Buddhism has numerous sacred temples and monastic complexes around the world, each with its unique cultural and historical significance. Here are some of the top Buddhist temples and monasteries known for their architectural beauty, spiritual importance, and cultural heritage:

• Mahabodhi Temple, India: Located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, India, this temple is one of the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage sites. It is believed to be the place where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment and became the Buddha.
• Shwedagon Pagoda, Myanmar: Situated in Yangon, Myanmar, the Shwedagon Pagoda is a massive golden stupa that enshrines sacred relics of the Buddha. It is one of the most significant religious sites in Myanmar.
• Borobudur, Indonesia: Borobudur is a majestic Buddhist temple complex located in Java, Indonesia. It is the largest Buddhist temple in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Wat Pho, Thailand: Also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho is located in Bangkok, Thailand. It houses a massive reclining Buddha statue and is famous for its traditional Thai massage school.
• Todaiji Temple, Japan: Located in Nara, Japan, Todaiji Temple is a massive wooden structure housing one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world.
• Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Bhutan: Perched on a cliffside in the Paro Valley of Bhutan, the Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Palphug Monastery) is a sacred site and a symbol of Bhutanese Buddhism.
• Drepung Monastery, Tibet: One of the largest monastic complexes in Tibet, Drepung Monastery was a significant center of learning and the residence of the Dalai Lamas before the Potala Palace was constructed.
• Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Japan: Located in Kyoto, Japan, Kinkaku-ji is a Zen Buddhist temple renowned for its golden pavilion and stunning reflection in the pond.
• Swayambhunath Stupa, Nepal: Also known as the Monkey Temple, Swayambhunath is an ancient stupa atop a hill in Kathmandu, Nepal, offering panoramic views of the city.
• Haeinsa Temple, South Korea: Haeinsa is a Korean Buddhist temple famous for housing the Tripitaka Koreana, a collection of over 80,000 wooden printing blocks containing Buddhist scriptures.

These are just a few examples of the top Buddhist temples and monasteries around the world. Buddhism’s rich history and widespread presence have led to the creation of countless sacred sites, each contributing to the global heritage of Buddhism.