Vaishali Travel City Guide
Set
amidst lush paddy fields, 55 km north of Patna, lies the quiet hamlet
steeped in legend, Vaishali. Named after King Visala, it was the capital
of the Lichhavis, and is believed to be one of the earliest republics of
the world, having an elected body of representatives and an efficient
administration, as early as 6th century BC. Vaishali is significant to
both Buddhists and Jains. Lord Buddha preached his first sermon, and
announced his impending Nirvana here. To commemorate the importance of the
site, Emperor Ashoka erected one of his famous pillars. Vaishali is also
the birthplace of Lord Mahavira.
One hundred years after the
Buddha's 'parinirvana', 700 monks from all over North India, assembled
here, to discuss the 10 points of 'vinaya', the rule of conduct, under
dispute. Thus, Vaishali became the venue of the second Buddhist council.
Two stupas were erected to recall this event.
What to
See
Buddha
Stupa 1
Sacred ashes were found enshrined in a casket here.
Buddha
Stupa 2
Unearthed in 1958, it, too, contains sacred ashes.
Coronation
Tank
A huge reservoir, where the Lichhavi kings were anointed,
before being crowned.
Bawan Pokhar
Temple Built in
the Pala period, the temple enshrines several Hindu deities.
Chaumukhi
Mahadeva
A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva - built of black stone,
carved with four faces.
How to Get There
Road
links to Patna (55 km). Regular bus services connect Vaishali to Patna.
Nearest railheads, Hajipur (35 km), Muzaffarpur (36 km). Nearest airport
is Patna. Special
Offers on Hotels & Resort Booking in VaishaliTravel
Agents & Tour Operators offering Travel Packages to Vaishali
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