Ahikshetra, formerly Ahichhatra, one of the renowned Jain sites in
Uttar Pradesh, is a historic town located about 20 km from
Bareilly,
Uttar Pradesh. This place was popularly known as Shankhavati and Chhatravati in the ancient period.The remains of Ahichhatra have been discovered near Ramnagar in
Bareilly district. This place was the capital town of northern Panchala. During 1940 - '44, excavations at this spot unearthed painted greyware associated with the advent of the Aryans in the Ganga - Yamuna valley. Ahichhatra has also yielded some of the masterpieces of Indian terracotta art.
This ancient center has seen the rule of various rulers such as the Guptas, the Maukharis, the Ayudha kings, the Gurjara Pratiharas and the Katehar Rajputs. Ahichhatra lost most of its status as a cultural center when Mahmud of Ghazni defeated the Gurjara Pratiharas and acquired this region.
Ahichhatra was one of the provinces into which the Gupta empire was divided, by which time it had assumed great religious significance. This region was also a prominent center of popular beliefs such as the cult of the Nagas, Yaksas and Vetalas.
There is an interesting legend behind the origin of the name Ahichhatra. It is believed that this place was the 'Taphobhumi' of the 23rd Tirthankar, Parshvanath. While in deep meditation, he was attacked by the notorious demon Shambhar. The Cobra King Ahi provided an umbrella (Chhatra) with his hood, protecting him from the onslaught. Parshwanath attained kailvalya (enlightenment) at this place. The city was also influenced by Buddha and his followers. The remains of Buddhist monastries at
Ahichhatra are quite extensive. Remains of a massive temple are found here, declaring its past glory as a religious center.
Ahichhatra had the glory of being ruled by the great king Harsha and it was during his reign that the chinese pilgrim Hiuen Tsang visited this place in AD 635.
Legends say that this area was the capital of Dronacharya, the teacher of the Pandava brothers. Mentioned in many religious books, the main attraction here is the Jain temple with an idol of Bhagwan Parshwanath, seated in Padmasana posture. There are many Jain idols and inscriptions,among these idols, the green colored idol of Tikhal Baba has special significance. Apart from this, the various ruins and remains excavated are of archeological value. Every year in the month of Falguna, a grand fair is arranged here.
The nearest railway station is at Amla, about 18 km from here. Indira Gandhi International Airport and Amausi Airport are easily accessible.
