Vihāra (Skt., ‘dwelling’). Originally a Buddhist monastic retreat during the rainy season, later becoming a permanent monastic establishment. The rock-carved vihāras of the Western Ghats, usually associated with a caitya hall, are among the earliest surviving examples of Buddhist architecture, though Jain vihāras (1st and 2nd cents. BCE) are found in Orissa. Of the rock-carved variety, Bhājā, dating from the early Śunga period (2nd cent. BCE) is a good example, consisting of a central rectangular chamber surrounded by individual cells. Later vihāras are simply an elaboration on this basic theme, in which a central courtyard (very often enclosing a railed Bo Tree, shrine room, and ambulatory) is encompassed by monks’ cells, sometimes reaching several storeys with veranda attached.

The vihāra is a fundamental feature of all Buddhist cultures. The Indian state of Bihar is so called because of the large number of vihāras which at one time covered the landscape.

vihara. Square or rectangular court surrounded by cells occupied by Buddhist monks: opposite the entrance one cell is usually reserved for a stupa.

Bibliography

Prip-Möller (1937)