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Shravasti!

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Population

25,000

schedule

Best Time

October to March

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Time Needed

1-2 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (β‚Ή)

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location_on Uttar Pradesh map North India πŸ•‰οΈ Spiritual πŸ›οΈ Heritage Buddhist Pilgrimage Shravasti Uttar Pradesh Buddhist Pilgrimage Jetavana Monastery Ancient India

Shravasti is an ancient city in Uttar Pradesh, India, significant as the place where Buddha spent 24 rainy seasons (monsoons). It holds immense importance for Buddhists worldwide, attracting pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike. The city is dotted with ruins of ancient monasteries and stupas, offering a glimpse into its glorious past.

Shravasti offers a serene and spiritual experience, ideal for those seeking peace and delving into Buddhist history. The downside is limited tourist infrastructure, requiring some patience. The historical sites, while fascinating, are largely in ruins, so visualising the past is essential.

Reaching Shravasti involves a train or flight to a nearby city like Lucknow or Gonda, followed by a road journey. Allow at least one full day to explore the main sites, though two days would provide a more relaxed experience. Accommodation options are limited, so advance booking is recommended.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to March

10-25 degrees C

The weather is pleasant and dry, making it ideal for sightseeing. The days are sunny and comfortable, while the nights can be cool.

Why Visit:

This is the best time to explore the ruins and monasteries without the discomfort of extreme heat or monsoon rains. Several Buddhist festivals also occur during this period, adding to the spiritual atmosphere. The weather is perfect for walking around the archaeological sites.

Tip: This is peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds, especially around major Buddhist holidays. Booking accommodation in advance is essential.

Shoulder Season

July to September

25-35 degrees C

The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and high humidity. The landscape turns lush green, but outdoor activities can be challenging.

Why Visit:

The monsoon season offers a quieter and more solitary experience with fewer tourists. The greenery enhances the beauty of the ruins, and the atmosphere is peaceful. However, heavy rains can disrupt travel plans.

Tip: Ensure you have rain gear and check weather forecasts regularly. Some roads may be temporarily inaccessible due to flooding.

Avoid

April to June

35-45 degrees C

The summer months are extremely hot and dry, making it uncomfortable to explore outdoor sites. Heatwaves are common.

Why Avoid:

The extreme heat makes it difficult to enjoy sightseeing. The archaeological sites offer little shade, and the heat can be exhausting. It's best to avoid visiting during this time.

Note: If you must visit, stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and avoid being outdoors during the hottest part of the day.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Jetavana Monastery

⏱ 3-4 hours β‚Ή25 (Indians), β‚Ή500 (foreigners)

Jetavana was one of the most important monasteries in ancient India, donated to the Buddha by Anathapindika. It served as a primary residence for the ...

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Anathapindika's Stupa

⏱ 1 hour β‚Ή20 (Indians), β‚Ή500 (foreigners)

This stupa is dedicated to Anathapindika, a wealthy merchant who was a key patron of the Buddha and instrumental in establishing the Jetavana Monaster...

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Angulimala's Stupa

⏱ 30 minutes β‚Ή10 (Indians), β‚Ή500 (foreigners)

This stupa commemorates Angulimala, a reformed bandit who became a disciple of the Buddha. His story is a powerful example of redemption....

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Shobhnath Temple

⏱ 1 hour Free

A Jain temple dedicated to Shobhnath, believed to be the 3rd Jain Tirthankara Sambhavanatha, who was born here....

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Ancient City Walls

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Remnants of the ancient city walls that once protected Shravasti. They offer a glimpse into the city's historical layout and fortifications....

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Thai Monastery

⏱ 1 hour Free

A modern Thai Buddhist monastery with beautiful architecture and serene surroundings. It showcases Thai Buddhist art and culture....

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Myanmar Temple

⏱ 30 minutes Free

A Burmese Buddhist temple with distinct architectural features. It offers a glimpse into Burmese Buddhist traditions....

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Things To Do

attractions

Meditation Retreat

⏱ 3-7 days πŸ’° β‚Ή3000-10000 per person (depending on duration and accommodation)

Participate in an intensive meditation retreat at one of the monasteries in Shravasti. These retreats typically involve ...

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attractions

Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour

⏱ 1-2 days πŸ’° β‚Ή1500-3000 per person

Join a guided tour of the main Buddhist sites in Shravasti, including Jetavana Monastery, Anathapindika's Stupa, and Ang...

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attractions

Village Walk

⏱ 2-3 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή500-800 per person

Take a guided walk through the villages surrounding Shravasti. Interact with local residents, learn about their daily li...

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attractions

Yoga Session

⏱ 1.5 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή400-600 per person

Participate in a yoga session at a local studio or guesthouse. Rejuvenate your body and mind with a practice that promot...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Buddhist Chanting

1 hour | Free

Experience the soothing and meditative practice of Buddhist chanting. Monks recite sacred texts and ...

