Saptaparni Cave, Buddhist cave in Nalanda district, India
The Saptaparni Cave sits within a hill formation approximately 2 kilometers southwest of Rajgir, featuring natural rock formations and an elevated entrance point.
Following Buddha's death in the 5th century BCE, hundreds of monks gathered in this cave for the First Buddhist Council to preserve his teachings.
The cave marks the beginning of Buddhist oral tradition, where Ananda established the practice of starting teachings with 'Thus have I heard on one occasion'.
The cave remains accessible throughout the year and visitors can combine their exploration with other Buddhist sites in the Nalanda district of Bihar.
This natural cave predates the artificial Buddhist caves created during Emperor Ashoka's reign in 261 BCE, establishing its position as an early Buddhist site.
Location: Nalanda district
GPS coordinates: 25.00718,85.41079
Latest update: May 11, 2025 11:30
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