Top Things to Do in the Rajgir | Must-See Attractions & Experiences

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Places To Visit In Rajgir

Sonabhandar

Sonabhandar caves are situated on the southern slopes of the Vaibhava Hills and feature black stone statues of the first four Jain Tirthankaras and Lord Buddha. It is believed that the treasury of King Bimbisara is still present here and the key to opening the doorway lies in the inscriptions on the walls.

The Stupa of Sariputra contains the bones of one of the two chief disciples of Gautam Buddha. Sariputra became a celebrated Arhat after he was able to attain salvation following Buddha's footsteps. The stupa is of a pyramidal shape and is imposing in size, surrounded by pillared structures, typical to Buddhist structures. Seven layers of construction explain its colossal size, making it a sight to behold.

Swarna Bhandar, translating to ¥the treasure of gold', are two identical caverns cut out of monolithic rocks in the foothills of Vaibhar range. There is a legend about how the cave hides a secret door to a treasure trove of gold within the hills. There are seated and standing figures etched onto the walls of the rocks as well as inscriptions in the ancient text of Sanklipi, which say that the cave was used by Jain saint Muni Vairadevi and other ascetics as a refuge. Read More

Tapodharma or the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir

An ancient Buddhist monastery was once present at Tapodharma. The Lakshmi Narayan Mandir has been built here now. There are a few hot springs found at the place and it is believed that these hot water springs have curative properties. The Brahmakund here is a popular spring and its temperature is generally around 45 degree Celsius.

Veerayatan Museum is a fascinating Jain museum showcasing history of each of the 24 Jain Tirthankaras. It features ornate dollhouse like 3-D panel depictions made from wood and metal. One will also see a lot of amazing arts on display here by an artist Arharya Shri who resides here and are a must watch.

King Bimbisara donated the Bamboo Grove, Veluvana to Buddha for his residence. Today, it is a park with admiring sights of bamboos, flowers and a large pond with Buddha's image in the centre.

The Yesthivana area used to be a retreat of the forest, but now it has become a nature park where tourists can visit. The area is located near the Tapovana and is said to be the site of the place where Lord Gautam Buddha met the Magadha King, Bimbisar before the latter became a devotee. One of the major sights to see here is the 6 feet tall carved statue of Lord Gautam Buddha and the sapling of the Great Mahabodhi Tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. Read More