Buddha Vihar is an important Buddhist pilgrimage center in the city of Gulbarga, Karnataka. It is situated at a distance of 6 kilometers from the city. It is a Buddhist temple, constructed along the lines of traditional Buddhist architecture. It is built by the Siddhartha Vihar Trust in 2007 and is considered to be one of the biggest in the entire South India. Buddha Vihar is a symbol of spirituality, peace compassion and non-violence as taught by Lord Buddha in order to create a peaceful, egalitarian society where there is tolerance and understanding.

Structure of Buddha Vihar
Buddha Vihar complex blends architectural elements of eminent Buddhist centers such as that of Sanchi, Sarnath, Nagpur and Ajanta. There are two exquisitely carved idols of Lord Buddha installed within the Buddha Vihar.

The main attraction in the complex is a gold coated 8.5 ft tall panchaloha statue of the seated Buddha. This is supposed to be the tallest Buddha statue in the South. Statues of Buddha"s disciples Ananda and Kashyap are also part of the complex. The hall has a seating capacity of 500. The walls have cement carvings depicting the Jataka Tales, Tripitaka and Buddha Charita.

The complex consists of a museum, where another idol of Lord Buddha is installed, an auditorium, guesthouses and a dining hall.

Buddha Vihar is not only a great tourist centre and also a centre of creativity and research. It serves as a great tribute to Lord Buddha, Basava and B.R. Ambedkar, who struggled and dedicated their lives for the needy in the society.

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