ABOUT THE
Attraction
This is one among the eight original stupas built over the sacred ashes of Buddha. According to Buddhist scriptures, after attaining Mahaparinirvana, Buddha's body was cremated and the mortal remains were distributed among eight claimants, including the Lichhavis of Vaishali. Grand stupas were constructed at various sites to preserve the ash-filled casket of Buddha.
While originally a mud stupa, this structure was later encased with bricks and enlarged. It is now in ruins. Following excavations in 1958, a stone box was found with ashes, a small conch, two glass beads, a fragment of gold leaf, and a copper punch-marked coin.
OTHER ATTRACTIONS
Kutagarshala Vihara
Located about 3 km from the relic stupa, is Kutagarashala vihara, a monastery where Buddha stayed most frequently when he visited Vaishali.
Ashokan Pillar
The monolithic, polished sandstone Ashokan pillar is surmounted by a decorative bell-shaped capital and a life-size figure of a lion facing north.
