Difference between revisions of "Rajgir" - New World Encyclopedia

	Pilgrimage to; Buddha's; Holy Sites
The Four Main Sites
	Lumbini · Bodh Gaya; Sarnath · Kushinagar
Four Additional Sites
	Sravasti · Rajgir; Sankissa · Vaishali
Other Sites
	Patna · Gaya; Kausambi · Mathura; Kapilavastu · Devadaha; Kesariya · Pava; Nalanda · Varanasi

Rajgir
	Rajgir; Bihar • India
	Rajgir
	Coordinates: 25°02′N 85°25′E / 25.03, 85.42
Time zone	IST (UTC+5:30)
Area; • Elevation	; • 73 m (240 ft)
District(s)	Nalanda
Population	33,691 (2001)

Revision as of 18:57, 15 November 2007

Coordinates: 25°02′N 85°25′E / 25.03, 85.42 Rajgir refers to a city and a notified area in Nalanda district in the Indian state of Bihar. Rajgir is located at 25.03° N 85.42° E ^[1]. It has an average elevation of 73 metres (239 feet).

The city of Rajgir (ancient Rajagriha or Rājagṛha; Pali: Rājagaha), the first capital of the kingdom of Magadha, a state that would eventually evolved into the Mauryan Empire. The date of its origin remains unknown, although ceramics dating to about 1000 B.C.E. have been found in the city.

Overview

The epic Mahabharata calls the city Girivraja, recounting the story of its king, Jarasandha, and his battle with the Pandava brothers and their allies Krishna. Buddhist and Jain scriptures mention it, giving a series of place-names, but without geographical context. Historians have attempted to locate those places using the works of Chinese Buddhist pilgrims, particularly Faxian and Xuanzang.

The site has been divided into Old and New Rajgir on the basis of Xuanzang, in particular. The former lies within a valley, surrounded by low-lying hills. Defined by an earthen embankment (the Inner Fortification) associated with the Outer Fortification, a complex of cyclopean walls runs (with large breaks) along the crest of the hills. Another, larger, embankment outside the northern entrance of the valley and next to the modern town defines New Rajgir. The sources disagree on which of the Buddha's royal contemporaries, Bimbisara and Ajatashatru, had been responsible for its construction. Ajatashatru has been credited with moving the capital to Pataliputra (modern Patna).

This place has been associated with both the historical Buddha and Mahavira. Rajgir has also developed as a health and winter resort due to its warm water ponds. Those baths have been reputed to contain some medicinal properties that help in the cure of many skin diseases. the Ropeway that leads uphill to the Shanti Stupa and Monasteries, built by the Japanese Devotees of the Buddha on top of the Ratnagiri hills have become an added attraction of Rajgir.

One may visit Rajgir from Patna. Or the pilgrim may travel by overnight train from Kolkata, traveling by way of Begusarai junction or Mokameh. Rajgir sits off the main road approximately midway along the Barauni and Patna highway. Located in a verdant valley surrounded by rocky hills, Indian Railways has recently inaugurated train service between Rajgir to Kolkata with continuation to Delhi.

History

Rajgir, which means 'house of the king', served as the ancient capital city of the Magadha kings until the 5th century B.C.E. when Ajatashatru moved the capital to Pataliputra. In those days, people called the city Rajgrih, which translates as ‘the home of Royalty’. Jarasandha, who hailed from Rajgrih, had defeated Krishna eighteen times because of which Krishna also has the name 'ranchhod' (person who runs away from fight). Mahabharata recounts a wrestling match between Bhima, one of the pandavas, and Jarasandha, the then king of Rajgir. Jarasandha had been invincible as his body could rejoin any dismembered limbs. According to the legend, Bhim split Jarasandha into two, throwing the two halves facing opposite to each other making rejoining impossible. A famous Jarasandha's Akhara (place where you practice martial arts) operates on the location.

The founders of the religions of Buddhism and Jainism both hold Rajgir sacred. Gautam Buddha spent several months meditating, and preaching at Griddhkuta, (‘Hill of the Vultures'). He delivered some of his famous sermons and converted King Bimbisara of Magadha and countless others to his religion in the city. Rajgir earned fame for its association with Shishunaga Kings Bimbisara and Ajatashatru. Ajatashatru had kept his father Bimbsara in captivitiy here.

