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An important Buddhist site, Kesariya, a small
town, is located in the city of Champaran. Huddled on the eastern banks of
the River Gandak, Kesariya has a magnificent past that spans several
centuries. Of paramount importance to Buddhists, it has occupied a focal
position in the history of Buddhism.
After Lord Buddha announced his final departure, the Lichhavis were
overwhelmed with grief and set to follow the Lord uptil Kushi Nagar, his
final resting-place. Lord Buddha, during his travel from
Vaishali to Kushinagar had spent the night
at Kesariya and gave the Lichhavis his alms bowl. Lord Buddha forbade them
to follow him and in order to stop them, created an illusion of a river in
spate, which finally compelled them to retreat. This place is identified
as kesariya, where Emperor Ashok, later built a stupa.
The crown jewel of the Champaran district, according to the famous
Persian book of the Mughal Empire, namely, Ain-e-Akbari, Kesariya ,
occupies a pivotal place in the economic domain of the district. The
ornamentation of Deora, and its development into a tourist spot, will be
instrumental in restoring the ancient and historic glory of Kesariya.
Prime Sites
The Stupa:
To commemorate the stay of Buddha at Kesariya , where he landed before his
final departure to Kushi Nagar where he achieved his ‘Mahaparinirwana’,
Ashok, the emperor, built a stupa. It was here that he bade good bye to
lichhavis.
Deora:
Located two miles to the south of Kesariya Block Headquarters, Deora is
the main attraction of Kesariya’s golden history. Presently,
occupying a tall mound of brick and earthen debris, this place is very
associated with important facets in the life of Lord Buddha.
Shivalingam in the Bhagvan Kesharnath Temple:
A priceless treasure of ancient times at Kesariya, is this lingam that
was discovered during the canal excavations of 1969. According to local
belief, the lingam bearing resemblance to the one described in Agni
Purana, is believed to belong to an ancient temple. Its significance
increases markedly in the month of Shravana, though the devotees throng
the place on Mondays and Fridays on a regular basis.
Gandhi library:
This vibrant Library, housing many priceless books, is very popular in
the educational arena of Kesariya.
Dhehkanha Math:
Kesariya was an important cultural centre in the past, which is well
reflected in the ‘Dhekanha Math’. Its history spans two hundred
years. This ‘Math’ is situated seven kilometers towards south of
the Block Headquarters, in the village of Dhehkanha.
The city of Kesariya has played a very important role in the freeedom
struggle of our country. Gandhiji, the Father of the Nation, had come to
the Kesariya, during his tour of Champaran against the indigo plantations.
The Non-Cooperation Movement started by Gandhiji had a deep and extensive
impact on Kesariya.
This was the first ashram where ‘khadi’ was introduced and
publicized.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
HOW TO GET THERE
Air:There is no direct air connection.
Rail:There is no direct rail connection.
Road: It is directly connected with the National Highway that
leads to Uttar Pradesh.