Vaishali

Meditate where the Buddha once walked.

India Bihar Goenka (S.N. Goenka) donation

Step into a place steeped in history at Vaishali, where the Buddha himself once walked, recited the Ratan Sutta, and established the first Bhikkhuni Sangha. This center, currently housed within the Vietnam Mahaprajapati Nunnery, offers a unique opportunity to deepen your meditation practice in a location with profound spiritual significance. While the specific tradition isn't stated, the historical context suggests a deep connection to early Buddhist teachings. Courses are offered in several major foreign languages, making it accessible to a diverse international community. The center runs by donation, ensuring that the teachings are available to all who wish to learn, regardless of their financial situation. It's a chance to connect with a lineage stretching back millennia, in a setting that has witnessed pivotal moments in Buddhist history.

Highlights

Located at the historic site where the Buddha recited the Ratan Sutta
Mahaprajapati Gautami established the first Bhikkhuni Sangha here
Courses offered in all major foreign languages
The Buddha gave profound metta to Vaishali upon his departure

Good for

experienced meditatorshistory enthusiastssilent retreatsinternational students

Setting

The center is situated on the well-known Vishwa Shanti Pagoda Road in Vaishali, within the Vietnam Mahaprajapati Nunnery. The surrounding area of Bihar is characterized by fertile agricultural fields, though specific details about the immediate landscape are not provided.

Accommodation

The center can accommodate approximately 70 male and 50 female students. No further details about the type of lodging are available.

Website www.vaishali.in.dhamma.org

Phone 91 (0621)-2247750

Email [email protected]

Address Vietnam Mahaprajapati nunnery Vishwa Shanti Pagoda Road, Vaishali – 844128, Bihar, India

Course Types

10-day

How to get there

Vaishali is well-connected by road to major cities like Patna, Hajipur, Muzaffarpur, and Motihari. The nearest airport is Patna, about 70 km away. For rail travel, Patna Railway Station is 63 km, Hajipur Railway station is 35 km, and Muzaffarpur Railway station is 40 km from the center.

Nearest airport: Jay Prakash Narayan Airport (PAT) (46 km)

Nearest city: Patna

Public transport: Buses and taxis are available from Patna, Hajipur, Muzaffarpur, and Motihari to Vaishali.

Interested in this center? Check availability and upcoming retreats on their official site.

Visit Vaishali website

Climate

Climate Zone: Subtropical

Best Months: Feb, Dec, Jan

Avoid: Aug, Jun, Jul

Summers in Vaishali run from March to June, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 44 degrees Celsius. The monsoon season occurs from July to September. Winters, from November to February, see temperatures drop between 4 and 28 degrees Celsius.

Location

Frequently asked questions

What is the capacity for students at the Vaishali center?

The center can accommodate approximately 70 male students and 50 female students.

Are courses offered in languages other than English?

Yes, courses at the Vaishali center are offered in all major foreign languages.

What is the significance of Vaishali in Buddhist history?

Vaishali is a historically significant site where Mahaprajapati Gautami and 500 companions established the first Bhikkhuni Sangha. The Buddha also recited the Ratan Sutta here and gave profound metta to the city upon his last departure.