Griddhakuta Hill
Griddhakuta Hill, also famously known as Vulture's Peak or the Holy Eagle Peak, is arguably the most sacred and significant Buddhist site in Rajgir. It is named for its shape, which resembles a perched vulture or eagle with folded wings. This hill was Lord Buddha's favorite retreat location in Rajag riha and the place where he spent many rainy seasons and delivered some of his most profound and pivotal sermons, including the Lotus Sutra and the Heart Sutra. The peak is a site of immense spiritual importance, considered the second most holy place of Buddhism after the Maha Bodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya. Access to the peak is an adventure itself, either via a thrilling single-seated aerial ropeway or by a steep, historically significant trekking path. At the top, in addition to the ruins of an ancient monastery and stupas, sits the stunning, pure white modern structure of the Vishwa Shanti Stupa (Peace Pagoda), built by the Japanese Nipponzan Myohoji order. The climb and the panoramic view from the summit offer a deeply moving and rewarding experience, combining strenuous effort with spiritual reflection. The site is a key destination for Buddhist pilgrims from across the globe, offering a powerful connection to the early life and teachings of Lord Buddha.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 Hours (including ropeway/trek time)Place Type:
Spiritual, Historical, TrekkingEntry Fees:
Ropeway Ticket: The major expense is the ticket for the single-seater aerial ropeway, which is mandatory for quick access. This fee is typically around INR 100-150 for a two-way journey. Check for current rates.
No Direct Entry Fee: There ...Ropeway Ticket: The major expense is the ticket for the single-seater aerial ropeway, which is mandatory for quick access. This fee is typically around INR 100-150 for a two-way journey. Check for current rates.
No Direct Entry Fee: There is generally no separate entry fee to the peak itself, or the ancient ruins, as it is a place of pilgrimage. The cost is essentially for the access mechanism (ropeway or time/effort for trekking).
Parking and Local Transport: Costs for reaching the ropeway base station, which is a significant part of the journey. Budget for an auto-rickshaw or taxi to the base of the hill from the town.
Photography Fees: Usually, there are no separate photography fees for personal cameras, but always adhere to any signs regarding commercial or professional photography, which may incur a charge.Timing:
Regular Timings: The site itself is always open, but the Ropeway operates from approximately 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and then from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Operation can be subject to weather conditions and maintenance.
Ideal Visit Time: Early Mornin...Regular Timings: The site itself is always open, but the Ropeway operates from approximately 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and then from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Operation can be subject to weather conditions and maintenance.
Ideal Visit Time: Early Morning is the best time for trekking (if chosen), quiet reflection at the ancient site, and to be among the first at the Stupa. The light is soft and the air is cool.
Avoid Midday: Avoid the ropeway during the lunchtime maintenance break (1:00 PM to 2:00 PM) and the intense midday sun. Check the latest ropeway schedule before planning the visit.Special Events:
Vesak (Buddha Purnima) This is the most important festival, marking the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Lord Buddha. The peak sees major gatherings, prayer sessions, and ceremonial processions of Buddhist monks and pilgrims from all over the world. Rajgir Mahotsav (Annual Festival) While the ...Vesak (Buddha Purnima) This is the most important festival, marking the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Lord Buddha. The peak sees major gatherings, prayer sessions, and ceremonial processions of Buddhist monks and pilgrims from all over the world. Rajgir Mahotsav (Annual Festival) While the peak is a sacred site, the Rajgir Mahotsav (December) draws a significant number of domestic and international tourists who specifically come to visit the Peace Pagoda and the ancient peak as part of the cultural tour.Best Photo Spots:
The Stupa from Below: A photo taken from the ropeway base or a low vantage point on the trail, looking up at the majestic, pure white Vishwa Shanti Stupa crowning the hilltop, with the lush greenery providing a frame.
360-Degree Panoramic View:<...The Stupa from Below: A photo taken from the ropeway base or a low vantage point on the trail, looking up at the majestic, pure white Vishwa Shanti Stupa crowning the hilltop, with the lush greenery providing a frame.
