Although Buddhists are a minority in India the religion is of great importance, as this religion originates here. Buddhism was founded in northern India, when prince Siddharta renounced the world and sought enlightenment.It is a religion of philosophy, which has a code of morality.

Buddhists believe that achieving enlightenment should be the goal for every being. Today there are two major schools of Buddhism. The Hinayana, 'small vehicle' is an individual pursuit and holds the path to nirvana, the ultimate aim of all Buddhists. While Mahayana, 'large vehicle' holds the belief that all followers will eventually lead to the salvation of the entire world.

Emperor Ashoka was a great follower of Buddhism, who popularized Buddhism throughout India and abroad. The religion had a great impact on the architecture of India. Around 85,000 stupas or dome-shaped monuments, with the teachings of Buddhism engraved on rocks and pillars, were constructed. The famous Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath in Madhya Pradesh, attracts scores of visitors around the year.