Nestled atop the Ratnagiri Hills in the serene town of Rajgir, Bihar, the Vishwa Shanti Stupa stands as a beacon of peace and spiritual serenity. Inaugurated in 1969 by the revered Japanese Buddhist monk Fujii Guruji, this white marvel has become a symbol of global unity and the timeless teachings of Lord Buddha.
As you ascend the hills, tranquillity envelops you, preparing the soul for an extraordinary experience. Join me on a virtual pilgrimage as we unravel the rich history, architectural beauty, and profound significance of the Vishwa Shanti Stupa—a journey transcending time and worldly concerns. Welcome to a realm where peace is not just a concept but a tangible presence etched into the fabric of the Ratnagiri landscape.
Brief history of the stupa
The Vishwa Shanti Stupa (World Peace Stupa) is a large white Buddhist stupa in Rajgir, Nalanda District, Bihar, India. It is located on the top of Ratnagiri Hill, at an altitude of 400 meters (1,312 feet). The stupa is 120 feet (37 meters) tall and has a diameter of 103 feet (31 meters). It is made of white marble and is studded with four gold-gilded statues of Buddha, each representing a different stage of his life: birth, enlightenment, preaching, and death.
The stupa was built by the Nipponzan Myohoji, a neo-Buddhist organization that has built over 80 peace stupas worldwide. The stupa in Rajgir was completed in 1993 and is one of Bihar’s most popular tourist destinations.
The construction of the Vishwa Shanti Stupa in Rajgir was inspired by the vision of Nichidatsu Fujii, a Japanese Buddhist monk who founded the Nipponzan Myohoji organization. Fujii believed that peace could be achieved through the construction of peace stupas around the world. The stupa in Rajgir is one of the first peace stupas that the Nipponzan Myohoji built.
The stupa was built with the help of local people and donations from all over the world. The construction of the stupa was a symbol of unity and cooperation between people of different faiths.
Vishwa Shanti Stupa Rajgir Location
Vishwa Shanti Stupa is located in the Ratnagiri hills in Rajgir, Bihar, India. It is about 10 kilometers from the town of Rajgir and is easily accessible by car or bus.
Architectural Features
Vishwa Shanti Stupa in Rajgir, India, is a striking example of Buddhist architecture, embodying both symbolic and practical elements. Its serene white form stands out against the verdant Ratnagiri hills, symbolizing peace and tranquility.
Stupa Structure
The stupa, a hemispherical mound with a spire, represents enlightenment in Buddhism. The Vishwa Shanti Stupa stands 120 feet tall, with a diameter of 103 feet, making it one of the largest stupas in India. Its white marble exterior sparkles under the sun, reflecting the purity and illumination associated with enlightenment.
Four Buddha Statues
Four gilded statues of Buddha adorn each side of the stupa, each representing a significant stage of his life: birth, enlightenment, preaching, and death. These statues, facing the four cardinal directions, symbolize the universal reach of Buddha’s teachings and their relevance to all beings.
Relic Chamber
A relic chamber at the stupa’s base houses sacred relics believed to be from the Buddha himself. These relics connect to the Buddha’s presence and enhance the stupa’s spiritual significance.
Prayer Wheel Corridor
Surrounding the stupa is a circular corridor lined with hundreds of prayer wheels. Visitors can rotate these wheels, inscribed with the mantra “Om Mani Padme Hum,” accumulating merit and seeking blessings. The rhythmic turning of the wheels creates a meditative atmosphere, reinforcing the stupa’s role as a place of spiritual practice.
Japanese Temple
A small Japanese temple, adjacent to the stupa, adds to the site’s spiritual ambiance. The temple houses a serene statue of Buddha and serves as a place for quiet reflection and prayer.
Purpose and Message
Vishwa Shanti Stupa in Rajgir symbolises peace, harmony, and enlightenment. Its message resonates with individuals seeking a more peaceful and compassionate world. Its presence serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the potential for inner transformation and the power of collective action in creating a more peaceful society.
Vishwa Shanti Stupa Rajgir Timing
Vishwa Shanti Stupa in Rajgir is open to the public from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, seven days a week. The ropeway, the most popular way to reach the stupa, operates from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
The best time to visit the Vishwa Shanti Stupa is early morning or late afternoon when the crowds are smaller and the weather is cooler. You can also visit at sunset for stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
How to Reach Vishwa Shanti Stupa Rajgir
There are three main ways to reach the Vishwa Shanti Stupa in Rajgir:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Patna Airport (PAT), located about 100 kilometers (62 miles) from Rajgir. You can take a taxi or auto rickshaw from Patna Airport to Rajgir. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and costs around ₹2,000-₹3,000.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Rajgir Railway Station (RJP), just 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) from the stupa. You can take an auto rickshaw from Rajgir Railway Station to the stupa. The journey takes 10 minutes and costs around ₹50-₹100.
- By Road: Rajgir is well-connected by road to major cities in Bihar and neighboring states. You can take a bus or taxi from Patna, Gaya, or Nalanda to Rajgir. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the starting point.
Once you reach Rajgir, you can reach the Vishwa Shanti Stupa by:
Ropeway: A ropeway takes you directly to the top of Ratnagiri Hill, where the stupa is located. The ropeway ride takes around 5 minutes and costs ₹20 for adults and ₹10 for children.
Stairs: You can also climb the stairs to the top of the hill. The climb takes around 30 minutes and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
No matter how you reach the Vishwa Shanti Stupa, you will surely be impressed by its beauty and serenity. The stupa is a popular tourist destination, so visiting during the week or early in the morning is best to avoid crowds.