monks or nuns
  • Circumambulate stupas and sacred objects clockwise

During a Rajgir visit, I observed a group of tourists climbing on meditation platforms for photos while monks were trying to practice nearby. Such behavior not only disturbs others but diminishes one’s own experience of these profound places.

Extending Your Buddhist Circuit

For those with more time, the complete Buddhist Circuit extends beyond the sites covered in this article to include:

Kushinagar (220 km northeast of Sarnath) Where the Buddha attained parinirvana (passed away), marked by a reclining Buddha statue and stupa.

Lumbini, Nepal (approximately 320 km northeast of Kushinagar) The Buddha’s birthplace, featuring the Maya Devi Temple marking the exact spot of his birth.

Shravasti (approximately 170 km northwest of Kushinagar) Where the Buddha spent 24 rainy seasons teaching at Jetavana monastery, featuring extensive monastery ruins.

Vaishali (approximately 70 km north of Patna) Where the Buddha gave his last sermon and where the Second Buddhist Council was held.

The Buddhist Circuit Tourism initiative is developing infrastructure connecting these sites, with improvements ongoing through 2025.

From Circuit to Transformation

The Buddhist Circuit is far more than a collection of archaeological sites—it’s a living landscape that continues to inspire and transform. As you journey from the Bodhi Tree where the Buddha awakened in Bodh Gaya, to the hills of Rajgir where he taught, to Nalanda where his teachings flourished intellectually, to Sarnath where Buddhism began its journey into the world, you trace not just the Buddha’s external journey but potentially your own inner path of discovery.

During my years guiding pilgrims through this circuit, I’ve witnessed countless moments of profound connection—tears of devotion at the Mahabodhi Temple, quiet realizations atop Vulture Peak, expressions of awe walking through Nalanda’s ruins, and deep contemplation in Sarnath’s Deer Park. These sacred sites continue to work their transformative magic on receptive hearts, just as they have for over two millennia.

Whether you’re a dedicated Buddhist practitioner or simply a curious traveler interested in humanity’s spiritual heritage, the Buddha’s circuit offers an extraordinary journey through both external landscapes and internal territories. The Buddha himself encouraged his followers not to accept teachings on faith alone but to “come and see” (ehipassiko)—an invitation that still stands today for those willing to walk these ancient paths with open hearts and minds.

May your journey through the Buddhist Circuit be meaningful, transformative, and filled with discovery.

Author:

Name: Sri Ananth Kumar Iyengar
Description: Professional storyteller and writer with a deep passion for Indian pilgrimage traditions. For over two decades, he has explored sacred sites across India, with special focus on Buddhist pilgrimage routes. His work combines historical knowledge with practical guidance for modern pilgrims seeking meaningful spiritual journeys.
Email: [email protected]

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