Hill-ringed old Magadha capital with Buddhist and Jain sites, near the ruins of ancient Nalanda.
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Rajgir was the capital of Magadha and is closely tied to the Buddha, with Vulture Peak, the Peace Pagoda and hot springs. About 15 km away lie the ruins of Nalanda Mahavihara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It suits history lovers, Buddhist and Jain pilgrims, and families who also want the nature safari and glass bridge.
Trip planner
| When | What to expect |
|---|---|
| October to February | Cool, pleasant weather and the main tourist season. Temperatures in the area can fall to about 6 degrees C. |
| March to June | Very hot, with temperatures up to about 40 degrees C. Quieter; see outdoor sites early or late in the day. |
| July to September | Monsoon months. Green and less crowded, but rain can limit some outdoor activities. |
Remains of a Buddhist university founded in the 5th century CE, with monastery rows, lecture halls and stupas. A UNESCO World Heritage Site; do not climb on the ruins.
Museum across the road from the ruins, holding finds from the area, including an old Buddha statue from Vulture Peak.
White marble peace pagoda on Ratnagiri hill, about 400 m up, with four golden Buddha statues and wide views. Reached by ropeway or a winding staircase.
Rocky peak shaped like a vulture's head, where the Buddha is said to have taught. A short walk up from the road; best in early morning.
Hot spring complex with several springs, temples and a separate enclosed spring for women. Crowded on festival days.
Bamboo park with a pond, said to be the grove King Bimbisara gave to the Buddha.
Forest park with a glass skywalk and nature trail, plus a separate Zoo Safari. About 90% of tickets are sold online in time slots.
Remains of an ancient stone wall that once ringed Rajgir, and Pandu Pokhar, a landscaped park and lake area nearby.
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| Budget level | Type | Price per night |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | Simple hotels and homestay rooms in Rajgir town | ₹870 to ₹1,600 |
| Mid-range | Better-rated town hotels such as Hotel Tathagat Ashok | ₹1,800 to ₹3,100 |
| Luxury | Resorts and upmarket hotels such as The Rajgir Residency or Pandu Pokhar Eco Adventure Resort | ₹4,500 to ₹5,300 |
Most eating is at hotel restaurants and simple eateries in Rajgir town. Silao, on the road and rail line between Rajgir and Nalanda, is known for its khaja.
Vegetarian food is easy to find. Rajgir is a major Jain and Buddhist pilgrimage centre, but check Jain food with your hotel.
| Budget level | Stay per room | Food per person | Local transport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | ₹1,100 | ₹350 | ₹250 per person |
| Mid-range | ₹2,500 | ₹700 | ₹600 per vehicle |
| Luxury | ₹5,000 | ₹1,300 | ₹2,000 per vehicle |
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No permits are needed for Indian visitors. Foreign visitors need a valid Indian visa. Carrying cameras or gadgets into the Nalanda ruins may need ASI permission.
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