Situated in the Indian state of Bihar, Rajgir is a place of historical significance. It also stands as the religious site for Buddhism and Jainism, as the place is also related to Gautama Buddha and Mahavir. In the earlier times, Rajgir was known for its royal importance and the holy sites that still exist today. People who are planning to visit Rajgir can check out flight & hotel offers on HappyEasyGo for the biggest discounts. In this post, we will be looking at some of those top places to visit in Rajgir. Let’s begin.
Nalanda
Nalanda is an ancient city that was once the most elaborate learning centre in the ancient kingdom of Magadha (which is the present-day Bihar). It is also one of the most renowned heritage sites in Rajgir. It is home to one of the oldest and exceptional residential universities in the world. The university in Nalanda was an example of an architectural masterwork. People visiting Bihar must go for a trip to Nalanda with a guide to experience and learn the historical significance of this place!
Vishwa Shanti Stupa
Situated on the Ratnagiri hill, the Vishwa Shanti Stupa (World Peace Pagoda) is a prominent Buddhist pilgrimage site. This stupa is the world’s tallest Peace Pagoda. Built with white marbles, it is a charming place that showcases the four phases of the life of Gautam Buddha through his four golden statues. The Peace Pagoda is believed to have been built in 1969 by a Japanese Buddhist monk, Nipponzan Myohoji. The stupa is regarded as the symbol of peace and harmony.
Venuvana
The appealing Venuvana was once the residence of Lord Buddha. It was built by Bimbisar, a powerful Magadh emperor, and it is said that it was his first offer that he made to Lord Buddha. There exists a monastery inside the territory where Lord Buddha used to meditate. There is a Buddha statue, a large lake, with exquisite bamboo grove and flowers to appreciate in the monastery. There is also a Japanese Buddha temple at the back of the garden, which the visitors can explore by visiting there. There are also a number of hotels for visitors to stay near Venuvana. One must visit this place to get a feel of the ambience of this serene environment.
Swarn Bhandar
The Swarn Bhandar or Son Bhandar caves comprise two artificial caves that are carved from a single giant rock. The main cave has a rectangular and pointed ceiling with a trapezoidal entrance, similar to the Barabar Caves, the first artificial caves. The Swarn Bhandar caves, according to the inscriptions inside the caves, date back to 3rd or 4th century.
Ajatshatru Fort
This fort is an example of architectural beauty, built by the Magadha king, Ajatshatru, during the time of the Buddha i.e. 6th century. The fort also includes a stupa which is extended across 6.5 sq. meters. The stupa is known as the Ajatshatru stupa. The enormous dimension of the fort, especially its high walls and the stone tower, attracts tourists and visitors who come to see the fort. In the history books, as well as some people say it, that Lord Buddha resided here during its construction.