360-Degree Panoramic View: Wide-angle or stitched panorama shots from the summit capturing the vast expanse of the valley, the other four hills, and the layout of Rajgir town. This is best done in clear weather.
The Buddha Statues Close-up: Detailed photographs of the four golden statues of Buddha on the stupa, focusing on the intricate carvings and the serene expressions. Sunrise or Sunset lighting is excellent for these details.
The Ropeway Experience: A dramatic photo taken from the chairlift, capturing the dizzying height and the unique perspective of the surrounding hills, documenting the journey to the peak.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Trek the Ancient Path: Opt to walk the historical stone-cut path up and down the hill. This physical journey allows for a deeper appreciation of the effort put in by ancient pilgrims and the Buddha himself. Start this early in the morning.
Ride the Aerial Ropeway: Experience the thrilling single-seater ropeway for a panoramic view of the hills and a unique way to access the peak quickly. It's a key attraction and a necessary activity for many visitors.
Visit the Vishwa Shanti Stupa: Spend time walking around the majestic white pagoda, observing the four statues, and reflecting on the message of peace. This is the main focal point at the summit.
Meditate at the Sermon Spot: Locate the traditional spot where Lord Buddha delivered his sermons (often marked by ru...
Information
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Why Famous:
The Birthplace of Pivotal Sutras: Its fame is cemented as the location where Lord Buddha preached some of his most important Mahayana Sutras, including the Lotus Sutra. This makes it a primary pilgrimage site for Mahayana Buddhists worldwide.
V...The Birthplace of Pivotal Sutras: Its fame is cemented as the location where Lord Buddha preached some of his most important Mahayana Sutras, including the Lotus Sutra. This makes it a primary pilgrimage site for Mahayana Buddhists worldwide.
Vishwa Shanti Stupa: The presence of the iconic Peace Pagoda at the summit, one of over 80 built globally by the Japanese Buddhist order, has made it a modern symbol of world peace and a major tourist landmark, often featured in promotional materials for Bihar tourism. The spiritual and historical confluence of ancient ruins and modern peace monument is a unique draw. The historical link to King Bimbisara who would gaze upon it from his prison adds a layer of royal tragedy and devotion to its fame. -
Architecture:
The Vulture Shape: The hill's distinctive geological formation, resembling a vulture or eagle, is its most notable 'architectural' feature, giving it its name. The elevation is approximately 400 meters above sea level.
The Ropeway and Path:...The Vulture Shape: The hill's distinctive geological formation, resembling a vulture or eagle, is its most notable 'architectural' feature, giving it its name. The elevation is approximately 400 meters above sea level.
The Ropeway and Path: The most prominent man-made structures are the modern single-chair aerial ropeway, which carries pilgrims and tourists up the hill, and the ancient stone-cut walking path, or 'stone path of the Buddha,' used by Buddha and his disciples centuries ago.
The Vishwa Shanti Stupa: The large, white, modern Japanese Peace Pagoda, built in 1969, crowns the peak. This stupa, with its four golden statues of Buddha facing the cardinal directions, is the highest-profile man-made structure on the peak, symbolizing world peace. The area also contains the meager ruins of an ancient monastery, marking the traditional spot of the Buddha's retreat. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Fly to Patna (PAT - 110 KMs) or Gaya (GAY - 78 KMs). From there, hire a reliable cab to Rajgir town, a 2-3 hour journey. The ropeway base is a major landmark in Rajgir.
By Train: The nearest railhead is Rajgir Railway Station (RGD)... -
Near Tourist Places:
Vishwa Shanti Stupa (At the Peak), Ghora Katora Lake (3 KM), Venu Vana (4 KM), Rajgir Hot Springs (4. 5 KM), Swarn Bhandar (5 KM), Bimbisara's Jail (5 KM), Ajatshatru Fort (5. 5 KM), Maniyar Matth (5. 5 KM), Jarasandha's Akhara (6. 5 KM), Cyclopean Wall (Portions nearby, 4 KM)
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: If trekking, wear sturdy shoes and carry a hiking stick. The ropeway is a single-seater and may not be suitable for those with vertigo or a severe fear of heights. Stay seated and follow all safety instructions. Carry warm clothing in winter, as the top o...
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