|
BUDDHIST DESTINATION |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
BUDDHIST SITES |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| PATNA |
|
|
Spread across the fertile land along the banks of river Ganges, Patna is the capital city of Bihar. The history and heritage of this city is splendid. As early as in the 6th century, Ajatshatru, the Magadha king, first built a small fort in Pataligram on the bank of the Ganga. Since then, the place recorded continuous history. So much so, that today, it is counted amongst those few old capital city in the world that have an unbroken history. Also, during the history, Patna came to be known by different names - Kusumpura, Pushpapura, Patliputra, Azeemabad.
For tourists interested in Buddhism, Patna makes for a good base to start of a trip. Moreover, the city was also visited by the Buddha who knew it as Patiligama. On a number of occasion, He also passed through this city. This included His last sojourn to Kusinara where He gave a talk 'that went far into the night'. Later, Ashoka, who had a great contribution in spreading Buddhism, made Patna the venue for the third Buddhist Council. The city has quiet a few attractions today that interest Buddhist tourists immensely. |
 |
| Patna Attractions |
Nalanda - (Distance-90 km from Patna.) This place is famous for the ancient University of the World, especially the teaching methodologies and the learning system is highly appreciated. The Buddhist monastery found here presents the most exceptionally advanced examples of Buddhist artistry and religious progress.
Vaishali - (Distance-55 km from Patna.) Lord Buddha gave last sermon here. This place is renowned for the ancient stupas, the Bawan pokhar temple, the coronation tank and the chaturmukhi Mahadeva.
Rajgir - (Distance-102 km from Patna.) Rajgir was the ancient capital of the Magadha Kingdom. And now, probably the vultures rein, at least, in the Griddhkuta Vultures' Park. The Jain Temples, the Hot springs, the Pippla cave, and the Venuvana are other places to visit. |
| How to Reach |
Air - Patna has an airport, well connected to the major cities of India.
Rail - Patna is a major station in the broad gauge route, with all necessary connections with the metros through the broad gauge rail network.
Road - The national highway No. 30 runs through Patna, and good motorable roads exist to all major destinations.
|
|
