Rajgir-“Buddhism, Jainism and serenity.”
Rajgir, originally the city, is well known as Girivraj and was the first capital of the kingdom of Magadha. It is a state that would eventually evolve into the Mauryan Empire. Although ceramics dating about 1000 BC have been found in the city, the town’s origin has yet to be discovered. The city is around 15 km from Nalanda and 100 km from Patna in Bihar. Rajgir, the town’s beautiful sceneries, carries a hint of spiritual and vibrant hues of history. So it is linked with both Buddhism and Jainism. The city is set in a green valley surrounded by rocky hills.
The place is the house of many religious places linked with either Buddhism or Jainism. Local people believe that lord buddha and lord Mahavir spent their time here. So it is well known as a holy place and an important place for devotees. When you visit the place, you can see the numerous temples that add refreshing calmness to your mind.
How to reach
The town has good connectivity through all transport mediums via air, train and roads. The closest airport in Patna has situated around 100 km from Rajgir and is connected with all major cities. The city has its railway station and is well connected with all major cities with daily trains. The roadways are well maintained and have daily buses to reach the cities.
Religious Hub
Rajgir finds mention in ancient Buddhist and Jain texts and the travel accounts of Buddhist travellers Huen Tsang and Fa Hian; during the rule of the Mauryan and Gupta dynasties, individuals came to India. The town is closely associated with Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism and has been a significant location for Lord Buddha and Mahavira. As a result, numerous archaeological sites in Rajgir are linked to Buddhism and Jainism.
Fairs and festivals of Rajgir
The major festivities of Rajgir are Rajgir Dance Mahotsava. Rajgir people celebrate it with great spirit through devotional songs, instrumental music, folk dance, opera and classical dances. The celebration of Makar Sankranti is held at the end of Pausha month, around 14th January, during which people bathe in holy water and exchange sweets. Another high-voltage festival is the Malamasa Mekathat, held every three years.
Rajgir Dance Mahotsav
Rajgir Mahotsav, previously known as the RajgirNrityaMahotsav. It is a dance and music festival, or it can also be called the annual cultural fest of Bihar. The festival marked its beginning in 1986, and it is a three-day occasion of Rajgir in Bihar. Also, the festival is usually organized by the Nalanda district administration. And the Bihar Government’s Department of Culture and Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation’s support.
The dance festival is a glorious gala celebration of classical and folk dances and classical music. People from all parts of the state participate in this Mahotsav with huge interest and zeal. The whole event is generally conducted in October and at the end week of October.
Foremost places to visit in Rajgir
Japanese Stupa
The place Japanese Stupa is well known as the Vishwa Shanti Stupa. The Stupa pillar is located on top of Gridhakuta Hill at a height of 400m. Also, the marble pillar of the Stupa showcases the four golden statues of Budhha. This statue depicts the different stages of his life-birth, death, peaching and enlightenment.
Vulture’s Peak
Vulture Peak is one of the top attractions in Bihar in Rajgir. It is well known as Griddhakuta and is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists. Also, it is one of the top 3 places where Shakyamuni Buddha or the Gautama Buddha preached for many years. Apart from this, located on a small hill just outside Rajgir, Griddhakuta is a popular sightseeing location perched at 400 m. This peak is known as the Vulture’s Peak as it is shaped like a vulture and provides frequent bird sightings. It is said to be where Lord Buddha resided for many years. Vulture Peak also offers a brilliant 360-degree view of the entire surroundings and can be interesting for half a day.
Rajgir Ropeway
The Rajgir ropeway is believed to be the oldest ropeway in India and offers a wonderful excursion amidst nature. It is the only ropeway in Bihar. It features a single-person seater rope line that provides a thrilling adventure to the top of Ratnagiri Hill, where the famous Vishwa Shanti Stupa (Peace Pagoda) is located.
The chairlift ropeway ascends to a height of more than 1000 feet from ground level. Offering unmatched views of the Pant Wildlife Sanctuary and the surrounding forest area. The ropeway also provides access to Buddhist memorabilia and constructions from a bygone era on the hilltop, along with picturesque views, making it an unforgettable experience.
Best time to visit the place
Tourists can visit the place between October to March is the ideal time to visit Rajgir. During this time the weather is very pleasant here. Among the festivals here, Rajgir Mahotsav is the most important one. And it is celebrated each year in October and is accompanied by classical performances of Indian music and dance. You must visit the site at least once to learn more about the place. So you can enjoy the culture and activities of the town.
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Griddhakuta
Vulture peak is well known as Griddhakuta and is one of the top attractions in Bihar, situated in Rajgir. Also, it is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists. Also, it is one of the top 3 places where Shakyamuni Buddha or the Gautama Buddha preached for many years. Apart from this, located on a small hill just outside Rajgir, Griddhakuta is a popular sightseeing location perched at 400 m. This peak is known as the Vulture’s Peak as it is shaped like a vulture and provides frequent bird sightings. It is said to be where Lord Buddha resided for many years. Vulture Peak also offers a brilliant 360-degree view of the entire surroundings and can be interesting for half a day.
Girivraj
Rajgir, originally the city, is well known as Girivraj and was the first capital of the kingdom of Magadha. It is a state that would eventually evolve into the Mauryan Empire. Although ceramics dating about 1000 BC have been found in the city, the town’s origin has yet to be discovered. The city is around 15 km from Nalanda and 100 km from Patna in Bihar. Rajgir, the town’s beautiful sceneries, carries a hint of spiritual and vibrant hues of history. So it is linked with both Buddhism and Jainism. The city is set in a green valley surrounded by rocky hills. The place is the house of many religious places linked with either Buddhism or Jainism.
