About Mahaparinirvana Temple, Kushinagar
Kushinagar is where the Buddha, aged eighty, lay down between two sal trees and passed into parinirvana, the final release from rebirth. The Mahaparinirvana Temple shelters a six meter reclining Buddha carved in the fifth century from a single block of red sandstone. Pilgrims drape the image in saffron cloth and sit quietly in its presence.
Behind the temple stands the main stupa, and about a kilometer east lies the Ramabhar Stupa, built over the place of cremation. Burmese, Thai, Japanese and Tibetan temples dot the town, which is one of the four principal pilgrimage sites the Buddha himself recommended. A new international airport has made the journey far easier.
What to see
- Fifth century reclining Buddha image
- Parinirvana stupa behind the temple
- Ramabhar cremation stupa
- Wat Thai Kushinara and other monasteries
- Peaceful parkland of sal trees
Visiting Mahaparinirvana Temple, Kushinagar: practical guide
- Best time
- October to March
- Hours
- Usually 6 am to 6 pm
- Entry
- Free
- Dress code
- Modest clothing; remove shoes in the temple
- Nearest airport
- Kushinagar International Airport (KBK), 5 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Bring a cloth offering for the reclining image
- Combine with Lumbini, about 4 hours away
- Mornings are quiet and cool
Festivals and special days
- Buddha Purnima (Vesak)
- Parinirvana Day
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Buddhism tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Remove shoes and hats before entering temple halls.
- Cover shoulders and knees, and avoid revealing clothing.
- Never point your feet toward a Buddha image or monk.
- Women should not touch or hand items directly to Theravada monks.
- Walk clockwise around stupas and prayer wheels.
- Do not climb on or pose disrespectfully with Buddha statues.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is Mahaparinirvana Temple, Kushinagar?
Mahaparinirvana Temple, Kushinagar is in Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh, India, Asia. GPS coordinates: 26.7414, 83.8885. The nearest airport is Kushinagar International Airport (KBK), 5 km.
What is the best time to visit Mahaparinirvana Temple, Kushinagar?
October to March
Is there an entry fee for Mahaparinirvana Temple, Kushinagar?
Free Opening hours: Usually 6 am to 6 pm
What should I wear when visiting Mahaparinirvana Temple, Kushinagar?
Modest clothing; remove shoes in the temple
Which religion is Mahaparinirvana Temple, Kushinagar sacred to?
Mahaparinirvana Temple, Kushinagar is sacred to Buddhism. Active place of worship.