The cave of Saptparni where the First Buddhist Council, under the leadership of Maha Kassapa, had been held on one of the hills. The Saptparni cave serves as the source of the Rajgir Hot Water Springs that have curative properties, sacred to the Hindus, Buddhists and Jains. Today an aerial ropeway provides the link with a hilltop stupa "Peace Pagoda" built by Japanese devotees. Lord Mahavira spent fourteen years of his life at Rajgir and Nalanda, spending chaturmas (i.e., four months of the rainy season) at a single place in Rajgir (Rajgruhi) and the rest of the time in the places in the vicinity. The city served as the capital of his favorite shishya (follower), king Shrenik. Rajgir maintains an eminent place as a sacred site for the Jains.

Sites of Ancient Buddhist Monasteries

Gridhakuta (Vulture's Peak)

Vulture's Peak, view from a nearby hill

Buddhist canonical texts lists the hill as one of the places Buddha stayed while in Rajgir; and several notable events, including an attempt on his life by his evil cousin Devadatta occurred there. The Mahayana tradition goes further; a number of its major texts, most famously the Lotus Sutra, allegedly had been delivered as sermons there. As such, it is a vital destination for pilgrims in both ancient and modern times. Described both by Faxian and Xuanzang, archeologists in the later nineteenth century identified the site as a hill lying to the east of Old Rajgirin. Japanese devotees have crowned the hill with Shanti Stupa, maintaining a chairlift to the top.

Pipphali House or Cave

A place mentioned in the Pali Canon, where records state Maha Kassapa stayed a few times when ill. Maha Kassappa stayed at the cave; a house with the same name had been nearby.

Venuvana

Bimbisara gave a bamboo grove (Venuvana) to Lord Buddha, the first Buddhist monastery ever. Bimbisara gave the grove to Buddha so that he and his monks could take rest here, and give discourses to people. Also at Venuvana are: Karand Tank, Maniyar Math, Swarnabhandar Cave, Pippala Cave, Viswa Shanti Stupa, the famous Hot Water Springs and ruins of an Old Fort with 40 km long and 12 ft wide 2,500 year old cyclopean walls.

Jivakarama

Remains of the monastery called Jivakambavana

Jivaka, the greatest physician of Buddha's time, hailed from Rajgir. He donated a monastery to Buddha, called the Jivakarama.

Tapodarama

The Tapodarama Monastery had been located on the site of the hot springs. a Hindu temple sits there now, called the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir. In ancient times, the hot springs used to be the site of the Tapodarama, a Buddhist monastery at the time of Gautama Buddha. Also King Bimbisara bathed there sometimes.

Saptaparni Cave

The First Buddhist Council, held under the leadership of Maha Kassapa, took place at the cave of Saptparni. Buddha sometimes stayed there; visiting monks resided there as well.

Hindu Sites

Hindu Devotees bathing in the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir

Jarasandha Ka Akhara

The great albeit evil warrior whose relentless attacks on Mathura prompted Lord Krishna to migrate the populace of Mathura to Dwarika, used to practice martial arts here every day.

Lakshmi Narayan Mandir

The pink-hued Hindu temple called the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir has within its grounds the ancient hot springs. The temple is (as the name indicates), dedicated to Lord Vishnu and his consort, Goddess Lakshmi. In more ancient times, hot springs used to be the site of the Tapodarama, a Buddhist monastery at the time of Gautama Buddha. Also King Bimbisara used to take his bath there sometimes.

Originally a dip in the pond was the only means of experiencing the hot springs, but now at a higher level the spring has been tapped and flows out through several ceramic pipes set into the wall in a hall, where people can sit under it and have the water run over them.

Strangely enough, Muslims are not allowed to enter the hot spring bath. ref

Other places of Historical Importance

Other archaeological sites including:

the Karnada Tank where Lord Buddha used to bathe
the Maniyar Math that dates from the 1st century CE
the Maraka Kukshi where the still unborn Ajatashatru was cursed as a patricide
the Rannbhumi where Bhima and Jarasandh fought one of the Mahabharat battles.
Swarnabhandar Cave
Viswa Shanti Stupa
Ruins of an Old Fort
40 km long and 12 ft wide 2500 year old cyclopean walls.

Ancient Chariot tracks

The Chariot Route and shell inscriptions are worth a visit for the strangeness of the phenomenon. The chariot tracks consist of two parallel furrows cut deep into the rock for about thirty feet, possibly by the large quantity of chariots that came to deliver goods to Rajgir.

The local belief is that they were "burnt" into the rock by the speed and power of Lord Krishna's chariot when he entered the city of Rajgir during the epic Mahabharata times. Several shell inscriptions, the un-deciphered characters current in central and eastern India from the 1st to the 5th centuries CE, are engraved in the rock around the chariot marks.

