Introduction

This
centuries-old town, included in the elite Buddhist tour destinations,
derives its name from king Vishal, mentioned in great Hindu epic Ramayana.
When Pataliputra was the political epicentre of ancient northern India,
Vaishali was the centre of the Vajji Republic, recognized as the first
republic in the whole world. Lord Buddha also visited this place and hinted
his devotees about his imminent Mahaparinirvana, the demise culminating into
complete Nirvana. After this inevitable incidence, second Buddhist council
was held at Vaishali. The great Mauryan emperor Ashoka also underlined the
importance of the place by getting one of his pillars erected here. It is
also recognized as the birthplace of Jain Tirthankar Mahavira.
Location & Climate
Vaishali district is 60 kms from Patna, the capital city of Bihar, a
northern Indian state. This is bounded by the hills of the Nepal in the
north and the river Gandak on the west. The mercury fluctuates between 44
degrees C and 21 degrees C in the summer season and 23 degreesC & 6
degrees C in the winter season. The annual rain-fall is 120 cms. You can
enjoy the most soothing climate here between October and March.
Sightseeing
»
Ashokan Pillar : The Lion pillar at Kolhua is a highly polished single
piece of red sandstone. A life-size figure of a lion, placed on the top of
the pillar faces north, the direction Buddha took on his last voyage.
» Buddha Stupas : These stupas were lucky to have
the mortal remains of Lord Buddha. The second one, linked with Kutagarshala
Vihara was built by Lichchavis for The Enlightened One. An anecdote about a
monkey is related with the same Vihara.
» Bawan Pokhar Temple : This old temple belongs to
the Pala period and houses several black-basalt-idols of Hindu dieties
dating back to Gupta and Pala period.
» Some Other Sites : Raja Vishal Ka Garh, a huge
mound, is said to be the ancient Parliament house. Lord Mahavir was born at
Kundupur, 4 kms from here. The water of Abhishek Pushkarni or Coronation
Tank was believed to be sacred in ancient period. Amvara, a neighbouring
village is said to be the site of Amrapali's mango grove. The sublime
courtesan joined Buddha's sect after his visit to her place and offered this
orchard to the sect.
Accommodation Options
There are many major tour destinations adjoining Vaishali as Patna and
Bodhgaya where enough accommodation facilities are available. Even then a
few tourist bunglows, maintained by the state government, besides some youth
hostels are available for you. Some names of hotels at Patna are being given
for your convenience.
Hotels in Vaishali
¤ Hotel Maurya Patna (5 Star)
¤ Hotel Republic (3 Star)
¤ Hotel Samrat International (3 Star)
¤ Hotel Chanakya (3 Star)
¤ Hotel President (2 Star)
Accessibility
This place is easily accessible by any mode of transport. Vaishali's
nearest airport is Patna. It is 35 kms from Hajipur railway station and 40
kms from Muzaffarpur railway station. Vaishali is 56 kms from Patna, 36 kms
from Muzzafarpur and 35 kms from Hajipur by road.