Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh:
The place where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. It attracts pilgrims from all over the world, especially during Buddha Purnima.
Bodhgaya, Bihar:
The sacred site where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. As one of the holiest Buddhist pilgrimage sites, Bodhgaya hosts elaborate celebrations during Buddha Purnima.
Arunachal Pradesh:
Home to numerous Buddhist monasteries and stupas, places like Tawang and Bomdila offer a serene atmosphere for observing Buddha Purnima.
Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir:
Ladakh’s high-altitude monasteries and Buddhist heritage sites set the stage for colorful festivities and religious rituals during Buddha Purnima, making it a memorable destination.
Sikkim:
Nestled in the Himalayas, Sikkim boasts a rich Buddhist heritage. Monasteries such as Rumtek Monastery and Pemayangtse Monastery come alive with prayers, processions, and cultural performances during Buddha Purnima.
Temple Visits:
Buddhists pay homage to the Buddha by offering flowers, candles, and incense at shrines and stupas.
Bathing of the Buddha:
A symbolic ritual involving pouring water over Buddha statues to represent purification and renewal, often accompanied by chanting and offerings of scented water.
Charity and Alms Giving (Dana):
Buddhists participate in acts of charity and giving to the less fortunate, reflecting the virtue of generosity.
Lantern Processions:
In some Asian countries, lantern processions are held in the evening, with participants carrying brightly lit lanterns while chanting Buddhist sutras, symbolizing the light of wisdom dispelling ignorance.
Decoration and Illumination:
Temples and homes are adorned with colorful decorations, lanterns, and lights to create a festive atmosphere, with illuminated displays depicting scenes from the Buddha’s life often set up in public places.
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