Are you looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the tranquility and spirituality of Buddhism? If yes, then you should visit Buddha Smriti Park, a beautiful urban park in Patna, Bihar, that commemorates the 2554th birth anniversary of Lord Buddha. In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about this park, such as how to reach it, when to visit it, what to expect there, and some tips and suggestions for making the most of your visit. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, a meditation enthusiast, or a curious traveler, you will find something to enjoy and appreciate at Buddha Smriti Park.
How to Reach Buddha Smriti Park
Buddha Smriti Park is located in the heart of Patna, near the Patna Junction railway station and the Patna Museum. You can easily reach it by various modes of transportation, such as train, bus, taxi, auto-rickshaw, or cycle-rickshaw. The park is about 1.5 km from the railway station, 6 km from the airport, and 3 km from the bus stand. You can also use online map services to get the exact location and directions to the park.
When to Visit Buddha Smriti Park
The park is open from 9 am to 6 pm every day, except on Mondays. The entry fee is Rs. 20 for adults and Rs. 10 for children. You can also buy a combined ticket for Rs. 100 that includes the entry to the park, the museum, and the laser show. The laser show is a spectacular display of lights and sounds that narrates the life and teachings of Lord Buddha. It takes place every evening at 6:30 pm and lasts for about 30 minutes.
The best time to visit the park is during the winter season, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. You can also visit the park during the spring and autumn seasons, from April to May and from September to October, when the park is adorned with colorful flowers and greenery. However, you should avoid visiting the park during the summer season, from June to August, when the temperature is very high and humid.
Events and festivals
If you want to witness some special events and festivals at the park, you should plan your visit around the following dates:
Buddha Purnima:
This is the most auspicious day for Buddhists, as it marks the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha. It usually falls in the month of May, according to the lunar calendar. On this day, the park hosts various cultural and religious programs, such as prayers, chants, processions, and offerings. You can also see the relics of Lord Buddha that are kept in the Pataliputra Karuna Stupa, a magnificent dome-shaped structure that is the centerpiece of the park.
Bihar Diwas:
This is the day that celebrates the formation of the state of Bihar on March 22, 1912. On this day, the park hosts various cultural and social events, such as dance, music, art, and literature. You can also enjoy the local cuisine and handicrafts that are displayed and sold at the park.
International Day of Peace:
This is the day that promotes the ideals of peace and harmony among people and nations. It is observed on September 21 every year. On this day, the park hosts various activities and workshops that aim to spread the message of peace and non-violence, such as meditation, yoga, painting, and poetry.
What to Expect at Buddha Smriti Park
Buddha Smriti Park is not just a park, but a museum, a library, a meditation center, and a park of memories. It is a place where you can learn about the history and culture of Buddhism, admire the architecture and design of the park, enjoy the facilities and services available, and experience the peace and serenity of the park. Here are some of the main attractions and activities that you can expect at the park:
Pataliputra Karuna Stupa:
This is the most prominent and impressive feature of the park. It is a 200-feet high dome-shaped structure that houses the relics of Lord Buddha and his two disciples, Ananda and Sariputta. The relics were brought from various countries, such as Japan, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and South Korea. The stupa also has a meditation hall, where you can sit and meditate in silence and reverence. The stupa is surrounded by a circular walkway, where you can walk and admire the views of the park and the city.
Museum:
This is a place where you can see and learn about the life and teachings of Lord Buddha and the history and culture of Buddhism. The museum has four floors, each dedicated to a different theme, such as the birth and enlightenment of Lord Buddha, the spread and development of Buddhism, the art and architecture of Buddhism, and the contemporary relevance of Buddhism. The museum also has audio-visual and multimedia presentations that enhance your understanding and appreciation of the exhibits.
Library:
This is a place where you can read and research about the various aspects of Buddhism, such as the scriptures, the philosophy, the ethics, the practices, and the traditions. The library has a collection of books, journals, magazines, and newspapers in different languages, such as Hindi, English, Sanskrit, Pali, Tibetan, and Chinese. The library also has computers and internet access that allow you to access online resources and databases related to Buddhism.
Park of Memories:
This is a place where you can see and feel the presence of Lord Buddha and his followers. The park of memories has a series of statues and sculptures that depict the important events and episodes of Lord Buddha’s life, such as his birth, his renunciation, his enlightenment, his first sermon, his miracles, and his death. The park of memories also has a replica of the Bodhi tree, under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. You can also see the models of the Nalanda University monasteries, which were the centers of learning and scholarship in ancient India.
Tips and Suggestions for Visiting Buddha Smriti Park
To make your visit to Buddha Smriti Park more enjoyable and memorable, here are some tips and suggestions that you should keep in mind:
Wear comfortable and modest clothes, as the park is a sacred and respectful place. You should also remove your shoes before entering the stupa, the museum, and the meditation hall.
Carry a water bottle, a hat, a sunscreen, and a camera, as the park is spacious and sunny. You can also buy snacks and drinks from the stalls and kiosks inside the park.
Avoid littering, smoking, drinking, and playing loud music, as the park is a clean and peaceful place. You should also respect the rules and regulations of the park and follow the instructions of the staff and the guides.
Explore the park at your own pace and interest, as the park has something for everyone. You can also join the guided tours that are available at the entrance of the park. The tours last for about an hour and cover the main attractions and features of the park.
Share your feedback and experience with others, as the park is a place of learning and sharing. You can also write a review, rate the park, or post a picture on social media platforms, such as Tripoto, Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.
Buddha Smriti Park is a place that you should not miss if you are in Patna, Bihar. It is a place that offers you a unique and enriching experience of Buddhism, nature, and culture. It is a place that will inspire you, enlighten you, and refresh you. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your visit to Buddha Smriti Park today and discover the beauty and wisdom of Buddhism.
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