Rajgir is a small town in the heart of Bihar, India. Best places to visit in Rajgir 1.Dashrath Manjhi Path,
2.Pandu Pokhar, 3.Cyclopean Wall, 4.Brahma Kund, 5.Son Bhandar, 6.Suspension Bridge, 7.Glass Bridge in Rajgir, 8.Rajgir Wildlife Sanctuary, 9.Venuvan Park, 10.Sujata Stupa.
It is a place where history meets spirituality and natural beauty, known for its ancient ruins, holy places and serene landscapes. Rajgir is a destination that offers an immersive experience for travelers seeking to explore India’s rich cultural heritage, whether you are drawn to its historical significance or natural wonders. Planning the trip and booking tourist tickets for Rajgir anyone can set the plot for an unforgettable trip or journey.
Rajgir is situated between hills and dense forests and offers a panoramic view of nature along with visiting its lush green valleys and religious places. Rajgir is an attractive historical and religious place located in Nalanda district of Bihar state , which is famous for its religious and natural treasures. The holy land from the feet of Lord Buddha and Mahavir Swami attracts people from a religious point of view. Rajgir is the place which used to be the capital of the Magadh Empire in ancient times.
Rajgir was earlier known as Rajgir, which means the residence of kings. Rajgir is a special place for the people of Jain religion along with Buddhist sites. Rajgir also has mythological importance in which Lord Brahma Ji performed Yagya. Jarasandha defeated Lord Krishna in the war on the battlefield of Rajgir and forced him to go from Mathura to Dwarka . It is an ideal tourist destination for people looking for a place full of spirituality and peace.
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History of Rajgir
The history of Rajgir is huge and which is woven with threads of ancient civilizations and remarkable events. The city is the first capital of the Magadha kingdom that gradually developed into the Maurya Empire during the reign of Emperor Ashoka, a favorite retreat of the Buddha, making it a key pilgrimage site for Buddhists around the world. The ruins of the city with cyclopean walls are the witness of its historical importance and these stone walls built by the Magadha rulers are among the oldest examples of cyclopean masonry in the world. Exploring these ruins gives a glimpse of the architectural prowess and strategic importance of Rajgir during its heyday.
Spiritual Essence of Rajgir
The spiritual allure of Rajgir is a major attraction for many visitors. The city is very connected with both Buddhism and Jainism with a number of places or spots that attract spiritual seekers and tourists of various religions. One of the most notable places is Gridhakuta hill (Vulture peak). The historical and spiritual significance of the hills makes them a must-see for any tourist.
Another site is the Vishwashanti Stupa, a peace pagoda built to promote world peace where the white marble stupa adorned with a golden Buddha image stands as a symbol of harmony and spiritual unity. A ropeway ride to the stupa adds an element of adventure to the trip offering Jains panoramic views of the green hills and valleys.
The equally significant town of Rajgir has several ancient Jain temples including Jal Mandir, a temple situated in the middle of a tranquil pond which Jain tradition says is the place where Lord Mahavira attained nirvana as the 24th Tirthankara.
The atmosphere and spiritual energy of the temple provides a perfect setting for meditation and reflection Natural Beauty and Therapeutic Hot Springs Apart from its historical and spiritual attractions, Rajgir is famous for its natural beauty and therapeutic hot springs.
The city is surrounded by green hills that offer numerous opportunities for hiking and nature walks. The lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The hot springs in Rajgir known as Brahmakund are believed to have curative properties as these natural springs fed by underground volcanic activity are rich in minerals and are believed to cure various ailments. A dip in these hot springs is a rejuvenating experience that provides both physical and mental relaxation.
Top Places in Rajgir to Visit
Dashrath Manjhi Pahar (Dashrath Manjhi Path)
Dashrath Manjhi hill is a symbol of love situated in Gehlaur village of Bihar. Dashrath Manjhi made a path by cutting a 110 meter high hill with a chisel and hammer in the long period of 22 years (1960-1972) in the memory of his wife Fagunia. Actually when Dashrath Manjhi had gone far from the village to work as a labourer, his wife was going to give him food and she had to climb the hill and cross it because there was no direct road in Gehlaur. To reach Wazirganj city, one had to take a detour of 55 km. While climbing the hill, his wife’s feet slipped and she died after falling from the hill.
When his wife died, she was pregnant. Hurt by his wife’s death, Dashrath Manjhi vowed that he would not rest until he made a road and by working hard day and night, he made a road through the mountain. Due to the road being made through the mountain, the 55 km long journey was reduced to just 15 km. Dashrath Manjhi died on 17 August 2007.
