The old name for this area is City Surrounded By Hills. Thousands of ascetics took advantage of the numerous caves and hot springs found in the vicinity. Shakyamuni had originally come through Rajagrha while still a bodhisattva. This was one of his first destinations after leaving the palace. King Bimbisara glimpsed the the young Prince on alms rounds and was so moved by his presence that he had a servant find out where Shakyamuni was staying. The next morning, the royal entourage arrived at the Bodhisattva's cave and King Bimbisara (ruler of  Magadha from 542-493 bce.) immediately offered him half his kingdom if he would but remain in Rajagrha.  The Bodhisattva explained that was honored by the offer but that he no longer had need of such things; in fact, he had recently walked away from an entire kingdom of his own. King Bimbisara remarked, "You and I are still young. Let us enjoy women and wealth together!" The Prince smiled and explained that he already had access to thousands of beautiful women. He went on to talk about the nature of desire and why he'd renounced all of that for the perfect happiness of Awakening. The King was impressed and asked Shakyamuni to be patient with one who also wished to be free. The Bodhisattva Prince explained that he was not yet fully enlightened but promised to return after accomplishing his goal. Seven years later, he fulfilled his promise and took up residence on Vulture Peak. King Bimbisara had a good road built so that he could visit with a royal procession, elephants and all.  Modern pilgrims basically follow the same stone path (as seen above) today. Numerous small caves can be found in the rocks below the peak.