Beyond Sarnath: 5 lesser-known Buddhist gems in North India

Beyond the well-known destinations of Sarnath and Bodh Gaya, North India boasts a treasure trove of lesser-known Buddhist sites that offer a unique glimpse into the region's spiritual heritage. Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh, holds immense significance as the place where Gautama Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana, or final liberation. The Mahaparinirvana Temple, housing a large reclining Buddha statue, serves as the spiritual focal point, while the nearby Ramabhar Stupa marks the Buddha's cremation site.

This pilgrimage town is adorned with monasteries and temples built by Buddhist communities from countries like Thailand, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Japan, adding an international charm to the spiritual atmosphere.

Sankissa, Uttar Pradesh, is another intriguing site, shrouded in mystery yet holding great importance in Buddhist tradition. Associated with the Buddha's miraculous descent from the heavens, Sankissa is linked to the Buddha's teachings to his mother and celestial beings. The Ashokan elephant capital, a testament to Emperor Ashoka's efforts to propagate Buddhism, stands as a remarkable archaeological relic.

The site's ancient mound and remnants provide a fascinating insight into the intersection of Buddhist tradition and early Indian history.

Tabo Monastery, nestled in Himachal Pradesh's Spiti Valley, stands as one of the oldest continuously functioning Buddhist monasteries in India, founded in 996 CE. This Tibetan Buddhist complex is renowned for its ancient murals, sculptures, and intricate artwork, reflecting the Indo-Tibetan Buddhist artistic traditions. Surrounded by the stark, high-altitude terrain of Spiti, Tabo offers travellers a rare opportunity to experience Buddhist heritage amidst the unique culture and landscapes of the Trans-Himalayan region.

Away from Mussoorie's mainstream attractions, Happy Valley, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand, reveals the hill station's Tibetan Buddhist heritage. The Shedup Choepelling Temple, or Tibetan Buddhist Temple, surrounded by prayer flags, colourful murals, and traditional Buddhist imagery, serves as a peaceful sanctuary for those seeking solace.

Visitors can admire the artwork, prayer wheels, and Buddhist motifs while gaining insight into the Tibetan community's cultural presence in the region. Similarly, Sanjauli, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, offers a quieter perspective on Tibetan Buddhism. This neighbourhood is home to monasteries reflecting the strong Tibetan Buddhist influence in Himachal Pradesh.

Dorje Drak Monastery, associated with the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, showcases distinctive architecture, colourful prayer flags, and a serene ambience, making it a worthwhile destination for travellers looking to explore a less-trodden path of spiritual exploration.