Revvlog

Rajgir is an old town in Bihar, which has its name in the Mahabharata also. The foundation of the town is yet to be known. However, ceramics were found here which were dated back to 1000 BC. This was the first capital of the kingdom of Magadha. During those times, the town used to be called Rajgriha, which meant ‘the home of the royalty’.

If you are the kind of person who loves getting information about the history of the land and you also have some friends who share a similar interest, then plan a road trip to Rajgir. You will not only be able to find several significant information but also can visit many famous places in Rajgir which will make your trip fun-filled. Before you plan your trip, here is important information for you.

• Best time to travel in Rajgir: The weather of Rajgir is pleasant in between the months of October and March. Therefore, you must plan your trip between these months. If you can visit the place in October, you will be able to attend the Rajgir Mahotsav where you can witness various Indian traditional dances and music.
• Things to do in Rajgir: Since Rajgir is an old town, you will get several things to do here. From Shanti Stupa to forts, and several gardens, there are several things to do here.
• Conveyance: You will get auto-rickshaws to travel in the town. However, to make your trip completely convenient, you can take a safe and sanitized car rental service. You can plan the trip on your terms and keep the car with you as long as you want.

Now that you are interested in going to this destination, let us discuss the several places to visit in Rajgir.

10 Famous Places in Rajgir

• Japanese Stupa
• Venuvana
• Vulture’s Peak
• Bimbisara’s Jail
• Makhdum Kund
• Veerayatan Museum
• Cyclopean Walls
• Saptaparni Caves
• Sonabhandar
• Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall

1. Japanese Stupa

The Japanese Stupa in Rajgir is also called the Vishwa Shanti Stupa. It is perched on the top of the Gridhakuta hill at a height of 400m. This stupa was built by the Japanese as a symbol of world peace. It is a marble pillar in which you can find four golden statues of the Buddha that portrays various stages of his life including his birth, enlightenment, preaching, and at last his death. Rajgir sightseeing is incomplete without visiting this place.

2. Venuvana

The history behind this park says that this area was donated to Lord Buddha by King Bimbisara for a residence. This used to be a Bamboo Grove. Today, you can visit the park where you can find several types of Bamboo, flowers, and even a pond. This is one of the major Rajgir attractions that you must visit on your trip to this town.

3. Vulture’s Peak

Vulture’s Peak, also called Griddhakuta is one of the best places to visit in Rajgir. It is a pilgrimage site for the people of the Buddhism faith. It is among the three places where Gautam Buddha preached for several years. The peak is located at a height of 400 m. The peak was named such because of it s shape, which resembles a vulture. You can enjoy an amazing view from the Vulture’s peak of Rajgir and also can spend time here watching birds.

4. Bimbisara’s Jail

It is believed to be the jail where King Ajatshatru confined his father Bimbisara. From this jail, you can admire a wonderful view of the Japanese Stupa. Visiting the place in Rajgir will also let you know about the facts about Bimbisara and Ajatshatru.

5. Makhdum Kund

This tourist attraction is frequented by both tourists and devotees. It is a shrine of a Muslim Sufi saint named Makhdum Shah. You can find some warm springs here such as Tapodharma.

6. Veerayatan Museum

When you are in Rajgir, you must visit this Jain Museum that showcases the history of all the 24 Jain Tirthankaras. You can find the lavish dollhouse-like 3-D panel depictions that are made of metal as well as wood. You will also be able to witness some of the best arts that are on display. The artist who did them is Arharya Shri.

7. Cyclopean Walls

The Cyclopean Walls are around 2500 years old and the width is 4 meters. This was built by the Mauryans to safeguard the city from intruders. Today, the majority of the walls are in ruins; however, it is a great attraction for history lovers.

8. Saptaparni Caves

Situated on the Vaibhava Hills, Saptaparni Caves were the first place where the Buddhist Council was held. The council was led by Maha Kashyapa which was attended by more than 500 monks.

9. Sonabhandar

Located in the southern slopes of the Vaibhava Hills, Sonabhandar is know for the black stone statues of Lord Buddha and the first four Tirthankaras. Many people still believe that King Bimbisara’s treasury is still present here, while the key to open the doorway is mentioned in the inscription on the walls. 

10. Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall

This hall was built in the memory of a popular Chinese scholar. It is believed that he resided there for more than 12 years. You can find the writing of the scholar in the memorial hall and also his observation about the mediaval era.

To make the most of your trip, you can opt for a self-drive car rental in Rajgir from Revv. You just have to download the Revv app on your smartphone and browse through it to find the best car that suits your needs.