A serene hamlet derives its name from king Vishal, whose heroic deeds are narrated in the Hindu epic Ramayana. However, history records that around the time Pataliputra was the center of political activity in the Gangetic plains; Vaishali came into existence as center of industry and trade. Lying on the north bank of the Ganga, it was the seat of the Republic of Vajji. Vaishali is credited with being the World’s First Republic to have a duly elected assembly of representatives and efficient administration.

The Lord Buddha visited Vaishali more than once during his lifetime and announced his approaching Mahaparinirvan to the great followers he had here. Hundred years after he attained Mahaparinirvana, it was the venue of the second Budhist Council. According to one belief, the Jain Tirthankar Lord Mahavir was born at Vaishali. The Chinese travellers Fa-Hien and Hieun – Tsang also visited this place in early 5th and 7th centuries respectively andf wrote about Vaishali.

Sights And Activities

Ashokan Pillar
The lion pillar at Kolhua, was built by Emperor Ashok. Made up of polished single piece of red sandstone, surmounted by bell shaped capital’ 18.3m high. A life size figure of a lion is placed on top of the pillar. There is a small tank here is known as Ramkund.

Bhawan Pokhar Temple
An old temple built in the Pala period stands on the northern bank of a tank known as Bawan Pokhar and enshrines beautiful images of several Hindu gods.

Buddha Stupa- I
The exterior of this stupa, which is now in a ruins has a plain surface. One eighth of the sacred ashes of the Lord Buddha were enshrined here in a stone casket.

Buddha Stupa II
Excavation of this site in 1958 led to the discovery of another casket containing the ashes of the Lord Buddha.

Coronation Tank
Coronation Tank or Abhishekh Pushkarni, its water were believed to be sacred in the old days and all of Vaishali’s elected representatives were annointed here before their swearing in.

Vaishali Mahotsava
Vaishali Mahotsava is held to celebrate the birth anniversary of the Jain Tirthankar, Lord Mahavir on 13th day of 2nd fortnight around mid April.

Sonepur Fair
Sonepur is one of the biggest cattle fair in Asia. Sonepur is situated on the confluence of river Ganga and Gandak, host perhaps Asia’s biggest animal fair, from Kartik full moon day ( October/November). The fair lasts for almost a fortnight. Millions of visitors come to this typical fair.