Encircled by rugged hills, Rajgir is a mystical city in Bihar with natural tranquility amidst thick forests, enigmatic caverns, and springs. The air of this quaint town carries touches of spirituality and vibrant colours of history. There are many religious sites dedicated to Buddhism, as Lord Buddha is said to have spent quite a lot of time in Rajgir (also known as Rajagriha) preaching and meditating in solitude. The ruins, temples and sites here provide refreshing calmness to the mind.
Gautam Buddha had himself mediated at Jivankamaravana Monastery that was gifted to him by King Bimbisara. It was here at the Gridhakuta Hill that Lord Buddha gave many discourses after attaining enlightenment and also met his first five disciples. One needs to take a ropeway to reach the top of Griddhakuta Hill (hill of vultures). Gautam Buddha used to take bath daily in Karanda Tank during his stay in Rajgir. The First Buddhist Council was organized in Rajgir in 483 BC at Saptaparni Cave- the source of Rajgir Hot Water Spring. Peace Pagoda, also known as Viswa Shanti Stupa on Ratnagiri hills features a golden statue of Lord Buddha representing four periods of his life. Venuvana Vihara is bamboo grove where Gautam Buddha often stayed and meditated.