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celebration

Monastery Visit and Interaction

2-3 hours | Free (donations welcome)

Visit a local monastery and interact with the monks. Learn about their daily lives, their spiritual ...

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celebration

Local Festival Celebration

Varies | Free

Participate in a local festival and experience the vibrant culture of Shravasti. Witness traditional...

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celebration

Traditional Uttar Pradesh Meal

1-2 hours | β‚Ή200-500 per person

Enjoy a traditional Uttar Pradesh meal at a local restaurant or homestay. Savor the flavors of regio...

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celebration

Visit a Local School

1-2 hours | Free (donations welcome)

Visit a local school and interact with the students and teachers. Learn about the education system i...

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celebration

Attend a Local Wedding (if invited)

Varies | Gift for the couple

If you are lucky enough to be invited to a local wedding, it's a fantastic opportunity to experience...

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View all cultural experiences

Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Baigan Bharta
Baigan Bharta

Smoked eggplant mash, best enjoyed at local dhabas.

Aloo Tikki
Aloo Tikki

Potato patties, available at street food stalls.

Chole Bhature
Chole Bhature

Chickpea curry with fried bread, a popular breakfast dish.

Lassi
Lassi

Yogurt-based drink, refreshing and available everywhere.

Where to Eat

Green Restaurant

Green Restaurant

β‚Ήβ‚Ή

Indian

πŸ“ Shravasti Town

Simple and clean restaurant serving delicious vegetarian food. A good option for a quick and affordable meal.

Vegetarian Thali

β‚Ή400-600 for two

Clarks Inn Restaurant

Clarks Inn Restaurant

β‚Ήβ‚Ήβ‚Ή

Multi-cuisine

πŸ“ Near Jetavana Monastery

Offers a wide range of Indian and international dishes. A good option for a more upscale dining experience.

Butter Chicken

β‚Ή800-1200 for two

Street Food Spots

Main Market Area

Main Market Area

πŸ’° Budget: β‚Ή50-100 per person

⚠️ Tips: Be careful about hygiene. Choose stalls that look clean and have fresh ingredients.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Shravasti

More restaurants & dishes from Shravasti

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Near Jetavana Monastery

Best for easy access to the main Buddhist sites. Accommodation options are more expensive in this area, but it's convenient for sightseeing.

Best For: Pilgrims and history enthusiasts

Shravasti Town

Offers a more local experience and budget-friendly accommodation. It's a bit further from the main attractions, but easily accessible by auto-rickshaw.

Best For: Budget travelers and those seeking a cultural immersion

Accommodation Options

Budget

πŸ’°

β‚Ή800-1200/night

Hotel Lotus Inn

πŸ“ Near Jetavana Monastery

Basic but clean rooms. Offers essential amenities and is close to the main attractions.

β‚Ή800-1200/night

Shravasti Residency

πŸ“ Shravasti Town

Simple guesthouse with friendly staff. A good option for budget travelers.

β‚Ή700-1000/night

Mid-Range

🏨

β‚Ή2000-3000/night

Hotel Clarks Inn Shravasti

πŸ“ Near Jetavana Monastery

Comfortable rooms with modern amenities. Offers a restaurant and travel assistance.

β‚Ή2000-3000/night

Hotel Maya Shravasti

πŸ“ Shravasti Town

Well-maintained hotel with spacious rooms. Provides a comfortable stay.

β‚Ή1800-2500/night

Luxury

✨

β‚Ή3500+/night

The Royal Residency Shravasti

πŸ“ Near Jetavana Monastery

Luxurious rooms and excellent service. Offers a swimming pool and spa.

β‚Ή3500+/night

Ananda Inn

πŸ“ Near Jetavana Monastery

Offers premium facilities and a serene atmosphere. Ideal for a relaxing stay.

β‚Ή4000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Lucknow Airport (LKO), 175km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Gonda Junction (GD), 50km from city

Major railway station with trains from Delhi, Lucknow, and other cities.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 8-10 hours (β‚Ή800-1500)
  • From Lucknow: 3-4 hours (β‚Ή300-600)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Shravasti Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Lucknow: 5-6 hours (β‚Ή400-700)

Note: Trains are generally more comfortable and faster than buses.

Getting Around

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

πŸ’° β‚Ή50-200 per trip

Best for: Short distances and exploring the town

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

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the archaeological sites.

payments

Money

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

ATMs: Limited availability in Shravasti town. Carry enough cash.

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred. Credit cards are accepted at some hotels and restaurants.

Bargaining: Expected in local markets and for transportation.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water. Avoid tap water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food that looks unhygienic.

Common Issues: Heatstroke, dehydration, and stomach infections. Carry sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary medications.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Available at the airport or in major cities. Airtel and Jio are popular networks.

WiFi: Available at some hotels and restaurants.

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: Hindi is the main language. English is spoken by some people in the tourism industry. Learning a few basic Hindi phrases can be helpful.

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

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