In his memory, the road through the mountain has been named Manjhi Path. You must have seen the famous film Manjhi The Mountain Man in which Nawazuddin Siddiqui played the character of Dashrath Manjhi. Even today, this film inspires the society. Due to this film, Dashrath Manjhi gained fame in the country and the world. Gehlaur is situated 30 KM away from Patna between Patna and Rajgir road.
Pandu Pokhar
Pandu Pokhar is a pond spread over an area of ​​22 acres located in Rajgir which has gained fame among the people for its beauty and mythological significance. According to mythology, Pandava’s father used Pandu Pokhar as a bathing place. A 40 feet high statue of Pandu Maharaj has been built in the middle of the pond which highlights the importance of the lake.
The fountains of flowing water in the middle of the pond are the center of attraction. For entertainment in the pond, one can enjoy boat rides, play cricket, volleyball, bull ride, jeep line, table tennis and also enjoy swings. One can feel the religiosity along with jumping and having fun in the proximity of nature. Due to the fame of a historical place, this place has made its mark not only in India but also in the international world.
Cyclopean Wall
The 4 meter high and 45 kilometer long wall made by joining pieces of stones in Rajgir provides security to Rajgir like a fort. Like the Great Wall of China, Cyclopean Wall is situated in Rajgir which is more ancient than the Great Wall of China. There are mythological stories behind the construction of the wall which was built during the reign of Jarasandh in the Mahabharata period so that enemies could not attack Rajgir. The boundary of the long wall passes through the five hills of Rajgir, Vipulgiri, Ratnagiri, Songiri, Udayagiri, Vaibhavgiri. You can express a new definition of entertainment by spending time trekking on the wall.
Jarasandh’s arena is also built on the way to the wall, which depicts the story of ancient times. Jarasandh arena is a battlefield in which Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers, defeated Jarasandh in the war after wrestling for 28 days. Jarasandh arena is a symbol of inspiration for wrestlers. Many wrestlers used to take the soil of the arena, but now keeping in mind the dignity and sanctity of the arena, the Archaeological Department has banned it.
Brahma Kund
Brahma Kund is a Tapovan pilgrimage site of Rajgir which has maintained its religious importance. Lakshmi and Vishnu Narayan temple located in Brahma Kund is a center of prayer. A large number of devotees come to visit the temple and consider themselves blessed by getting the auspicious darshan of God. Rajgir, which is called the home of kings, is the center of faith of pilgrims due to its 22 kunds and 32 holy temples.
In which Brahma Kund is the main kund. Brahma Kund is made up of seven natural holy streams in which hot water keeps coming out. There is also a mythological story of Brahma Kund, it is said that Brahma Kund flowed due to the penance of Agastya Rishi. Brahma Kund opens for pilgrims from 4 am and closes at 10 pm. Brahma Kund is 3 km away from Rajgir railway station.
Son Bhandar
Son Bhandar is a place full of natural wealth in Rajgir which is known for its religious importance and the treasure of Bimbisara. It is said that Bimbisara’s priceless treasure was hidden at this place. There are two caves located in Son Bhandar, one of which was built in the 3rd century by Muni Shri Vaira Dev, who belonged to the Jain sect. The decorated sculptures on the walls of the caves depict the history of ancient times. With time, due to natural calamities, some parts of the caves have become ruins.
The statues with cut noses are witness to how the cruel Bakhtiar Khilji destroyed the statues. Son Bhandar has also been a holy place of penance for Jain monks. Statues of Jain monks have also been found from inside the caves. A statue of Lord Vishnu from the Gupta period has also been found from a cave, which has been kept safe in the Nalanda Museum.
Suspension Bridge
The newly built suspension bridge is a hanging bridge between two hills which is made with the help of wooden planks and ropes. While passing through the hanging bridge, the picturesque landscape of the hills is dazzling. The suspension bridge comes under Rajgir Nature Safari. It is the most popular tourist destination among the places to visit in Rajgir of Bihar state . One has to cross from one side of the bridge to the other side, in which one can take selfies and photo shoots from the top of the bridge and capture memorable moments in the camera.
Glass Bridge in Rajgir
Bihar’s first glass bridge built in Rajgir is a center of attraction for tourists. The next stop of the wildlife safari journey is to walk on the 25 meter long and about 2 meter wide transparent glass bridge, which gives a spectacular view of the mountains, which provides a thrilling experience. The glass bridge makes a very attractive photography click.
