Rajgir
A valley ringed by five hills that was a capital before Pataliputra, sacred to Buddhists, Jains and Hindus alike.
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Rajgir was Rajagriha, capital of Magadha before the seat moved to Pataliputra, set in a valley enclosed by five hills with cyclopean walls still traceable along them. The Buddha spent years here and preached on Gridhrakuta, the Vulture's Peak, and the first Buddhist council met in a cave nearby after his death; Mahavira also taught here, which makes it significant to Jains. Hot springs at the base of Vaibhara hill are used for bathing and are managed as separate tanks. A chairlift climbs to the Vishwa Shanti Stupa, a white peace pagoda built by a Japanese order on the summit.
What you actually see
- Gridhrakuta - the Vulture's Peak where the Buddha preached.
- The hot springs - bathing tanks at the foot of Vaibhara hill.
- The peace pagoda - a white stupa on the summit, reached by chairlift.
- The cyclopean walls - ancient fortification traceable along the hills.
When to go
October to March; Bihar summers are severe. The chairlift queues at weekends. Hot spring tanks are busiest in the morning.
Honest expectations
The single-seat chairlift is old and unnerving for some; a newer ropeway operates alongside. Hot spring tanks are crowded and water quality is variable. Sites are spread and need transport.
Nearby
Nalanda lies north; Bodh Gaya is southwest.
What to pack for Rajgir
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.