There are numerous sacred temples and monuments in India. Most of these monuments are popular tourist destinations visited by thousands of devotees. Deekshabhoomi is a popular and significant Buddhist monument. Deekshabhoomi, a major attraction in Nagpur, is located on the site where Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar.
The architect of the Indian Constitution converted to Buddhism on October 14, 1956. It was a historic and auspicious day as 600,000 people converted to Buddhism to support Dr Ambedkar. The literal meaning of 'Deekshabhoomi' is the place where Buddhists are ordained.
Dr Ambedkar stated that he chose Nagpur for his Buddhist conversion because it was the home of the 'Nag' people, who were early supporters of Buddhism. He chose the day of Ashoka Vijaya Dashmi when Emperor Ashoka converted to Buddhism.
Deekshabhoomi is a major Buddhist pilgrimage site in India. Its construction began in 1968 on four acres and included monk quarters. The stupa was built in 1978 and has since been revered as an important Buddhist site. It is Asia's largest stupa and the world's largest hollow stupa.
The stupa's construction is remarkable because it is a hemispherical two-story building, each storey capable of housing 5000 monks. Deekhshabhoomi is a popular pilgrimage site due to its architectural splendour and historical significance.
Deekshabhoomi, also known as the Dhamma Chakra Stupa, is a sacred monument about 5 kilometres southwest of Nagpur. Deekshabhoomi is a historical site in India where, on October 14 1956, approximately 600,000 people were converted from Hinduism to Buddhism in an instant.
These were lower-class people who had converted under Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar's leadership. The stupa was dedicated on December 18, 2001, by India's President, KR Narayanan. Dr Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, the father of the Indian Constitution, was a Buddhist, and the stupa was built as a memorial to the great statesman by the Ambedkar Memorial Committee. His final religious act was his conversion to Buddhism.
Located around 40 kilometres from Deeksha Bhoomi, Ramtek Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Rama. It is situated atop a hill and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The temple is known for its intricate architecture and religious significance.
Situated in Nagpur, Ambazari Lake is a picturesque water body that offers a tranquil setting for nature lovers. It is a popular spot for boating and picnicking. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery, making it an ideal place to relax and unwind.
Another beautiful lake in Nagpur, Futala Lake, is famous for its mesmerizing sunset views. The lake has vibrant food stalls and restaurants, making it a popular spot for evening outings. You can enjoy a leisurely walk along the promenade or indulge in local street food.
Maharajbagh Zoo:
Near Sitabuldi Fort in Nagpur, Maharajbagh Zoo is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including tigers, leopards, crocodiles, and various species of birds. It also features a botanical garden with diverse plants and trees.
Situated in Wardha, approximately 80 kilometres from Nagpur, Sevagram Ashram holds great historical significance. It was the residence of Mahatma Gandhi during the Indian independence movement. The ashram is now a museum that showcases the life and teachings of Mahatma Gandhi and his principles of non-violence and self-reliance.
Pench National Park:
Located around 200 kilometres from Nagpur, Pench National Park is a renowned wildlife sanctuary across Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. It is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to various wildlife, including tigers, leopards, deer, and numerous bird species. Safari tours allow visitors to explore the park and observe its wildlife.
Situated in Chandrapur district, Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is one of Maharashtra's largest and oldest national parks. It is a haven for wildlife lovers and is particularly famous for its tiger population. The reserve offers jeep and elephant safaris, allowing visitors to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
These are just a few attractions you can explore near Deeksha Bhoomi in Maharashtra. Each place offers a unique experience, from cultural and historical sites to natural wonders and wildlife sanctuaries. Whether you're interested in spirituality, nature, or wildlife, Maharashtra has something to offer for every traveller.