Overview
The capital of the Magadha Empire prior to Pataliputra, Rajgir is better known for its curative hot springs (although the bathing enclosure leaves much to be desired). During the rainy season, Buddha would reside at Griddhakuta Hill, a part of the Ratnagiri chain of hills. On the other end of the Ratnagiri is the Saptaparni Cave where the first international Buddhist council was organized after Buddha’s death to write down his teachings.
To commemorate the 2,500 years of the first council, the Japanese Buddhist Association built a stupa above the cave and an aerial ropeway connecting it to the bottom of the hill. The ruins of the famous Nalanda Mahavihara, the university town founded in 411 AD, is 11km from here.
Rajgir, a beautiful city located in the Nalanda District of the state of Bihar, attracts tourists from all over the world. The location is surrounded by rocky hillocks and is located in a valley. Furthermore, the tranquil atmosphere of this location will refresh your mind and soul. It is the location where Gautam Buddha is said to have given many sermons, and Lord Mahavir once lived here. Visitors can also see Buddhist monks meditating at Vultures Peak. This is where Buddha’s knowledge was written, and it is also where the first Buddhist Council was held. It also houses several Hindu and Jain temples.Not only that, but it has water ponds with medicinal properties that aid in the treatment of a variety of skin diseases.