Bimbisara's Jail

Bimbisara's jail

In the middle of the valley is the ruin of a circular structure with turrets at each corner. Bimbisara was imprisoned by his son Ajatashatru, but could continue to see Gridhakuta and the Buddha through a window. The fact that the hill can be seen from the structure, and its military appearance, led to its present label after being discovered in 1914. It could also be (because of its shape and the turrets) a Buddhist monastery of the first millennium AD.

General Information

Weather

Temperature: maximum 40 °C, minimum 20 °C. Winter: maximum 28 °C, minimum 6 °C

Rainfall: 1,860 mm (mid-June to mid-September)
Best season: October to March

Travel

Air: The nearest airport is Patna (107 km).
Rail: Rajgir is now connected by Rail with Patna.
Road: Rajgir is connected by road to Patna, Gaya, Delhi and Calcutta.

The Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation organises trips to Rajgir, Nalanda, etc. from its headquarter i.e. Tourist Bhawan, Beer Chand Patel Path Patna 800001. Tel: 0612-225411, FAX: 0612-236218. Air Conditioned and Non-Air Conditioned cars, mini deluxe coaches, and deluxe coaches are also available.

Demographics

As of 2001 India census^[2], Rajgir had a population of 33,691. Males constitute 53% of the population and females 47%. Rajgir has an average literacy rate of 52%, lower than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 61%, and female literacy is 41%. In Rajgir, 19% of the population is under 6 years of age.

Picture Gallery

Buddhist monks meditating on Vulture's Peak
Pipphali Cava
Venuvana Monastery
Bamboo Grove in Venuvana
Buddha-image at Venuvana, Rajir, Bihar, India. It is the only Buddha-image at the pilgrimage site of Venuvana monastery, and a recent addition.
The Sattapanni or Sattaparni Cave, on on eof the hills around Rajgir, Bihar, India. It was where the First Buddhist Council took place, in the year after Buddha's passsing away (Parinirvana).
Ajatasatru (Ajatasattu) stupa at Rajgir, India, said to contain Buddha's ashes.

References
ISBN links support NWE through referral fees

External links

Retrieved November 15, 2007.

Entry on Rajagaha in the Buddhist Dictionary of Pali Proper Names Retrieved November 15, 2007.
Description of Rajagriha by the Chinese pilgrim monk Faxian (399-414 AC) Retrieved November 15, 2007.
Description of Vulture Peak by the Chinese pilgrim monk Faxian (399-414 AC) Retrieved November 15, 2007.
Description of Venuvana Monastery and Pippala and Srataparna Caves by the Chinese pilgrim monk Faxian (399-414 AC) Retrieved November 15, 2007.
Suttas spoken by Gautama Buddha concerning Rajagaha: (more)

Acela Sutta - To the Clothless Ascetic
Samaññaphala Sutta - The Fruits of the Contemplative Life'' Retrieved November 15, 2007.

Department of Tourism - Rajgir. Retrieved November 15, 2007.

Credits

New World Encyclopedia writers and editors rewrote and completed the Wikipedia article in accordance with New World Encyclopedia standards. This article abides by terms of the Creative Commons CC-by-sa 3.0 License (CC-by-sa), which may be used and disseminated with proper attribution. Credit is due under the terms of this license that can reference both the New World Encyclopedia contributors and the selfless volunteer contributors of the Wikimedia Foundation. To cite this article click here for a list of acceptable citing formats.The history of earlier contributions by wikipedians is accessible to researchers here:

Rajgir ^history

The history of this article since it was imported to New World Encyclopedia:

History of "Rajgir"

Note: Some restrictions may apply to use of individual images which are separately licensed.

[1] Falling Rain Genomics, Inc - Rajgir

[2] GRIndia

[1]

[2]

