Monday 13 February 2017

Rajgir... House of the KING

Rajgir
House of the king

Rajgir, the name derived from the word ‘rajgriha’ which mean ‘House of the king’ or ‘Royal house’. It is the first city to be the capital of Magadha kings until 5th century when, Udayin, son of Ajatshatru (king of Haryanka dynesty in North India), moved the capital to Patliputra (Patna). The area is also well known for the Jainism and Buddhism, being one of the favourite place of lord Mahavira, Gautama Buddha and Atanatiya Sutta, as conference was held at Vulture’s peak mountain. It is very important religious place for Jains, as it is said that lord Mahavira’s 24th avatara Trithankara, Munisuvrata is supposed to have been born here. An ancient temple about 1200 year old dedicated to Munisuvrat bhagwan is also present here along with many other Jains temples. This temple is also a place for Kalyanakas of Bhagwan Munisuvratnath.
With the cure of many skin diseases Rajgir warm water pond (Garam Kund) developed a healthy and winter resort. These baths are believed to contain some medical properties which act as remedies of many skin problems. The Saptparni cave is also the source of Rajgir hot water springs that have curative properties and are sacred to the Hindus, Jains and Buddhist. Another attraction of the region is the ropeway that leads uphill to the Vishwa Shanti Stupa (peace pagoda), Makhdoom kund and monasteries built by Japanese devotees of the Buddha on the top of the Ratnagiri hills.

VISIT ONCE

Vishwa shanti  Stupa: It is a major tourist attraction at Rajgir, situated on the Ratnagiri hill. It is a white beauty, with the four golden statues it is showing the four phases of Buddha’s life. In the year 1885-1985, founder of Nipponzan-Myohoji who was a Buddhist monk from Japan built this stupa which is the world’s tallest peace pagoda and considered as the symbol of peace and harmony.

Ajatshatru Fort: During 6th century at the period of Buddha this fort was built by the Magadha king. This fort is an architectural beauty. Especially the high walls and the stone tower attract tourists by its gigantic size. It is said that Lord Buddha resided here during the construction of fort.

Hot Springs: This place is known for its medicinal values. The hottest hot spring in Rajgir is Bhahmakund with 45 degree centigrade. It is considered to be sacred places for Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism.

Son Bhandar Caves: The cave hides a passage of the treasury of gold and the entrance is well hidden in the cave chamber behind the ancient stone wedge.  It is believed that the passage gone through Vaibhargiri Mountains and reaches Saptaparni Caves on the other side of the range. This treasure may belong to Jarasandh, or it may be of Binbisara. An undeciphered inscription in Sankhlipi writing or shell script is written on the doorway of the treasure it is beleved that this inscription is the password and whoever will read it, this door will open. But this ornate script has never been deciphered.

Venu Vana: It is abamboo forest, gifted by the Magadha king Bimbisara to Lord Buddha about 2500 years ago; it is one of the favourite place of Buddha. There is a big pond in the midst of the Venu Vana. It is said that Lord Buddha used to take bath in this pond. The pond escalates the beauty of the forest.

Bimbisara Jail: Bimbisara jail is inside the Ajatshatru Fort. It is said that Ajatshatru kept his father, Bimbisara in this prison after he became the king. It is situated in the southern of Maniyar Math. It is surrounded by high hills and stone pillars.

Veerayatan:  Museum cum a beautiful art gallery showcasing the history of the 24th Trithankaras. Its feature ornate dollhouse 3-D panel deception made from wood and metal.

Rope way: Enjoy the ride on the rope way which takes visitors to the Japanese Peace Stupa. The ride is very scenic and should be on every traveller's itinerary.

Being a sacred site of religion, Rajgir is a major tourist destination in India. It links to the ancient India with Lord Buddha and Mahavira. Showing the glorious history of North Indian dynasty this place is a mixture of knowledge, entertainment and a certainly visit to enjoy your vacation with your family, friends, relatives and closest ones.

MUST VISIT THIS LOCATION IN BIHAR.   

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