Kachchi Kuti, Shravasti

Known to be a place for spirituality, Shravasti is a city in Uttar Pradesh that offers peace and spiritual upliftment of everyone. The city is known to have been important for Buddhists, Hindus, and Jains. It was one of the largest cities in India during the time of Gautama Buddha. It holds a history that goes way back to the time of Ramayana and Mahabharata. The city has not changed its look or feel since it came into being. The ancient structures and the city’s culture and tradition have been preserved over a period of time.

The city is also important due to River Rapti that flows near it. River Rapti has significant importance and linkage to Lord Buddha which makes it spiritually popular. A city is a place that is awed by many visitors and pilgrims for its stupas, temples, shrines, monasteries, etc.

The History that Shravasti Holds

For many who do not know much about the city, the city is known for its historical significance. The city has preserved many monuments and ancient architecture that reflects its historical background. It is a city that goes way back to the era of Buddha. During that time, the city was not only the capital of Kosala Kingdom but was also the center for religion and trade.

There are many versions of the historical association on the creation of Shravasti. Some believe that the city was created by Lord Ram after he split his Kosala Kingdom for his twins, Luv and Kush. It is said that Shravasti was handed over to Luv and Kushavati was given to Kush. However, many also believe that the city named after King Shravasti during the era of Mahabharata. According to the Buddhists, the city was named after a sage known as Savattha who resided in the city.

It is said that Gautama Buddha spent a part of his life in the city and loved the city during the monsoon reason. It is also said to be the birthplace of Tirthankar, who was the founder of Jainism. No matter how the city got its name, it is still a place that attracts many pilgrims across the country.

Places that you Must Visit in Shravasti

If you are looking for peace and serenity, then this is the city to be in. There are many places and tourist attractions that you must visit for its historical background, heritage, and spiritual touch.

• Vibhuti Nath Temple: Temple is associated with Pandavas who lived in the city for a year or so. The foundation stone of the temple was laid by Pandavas. Today, many pilgrims visit the temple to worship Lord Shiva. The number of pilgrims increases during the Savan time when Lord Shiva is worshipped for his blessings.

• Jetavana Monastery: The monastery is of the famous Buddhist monasteries in India. It is said that Lord Buddha spent 24 Vassas in this monastery during which time he gave many discourses and teachings to his disciples. The place is famous for Anandakuti, Anandabodhi tree, and Gandhakuti.

• Sushail Dev Wildlife Sanctuary: The sanctuary is one of the oldest sanctuaries in Uttar Pradesh. The sanctuary is filled with lovely flora and fauna with few water bodies. Before it became government property, the sanctuary was owned by the Maharaja of Balrampur. It also houses the Tharu tribe who makes use of the natural resources of the forest for livelihood and survival.

• Kachchi Kuti: It is one of the two mounds in Mahet and is a very significant structure that has been excavated. The inscriptions found at the bottom of the structure that goes back to the Kushana period. Even though there have been renovations in Kachchi Kuti, it still represents the ancient city.

• Vipassana Meditation Centre: The centre is one of the top sites for spiritual experience. The centre is said to be the place where Buddha used to spend a lot of his time for spiritual peace. If you are looking for a place to detox yourself and get some peace, then the centre is the perfect place for you.

• Anathapindika Stupa: The stupa was built by Anathapindika who was one of the leading disciples of the Buddha. He was known for his generosity towards the poor and was also known to be the wealthiest. Even though the stupa is in ruins, you can still see amazing carvings on the stupa. Thousands of people around the year visit the stupa for its architectural beauty.

• Sobhnath Temple: It is another popular temple in the city that one must visit. The temple is a shrine of spirituality for Jains and is considered to be the birthplace of Lord Sambhavnath, the third Jain Tirthankar. The temple can awe with its beautiful interiors and architecture.

• Pakki Kuti: It is another mound that is very famous in the city. It is said to have been erected by Prasenjit to commemorate Lord Buddha. The structure has been preserved and represents the ancient period of the Kushana period.

Transportation of Reaching Shravasti

Reaching the city is not very difficult as the state in which it is located is very well connected by various modes of transportation. The nearest airport to the city is the Lucknow airport, which is well connected both nationally and internationally. If you want to reach the city by train, then the nearest railway stations are located in Balrampur and Gonda. These cities are well connected and hence, you can reach Shravasti without any issue. To reach the city, some many government-operated buses and taxis ply. You can also hire private taxis to travel from the big cities to reach Shravasti.

When Should you Visit the City?

Uttar Pradesh has weathers that can be extremes. It can have hot summers and harsh winters. During the monsoon season, Shravasti can be humid also. Hence, the best time to visit the city is between November and March. The weather during this period is enjoyable and hence, it makes a perfect time to explore the city.