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Vishwa Shanti Stupa

The White Peace Pagoda atop Vaibhav Hill, Rajgir

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Overview

The Vishwa Shanti Stupa, also known as the World Peace Pagoda, sits majestically atop Vaibhav Hill (525 m) in Rajgir. Built in 1969 by Japanese Buddhist monks of Nipponzan-Myōhōji, this gleaming white structure symbolizes universal peace and offers panoramic views of the Rajgir valley. The Stupa houses four golden statues of Buddha facing the four cardinal directions, representing love, compassion, peace, and wisdom.

Learn more about the parent Rajgir Hills or explore other Top Cities in Bihar.

Historical Significance

  • 1969: Construction of the Stupa began under guidance of Nichidatsu Fujii, a Japanese Buddhist monk, as part of a global movement to promote peace.
  • 1970: The Vishwa Shanti Stupa was inaugurated, becoming the first Peace Pagoda in India and the eighth in the world.
  • 1980s–90s: Regular maintenance by local Buddhists and Nipponzan-Myōhōji monks preserved its pristine white façade.
  • 2000s: Addition of landscaped gardens around the base and improved trekking paths attracted more pilgrims and tourists.
  • 2010–Present: Integrated into the Rajgir Heritage Circuit, hosting interfaith prayer ceremonies promoting global harmony.
Vishwa Shanti Stupa

Architectural Features

The Stupa is a monolithic structure of reinforced concrete, coated with smooth white plaster. It features a four-tiered umbrella-shaped dome, each tier encircled by a walkway. The central dome measures 24 m in diameter and is topped by a gilded spire. Four Buddha statues, each standing on lotus pedestals, face the cardinal directions:

  • East: Statue of Buddha depicting the First Sermon at Sarnath (mudra: Dharmachakra).
  • West: Statue of Buddha in Abhaya Mudra (gesture of fearlessness).
  • North: Statue of Buddha in Bhumisparsha Mudra (earth touching gesture).
  • South: Statue of Buddha in Dhyana Mudra (meditation posture).
Pilgrims at Vishwa Shanti Stupa

Spiritual & Cultural Importance

The Vishwa Shanti Stupa attracts Buddhists, Hindus, Jains, and visitors of all faiths seeking tranquility. Monks perform daily chanting rituals at dawn and dusk. Annual peace ceremonies on Vesak Day draw practitioners from across India and Japan. The Stupa’s elevated position makes it a focal point for meditation and interfaith gatherings.

Griddhakuta (Vulture’s Peak)

The hill where Buddha delivered many sermons, reachable via a short trek from the Stupa base.

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Swarnagiri (Ratnagiri)

Known as the “Golden Hill,” home to ancient Jain temples and meditation caves—just a drive and trek away.

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Brahmakund Hot Spring

Sacred sulfur springs at the foothills believed to cure ailments and purify mind and body.

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Visiting Information

Best Time to Visit

October – March (clear skies & pleasant weather)

Entry Fee

Free (Donations welcome for Stupa maintenance)

Ideal Visit Duration

2–3 hours to explore Stupa, gardens & viewpoints

How to Reach

  • By Train: Rajgir Railway Station (2 km from Vaibhav Hill base) connects to Patna, Gaya, Nalanda.
  • By Road: Buses & taxis from Patna (100 km) and Gaya (65 km) to Rajgir. From Rajgir, take local auto-rickshaw or walk 20 min up to the Stupa.
  • By Air: Gaya Airport (50 km) and Patna Airport (105 km) are the nearest airports. From there, taxi to Rajgir.

Travel Tips

  • Start early to catch sunrise over the Rajgir valley from the Stupa.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes—path to the Stupa involves gentle uphill steps.
  • Carry a light shawl—mornings and evenings can be chilly at the summit.
  • Visit during weekdays if possible—weekends can get crowded with pilgrims.

Nearby Attractions

Griddhakuta (Vulture’s Peak)
Griddhakuta (Vulture’s Peak)

The historic hill where Buddha preached—short trek from the Stupa base.

Learn More
Swarnagiri (Ratnagiri)
Swarnagiri (Ratnagiri)

Ancient Jain temples and caves—10 km drive & short hike from Rajgir.

Learn More
Brahmakund Hot Spring
Brahmakund Hot Spring

Sacred thermal springs at the foothills—10 min drive from the Stupa.

Learn More

Accommodation & Dining

Hotel Gargee Grand

A comfortable 3-star hotel 2 km from Rajgir station, offering modern amenities and a rooftop restaurant overlooking Vaibhav Hill.

Rajgir Bamboo Retreat

Eco-friendly cottages nestled among bamboo groves—15 min drive from Vaibhav Hill, with Ayurvedic spa services.

Chamarians Restaurant

A popular eatery serving authentic Magahi cuisine—only 10 min walk from Vaibhav Hill base.

Testimonials

Sunita Sharma

“Watching the sun set behind the Stupa was a spiritual moment I’ll never forget.”

— Sunita Sharma
Rohan Verma

“The peace and silence atop Vaibhav Hill felt otherworldly—highly recommended!”

— Rohan Verma
Priya Jain

“The four Buddha statues symbolising love, compassion, peace, and wisdom left me deeply moved.”

— Priya Jain

FAQs

The Stupa is open daily from 5:30 AM to 7:00 PM. Early morning is the best time for sunrise views.

Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is recommended out of respect.

Yes—there is a paved path of ~250 steps from the base. It takes about 15 minutes at a moderate pace.

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