@@ Line 23: / Line 23: @@
 footnotes = |
 }}
-'''Rajgir''' is a city and a notified area in [[Nalanda district]] in the [[India]]n [[States and territories of India|state]] of [[Bihar]].
+'''Rajgir''' refers to  a city and a notified area in [[Nalanda district]] in the [[India]]n [[States and territories of India|state]] of [[Bihar]]. Rajgir is located at {{coor d|25.03|N|85.42|E|}} <ref>[http://www.fallingrain.com/world/IN/34/Rajgir.html Falling Rain Genomics, Inc - Rajgir]</ref>. It has an average elevation of 73&nbsp;[[metre]]s (239&nbsp;[[foot (unit of length)|feet]]).
-The city of Rajgir (ancient Rajagriha or Rājagṛha; [[Pali]]: Rājagaha) was the first capital of the kingdom of [[Magadha]], a state that would eventually evolve into the [[Mauryan]] Empire.  Its date of origin is unknown, although ceramics dating to about 1000 B.C.E. have been found in the city.  The epic [[Mahabharata]] calls it Girivraja and recounts the story of its king, Jarasandha, and his battle with the [[Pandava]] brothers and their allies [[Krishna]].  It is also mentioned in [[Buddhist]] and [[Jain]] scriptures, which give a series of place-names, but without geographical context.  The attempt to locate these places is based largely on reference to them and to other locations in the works of [[History of China|Chinese]] Buddhist pilgrims, particularly [[Faxian]] and [[Xuanzang]].  It is on the basis of Xuanzang in particular that the site is divided into Old and New Rajgir.  The former lies within a valley and is surrounded by low-lying hills.  It is defined by an earthen embankment (the Inner Fortification), with which is associated the Outer Fortification, a complex of [[cyclopean]] walls that runs (with large breaks) along the crest of the hills.  New Rajgir is defined by another, larger, embankment outside the northern entrance of the valley and next to the modern town.  The sources do not agree which of the [[Buddha]]'s royal contemporaries, [[Bimbisara]] and [[Ajatashatru]], was responsible for its construction.  Ajatashatru is also credited with moving the capital to [[Pataliputra]] (modern [[Patna]]).
-This place has been associated with both the historical [[Buddha]] and [[Mahavira]].  Rajgir has also developed as a health and winter resort due to its warm water ponds. These [[bathing|baths]] are said to contain some medicinal properties that help in the cure of many skin diseases. The added attraction of Rajgir is the Ropeway that leads uphill to the Shanti Stupa and Monasteries built by the Japanese Devotees of the Buddha on top of the Ratnagiri hills.
+The city of Rajgir (ancient Rajagriha or Rājagṛha; [[Pali]]: Rājagaha), the first capital of the kingdom of [[Magadha]], a state that would eventually evolved into the [[Mauryan]] Empire. The date of its origin remains unknown, although ceramics dating to about 1000 B.C.E. have been found in the city.
-One may visit Rajgir from [[Patna]]. Another way is to come via [[Begusarai]] junction or [[Mokameh]], after arriving by train in an overnight journey from [[Kolkata]]. Rajgir is a diversion from somewhere midway on the [[Barauni]]and Patna highway. It is located in a verdant valley surrounded by rocky hills. Recently [[Indian Railways]] have started trains from Rajgir to Kolkata and [[Delhi]].
+==Overview==
-<!-- Image with unknown copyright status removed: [[Image:Rajgir Cyclopean Wall.JPG|thumb|Ancient fortifications in Rajgir]] —>
-==History==
+The epic [[Mahabharata]] calls the city Girivraja, recounting the story of its king, Jarasandha, and his battle with the [[Pandava]] brothers and their allies [[Krishna]]. [[Buddhist]] and [[Jain]] scriptures mention it, giving a series of place-names, but without geographical context. Historians have attempted to locate those places using the works of [[History of China|Chinese]] Buddhist pilgrims, particularly [[Faxian]] and [[Xuanzang]].
-{{BuddhasHolySites}}
-Rajgir, which means 'house of the king', was the ancient capital city of the [[Magadha]] kings until the 5th century B.C.E. when [[Ajatashatru]] moved the capital to [[Pataliputra]]. In those days, it was called Rajgrih, which translates as ‘the home of Royalty’.
