Rajgir lies on the rocky hills of
Nalanda District in
Bihar. In early times, it was known as Rajagriha or Girivaraja. It is from Rajagriha that the name Rajgir is derived, which means the residence of kings. Rajgir is located 10 km away from the south of
Nalanda, 80 km from
Bodhgaya, and 102 km from
Patna. Rajgir was the capital of the Magadhan Empire in the 6th century B C. It was here that
Lord Buddha preached some of his sermons.
Lord Mahavir also spent most of his time here.
Today, it is a sacred place, especially for Buddhists and Jains. Pilgrims from all over the world visit Rajgir throughout the year. The main attractions include Bimbisara ka jail, Jarasandha ka akhra, Venuvana, Karnada tank, Sonbhandar Caves, Pippala cave, Vishwa Shanti Stupa, the famous hot water springs,
Swarajpur Baragon Sun Temple and the ruins of an old fort.
Nearest airport is at Patna. Gaya is the closest railhead. By road, Rajgir is linked to Nalanda, Gaya, Jahanabad, Pawapuri and Patna.
