Vaishali, Bihar
Ancient Megapolis and Spiritual Haven
The ancient megapolis of Vaishali was amongst world’s earliest republics, established by the 6th century BCE! Even before the advent of Buddhism and Jainism, the Licchavis established a capital megapolis here in Bihar, can you believe it? Today its past is hidden and lost, but for the remnants and historical records. This little place in Bihar is worth a pilgrimage – and you can choose your faith!
A favourite of Gautama Buddha and Mahavira, the many historical associations, makes one wonder – how come so much at Vaishali? There’s definitely something about this place!
So much at Vaishali
Vaishali (Vaiśālī) finds mention in the Vishnu Purana and the Mahabharat. It is a holy place for both the Jains as well as the Buddhists. Bhagwan Mahavira, was born and raised in this republic in 599 BCE. Gautama Buddha preached his last sermon before his death in 483 BCE here. The Second Buddhist council was convened at Vaishali in 383 BCE . It was a stronghold of the Nirgranthas (Jains). It is said that Mahavira spent tweleve of forty-two rainy seasons of the latter part of his ascetic life.
Vaishali has many sites connected with Buddha. At Kutagarasala Vihara, a monastery where Buddha spent many monsoons, monkeys had offered a bowl of honey to the Buddha – the event regarded as one of the eight most significant events of his life. Vaishali is the place he allowed nuns to the sangha for the first time, announced his approaching nirvana and converted Amrapali from a proud court dancer to a nun. The monastery also hosts Ananda Stupa with the only complete standing Asokan pillar and Ram Kund, an adjoining tank supposedly dug by monkeys for Buddha.
The Ashokan pillar
The Ashokan pillar locally known as lat is 11 meters high. It is a monolithic polished sand stone column. It is surmounted by a seated (single) lion capital which faces north, the direction Buddha took on his last voyage.
Ashoka Pillar at Kutagarasala Vihara (wikipedia)
Ananda Stupa and Ashokan pillar at Kutagarasala Vihara (wikipedia)
The significance of Ahokan pillars
The pillars of Ashoka are a series of columns dispersed throughout the Indian subcontinet, erected or at least inscribed with edicts by the Mauryan king Ashoka during his reign in the 3rd century BC. Originally, there must have been many pillars but only nineteen survive with inscriptions, and only seven with animal capitals. All the pillars were built either at Buddhist monasteries or sites connected with the life of the Buddha or Budhhist places of pilgrimage.
Another important site, the Relic stupa, is where the Licchavis had reverentially encased one of the eight portions of the Budhha’s relics, which they received after his Mahaparinirvana. The relics are now in Patna museum.
Relics Stupa (wikipedia)A Hidden Gem Worth Exploring
Though its ancient grandeur lies in ruins, Vaishali remains a destination brimming with history, faith, and wonder. From the Kutagarasala Vihara to the Ashokan pillar, each site tells a story of a city that once stood as a beacon of republicanism and spirituality. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or an intrepid traveler, Vaishali offers a journey back in time to the roots of India’s rich heritage.
Pack your bags and explore Vaishali—the city that was once a cradle of governance and spirituality, and still inspires awe in every visitor today.