-[[Jarasandha]] who hailed from this place had defeated [[Krishna]] 18 times because of which Krishna is also called 'ranchhod' (person who runs away from fight). Mahabharata recounts a wrestling match between [[Bhima]], one of the pandavas, and Jarasandha, the then king of Rajgir. Jarasandha was invincible as his body could rejoin any dismembered limbs. According to the legend, Bhim split Jarasandha into two and threw the two halves facing opposite to each other so that they could not join. There is a famous Jarasandha's Akhara(place where you practice martial arts).
+The site has been divided into Old and New Rajgir on the basis of Xuanzang, in particular.  The former lies within a valley, surrounded by low-lying hills. Defined by an earthen embankment (the Inner Fortification) associated with the Outer Fortification, a complex of [[cyclopean]] walls runs (with large breaks) along the crest of the hills. Another, larger, embankment outside the northern entrance of the valley and next to the modern town defines New Rajgir. The sources disagree on which of the [[Buddha]]'s royal contemporaries, [[Bimbisara]] and [[Ajatashatru]], had been responsible for its construction. Ajatashatru has been credited with moving the capital to [[Pataliputra]] (modern [[Patna]]).
-It is sacred to the memory of the founders of both the religions: [[Buddhism]] and [[Jainism]]. It was here that Gautam [[Buddha]] spent several months meditating, and preaching at Griddhkuta, (‘Hill of the Vultures'). He also delivered some of his famous sermons and converted King Bimbisara of Magadha and countless others to his religion.
+This place has been associated with both the historical [[Buddha]] and [[Mahavira]]. Rajgir has also developed as a health and winter resort due to its warm water ponds. Those [[bathing|baths]] have been reputed to contain some medicinal properties that help in the cure of many skin diseases. the Ropeway that leads uphill to the Shanti Stupa and Monasteries, built by the Japanese Devotees of the Buddha on top of the Ratnagiri hills have become an added attraction of Rajgir.
-Rajgir is also famous for its association with [[Shishunaga]] Kings [[Bimbisara]] and [[Ajatashatru]]. Ajatashatru kept his father Bimbsara in captivitiy here.
+One may visit Rajgir from [[Patna]]. Or the pilgrim may travel by overnight train from [[Kolkata]], traveling by way of [[Begusarai]] junction or [[Mokameh]]. Rajgir sits off the main road approximately midway along the [[Barauni]] and Patna highway. Located in a verdant valley surrounded by rocky hills, [[Indian Railways]] has recently inaugurated train service between Rajgir to Kolkata with continuation to [[Delhi]].
+<!-- Image with unknown copyright status removed: [[Image:Rajgir Cyclopean Wall.JPG|thumb|Ancient fortifications in Rajgir]] —>
-On one of the hills is the cave of Saptparni where the [[First Buddhist Council]] was held under the leadership of [[Maha Kassapa]]. The Saptparni cave is also the source of the Rajgir Hot Water Springs that have curative properties and are sacred to the Hindus, Buddhists and Jains. Today an aerial ropeway provides the link with a hilltop stupa "Peace Pagoda" built by the Japanese.
+==History==
+{{BuddhasHolySites}}
+Rajgir, which means 'house of the king', served as the ancient capital city of the [[Magadha]] kings until the 5th century B.C.E. when [[Ajatashatru]] moved the capital to [[Pataliputra]]. In those days, people called the city Rajgrih, which translates as ‘the home of Royalty’. [[Jarasandha]], who hailed from Rajgrih, had defeated [[Krishna]] eighteen times because of which Krishna also has the name 'ranchhod' (person who runs away from fight). Mahabharata recounts a wrestling match between [[Bhima]], one of the pandavas, and Jarasandha, the then king of Rajgir. Jarasandha had been invincible as his body could rejoin any dismembered limbs. According to the legend, Bhim split Jarasandha into two, throwing the two halves facing opposite to each other making rejoining impossible. A famous Jarasandha's Akhara (place where you practice martial arts) operates on the location.
-Lord [[Mahavira]] spent fourteen years of his life at Rajgir and Nalanda, spending  ''chaturmas'' (i.e. 4 months of the rainy season) at a single place in Rajgir (Rajgruhi) and the rest in the places in the vicinity. It was the capital of his favourite ''shishya'' (follower) king Shrenik. Thus Rajgir is a very important religious place for [[Jain]]s also.
+The founders of the religions of [[Buddhism]] and [[Jainism]] both hold Rajgir sacred. Gautam [[Buddha]] spent several months meditating, and preaching at Griddhkuta, (‘Hill of the Vultures'). He delivered some of his famous sermons and converted King Bimbisara of Magadha and countless others to his religion in the city. Rajgir earned fame for its association with [[Shishunaga]] Kings [[Bimbisara]] and [[Ajatashatru]]. Ajatashatru had kept his father Bimbsara in captivitiy here.