15 to 20 people are allowed to walk on the bridge at a time, who will be able to see the excellent view from the height while walking for 10 minutes. If you go to visit the glass bridge, try to book tickets online in advance because it becomes difficult to get tickets due to heavy crowd. Children below 6 years of age are not allowed to walk on the glass bridge.
Rajgir Wildlife Sanctuary
The experience of jungle safari is one of the most memorable moments in a trip to Rajgir. One gets a chance to come face to face with flora and fauna in an environment full of natural beauty. Nature Safari and Zoo Safari are part of the wildlife sanctuary. Zoo Safari starts at 9 am in which the entire jungle is toured in a closed vehicle in which animals can be seen in the open environment.
Sambar deer, leopard, Nilgai, bear, tiger, lion can be seen roaming in the open environment in the forest. Nature Safari was inaugurated by Bihar Chief Minister Shri Nitish Kumar on 26 March 2021. Rifle shooting, wall climbing, archery cycling, flying fox, jeep line, glass bridge and suspension bridge are one of the best places under Nature Safari. There is a museum inside Rajgir Safari in which the history of the origin of human life is displayed through sculptures and there is a 3D film hall where information about animals is broadcast on the big screen.
Venuvan Park
Venuvan is a historical site in Rajgir where Lord Buddha used to live and meditate. Surrounded by bamboo trees on all sides, Venuvan gives a feeling of being close to nature. The park has been well developed to make the natural beauty of Venuvan green. There are many types of swings in the park for enjoyment. It is the most ideal park to visit with family and children.
Sujata Stupa
Sujata Stupa is an ancient stupa situated in Sujatgarh which stands tall narrating its history. The stupa made of bricks has been built in the memory of Sujata. Three empires contributed in its construction. Sujata Stupa was built during the reign of Maurya period, Gupta period and Pala Empire. Sujata was the one who fed kheer to Lord Buddha when he was hungry. Sujata was the daughter of a Sena Mukhiya who lived in Sujatgarh and lived in Sujatgarh. A temple has also been built nearby in the memory of Sujata.
Vulture Peak Rajgir
Griddha Koot Mountain located in Rajgir, Bihar is a huge mountain in the shape of a vulture. The mountain adorned with lush green valleys has many sacred religious places in its womb. Vishwa Shanti Stupa is established on Griddha Koot Mountain which inspires humans to live in peace and love. A part of Chhathgir Mountain filled with the priceless heritage of ancient Buddhist remains is known as Griddha Koot Mountain.
The sacred mountain which was the favorite place of Lord Buddha from 463 BC to 483 BC. It was on Griddha Koot Mountain that Lord Buddha gave a sermon called Lotus Sutra. Influenced by his sermon, the ruler of Maurya dynasty, Bimbisara, adopted Buddhism. After reaching the mountain, one can sit peacefully and meditate on God.
Aerial Ropeway Tour
The experience of ropeway has a special identity in the journey of Bihar. Those who go to visit the local tourist places of Rajgir definitely enjoy the ride of ropeway. The trip to Rajgir is considered incomplete without enjoying the ropeway. Sitting in the rope, you can capture the natural panoramic view in your eyes while passing between the Ratnagiri hills from a height. There are two types of cable buses in the ropeway, in which one person can sit and travel and in the other cable bus 8 people can sit together and travel.
Mahabodhi Temple
Mahabodhi Temple is the religious place of Bodh Gaya. Mahabodhi has a very special significance. After Lord Buddha was born in Lumbini, Nepal, he came to the forests of Urubela in the Magadh Empire in India and meditated under a peepal tree on the banks of the Niranjana River and attained enlightenment in 528 BC and preached enlightenment to the entire world. Inspired by the teachings of Lord Buddha, Emperor Ashoka built the 30 feet Mahabodhi Mahabihar Temple in his memory 2300 years ago, but with time the temple started collapsing and later in 1876 Cunningham renovated the temple.
The 9th century statue of Lord Buddha is installed in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple, which is decorated with gold plating. A different radiance is seen from the statue of Lord Buddha. A wave of happiness seems to be flowing from the face of the Lord sitting in the asana posture, which transmits positive energy in life.
Keeping in mind the sacredness and religious dignity of the Mahabodhi Temple, UNESCO has marked it as a World Heritage Site. There are many meditation centers in the Mahabodhi Temple complex where Lord Buddha meditated. The followers of Gautam Buddha meditate in the temple complex and feel the positive energy. The temple is open from 5 am and closed at 9 pm.
