Pramāṇa · Search · About · API

On Yuan Chwang's Travels in India, 629–645 A.D. v1.c13.s3.1

On Yuan Chwang's Travels in India, 629–645 A.D. v1.c13.s3.1

Language
English

v1.c13.s3.1

From Matipur the pilgrim continued his journey, he goes on to state, travelling south-east for above 400 *li* to the country of Ku-p'i-shuang(or sang)-na. This country was above 2000 *li* in circuit; and its capital, which was 14 or 15 *li* in circuit, was a natural stronghold. There was a flourishing population: everywhere was a succession of blooming woods and tanks: the climate and natural products were the same as those of Matipur. The people had honest sincere ways, they applied themselves to learning and were fond of religious merit: most of them were non-Buddhists, and sought the joys of this life. There were two Buddhist monasteries with above 100 Brethren all Hinayānists. Of Deva-Temples there were above 30, and the sectarians lived pell-mell. Close to the capital was an old monastery in which was an Asoka tope to mark the spot at which the Buddha preached for a month on religious essentials. Beside this were sites of the sitting places and exercise grounds of the Four Past Buddhas, and two topes with hair and nail relics of the Julai.