Rajgir | District Nalanda, Bihar | India

Rajgir is a city in the Nalanda district of Bihar state in India, located about 100 kilometers southeast of Patna, the capital of Bihar. It is a city that is known across the country for its breathtaking views and picturesque surroundings.

Rajgir is surrounded by five hills, and the natural beauty of the landscape is truly stunning.

The city has a rich history and cultural heritage that is steeped in tradition and religiosity. It is home to many important religious and historical sites that are visited by tourists from all over the world.

The ruins of the ancient Nalanda University, which was once a prestigious center of learning in ancient India, are one of the most important historical sites in Rajgir.

The Vishwa Shanti Stupa, a large white dome that serves as a symbol of peace and harmony, is also an important attraction in the city.

History of Rajgir

The city of Rajgir has a long and fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. The city was established by King Bimbisara of the Haryanka dynasty in the 6th century BCE. It was one of the most important cities in ancient India, and many significant events in Indian history took place in Rajgir.

Rajgir was originally known as Rajgriha, which means “the home of the royals”. The city was the capital of the Magadha Empire for many years and was known for its opulence and grandeur. It was also an important center of trade and commerce, with merchants from all over India coming to Rajgir to buy and sell goods.

Rajgir is known for its rich cultural heritage and is considered an important center of both Buddhism and Jainism. It was in Rajgir that the Buddha delivered many of his sermons and teachings, and the city was an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The famous Japanese Buddhist monk, Nichiren, also visited Rajgir during his travels in India.

Jainism also has a strong presence in Rajgir, with many important Jain temples and sites located in the city. The famous Jain Tirthankara, Lord Mahavira, is said to have spent many years in Rajgir and delivered some of his most important teachings there.

Religious sites in Rajgir

Rajgir is a city of great religious significance and is known for hosting various religious ceremonies throughout the year. The city is home to several important temples and pilgrimage sites belonging to various religions, making it a popular destination for people of all faiths.

One of the most important religious sites in Rajgir is the Vishwa Shanti Stupa, also known as the World Peace Pagoda. This iconic structure is a symbol of peace and unity and is visited by people from all over the world. The stupa is a beautiful structure that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Rajgir.

Another important religious site in Rajgir is the Venuvana Vihar, which is a beautiful garden that is said to have been gifted to the Buddha by King Bimbisara. The garden is home to many important Buddhist temples and monasteries and is a popular destination for pilgrims.

Places to visit in Rajgir

Rajgir is a city steeped in history and culture, with a rich legacy that spans thousands of years. Visitors to the city have a wealth of cultural and historical tourist places to see and visit. Below are some popular places that are a must-visit during a trip to Rajgir:

Ancient Culture and Cuisine of Rajgir

Rajgir’s traditional cuisine is a delightful experience that attracts food enthusiasts from all over the world. The cuisine is known for its unique blend of flavors, spices, and ingredients that make it truly authentic.

One of the must-try dishes is Litti Chokha, a popular dish made of roasted wheat balls filled with sattu (roasted gram flour) and served with a spicy side dish of mashed potatoes and eggplant. The dish is cooked in a traditional way by burning cow dung cakes and using the smoke to cook the food.

Sattu Paratha is another popular dish in Rajgir, which is made by stuffing a mixture of roasted gram flour, onion, and spices inside a wheat flour dough, then rolling it out and cooking it on a griddle. It is usually served with curd or pickles.

Dahi-Chura is a simple and healthy breakfast dish that is popular in the region. It is made by mixing flattened rice with curd, sugar, and grated coconut. The dish is rich in nutrients and is a perfect way to start the day.

Thekua is a sweet dish that is popular during festivals and special occasions. It is made by deep-frying a mixture of wheat flour, sugar, and ghee, which gives it a crispy texture. The dish is flavored with cardamom and served as a dessert.

Malpua is a sweet pancake made with flour, milk, and sugar, then deep-fried and soaked in sugar syrup. It is a popular dessert in Rajgir and is often served during festivals and special occasions.

Why You Should Visit Rajgir

The Bihar State Government has also taken many initiatives to promote tourism in Rajgir. One such initiative is the Rajgir Zoo Safari or Wildlife Safari. It is a must-visit for animal lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

The zoo safari is spread over 82 acres and is home to a variety of wild animals, including tigers, lions, leopards, bears, and many more. Visitors can take a jeep ride through the forest to spot the animals and learn more about them.

Another popular attraction in Rajgir is the Rajgir Glass Bridge. It is the first transparent bridge made of glass in India and has become a major tourist attraction.

The bridge is located at a height of about 200 feet and offers a stunning view of the Rajgir Valley. The glass panels of the bridge are strong and can withstand the weight of several people at once.

Hotels and resorts in Rajgir

If you are planning to visit Rajgir, there are several options for accommodations ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the top hotels in Rajgir:

How to reach Rajgir

Information on how to reach Rajgir by various means is given below:

By Flight – Jai Prakash Narayan International Airport is located in Patna, the capital of the state of Bihar. Which is about 100 kilometers from Rajgir city. Travelers can reach the city by bus or other transportation from the airport.

By Train – To promote the development of tourism, Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation runs regular buses to take tourists to tourist places.

By Bus – The presence of a railway station in the city of Rajgir makes it very convenient for tourists. Travelers can take cabs or buses from the railway station and go wherever they want to go.

Patna to Rajgir distance

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