Virayatan Museum (Virayatan Museum Rajgir)
Virayatan Museum, also known as Shri Brahmi Kala Mandiram Museum, was opened in 1982 by Maa Chandana Ji. The Virayatan Museum located in Rajgir is dedicated to spreading the message of teachings and peace in life of the 24 Tirthankaras of Jainism to the people. The 8 galleries and artwork built in the museum are magnificent. Virayatan has set a unique example of welfare work for human society. The teachings of Jainism have been displayed through artworks in the museum. Virayatan runs a hospital to treat the health related problems of poor people in the society, in which people’s eyes are treated free of cost.
Vaibhav Giri Mountain
Vaibhavgiri mountain is considered a holy pilgrimage site for Jains, Hindus and Buddhists. There is Saptparini cave on the top of the mountain where the first Buddhist Council was held. The first stop on the way to Vaibhavgiri mountain is Jarasandha’s Baithak which is famous as Peepal Guha. From the mythological point of view, this place is considered very holy because this is the place where Lord Buddha used to come to rest. There are many Jain temples located on Vaibhavgiri mountain, the main ones of which are Digambar Jain temple and Muni Sorath Nath temple. The path to Vaibhavgiri mountain goes through Brahma Kund.
Vishwa Shanti Stupa
Vishwa Shanti Stupa, which spreads the message of unity and peace to all the people of the world, is a religious place in Rajgir located on the Griddh Kut mountain, which has a special place in the hearts of the people of Buddhism. By visiting Shanti Stupa, the mind gets a feeling of immense peace. Shanti Stupa, made of white marble, attracts tourists due to its dignity and artificial beauty. Vishwa Shanti Stupa welcomes people of all religions equally, to see which people of all religions from every corner of India visit. Shanti Stupa can be reached by footpath and ropeway.
From the height of Vishwa Shanti Stupa, one can see a splendid view all around. There are many shops on the footpath of Shanti Stupa where one can also shop. There are many monkeys in the Shanti Stupa complex, from whom one needs to stay away because monkeys snatch things.
Kundalpur, Rajgir
Famous as the birth place of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Jain Tirthakar, this place also comes in the best tourist places of Rajgir. This place is also called the birthplace of Gautam Swamiji. A large number of tourists come to visit here. The statue of Lord Mahavira present here attracts tourists very much, which is four and a half feet high.
Ghora Katora Lake
Ghoda Katora Lake is one of the most beautiful places in Rajgir where many people come for picnics. This lake looks like a horse. The water of this lake is very clean. The captivating atmosphere of the lake is very much liked by tourists. You can spend some time relaxing in the calm and golden environment here.
Ghoda Katora Lake is a famous lake of Rajgir which is surrounded by mountains on three sides. The lake maintains natural beauty around it and gives people a feeling of natural peace along with entertainment. The lake also has an old history. The horses of the kings of Rajgir used to come to this lake and drink water. This is why this lake is known as Ghoda Katora Lake. A huge statue of Lord Buddha has been installed in the middle of the lake which makes the lake more attractive. There is a high tower near Ghoda Katora Lake from the top of which one can see a splendid view.
Indosan Nipponji Japanese Temple
Indosan Nipponji Japanese Temple is a temple of Lord Buddha which was built by the people of the International Buddhist Community in 1972. The temple is known as the Japanese Temple because the temple was built by the artisans of Japan. People of Japan visit the temple in large numbers and take inspiration from Lord Buddha and continue to think positively in life. The temple is open from 5 am to 12 noon and then from 2 pm to 6 pm.
If you go beyond the temple, the 68 feet tall statue of Lord Buddha named Dai Butsu attracts tourists. The statue has been built in the holy land of Bodh Gaya by the Dai Jokyo Buddhist Institute located in Nagoya, Japan. The purpose of installing the statue is to pay homage to Buddha and to make a meaningful effort to spread his teachings to the people in the form of world peace.
The Lord is sitting in a meditative posture seated on a lotus flower which has been made of pink Chunar stones and granite stones. The outline of the statue has been prepared by the famous sculptor of South India, Shri Ganapati Satpathy and the model of the statue has been prepared by Rishikesh Das Gupta, a resident of Calcutta. The statue was unveiled on 18 November 1985 by the hands of the revered Dalai Lama.
Naulakha Temple, Rajgir
Located on the main road in Rajgir city, Naulakha Temple is one of the most famous temples of Rajgir, which is visited by a large number of devotees. Built with white and red stones, this temple is very attractive. This temple is dedicated to Lord Munisuvartaswamy, the 20th pilgrimage of Jainism. Apart from this, if you want to stay here, then Dharamshala is also present where you can stay.
