What are Buddhist Circuits?
Buddhist Circuits are thematic pilgrimage and tourism routes connectiong places associated with the life, teachings, and legacy of Gautama Buddha.
They aim to promote religious tourism, cultural heritage, and India’s soft power, especially among Buddhist-majority countries.
Core Buddhist Circuit (Most Important)
The classical Buddhist circuit traces the four key events of Buddha’s life:
- – Birthplace of Gautama Buddha (Nepal)
- – Enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree
- – First sermon (Dharmachakra Pravartana)
- – Mahaparinirvana (death)
Extended Buddhist Circuit (India)
Includes important centres of learning, monastic life, and dissemination of Buddhism:
- – First Buddhist Council
- – Ancient Buddhist university
- – Second Buddhist Council
- – Buddha’s major preaching centre
- – Mythological descent site
International Buddhist Circuit
Reflects Buddhism’s transnational spread:
- Nepal – Lumbini
- Sri Lanka – Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa
- Bhutan – Paro Taktsang
- Myanmar – Bagan
- Thailand – Ayutthaya
- Cambodia – Angkor
- Laos, Vietnam, Japan, China (Xuanzang route)
Government Initiatives
Swadesh Darshan Scheme
- Buddhist Circuit identified as a priority thematic circuit
- Focus on:
- Infrastructure development
- Connectivity (roads, rail, air)
- Tourist amenities and interpretation centres
PRASHAD Scheme
- Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive
- Development of Bodh Gaya, Sarnath, Kushinagar etc.
Buddhist Conclaves & Diplomatic Outreach
- Used to strengthen ties with East and Southeast Asia
- Cultural diplomacy tool under Act East Policy
Cultural & Civilisational Significance
- Showcases India as the cradle of Buddhism
- Preserves ancient monasteries, stupas, viharas
- Reinforces India’s civilisational continuity and pluralism
Economic & Strategic Importance
- Boosts religious and heritage tourism
- Generates employment in local economies
- Strengthens soft power diplomacy
- Aligns with India–ASEAN cultural relations
Challenges
- Poor last-mile connectivity
- Underdeveloped tourist facilities
- Fragmented promotion across states
- Conservation vs commercialisation issues
Way Forward
- Integrated India–Nepal Buddhist tourism framework
- Digital interpretation using AR/VR
- Community-based tourism models
- Stronger branding targeting Buddhist countries
- Conservation-led development
