ABOUT THE

Destination

Documented as being the capital of Licchavi (or Lichchavi), one of the world's first republics with an elected assembly of administrators and an efficient administration, Vaishali, in modern-day Bihar, is known as one of the greatest cities of the 6th century BC. The city finds a mention in Ramayana too. It is said Lord Buddha came to Vaishali around five years after his enlightenment, when he was invited here to end the sufferings of the city's residents. Situated on the northern banks of River ganges, Vaishali is bound by River Gandak on the west and Nepal on the north.  

It is said that Buddha was given a grand welcome and as soon as he stepped into the city, a thunderstorm brewed and a heavy downpour followed, bringing relief to the drought-affected and plague-infected city. Buddha preached the Ratna Sutra here and 84,000 people embraced Buddhism.  

It was also in Vaishali that the first group of women were ordained into Buddhism. And it was here that the famous courtesan Amrapali lived, who later became a follower of  Buddha. Vaishali is also famous for being the place where Lord Buddha delivered his last sermon. It was here it is said that a monkey took the Lord's alms bowl and climbed a tree to gather honey for him. The Buddha accepted his humble offering and the monkey in great joy, leaping from tree to tree, accidentally fell and was impaled on the stump of a tree. Dying a noble death, the monkey went to heaven. Ananda, one of Buddha's closest attendants, lies buried at this site.

 
ATTRACTIONS

ATTRACTIONS


Relic Stupa

Relic Stupa


This is one among the eight original stupas built over the sacred ashes of the Buddha.

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Kutagarshala Vihara


Located about 3 km from the relic stupa, is Kutagarashala vihara, a monastery where Buddha stayed most frequently when he visited Vaishali.

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Kutagarshala Vihara
Ashokan Pillar

Ashokan Pillar


The monolithic, polished sandstone Ashokan pillar is surmounted by a decorative bell-shaped capital and a life-size figure of a lion facing north.

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Relic Stupa

Relic Stupa


This is one among the eight original stupas built over the sacred ashes of the Buddha.

Read More

Kutagarshala Vihara

Kutagarshala Vihara


Located about 3 km from the relic stupa, is Kutagarashala vihara, a monastery where Buddha stayed most frequently when he visited Vaishali.

Read More

Ashokan Pillar

Ashokan Pillar


The monolithic, polished sandstone Ashokan pillar is surmounted by a decorative bell-shaped capital and a life-size figure of a lion facing north.

Read More