Gandhakuti, Jetavana

Gandhakuti is the brick foundation and ruins of the hut where Gautama Buddha is believed to have stayed at Jetavana Monastery in Sahet, Shravasti, Uttar Pradesh. Located within the extensive Jetavana Mahavihara archaeological complex, it is the most revered structure in the monastery donated by the merchant Anathapindika. The site marks where Buddha spent 24 rainy seasons and delivered many discourses.

Visitors can expect a large open archaeological park with exposed brick foundations, plinths and ruined walls of ancient monasteries and stupas. The Gandhakuti is a raised rectangular brick platform marking the Buddha's hut, located in the central area of Jetavana near the Anandabodhi Tree. The surroundings are landscaped with lawns, pathways and scattered ruins. Visitors can walk along paved paths, view information boards, meditate and photograph the ruins within the walled complex.

Jetavana Monastery was donated to the Buddha by the wealthy merchant Anathapindika during the 6th century BCE, who purchased the grove from Prince Jeta. Gandhakuti was the Buddha's personal dwelling within the monastery. Historical and archaeological evidence indicates the Buddha spent 24 rainy seasons here, the longest stay at any single site, and delivered many important sutras. Excavations reveal structures from Mauryan, Kushan and Gupta periods.

Gandhakuti is one of the most sacred sites for Buddhists worldwide and a major pilgrimage destination within the Buddhist circuit. It represents the monastic life of the Buddha and the early Sangha. The site is revered for meditation and pilgrimage, and is associated with the Anandabodhi Tree and traditions of Jetavana as a centre of Buddhist teaching.