Booking your Rajgir Tourism Ticket
Planning your trip to Rajgir and booking your tourist tickets is an important step to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience with the advent of technology. Booking tickets for transport and attractions has become more convenient than ever for international travelers as the nearest airport to Rajgir is in Patna which is about 100 km from Patna. You can book a train or hire a taxi to reach Rajgir Indian Railways offers several train services connecting Patna to Rajgir and you can easily book your train tickets online through IRCTC website or mobile app.
Make sure to book your tickets in advance to secure your travel plans especially during the peak tourist season If you prefer to travel by road there are regular bus services from Patna Bodh Gaya and other nearby towns to Rajgir. Once in Rajgir, you can explore the city and its attractions on foot or hire a local taxi or auto rickshaw to visit specific sites like Vishwashanti Stupa, you can buy tickets for the ropeway ride at the base station. It is recommended to check opening times and ticket prices in advance to plan accommodation and local food to plan your trip.
Rajgir offers accommodation to suit a variety of budgets and preferences, from luxury hotels and resorts to budget guesthouses and lodges. Anyone can find a variety of options for your stay. Booking your accommodation in advance through online platforms like booking.com, agoda or airbnb ensures that you have a comfortable place to stay during your visit. During your stay in Rajgir do not miss the opportunity to savor the local cuisine. Bihari cuisine with its unique flavors and traditional recipes offers a delightful culinary experience. Try local dishes like litti chokha, sattu paratha and the sweet delicacy khaja. Many hotels and local eateries serve authentic bihari meals that will tantalize your taste buds.
Immersing in the local culture one of the most enriching aspects of traveling to rajgir is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. The people of Rajgir are known for their warmth and hospitality and interacting with the locals can provide valuable insights into their way of life. Visit the local markets to experience the vibrant culture and traditional crafts of the region. You can find handmade artifacts textiles and souvenirs that reflect the rich heritage of bihar. Engaging with local artisans and learning about their craft can be a rewarding experience, adding a personal touch to your journey participating in local festivals and events is another way to immerse yourself in the culture of Rajgir.
The town hosts several festivals throughout the year including the Rajgir Mahotsav, a cultural festival that showcases traditional music dance and art. Attending these events allow you to witness the vibrant cultural expressions and connect with the local community reflecting on your journey.
As your journey in Rajgir comes to an end take a moment to reflect on the experiences and memories you have gathered. The town’s historical sites spiritual ambiance natural beauty and warm hospitality create a unique and enriching travel experience. Whether you were captivated by the ancient ruins, found peace at the sacred sites, rejuvenated in the hot springs or connected with the local culture Rajgir offers a profound journey through time and spirituality. As you leave this serene town you will carry with you a deeper understanding and appreciation of India’s rich cultural heritage.
In conclusion Rajgir is a destination that offers a blend of history spirituality and natural beauty making it a perfect choice for travelers as like visiting islands or countries like Morocco. Seeking a meaningful and enriching experience by planning your visit and booking your tourism tickets in advance you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Embrace the opportunity to explore this ancient town. Immerse yourself in its culture and create memories that will last a lifetime. Rajgir with its timeless charm and spiritual essence promises to leave an indelible mark on your heart and soul.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the top tourist attractions in Rajgir?
Rajgir offers a variety of attractions, including historical, spiritual, and natural spots. Some popular sites include Vishwa Shanti Stupa, Rajgir Hot Springs, Griddhakuta Hill, and more.
How can I reach Rajgir?
Rajgir is well connected by road and rail. The nearest airport is in Patna, about 100 km away. You can reach Rajgir by train, bus, or taxi from nearby cities.
What is the best time to visit Rajgir?
The best time to visit Rajgir is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
Are there any accommodation options in Rajgir?
Yes, Rajgir offers various accommodation options, ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts. It’s advisable to book in advance during peak seasons.
What are the main spiritual attractions in Rajgir?
Rajgir is a spiritual hub with sites like Vishwa Shanti Stupa, Griddhakuta Hill (Vulture’s Peak), and the Ajatshatru Fort. These places are significant in both Buddhist and Jain traditions.
Are there any adventure activities available in Rajgir?
Yes, you can enjoy activities like trekking, ropeway rides to the Vishwa Shanti Stupa, and exploring caves such as Son Bhandar Caves.
What should I wear while visiting Rajgir?
Comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended, especially if you plan to visit hilly areas or participate in trekking. During winter, carry warm clothes as it can get cold.