Home > Destinations > Bihar >

Vaishali Tourism

Buddhist Monks In Vaishali

Birthplace of Lord Mahavira

Situated 55 Km from the capital city Patna, Vaishali is an important destination for Buddhists as well Jains. Vaishali is famous as the place where Lord Buddha preached his last sermon before he died in Kushinagar around 483 BC. The sedate town of Vaishali was named after King Visala who was mentioned in epic of Ramayana. Some even believe that Vaishali was the first state in the world to bring in practice a democratic and republic government. This is also the birthplace of Mahavira, the last thithankar of Jainism. This is also the birthplace of Mahavira, the last thithankar of Jainism.

During the period when Pataliputra was the capital, Vaishali prospered and became the center of trade and commerce. It was this time when many Stupas, pillars and other Buddhist buildings were built. Today, these stupas and pillars, especially the Ashoka Pillar, are the main attraction in Vaishali.

If you are ready for a small excursion, then the best time to visit Vaishali is during October / November months. Around 35 km away from Vaishali is Sonepur which hosts Asia's largest cattle fair during this period. The fair lasts for nearly a fortnight during which millions of visitors experience this one of a kind event.

Masterpiece of Time

Being the most important Buddhist destination in India, most of the attraction that you will find here will be related to Buddhism. The main attraction undoubtedly is the magnificent Ashoka Pillar and Buddha Stupa.

Ashokan Pillar

Erected by the Mauryans to commemorate the site of Lord Buddha's last sermon, Ashoka Pillar has become the mark of tourism in Bihar. Locally known as 'Bhimsen's Lathi', Ashoka Pillar is a single piece of highly polished of red sandstone. On top of the 18.3 m high pillar, is a life size statue of a lion sitting on an inverted lotus facing north towards Kushinagar.

Coronation Tank

Coronation Tank, also called Abhishek Pushkarni held a very important position in century old Vaishali. The water of Coronation Tank during that period was considered to be holy and sacred. Thus it was used for anointing Vaishali's elected representatives before they were sworn in to their respected positions.

Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum in Vaishali might not be as big as other archaeological museum around the country. But the items that are put on display are among the most significant in Indian history and of the most successful kingdom. The museum is filled with remains that were excavated from this site giving you an insight into the Buddhist world of that era. The museum is open on all days except Fridays from 10 am till 5 pm.

Buddha Stupa I & II

The Buddha Stupas here were created for the second Buddhist council that happened here in the 383 BC. Although the exteriors of Buddha Stupa I is not in a great condition, but tells us a lot about the architecture during that period. It is also famous as one eighth of the sacred ashes of Lord Buddha were found here. Another casket was found at the site of Buddha Stupa II which contained the sacred ashes of Lord Buddha.

Accommodation in Vaishali

Do not expect many luxury hotels in Vaishali as not many tourists plan on staying overnight here. However there are few tourist houses that offer good and comfortable accommodation. Ambapali Vihar is one of the few good hotels in Vaishali. Patna is not too far away from Vaishali and offers some great options for staying.

How To Reach Vaishali

By Air

The Nearest airport to Vaishali is in Patna which is around 55 Km from here. There are regular buses from Patna to Vaishali that take nearly hour and half to cover the distance. Though hiring a taxi is a more comfortable way of commuting.

By Rail

Hajipur at a distance of 35 Km on the north eastern Railway is the nearest railway head to Vaishali. Catch a bus or a taxi which will take around 1 hour.

By Road

Good network of roads connect Vaishali to Patna (56 Km), Muzzaffarpur (36 km) and Hajipur (35 Km). There is good frequency of buses to and from Vaishali connecting it to different cities of Bihar.

Local Transport

Vaishali is not a very big town so getting around is not a problem. Auto rickshaws are the best way of exploring the town.