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Rajgir!

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Population

40,000

schedule

Best Time

October to March

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Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (β‚Ή)

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location_on Bihar map East India πŸ™οΈ Urban πŸ›οΈ Heritage Historical Sites Religious Sites Hot Springs Rajgir Bihar Ancient City Hot Springs Buddha Jain Gridhakuta Ropeway

Rajgir, meaning 'The City of Kings,' is an ancient city in Bihar, India, steeped in history and religious significance. It was the first capital of the Magadha kingdom and holds importance for both Buddhists and Jains.

Rajgir offers a serene escape into India's past, with its ancient ruins, Buddhist monasteries, and Jain temples. The hot springs are a major draw, providing relaxation and believed to have medicinal properties. However, the infrastructure is still developing, and tourist facilities can be basic.

Located approximately 100 km from Patna, Rajgir is accessible by road and rail. Allow at least two to three days to explore the major attractions and experience the spiritual atmosphere.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to March

10-25 degrees C

The weather is pleasant and dry, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Days are sunny and evenings are cool.

Why Visit:

This is the peak tourist season, with comfortable temperatures for exploring the historical sites and enjoying the ropeway ride. The hot springs are especially enjoyable during the cooler months. The Rajgir Dance Festival usually takes place in October.

Tip: Expect larger crowds at major attractions and higher prices for accommodation. Booking in advance is recommended.

Shoulder Season

July to September

28-35 degrees C

Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and high humidity. The landscape turns lush green.

Why Visit:

The monsoon season offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists. The natural beauty of the surrounding hills is enhanced. However, some outdoor activities may be restricted due to the rain.

Tip: Humidity can be uncomfortable, and some roads may be affected by flooding.

Avoid

April to June

35-45 degrees C

The weather is extremely hot and dry, making it uncomfortable to explore outdoors.

Why Avoid:

The intense heat makes sightseeing difficult and unpleasant. Many travelers avoid Rajgir during these months due to the harsh conditions.

Note: Heatstroke and dehydration are risks. It's best to avoid visiting during this period unless you can tolerate extreme heat.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Gridhakuta (Vulture Peak)

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

Gridhakuta, also known as Vulture Peak, is a significant Buddhist site where Buddha delivered many important sermons. It's believed to be one of his f...

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Vishwa Shanti Stupa

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

The Vishwa Shanti Stupa, or World Peace Pagoda, is a magnificent white structure symbolizing peace and harmony. It was built by the Nipponzan-Myohoji ...

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Son Bhandar Caves

⏱ 1 hour Free

The Son Bhandar Caves are two ancient rock-cut caves believed to date back to the 3rd-4th century BC. One cave is thought to have been a guard room, w...

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Hot Springs (Brahmakund)

⏱ 1-2 hours β‚Ή20

The Hot Springs, also known as Brahmakund, are a major attraction in Rajgir, believed to have medicinal properties. The water originates from seven di...

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Ajatshatru Fort

⏱ 30 minutes β‚Ή25 (Indians), β‚Ή500 (foreigners)

The Ajatshatru Fort is an ancient fort believed to have been built by King Ajatshatru in the 6th century BC. The ruins of the fort offer a glimpse int...

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Japanese Temple

⏱ 30 minutes Free

The Japanese Temple is a beautiful Buddhist temple built by Japanese monks. The temple features intricate carvings and a serene atmosphere....

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Jain Temple (on Vipulagiri Hill)

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

Rajgir is an important pilgrimage site for Jains, with several temples located on the surrounding hills. The Jain temple on Vipulagiri Hill is dedicat...

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Things To Do

attractions

Ropeway Ride to Gridhakuta

⏱ 15 minutes πŸ’° β‚Ή80 per person (round trip)

Enjoy a scenic ropeway ride to Gridhakuta (Vulture Peak). The ride offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and v...

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attractions

Trekking to Jain Temples

⏱ 3-4 hours πŸ’° Free

Embark on a challenging trek to the Jain temples located on the surrounding hills. The trek offers stunning views and a ...

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attractions

Meditation at Vishwa Shanti Stupa

⏱ 30-60 minutes πŸ’° Free

Find inner peace and tranquility by meditating at the Vishwa Shanti Stupa. The serene atmosphere and beautiful surroundi...

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attractions

Relaxing in the Hot Springs

⏱ 1-2 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή20 per person

Soak in the therapeutic waters of the hot springs and experience their healing benefits. The mineral-rich water is belie...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Rajgir Dance Festival

3 days | Free

The Rajgir Dance Festival is a vibrant celebration of classical Indian dance and music. It showcases...

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celebration

Explore Local Markets

1-2 hours | β‚Ή50-500 (depending on purchases)

Immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring the bustling markets of Rajgir. You'll find a var...

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celebration

Visit a Buddhist Monastery

1-2 hours | Free (donations welcome)

Experience the serenity and peace of a Buddhist monastery. Rajgir is home to several monasteries rep...

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celebration

Attend a Prayer Ceremony

30-60 minutes | Free

Witness the devotion and spirituality of the local people by attending a prayer ceremony at a temple...

