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Buddhist Circuit In Bihar

Lord Buddha Statue

The Enlightening Journey

What makes Bihar stand out in the crowd of tourist hotspots are the splendid Buddhist attractions that are scattered all over the state. Looking at the number of Buddhist destinations, it could easily be figured out that Bihar used to be the most important center of Buddhism from the start. Even today, it is considered as the most important Buddhist pilgrimage center in entire world. The magnificent Mahabodhi temple and the revered Bodhi tree attract Buddhist pilgrims from all parts of the world. It is here Lord Buddha attained enlightenment and gave start a new religion that will be followed by millions of people throughout the world.

Since there are number of destinations in Bihar that are important Buddhist places, one needs to have a good idea of how to cover all of them in a systematic way.

Vaishali

Vaishali is among the oldest civilization prevailing today that is believed to have started before the recorded history. Vaishali came into existence as a center of politics and trade. Vaishali is also credited to being the first republic in the world to have a duly elected assembly of representatives and administrations. Vaishali was made immortal with frequent visits of Lord Buddha who came here to give sermons and lectures. The main attractions of the city are Ashokan Pillar, Buddha Stupa, Fort of King Vishal, and Shanti Stupa. Patna is just 55 km from here and is well connected with number of buses.

Nalanda

Nalanda is famous as the home of the oldest university that flourished into one of the best as well. The university once housed more than 10,000 students and over 2000 teachers from around the world. The ancient seat of learning today lie in ruins, though it is still the best place to see and understand Buddhism. Nalanda came into prominence when Lord Buddha himself visited Nalanda to deliver sermons and speeches. Apart from the ruins of Great Nalanda Univeresity, one gets to see here some wonderful collections in Nalanda Archaeological Museum. Situated opposite to the university complex, the museum houses Hindu and Buddhist bronze statues, some of which are undamaged. Most of them are statues of Lord Buddha that were found in the area. The main attraction in the museum is definitely the two huge terracota jars of the first century. One ca also visit the Nava Nalanda Mahavihara which is an institute completely dedicated to study and research in Pali Literature and Buddhism. Nalanda is situated around 90 km from Patna.

Bodhgaya

This is the without a doubt the most important Buddhist destination in India and probably the world. It is here Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment under a Bodhi Tree and became Lord Buddha and gave rise to a new religion called Buddhism. Thousands of pilgrims from around the world pay visit to the famous Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhi Tree and other revered places. Bodhgaya is scattered with numerous stupas carved with statues of Lord Buddha in different postures. There are many international monasteries and temples here that belong to different countries. The most beautiful and grand in the Thai Temple situated on the western side of Mahabodhi Temple. Bodhgaya is nearly 110 km from here and is well connected by road and rail transportation.

Rajgir

Situated just 10 km from Nalanda, Rajgir is a must visit destination for both Buddhists and Jains. While Lord Buddha used to give sermons here on the Griddhkut Hill, making it special for Buddhists; this is the birthplace of Lord Mahavira, making it even more important for all Jain Pilgrims. The main attraction of Rajgir are the Ajatashatru's Fort, Bimbisar's Jail, Swarna Bhandar, the Peace Pagoda and the Cyclopean wall. The peace pagoda is situated on top of the Griddhkut hill. A bridle path is tehre to take you to the top, but the best way to reach it is an aerial chairlift. It takes place everyday except Thursdays. It takes around 15 to 25 minutes to complete the journey. The views over the Rajgir Hills will leave you mesmerized and spellbound, an experience not to be missed.

Without taking a Buddhist circuit, your trip to Bihar is as good as never started. Buddhist places and the brilliant atmosphere created by Buddhism have infused a new life to tourism in Bihar. See a new chapter unfold in your life after visiting the many exquisite Buddhist destinations in Bihar.