Kesariya

In the west direction of the town of Vaishali, the place called Kesariya is located. The distance between the two is 55 Kms. The name of this place previously was Kessaputta, during the time phase of Buddha. The renowned Kalama Sutta was conveyed to the Kalama people by Buddha, at this very location. The advice of scrutinizing and examining his preaching scrupulously before believing it was given by Buddha via this sermon.

According to mythological stories, during the final year of Buddha’s life, he went away from Vaishali to Kusinara, otherwise known as Kushinagar. During his expedition, he was joined by a big cluster of Vijjians and then refused to go away. However, upon arriving at Kessaputta, Buddha convinced the group to depart. Having to do this, the group of the Vijjians became utterly sad. In order to make them joyful, Buddha gave away his begging bowl. In order to mark this event, later on the construction of a stupa took place. Fa-hien and Hieun Tsang came to this place to visit. 

Lord Buddha’s life size sculpture is present in the stupa. Also present is five numbers of terraces, quite big in size having different contour. The impact of a mandala is obtained, when one observes the stupa from the top. 1400 feet is the measurement of the circumference and 51 feet was the measurement of its altitude, the measurements being done by Cunningham. 

                                                            HOW TO REACH KESARIYA 

By Air: The nearest air terminal is located in the city of Patna. 

By Rail: The nearest railway station is located in Hajipur; otherwise from Patna railway, one can also reach Kesariya. 

By Road: By road, Kesariya is easily accessible via Vaishali.