Sravasti, in Uttar Pradesh, was the capital of the ancient Kosala kingdom and, by tradition, the place where Buddha spent more time than anywhere else during his teaching life.
History
Buddha is said to have spent around 24 rainy-season retreats at Sravasti, based at the Jetavana Monastery — a grove donated by the wealthy merchant Anathapindika, who reportedly paid for the land by covering it entirely in gold coins to meet the seller's asking price. Sravasti is also associated with the "Twin Miracle" (Yamaka Patihariya), which Buddha is said to have performed here to counter rival ascetic teachers.
What to See
The Jetavana Monastery ruins include the Gandhakuti (Buddha's personal residence within the grove) and the Kosambakuti. The Anandabodhi Tree, said to have been grown from a sapling of the original Bodhi Tree at the request of Buddha's disciple Ananda, gave devotees something to venerate even in Buddha's physical absence — and still stands today. Several modern monasteries built by different Buddhist countries dot the surrounding area.
Entry Fees
The ASI-protected Jetavana ruins charge a nominal entry ticket.
Best Time to Visit
October to March; the site is fairly remote, so plan for a full day.
How to Reach
Sravasti is somewhat off the main circuit — the nearest railway stations are Balrampur (about 17 km) or Gonda, and it's typically reached by road from Lucknow or Gorakhpur.
Get Directions to Sravasti on Google Maps
Continue the Buddhist Circuit
This site is one stop on the wider Buddhist Circuit across India — explore more:
