The name of the place Rajgir has been derived from the Sanskrit word “Rajgriha” which means 'abode of the King' which seems just right for the place considering its history. The place was once the capital of the Magadha Kings, in fact, Rajgir was the first recorded capital of India. It is located in the rocky hills about 46 km away from Bodhgaya and has many attractions in its lap that are important to the Buddhists as well as the Jains.

Via Buddhist circuit train tour, Mahaparinirvana Express or Sakyamuni rail tours (Buddhist Circuit Special Train Tours), you need not go far to seek the reason why Rajgir is important to the Buddhists as Lord Buddha spent 12 important years in the place. It was in Rajgir at the Griddhakuta Hill where King Bimbisara was converted to Buddhism by Lord Buddha. The Saptaparni caves was the location in Rajgir where the first Buddhist council after Buddha was held. Rajgir was also the witness to many of the sermons of Lord Buddha. Though Buddhist Circuit Special Train Tour Rajgir is just 10 km away from Nalanda, it is no more the city it once used to be as it has turned into almost a village. You can still see the remains of its glorious past here.
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Jarasandh Ki Baithak - You'll find a foot track that has already been made at the Vaibhara hill and to reach the Jarasandh ki Baithak all you've to do is follow the track. According to the historians the place used to be a military outpost earlier. There is another nearby tourist attraction here which is known as Jarasandh Ka Akhada.

Amravan or Jivaka – Mango Garden - The royal physician Jivaka used to treat his patients from Amravan as this used to be his dispensary. Once Lord Buddha was injured by his unfriendly cousin and his wounds were dressed at this place by Jivaka. Lord Buddha lived in this Amravan for a while when Ajatshatru used to see him here for spiritual guidance. Later, the place was gifted to the Buddhist order by Jivaka.

Pipali Cave - Lord Buddha used to meditate in the Pipali cave after his mid day meal and this fact has also found mention in the ancient Pali literature. You just have to go a little up in the Vaibhara hill to located this cave. The hilltop is no less interesting as you can see the panoramic views of the surrounding areas as well as lush fields. The name of the cave has been derived from a peepal tree that was present at the entrance of the cave where Lord Buddha used to meditate.

Topada, the hot water springs - Rajgir is also known for its hot water springs, called Topada. You can also find a mention of these springs in the Mahabharata. People still flock to these hot water springs located at the base of the Vaibhara hills which are believed to have curative properties.

Nalanda
Nalanda as a place is famous all over for its ancient International monastic university which once used to be the hub of educational and intellectual activity. It is believed that the Gupta emperors established this university here in the 5th century BC which grew in importance in due course of time. Lord Buddha and Lord Mahavira are also believed to have taught here. At the time when the university was at its peak, there were 9 million volumes in the library here. The ruins of the university are scattered in the area of about 14 hectares. The university was so large that it could accommodate about 10,000 students and 2,000 teachers in its campus.