-==Geography==
+The cave of Saptparni where the [[First Buddhist Council]], under the leadership of [[Maha Kassapa]], had been held on one of the hills. The Saptparni cave serves as the source of the Rajgir Hot Water Springs that have curative properties, sacred to the Hindus, Buddhists and Jains. Today an aerial ropeway provides the link with a hilltop stupa "Peace Pagoda" built by Japanese devotees. Lord [[Mahavira]] spent fourteen years of his life at Rajgir and Nalanda, spending ''chaturmas'' (i.e., four months of the rainy season) at a single place in Rajgir (Rajgruhi) and the rest of the time in the places in the vicinity. The city served as the capital of his favorite ''shishya'' (follower), king Shrenik. Rajgir maintains an eminent place as a sacred site for the [[Jain]]s.
-Rajgir is located at {{coor d|25.03|N|85.42|E|}}<ref>[http://www.fallingrain.com/world/IN/34/Rajgir.html Falling Rain Genomics, Inc - Rajgir]</ref>. It has an average elevation of 73&nbsp;[[metre]]s (239&nbsp;[[foot (unit of length)|feet]]).
-==Places to visit==
+==Sites of Ancient Buddhist Monasteries==
-===Sites of ancient Buddhist monasteries===
+===Gridhakuta (Vulture's Peak)===
-====Gridhakuta (Vulture's Peak)====
 [[Image:Vulturepeak1.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Vulture's Peak, view from a nearby hill]]
-The hill is listed in [[Buddhist]] canonical texts as one of the places stayed in by the [[Buddha]] when at Rajgir; and several notable events, including an attempt on his life by his evil cousin [[Devadatta]] occurred there. The [[Mahayana]] tradition goes further; a number of its major texts, most famously the [[Lotus Sutra]], were supposedly delivered as sermons there.  As such, it ia a major destinations for pilgrims in both ancient and modern times.  Described both by [[Faxian]] and [[Xuanzang]] it was identified in the later nineteenth century as a hill lying to the east of Old Rajgir.  It is now crowned by the Japanese-built ''Shanti [[Stupa]]'' and has a [[chairlift]] to the top.
+[[Buddhist]] canonical texts lists the hill as one of the places [[Buddha]] stayed while in  Rajgir; and several notable events, including an attempt on his life by his evil cousin [[Devadatta]] occurred there. The [[Mahayana]] tradition goes further; a number of its major texts, most famously the [[Lotus Sutra]], allegedly had been delivered as sermons there. As such, it is a vital destination for pilgrims in both ancient and modern times. Described both by [[Faxian]] and [[Xuanzang]], archeologists in the later nineteenth century identified the site as a hill lying to the east of Old Rajgirin. Japanese devotees have crowned the hill with ''Shanti [[Stupa]]'', maintaining a [[chairlift]] to the top.
-====Pipphali House or Cave====
-This is a place mentioned in the [[Pali Canon]]. It is where [[Maha Kassapa]] is recorded to have stayed a few times, once he was ill there. Maha Kassappa stayed at the cave, but also there was a house with the same name nearby.
-====Venuvana====
+===Pipphali House or Cave===
-Bimbisara gave a bamboo grove ([[Venuvana]]) to [[Gautama Buddha|Lord Buddha]], which was the first Buddhist monastery ever. It was given to Buddha so that he and his [[bhikkhu|monks]] could take rest here, and give discourses to people.
+A place mentioned in the [[Pali Canon]], where records state [[Maha Kassapa]] stayed a few times when ill. Maha Kassappa stayed at the cave; a house with the same name had been nearby.
-Karand Tank, Maniyar Math, Swarnabhandar Cave, Pippala Cave, Viswa Shanti Stupa, the famous Hot Water Springs and ruins of an Old Fort, 40 km long and 12 ft wide 2,500 year old cyclopean walls.
+===Venuvana===
+Bimbisara gave a bamboo grove ([[Venuvana]]) to [[Gautama Buddha|Lord Buddha]], the first Buddhist monastery ever. Bimbisara gave the grove to Buddha so that he and his [[bhikkhu|monks]] could take rest here, and give discourses to people. Also at Venuvana are: Karand Tank, Maniyar Math, Swarnabhandar Cave, Pippala Cave, Viswa Shanti Stupa, the famous Hot Water Springs and ruins of an Old Fort with 40 km long and 12 ft wide 2,500 year old cyclopean walls.
-====Jivakarama====
+===Jivakarama===
 [[Image:jivakambavana.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Remains of the monastery called Jivakambavana]]
-[[Jivaka]], the greatest physician of Buddha's time, was from Rajgir. He  donated a monastery to Buddha, called the Jivakarama.
+[[Jivaka]], the greatest physician of Buddha's time, hailed from Rajgir. He donated a monastery to Buddha, called the Jivakarama.
-====Tapodarama====
+===Tapodarama===
-The Tapodarama Monastery was located on the site of the hot springs. Now a Hindu temple is constructed there, called the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir. In ancient times, hot springs used to be the site of the [[Tapodarama]], a Buddhist monastery at the time of [[Gautama Buddha]]. Also King [[Bimbisara]] used to take his bath there sometimes.
+The Tapodarama Monastery had been located on the site of the hot springs. a Hindu temple sits there now, called the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir. In ancient times, the hot springs used to be the site of the [[Tapodarama]], a Buddhist monastery at the time of [[Gautama Buddha]]. Also King [[Bimbisara]] bathed there sometimes.
-====Saptaparni Cave====
+===Saptaparni Cave===
-The cave of Saptparni is where the [[First Buddhist Council]] was held under the leadership of [[Maha Kassapa]]. Also Buddha sometimes stayed there, and it was used as an accommodation for visiting monks.
+The [[First Buddhist Council]], held under the leadership of [[Maha Kassapa]], took place at the cave of Saptparni. Buddha sometimes stayed there; visiting monks resided there as well.
-===Hindu Sites===
+==Hindu Sites==
-====Jarasandha Ka Akhara====
+[[Image:Tapodarama.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Hindu Devotees bathing in the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir]]
+===Jarasandha Ka Akhara===
 The great albeit evil warrior whose relentless attacks on Mathura prompted Lord Krishna to migrate the populace of Mathura to Dwarika, used to practice martial arts here every day.
-====Lakshmi Narayan Mandir====
+===Lakshmi Narayan Mandir===
-[[Image:Tapodarama.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Hindu Devotees bathing in the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir]]
 The pink-hued Hindu temple called the [[Lakshmi Narayan Mandir]] has within its grounds the ancient hot springs. The temple is (as the name indicates), dedicated to Lord Vishnu and his consort, Goddess Lakshmi. In more ancient times, hot springs used to be the site of the [[Tapodarama]], a Buddhist monastery at the time of [[Gautama Buddha]]. Also King [[Bimbisara]] used to take his bath there sometimes.
@@ Line 84: / Line 79: @@
 Strangely enough, Muslims are not allowed to enter the hot spring bath. [http://in.news.yahoo.com/070418/211/6ep3u.html ref]
-===Other places===
+==Other places of Historical Importance==
 Other archaeological sites including:
@@ Line 96: / Line 91: @@
 # 40 km long and 12 ft wide 2500 year old cyclopean walls.
-====Ancient Chariot tracks====
+===Ancient Chariot tracks===
 The Chariot Route and shell inscriptions are worth a visit for the strangeness of the phenomenon. The chariot tracks consist of two parallel furrows cut deep into the rock for about thirty feet, possibly by the large quantity of chariots that came to deliver goods to Rajgir.
 The local belief is that they were "burnt" into the rock by the speed and power of Lord Krishna's chariot when he entered the city of Rajgir during the epic [[Mahabharata]] times. Several shell inscriptions, the un-deciphered characters current in central and eastern India from the 1st to the 5th centuries CE, are engraved in the rock around the chariot marks.
-====Bimbisara's Jail====
+===Bimbisara's Jail===
 [[Image:Bimbisarajail.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Bimbisara's jail]]
-In the middle of the valley is the ruin of a circular structure with turrets at each corner.  Bimbisara was imprisoned by his son Ajatashatru, but could continue to see Gridhakuta and the [[Buddha]] through a window.  The fact that the hill can be seen from the structure, and its military appearance, led to its present label after being discovered in 1914. It could also be (because of its shape and the turrets) a [[Buddhist]] [[monastery]] of the first millennium AD{{Fact|date=April 2007}}.
