________________ FA-HIAN'S TRAVELS IN THE VAISALI REGION Translated by Samuel Beal, B.A. I. Where Buddha left the Licchavis) Going south-east twelve yo janas form this place [i.e Kusinagara), we arrive at the spotl where the Licchavis, desiring to follow Buddha to the scene of his Nirvana, were forbidden to do so. On account of their affection for Buddha they were unwilling to go back, on wbich Buddha caused to appear between them and him a great and deeply-scarped river, which they could not cross. He then left with them his alms-bowl as a memorial, and exhorted them to return to their houses. On this they went back and erected a stone pillar, on which this account is engraved. [II. Vaisali] From this going five yo janas eastward, we arrive at the country of Vaisali. To the north of the city of Vaisali there is the vibara of the great forest, which has a two-storied tower. This chapel was once occupied by Buddha. Here also is the tower which was built over half the body of Ananda. Within this city dwelt the lady Amrapali (who built) a tower for Buddha; the ruins still exist. Three li to the south of the city, on the west side of the road is the garden which the lady Amrapali gave to Buddha as a resting-place. When Buddha was about to enter Nirvana, accompanied by his disciples, he left Vaisali by the western gate, and turning his body to the 1. Cunningham identifies this place with Kesariya (Champaran District) situated about 30 miles north-west of Basash, the site of old Vaisali. Dr. Bloch accepts this identification. [Ed.).
