Maheth
is another important cluster of shrines in Sravasti. Though not as
famous as Saheth, Maheth also has a cluster of shrines that are very
popular among the tourists visiting Sravasti. In fact, Maheth was the
actual site of the erstwhile Sravasti city. Spread across the area of near about 400 acres, Maheth was the site of numerous shrines and Stupas. In fact, Maheth has been identified with the remains of the city proper. Nevertheless, the site for long had remained abandoned and ignored. It was only in the early decades of 20th century when the excavation works were initiated that the site raised to prominence. Further excavation works have exposed the massive gates of the city, ramparts and also the ruins of other structures that testify to the prosperity of ancient Sravasti.
Maheth is also the site for the ancient Sobhanath Temple. The temple has various replicas in India, Nepal and other Buddhist countries of the Indo-China region. The place also bears the onslaught of Gupta rulers during the era of the resurgence of Hinduism. It has been agreed upon that Pakki Kuti and Kacchi Kuti were probably Buddhist shrines before they were converted into Brahminical temples.
