Home > Indian History > Temples of India > Mathakaut Temple
Mathakaut Temple
Here, at this very place, the head of Lord Buddha is found resting on the ground

Share this Article:

Mathakaut TempleMathakaut Temple is one of the most famous and most visited shrines in Kushinagar. Kushinagar, the place of historical importance is remembered for Lord Buddha. The Mathakaut shrine is situated at the distance of 300m from Maha-Parinirvana Stupa, another famous Buddhist shrine in Kushinagar. It is here, where Buddha got "nirvana". It is the cultural heartland of the Buddhists and the Hindus.

History of Temple and God
The architecture of the temple does not differ from the traditional temples of Uttar Pradesh. The statue of Lord Buddha that can be seen here measures 3.05meters in height and is deep blue in color. It has been carved out of stones. It represents Lord Buddha sitting under the Bodhi Tree in a "Bhumi Sparsa Mudra". Here, at this very place, the head of Lord Buddha is found resting on the ground in kneel down posture. In Hindi, "matha" means "head".

The place is famous for because this is the site from where a black stone image of the Buddha in the `Bhumi Sparsha Mudra` was recovered during early excavations. `Bhumi Sparsha Mudra` in Hindi means `Kneel Down Posture`. It is widely perceived that the last sermon of Lord Buddha was given here.

Mathakaut Temple Town
Kushinagar town is an esteemed pilgrimage center of the Buddhists which is located in the Kushinagar district of Uttar Pradesh. It is a place holding great historic and spiritual importance.

Kushinagar has several stupas and viharas, which are almost in ruins but still have their own charm. Most of these structures date back to the period between the 3rd and the 5th centuries. The Mauryan emperor Ashoka had contributed a great deal in the construction of this site. Tourists coming to Kushinagar can also visit the Muktabandhana Stupa, which houses the last cremated remains of Lord Buddha. It is considered the most important destination in Kushinagar. This place also has a beautiful idol of Lord Buddha, carved by a monk and restored by king Haribala during the period between 413 and 455 A.D.

There are two beautiful temples in Kushinagar: the Nirvana temple and the Mathakaut temple. It was near the Nirvana temple where Lord Buddha breathed his last and the Mathakaut was the place where the last sermon of Lord Buddha was given.

Important Information to Devotees
The place has been christened Mathakaut because of the fact that the head of Lord Buddha rests on the ground in kneel down posture. This pose has a deep meaning attached to it. This particular pose symbolically expresses the supreme moment in Buddha`s life just before his Enlightenment, when he called upon the Earth to bear witness to the pieties performed by him in his previous births. Therefore this statue and the shrine as a whole have a deep significance in Buddhism philosophy.

How to reach
Cabs, autos and rickshaws are available for the visitors to visit the temple. These can be hired from near the hotel or can be booked directly from the hotel.


Share this Article:

Related Articles

More Articles in Temples of India


Khajuraho Temples
Khajuraho Temples are known the world over for their beauty and architectural construction. This group of temples is situated in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh.
Temples In Hampi
Temples in Hampi are the manifestations of rich religious beliefs and architectural and sculptural abundance.
Dilwara Temples
Dilwara Temples located at Mount Abu date back from the 11th to 13th century and rank among the popular tourist destinations of Rajasthan.
Chola Temples
Chola Temples of South India comprises of the three great temples that were constructed in the 11th and 12th century and is declared as a World Heritage Site.
Badami Cave Temples
The Badami Cave Temples, an exemplary production of Indian architecture, are situated in the town of Badami.
Temples in Guwahati
Known to be the temple town of Assam, the temples in Guwahati are a reflection of the Assamese style of culture and architecture.
West India Temples
West India Temples are worth a visit for their beautifully designed masterpieces on stone.
North Indian Temples
India has a rich cultural and historical heritage because of its temples and pilgrimage sites. The North Indian Temples are in plenty and cater to people of all religion.
South Indian Temples
South Indian Temples lavishly built and aesthetically designed, in true sense are the symbol of architectural brilliance.
East India Temples
East India temples are really fascinating and enthralling and visit to these places can mesmerize a person very easily.
Northeastern Temples of India
Religious fervor and spiritual passion enlaces the northeastern temples of India.
Central India Temples
Central Indian temples amidst their religious fervour reverberates the true spirit of Hinduism.
Temple Architecture During Rajput Period
Temple architecture during the Rajput period was inclined to the aspect of Bhakti. Rajput kings encouraged this art which is reflected in the grandeur style of the temples.
Architecture of Mata Vaishnodevi Temple
Architecture at Vaishnodevi has been the source of artistic enjoyment for many, reinstating the vitality of the Indian religiosity and cultural fervour.
History of Sri Sanjeevi Rayar Temple
Steeped in glorious history this is indeed a legendary temple.
Temples in Munnar
Munnar houses myriad temples that are visited by many people. The temples of Munnar are especially known for their festivals that are celebrated with great grandeur.
History of Indian Temples
The history of Indian temples dates back to the ancient ages and variant dynasties that have ruled throughout the ages. Every temple of every region has a story attached to it that reflects the cultures of the specific dynasty.
Kalyaneshwari Temple
Kalyaneshwari Temple is one of the well known Shakti peeth of India. Located at a distance of 20 kms from Asansol this age old temple is known for its miracles and a number of legends that attract the devotees and tourists as well.
Kalika Temple in Udhampur
Also known as Maha Kali Temple, the Kalika Temple located at the Reasi town is a holy shrine.
Medieval Temples of India
Medieval temples of India vary from each other due to the style and architecture. The impact of the prevalent kingdom is prominent in the style of building.
Temples of Ramanathapuram District
Temples of Ramanathapuram district have special significance in the state, owing to its architectural attributes.
Architecture of Brihadeeswarar Temple
Architecture of Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur reflects the Dravidian style architecture. Lord Shiva is the primary deity of this temple.