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celebration

Learn about Jainism

2-3 hours | Free

Rajgir is sacred to Jains, offering an opportunity to learn about Jain philosophy and practices. Vis...

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celebration

Cooking Class (Local Cuisine)

2-3 hours | β‚Ή800-1500

Participate in a hands-on cooking class and learn to prepare traditional Bihari dishes. Discover the...

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Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Litti Chokha
Litti Chokha

A traditional Bihari dish made of wheat flour balls filled with roasted gram flour and served with mashed potatoes and eggplant (try it at local dhabas).

Sattu Paratha
Sattu Paratha

A flatbread stuffed with roasted gram flour, a staple breakfast in Bihar.

Khaja
Khaja

A sweet, flaky pastry popular in the region.

Dal Puri
Dal Puri

Lentil-stuffed fried bread, often served with vegetables.

Where to Eat

Annapurna Restaurant

Annapurna Restaurant

β‚Ήβ‚Ή

Indian

πŸ“ Rajgir Town

A popular restaurant serving delicious and affordable Indian cuisine. The thalis are a great way to sample a variety of dishes. It has a casual atmosphere.

Thalis

β‚Ή400-600 for two

Indo Hokke Hotel Restaurant

Indo Hokke Hotel Restaurant

β‚Ήβ‚Ήβ‚Ή

Multi-cuisine

πŸ“ Near Gridhakuta Ropeway

Offers a variety of dishes with a pleasant ambiance. It's a good option for a more upscale dining experience.

Chinese and Indian dishes

β‚Ή800-1200 for two

Street Food Spots

Rajgir Main Market

Rajgir Main Market

πŸ’° Budget: β‚Ή50-100 per person

⚠️ Tips: Be mindful of hygiene and choose stalls with fresh-looking food. Try the local sweets for a taste of Rajgir.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Rajgir

More restaurants & dishes from Rajgir

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Rajgir Town

The central area offers easy access to the hot springs and local markets. It's a convenient base for exploring the city, but can be crowded.

Best For: First-time visitors and those who want to be close to the action

Near Gridhakuta Ropeway

This area is quieter and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills. It's a good choice for those who want to be close to the Vishwa Shanti Stupa and Gridhakuta.

Best For: Peace seekers and nature lovers

Accommodation Options

Budget

πŸ’°

β‚Ή800-1200/night

Hotel Mamta International

πŸ“ Near Bus Stand

A basic but clean hotel offering comfortable rooms at an affordable price. It's conveniently located near the bus stand.

β‚Ή800-1200/night

Gautam Vihar

πŸ“ Rajgir Town

Simple guesthouse with essential amenities. Provides decent value for money for budget travelers.

β‚Ή700-1000/night

Mid-Range

🏨

β‚Ή2000-3000/night

Indo Hokke Hotel

πŸ“ Near Gridhakuta Ropeway

A comfortable hotel with well-appointed rooms and modern amenities. It's located close to the Gridhakuta ropeway.

β‚Ή2000-3000/night

Hotel Rajgir Residency

πŸ“ Rajgir Town

Offers comfortable accommodation with a restaurant and other amenities. A convenient choice for a mid-range stay.

β‚Ή1800-2500/night

Luxury

✨

β‚Ή4000+/night

The Fern Residency

πŸ“ Rajgir Town

A luxurious hotel offering spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and multiple dining options. It provides a comfortable and relaxing stay.

β‚Ή4000+/night

Hotel Nalanda Regency

πŸ“ Near Rajgir Railway Station

A well-maintained property with modern amenities and excellent service. It's located close to the railway station.

β‚Ή3500+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Gaya Airport (GAY), 70km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Rajgir Railway Station (RGD)

Connects Rajgir to major cities in India. Located in the heart of the town.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 16 hours (β‚Ή800-2500)
  • From Kolkata: 7 hours (β‚Ή500-1500)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Rajgir Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Patna: 3 hours (β‚Ή200-300)

Note: Trains are generally more comfortable for long distances.

Getting Around

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

πŸ’° β‚Ή50-200

Best for: Short distances within the town

Bargain for the fare before starting the journey. Agree on a price beforehand.

local_taxi

Taxi

πŸ’° β‚Ή800-1500 per day

Best for: Full-day sightseeing

Hire a taxi for the day to visit multiple attractions. Negotiate the rate in advance.

directions

Cycle-rickshaw

πŸ’° β‚Ή30-50

Best for: Short distances, eco-friendly option

A slower but more scenic way to get around. Good for short hops.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Lightweight and breathable clothing is recommended during the summer months.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: β‚Ή1000, Mid: β‚Ή2500, Luxury: β‚Ή5000+

ATMs: ATMs are available in Rajgir town.

Cash vs Card: Cash is widely accepted. Credit cards may be accepted at larger hotels and restaurants.

Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in local markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or purified water to avoid stomach problems.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic vendors.

Common Issues: Heatstroke, dehydration, and stomach infections are common. Carry ORS and necessary medications.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good network coverage. SIM cards are available at the airport and in town.

WiFi: Wi-Fi is available at some hotels and restaurants.

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Language & Tipping

Language: Hindi and Magahi are the local languages. English is spoken by some people in tourist areas.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: β‚Ή50-100

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