Cyclopean Wall
Built with massive undressed stones fitted together, this wall is popular for its similarities with ancient Greek walls.
The ancient city of Rajgir was the capital city of King Bimbisara and his son Ajatshatru who were contemporaries of the Buddha. The traces of a fortified wall are found around the city. This wall was built with massive undressed stones fitted together having width of about 14′. It is popularly called as the Cyclopean wall for its similarities with ancient Greek walls. Bastions were built at intervals to strengthen the wall. According to Pali texts there were 32 large gates and 64 smaller ones to enter the fortified city. A considerable part of this ancient massive wall running up along the Ratnagiri hill is still there, starting from the base of the hill towards the hillside.
The foundations of the New city erected by either Bimbisara or his son Ajatasatru can be seen while going to the Bus stand.
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How to Reach:
By Air
The Nearest Airport is JPN International Airport in Patna (110 km). Patna is well linked to all major Indian cities including Kolkata, Bombay, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Ranchi, Lucknow. Rajgir is also connected to Gaya International Airport(78 km) which is connected to International Destinations like Bangkok, Colombo, Thimphu etc.
By Train
Rajgir itself has a Railway Station (RGD) which is connected to Patna, Kolkata and New Delhi via daily trains. Shramjeevi Express connects it to New Delhi while Buddha Purnima Express connects it to Varanasi. Rajgir Express connects it to Danapur, while Rajgir-Howrah Passenger Train connects it to Kolkata. Rajgir is well connected to Gaya Railway Station (GAYA), which is one India’s busiest rail routes.
By Road
Rajgir is well connected by road to Patna (110 km), Nalanda ( 15 km), Gaya (78 km), Pawapuri (38 km), Bihar Sharif (25 km). Regular Bus Services are available from all these locations. BSTDC runs daily Air-Conditioned Buses between Patna and Bodh Gaya via Rajgir. Cabs on Hire and Taxis are readily available from all major places. Fares are negotiable.