|
Sravasti is 176 km off Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh. Sudatta, a wealthy merchant resided in Sravasti during the Sakyamuni times. When he had been to Rajgiri he once heard the sermon of Gautama Buddha and decided to become his follower. Lord Buddha was invited by Sudatta to Sravasti for deciding a place to build vihara. Lord Buddha liked a park which belonged to the son of King Prasenjit called Jeta. The park was also known as the Jetavana Vihara.
History:
Many Jatakas, Vinaya rules and Sutras were conversed at this place. Buddha lived at Sravasti for almost 25 years and surprised his rival teachers by performing miracles. In addition to this he also delivered many imperative sermons here. It is believed that Angulimal transformed into a Buddhist monk from a dacoit at Sravasti because of Lord Buddha. On the eastern gateway of Jetavana monastery two pillars which measure 21m in height were constructed by King Ashoka. In the Gupta period Sravasti was a flourishing center of education.
Other Tourist Attractions:
Mahet and Sahe are the two main villages in Sravasti. Sahet has an area of 400 acres and consists of a number of ancient ruins. The ancient village of Mahet is situated north of Sahet. The entrance of Mahet is constructed in the shape of a crescent. Kuchhi Kuti, Pakki Kuti and many other stupas tell us the story of the monasteries which were once present here. A sacred pipal tree which is a sapling from the original Maha Bodhi tree is present here. The monk Ananthapindika had built a temple here which is called Gandhakuti and is considered the most sacred temple of Jatavana because it is said that Buddha had resided at this place. There are five stupas, two monasteries and six temples in Jetavana. Many Jain pilgrims also visit this place because the shwetamber temple and the Sobhnath Temple are also established here. The temple of Devi Patan is located only 28km from Sravasti which is worth visiting.
Travel Route:
- Airways: The nearest airport is Lucknow airport which is only 176 km away from Sravasti.
- Railways: Gainjahwa is the nearest railway station from Sravasti.
- Roadways: Balrampur is the neares town to Sravasti which is 20 km away. Regular state transport bus services are also available from the major cities like Gorakhpur, Gonda and Lucknow to reach Sravasti.
Climate:
Sravasti situated in the Gangatic plains has relaxed winter but very hot summers. In winters the temperature ranges from 10°C at night and 20°C in the day time. The months of October, November and February,March are comfortable and sunny. The months from April to June are extremely dry and the temperature shoots upto 45°C in the day time. In late June or early July, Monsoon season begins in late June or early July which contain high humidity level.
| 