+In the middle of the valley is the ruin of a circular structure with turrets at each corner.  Bimbisara was imprisoned by his son Ajatashatru, but could continue to see Gridhakuta and the [[Buddha]] through a window.  The fact that the hill can be seen from the structure, and its military appearance, led to its present label after being discovered in 1914. It could also be (because of its shape and the turrets) a [[Buddhist]] [[monastery]] of the first millennium AD.<!--{{Fact|date=April 2007}}—>
+===General Information===
+'''Weather'''
+:Temperature: maximum 40 °C, minimum 20 °C.  Winter: maximum 28 °C, minimum 6 °C<br/>
+Rainfall: 1,860 mm (mid-June to mid-September)<br/>
+Best season: October to March
+'''Travel'''
+* Air: The nearest airport is Patna (107 km).
+* Rail: Rajgir is now connected by Rail with Patna.
+* Road: Rajgir is connected by road to Patna, Gaya, Delhi and Calcutta.
+:The Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation organises trips to Rajgir, Nalanda, etc. from its headquarter i.e. Tourist Bhawan, Beer Chand Patel Path Patna 800001. Tel: 0612-225411, FAX: 0612-236218. Air Conditioned and Non-Air Conditioned cars, mini deluxe coaches, and deluxe coaches are also available.
+'''Demographics'''
+:As of 2001 India [[census]]<ref>{{GR|India}}</ref>, Rajgir had a population of 33,691. Males constitute 53% of the population and females 47%. Rajgir has an average literacy rate of 52%, lower than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 61%, and female literacy is 41%. In Rajgir, 19% of the population is under 6 years of age.
 ==Picture Gallery==
@@ Line 113: / Line 127: @@
 Image:Venuvana.jpg|Venuvana Monastery
 Image:Venuvana1.jpg|Bamboo Grove in Venuvana
+Image:Rajgirbuddha.jpg|Buddha-image at Venuvana, Rajir, Bihar, India. It is the only Buddha-image at the pilgrimage site of Venuvana monastery, and a recent addition.
+Image:Sattapanni.jpg|The Sattapanni or Sattaparni Cave, on on eof the hills around Rajgir, Bihar, India. It was where the First Buddhist Council took place, in the year after Buddha's passsing away (Parinirvana).
+Image:Ajatasatru.jpg|Ajatasatru (Ajatasattu) stupa at Rajgir, India, said to contain Buddha's ashes.
 </gallery>
-==Weather==
-Temperature: maximum 40 °C, minimum 20 °C.  Winter: maximum 28 °C, minimum 6 °C<br/>
-Rainfall: 1,860 mm (mid-June to mid-September)<br/>
-Best season: October to March
-==Traveling to Rajgir==
-Air: The nearest airport is Patna (107 km).
-Rail: Rajgir is now connected by Rail with Patna.
-Road: Rajgir is connected by road to Patna, Gaya, Delhi and Calcutta.
-The Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation organises trips to Rajgir, Nalanda, etc. from its headquarter i.e. Tourist Bhawan, Beer Chand Patel Path Patna 800001. Tel: 0612-225411, FAX: 0612-236218. Air Conditioned and Non-Air Conditioned cars, mini deluxe coaches, and deluxe coaches are also available.
-==Demographics==
-[[As of 2001]] India [[census]]<ref>{{GR|India}}</ref>, Rajgir had a population of 33,691. Males constitute 53% of the population and females 47%. Rajgir has an average literacy rate of 52%, lower than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 61%, and female literacy is 41%. In Rajgir, 19% of the population is under 6 years of age.
 ==References==
@@ Line 136: / Line 138: @@
 ==External links==
-{{commonscat|Rajgir}}
+{{commonscat|Rajgir}} Retrieved November 15, 2007.
-{{ppn|r/raajagaha.htm|Rajagaha}}
+{{ppn|r/raajagaha.htm|Rajagaha}} Retrieved November 15, 2007.
-{{RBK|28|Rajagriha}}
+{{RBK|28|Rajagriha}} Retrieved November 15, 2007.
-{{RBK|29|Vulture Peak}}
+{{RBK|29|Vulture Peak}} Retrieved November 15, 2007.
-{{RBK|30|Venuvana Monastery and Pippala and Srataparna Caves}}
+{{RBK|30|Venuvana Monastery and Pippala and Srataparna Caves}} Retrieved November 15, 2007.
-{{Suttas|Rajagaha|r|sn/sn12/sn12.017.than.html Acela Sutta - To the Clothless Ascetic|dn/dn.02.0.than.html#rajagaha Samaññaphala Sutta - The Fruits of the Contemplative Life}}
+{{Suttas|Rajagaha|r|sn/sn12/sn12.017.than.html Acela Sutta - To the Clothless Ascetic|dn/dn.02.0.than.html#rajagaha Samaññaphala Sutta - The Fruits of the Contemplative Life}} Retrieved November 15, 2007.
-* [http://bihar.nic.in/Depts/Tourism/Rajgir.htm Department of Tourism - Rajgir]
+* [http://bihar.nic.in/Depts/Tourism/Rajgir.htm Department of Tourism - Rajgir]. Retrieved November 15, 2007.
 {{credits|165951998}}

Rajgir Bihar • India
Rajgir
Coordinates: 25°02′N 85°25′E / 25.03, 85.42
Time zone	IST (UTC+5:30)
Area • Elevation	• 73 m (240 ft)
District(s)	Nalanda
Population	33,691 (2001)