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Pretshila Hill

The Sacred Cremation Site of Buddha in Rajgir

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Overview

Pretshila Hill (also called Pretshila Parvat) is a small granite hill located just south of the ancient city of Rajgir in Bihar. It is believed to be the site where Lord Buddha’s body was cremated after his Mahaparinirvana in 483 BCE. Pilgrims and historians visit this serene hill to see the stone platform (Sahejgarha) built by King Ajatashatru and the memorial markers that commemorate the cremation. The hill’s name—“Pretshila” meaning “Hill of the Departed”—reflects its role as a sacred locus for Buddhist remembrance.

Iske aas-paas ke sites jaise Griddhakuta (Vulture’s Peak) ya Rajgir Hills bhi explore kar sakte ho.

Historical Significance

  • 483 BCE: Lord Buddha attains Mahaparinirvana in Kushinagar; his body brought to Rajgir by King Ajatashatru.
  • Ajatashatru’s Reign: King builds a stone platform (Sahejgarha) on Pretshila Hill for the cremation rites; relics later distributed to stupas across India.
  • 3rd Century BCE: Mauryan Emperor Ashoka erects a commemorative stupa at the site; inscriptions reference Buddhist pilgrimage.
  • 7th Century CE: Chinese pilgrim Xuanzang notes Pretshila Hill as a major pilgrimage site in his travelogue.
  • 20th Century: Archaeological Survey of India restores the Sahejgarha platform and protects the ancient stupa remains; declared a protected monument.
Stone Platform on Pretshila Hill

Geographical Features

Pretshila Hill is a modest granite outcrop rising approximately 300 m above sea level. It forms part of the same geological ridge as the Rajgir Hills but stands slightly detached to the south. The terrain consists of rocky slopes interspersed with sparse vegetation, mainly acacia and bamboo clusters. From its summit, visitors get a clear view of the surrounding Rajgir valley, including the modern town, hot springs in the distance, and the silhouette of Vulture’s Peak.

  • Elevation: ~300 m above sea level
  • Granite rock formations with sparse acacia and bamboo vegetation
  • Stone platform (Sahejgarha) at the summit marking the cremation spot
  • Panorama of Rajgir plains, nearby hills, and hot springs visible
Pilgrims at Pretshila Hill

Spiritual & Cultural Importance

Pretshila Hill holds deep spiritual reverence for Buddhists worldwide as the spot where Buddha’s mortal remains were cremated. Pilgrims perform circumambulation around the Sahejgarha platform, meditate, and offer flowers at the tiny stupas that mark the relic site. Local villagers also regard the hill as sacred—small shrines and prayer wheels have been added over centuries. Festivals on Vesak Purnima see devotees lighting lamps on the hillside, preserving the continuity of ancient worship.

Sahejgarha Platform

The original stone platform built by King Ajatashatru, marking the cremation site of Lord Buddha. Pilgrims offer flowers and incense here.

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Buddha’s Bowl Stupa

A small stupa erected by Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE to enshrine a portion of Buddha’s relics after the initial cremation.

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Griddhakuta (Vulture’s Peak)

Just north of Pretshila, this is the famed hill where Buddha delivered several discourses. Reachable by a short trek through bamboo groves.

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Visiting Information

Best Time to Visit

October – March (pleasant weather and clear skies)

Entry Fee

Free (Donations Welcome for Temple Maintenance)

Ideal Visit Duration

2–3 hours to cover hilltop, platform, and nearby shrines

How to Reach

  • By Train: Rajgir Railway Station (3 km) connects to Patna, Gaya, Nalanda.
  • By Road: Regular buses & auto-rickshaws available from Rajgir town; private taxis from Gaya (60 km).
  • By Air: Gaya Airport (70 km) and Patna Airport (110 km) are nearest airports.

Travel Tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes—steep steps lead up to the Sahejgarha platform.
  • Carry water and light snacks; vending options are scarce on the hill.
  • Visit early morning to catch sunrise over Rajgir valley.
  • Respect local customs: refrain from loud music, keep the site clean.

Nearby Attractions

Sahejgarha Platform
Sahejgarha Platform

Ancient stone platform marking the exact spot of Buddha’s cremation. A must-visit for history enthusiasts.

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Vulture’s Peak
Griddhakuta (Vulture’s Peak)

Famous meditation site where Buddha delivered key sermons. Located just north of Pretshila Hill.

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Rajgir Hot Springs
Rajgir Hot Springs

Naturally heated springs believed to have therapeutic properties, located at the foothills of Rajgir.

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Accommodation & Dining

Hotel Gargee Grand

Comfortable 3-star hotel just 2 km from Pretshila Hill, with modern amenities, garden restaurant, and guided tour packages.

Rajgir Bamboo Retreat

Eco-friendly cottages nestled in bamboo groves, offering Ayurvedic spa services and organic meals. Approximately 3 km from hill.

Chamarians Restaurant

Popular eatery serving authentic Magahi cuisine—thalis, litti-chokha, and snacks—located near the entrance of Pretshila Hill.

Testimonials

Amit Verma

“Cremation platform dekh ke mujhe laga history itni zyada close se feel hogi. Bahut emotional experience raha.”

— Amit Verma
Neha Sharma

“Sunrise at Pretshila Hill dekhne layak hai—hare bhare jungle ke beech se suraj nikalta dikhai deta hai.”

— Neha Sharma
Ravi Patel

“Nearby Vulture’s Peak trek karke sunrise dekha, fir Pretshila Hill par Shiva temple bhi gaye. Perfect day trip raha.”

— Ravi Patel

FAQs

Comfortable trekking shoes recommended hain kyunki patthar par chalna halka sa slippery ho sakta hai. Sandals mein chalne se thoda difficult ho sakta hai.

Ha, summit ke paas ek chhota Shiva temple hai jo locals ne banwaya hai. Log pilgrimage ke dauran yahan pooja bhi karte hain.

Jee haan, local guides entrance ke paas mil jayenge—wo Sahejgarha platform aur hill ke history ke baare mein detail batate hain.

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