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Parinirvana Stupa

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description Parinirvana Stupa Overview

The Parinirvana Stupa is a Buddhist monument at Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh, India, a major pilgrimage destination traditionally associated with the Buddha's death and attainment of final nirvana. It stands beside the Parinirvana Temple, which houses a large reclining image of the Buddha. Together, the temple and stupa commemorate one of the principal events recognized at Buddhist pilgrimage sites connected with the Buddha's life.

help Parinirvana Stupa FAQ

Where is the Parinirvana Stupa located?

The Parinirvana Stupa is located in Kushinagar, in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. Kushinagar is one of the four major Buddhist pilgrimage sites, traditionally identified as the place where the Buddha attained parinirvana—final nirvana upon death.

What is next to the Parinirvana Stupa?

The Parinirvana Stupa stands beside the Parinirvana Temple, which houses a large reclining statue of the Buddha depicting him lying on his right side in the parinirvana posture. The stupa and temple together form the centerpiece of the Kushinagar pilgrimage complex.

How old is the Parinirvana Stupa site?

The site has been a pilgrimage destination since at least the Mauryan period under Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. The current stupa structure has been extensively restored and rebuilt over the centuries, with major archaeological excavations conducted in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Can visitors and pilgrims go to the Parinirvana Stupa today?

Yes, the Parinirvana Stupa and adjacent Parinirvana Temple are open to pilgrims and tourists, and Kushinagar remains an active international Buddhist pilgrimage destination. Several countries with significant Buddhist populations, including Thailand, Japan, and Sri Lanka, have built temples in the surrounding area.

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