Saptaparni Cave


A 40-minute uphill hike from the back of the Lakshmi Narayan Temple takes you past Jain and Hindu temples to this atmospheric cave and natural rock platform, where Buddha is said to have meditated. Literally meaning 'seven leaves', Saptaparni cave is the likely location for the First Buddhist Council, held six months after Buddha's death to define the direction of the new faith.


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Nearby attractions

1. Veerayatan

0.4 MILES

About 1km from Lakshmi Narayan Temple (turn left out of the temple, then first left), this Jain museum tells the history of each of the 24 Jain…

2. Buddha Jal Vihar

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Next to the Lakshmi Narayan Temple complex (on your left as you approach the temple), the Jaipur-pink Buddha Jal Vihar is a limpid green pool set in well…

3. Lakshmi Narayan Temple

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Hindu pilgrims visit this temple, about 2km south of town (turn right out of the bus stand and keep walking), to enjoy the health benefits of the hot…

4. Venu Van

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This pleasant park just north of the Lakshmi Narayan Temple marks the site of the bamboo grove given to Buddha by King Bimbisara, thus considered by many…

5. Son Bhandar Caves

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Legend attributes these caves to the treasury of King Bimbisara but actually they are a series of Jain meditation caves, bare except for a couple of stone…

6. Maniyar Math

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This oddly shaped ancient circular temple was dedicated to naga (snake spirit) worship.

7. King Bimbisara's Jail

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These ruined monastery foundations mark the mango grove given to Buddha by Jeevak Kaumarbhritya (525–450 BC), the court physician of Maghada.