How Kushinagar Became a Modern International Pilgrimage Centre

Kushinagar’s modern prominence is closely connected with nineteenth- and early twentieth-century archaeological excavations. The District Kushinagar history page records the work of Alexander Cunningham, C. L. Carlleyle and later archaeologists who exposed major remains and the reclining Buddha image.

The twentieth century also saw the revival of living pilgrimage, including the work of Buddhist monks and the development of international temples. Today visitors encounter archaeology, monastic institutions, gardens and pilgrims from many countries in one compact destination.

This history explains why Kushinagar should be presented as both heritage and living religion.

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