What are the important sites to include in the Buddha tour itinerary?
According to Buddhist tradition, Gautam Buddha identified four sites for pilgrimage. Every Buddha follower visits these sites and they are also included in the Buddha tour itinerary for religious travelers. These sites are: Lumbini : An important Buddhist pilgrimage site in Nepal, Lumbini has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. It is home to the Maya Devi Temple that is considered to be the birthplace of Buddha. Lumbini Bodh Gaya : It is the place where Buddha is said to have obtained enlightenment. The Mahabodhi Temple where the holy Bodhi tree is still standing is located in Bodh Gaya. The temple also features the Vajrasana or diamond throne said to be placed by Emperor Ashoka of Maurya Empire. Bodha Gaya Sarnath : Situated at the confluence of Ganga and Varuna rivers, Sarnath is a very important site for Buddhist pilgrims. It is where Gautam Buddha first taught Dhamma to his disciples and where the Buddhist Sangha came into being. Sarnath Kushi