Map of the Origin and Spread of Buddhism

Illustration

Simeon Netchev
by
published on 13 January 2025
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This map traces the expansion of Buddhism from its origins in the Ganges Plain of Magadha (modern Bihar, India) during the 5th–4th century BCE when Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) attained enlightenment. From this heartland, Buddhism spread along mainland trade routes like the Silk Road and maritime networks, often supported by royal patronage. It reached Sri Lanka by the 3rd century BCE and Central Asia soon after.

By the 1st century CE, Buddhism had arrived in China, where it adapted to local cultures, later influencing Korea and Japan, reaching these regions by the 4th and 6th centuries CE. Vajrayana Buddhism, known for its esoteric practices, emerged later, spreading to Tibet, Mongolia, and the Himalayan regions by the 8th century.

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About the Author

Simeon Netchev
Simeon is a freelance visual designer and history teacher passionate about the human stories behind past events. He believes every image should tell a story and spark interaction, while each map leads on a journey, blending imagination with education.

Cite This Work

APA Style

Netchev, S. (2025, January 13). Map of the Origin and Spread of Buddhism. World History Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://www.worldhistory.org/image/19850/map-of-the-origin-and-spread-of-buddhism/

Chicago Style

Netchev, Simeon. "Map of the Origin and Spread of Buddhism." World History Encyclopedia. Last modified January 13, 2025. https://www.worldhistory.org/image/19850/map-of-the-origin-and-spread-of-buddhism/.

MLA Style

Netchev, Simeon. "Map of the Origin and Spread of Buddhism." World History Encyclopedia. World History Encyclopedia, 13 Jan 2025. Web. 14 Jan 2025.

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