Gurpa is a mountain that is located in a small village in Bihar. This place has evolved as a major Buddhist pilgrimage center because of its association with Maha Kassapa. He was Buddha`s successor.
Maha Kassapa was traveling to Kukkutapadagiri, a hill resort. He loved to visit this place. However, on his way he realized that his life was going to end soon. He approached the peak of Kukkutapadagiri. The rocks hindered his climb. To get rid of the rocks he struck his staff on the mountain. The path opened up and the rocks were thrown away from his way. As he reached the top the peak opened up and Maha Kassapa entered it. Here he went into a deep meditative state and the rocks around him slowly closed.
According to the legends Maha Kassapa is still awaiting the arrival of a Maitreya or future Buddha. He will definitely visit Kukkutapadagiri. He will wake up Maha Kassapa from his deep slumber and take the robe of Gautama Buddha from him before setting off to preach the Buddhist principles.
Today Gurpa has a few Hindu as well as Buddhist temples near the top of the cave. Gurpa is easily accessible from Gaya.
