Vaishali District in
Bihar has an area of 2,036 sq km. Its headquarters is
Hajipur. The total population is above two million. Vaishali is divided into seventeen blocks and the three sub divisions.
The
Ganges and Gandak are the two major rivers. Vaishali has an extreme climate. The summers are hot with a maximum temperature of 45°C and the winters are cold with a minimum temperature of 6°C. The best season to visit is from October to March.
Agriculture and industry are the main sources of economy. Banana, paddy, wheat, maize, and lentils are the main crops.
Believed to be the first republic in the world, Vaishali derives its name from King Vishal of the Mahabharat age. The fort of Vishal, which is now in ruins, is said to be constructed by him. Vaishali is famed as the birthplace of Lord Mahavir. Buddha delivered his last sermon at Vaishali and announced his Nirvana here. Vaishali is also renowned as the land of Ambapali, the great Indian courtesan who is associated with many folktales. Ambapali later adopted Buddhism.
Kolhua, Vaishali Museum, and Bawan Pokhar Temple are the main tourist attractions. Vaishali is a part of the famous Buddhist circuit comprising Bodhgaya, Sarnath,
Kushinagar, Nalanda,
Sanchi, Amaravathi and
Nagarjunakonda. The Vaishali Mahotsav in mid April celebrates the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir.
The town Vaishali is an important place for both the Buddhists and Jains. The nearest airport is at Patna, 55 km away. The nearest railhead is at Hajipur.
