Question map
Where did Buddha attain Parinirvana?
Explanation
Gautama Buddha attained Parinirvana (final release or death) at Kushinagara, also known as Kushinara, at the age of 80 [1]. This site is located in the present-day Kushinagar district of Uttar Pradesh and was the capital of the Malla republic during the Buddha's time. According to Buddhist tradition, he passed away under a Sal tree after delivering his final teachings on impermanence. In contrast, Bodh Gaya is the site where he attained enlightenment [1], Rajgriha (Rajgir) was the location of the First Buddhist Council held after his death, and Vaisali (Vaishali) hosted the Second Buddhist Council a century later. Kushinagara remains one of the four most sacred pilgrimage sites in Buddhism, marked by the Mahaparinirvana Stupa and a famous reclining Buddha statue.
Sources
- [1] THEMES IN INDIAN HISTORY PART I, History CLASS XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 4: Thinkers, Beliefs and Buildings > 7. Stupas > p. 96