Vaishali - वैशाली

Vaishali, an important archaeologial site on the left bank of the Gandak river is yet another major Buddhist and Jain pilgrim centre of Bihar. The town is said to be named after the legendary king vishal, whose heroic deeds are mentioned in epic Rmayana. It is believed that Vaishali is the one of the one of the first republics of the world, as democracy prevalied here as early as 6th century BC, during the time of the Vajjis and the Lichchavis. Lord Buddha is said to have preached his last sermon at Kolhua, located nearby. During the sermon he hinted at his impending departure from the mortal world. Emperor Ashoka erected a huge pillar at the site to commemorate the eent. About hundred years after the Mahaparinirvana of the Buddha, the second great Buddhist council was held here to discuss the ten points of vinaya, the rule of conduct under dispute. Two stups were erected to commemorate this event. Jainism, too, has its origins in vaishali, as Lord Mahavir was born on the outskirts of the city in 527 BC. And lived in vaishali till he was 22. Vaishali is also famous for amrapali, the amrapali and went to her residence with his Bhikku Sangha to take their meals. Amrapali offered Buddha a mango orchard and became a Bhiksu (nun), under the influence of Buddha.