Vaishali

Buddha delivered his last ser-mon here and announced his impending `nirvana'. Some of the great incidents in his life also occurred here, like the courtesan Amrapali giving

him a mango orchard and becoming a Buddhist nun. One hundred years after the Buddha's `parinirvana' 700 monks from all over north India assembled here to discuss the 10 points of `Vinaya', the rule of conduct under dispute. Today Vaishali is best known for this second Buddhist Council, for very little of the ancient ruins have been excavated yet.

Vaishali the capital of ancient Lichhavis is supposed to be the first republic of the world, having an elected body of representatives and an efficient administration as early as 6th century BC.

Vaishali is also the birthplace of Lord Mahavira and is sacred to the Jains.

ACCESS

Patna, 55 km away, is the nearest airport and rail station. Can be reached from Hajipur, 37 km and Muzaffarpur, 35 km by road.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Abhishek Pushkarni, Ashok pillar, Lotus tank, Chaumukhi Mahadeo, Vaishali museum.