The Vishwa Shanti Stupa, also known as the World Peace Pagoda, is a significant religious and tourist attraction located in Vaishali, Bihar, India. It is one of the numerous Peace Pagodas around the world established by the Japanese Buddhist monk Nichidatsu Fujii with the aim of promoting world peace.
The stupa is an important symbol of peace and harmony in Buddhism. It holds significant value as it is believed to enshrine the ashes of Lord Buddha and consecrate the place where Buddha announced his impending nirvana. Therefore, it becomes a revered site for pilgrims and followers of Buddhism.
The Vishwa Shanti Stupa in Vaishali was completed in 1996. It is a relatively recent addition to the lineage of peace pagodas around the world.
The stupa stands tall with an immaculate white structure capped with a golden pinnacle. It features four statues of Buddha, depicting his life phases - birth, enlightenment, teaching, and death (Mahaparinirvana). Each statue is positioned facing one of the four cardinal directions.
Tourists can reach Vaishali by various modes of transportation. The nearest airport is in Patna, which is about 55 kilometers away. One can also travel by train to the nearest railway station, Hajipur, and from there, take a taxi or bus to Vaishali. Regular bus service to Vaishali is available from major cities of Bihar.
The Vishwa Shanti Stupa is typically open to visitors from sunrise to sunset. However, the timings may vary occasionally due to special events or maintenance work. It is advised to check with local tourist information centers for the latest visiting hours before planning your trip.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Vishwa Shanti Stupa. It is open for all visitors without any cost.
The best time to visit the Vishwa Shanti Stupa is from October to March when the weather is relatively cool and pleasant. The summer months can be extremely hot in Bihar, so it is advisable to avoid a visit during that time if you’re sensitive to high temperatures.
Near the Vishwa Shanti Stupa, tourists can visit various other historical and religious sites such as the Vaishali Museum, Bawan Pokhar Temple, Ashoka Pillar, and the Relic Stupa, where the Buddha's relics are housed. The Archaeological Survey of India site is also of interest to those looking to explore the ancient history of the region.
Basic facilities such as restrooms and drinking water are available at the Vishwa Shanti Stupa. However, amenities may be limited compared to urban tourist spots, so it is recommended to carry essentials such as water bottles, hats, sunscreen, and snacks.
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