About
Nalanda
Considered as the city of monks, Nalanda is a big draw for all Buddhist
pilgrims from around the world. Huen Tsang studied in the Nalanda University
in mid 600's. It was one of the biggest and oldest universities of the world
and was considered as an epicenter of civilization during that period of
time. Located in the state of Bihar, Presently a small town, Nalanda is a
historic city with various ancient relics dotting its topography. The
excavated piece of ancient Indian culture housed in the Nalanda university
archaeological complex is always a sample of interest to historians. Nalanda
is associated with various religions and religious gurus. The small town was
also visited by Lord Buddha (Father of Buddhism), Lord Mahavir (Father of
Jainism), Emperor Harshavardhan, The Ashoka (Two great Hindu Kings), all of
whom contributed a lot to this pristine land.
Nalanda is a village of archaeological importance and the signs of ancient
Buddhist culture are visible in it. Many monuments relating to the birth and
spread of Buddhism could be seen here. The village has an antique touch of
religion and wisdom going hand in hand. The altitude of Nalanda is of 67
meters and ruins of once greatest university of learning is scattered all
around the village. A large number of ancient Buddhist establishment
-Stupas, Chaityas, Temples and Monastery sites are common in Nalanda. The
Nalanda museum has many of the ancient antique pieces preserved delicately.
Nalanda University Archaeological Complex- Nalanda University
Archaeological Complex is an architectural heritage. It is spread across 14
hectares of land, the building is beautifully built by red bricks and the
glorious garden in front of the university further adds more charm. There
are beautiful monasteries and also chaityas(temples) adorned the university.
The Nalanda Archaeological Museum - One of the prime attractions of
Nalanda, its the signature site of the tourist. The museum preserve rare
artifacts of Buddhist era and also Hindu statues and artifacts. The fine
lord Buddha statues are also one of the attraction.
Nava Nalanda Mahavihara- This education institute constructed in
1951 was dedicated to the research and study of Buddhism and Pali
literature. It is now a popular tourist attraction.
Hieun
Tsang Memorial Hall – The hall was made in the memorial of famous
Chinese traveler Hieun Tsang. Here you can find some ancient manuscripts,
relics and snaps of trail of Hien Tsang.
Surajpur Baragaon – Surajpur Baragaon is a revered Hindu
pilgrimage located close to Nalanda and also visited by many people. The
main attraction of the temple is huge sun temple beside the lake.
Not To Overlook- Excursions From Nalanda
Rajgir- The Rajgir city is renowned all over world for its Buddhist
presence. It is around 12 km from Nalanda and also famous pilgrimage for
Jains and Hindus. Most of the hills are toped by Digambara Shrines. Scenic
beauty and serene ambiance utter sigh of relief to travelers from material
world. The must see places of Rajgir are Swarna Gufa, Griddhakuta Parvat and
Vishwa Shanti Stupa and many other.
Bihar Sharif- A pilgrimage of Muslims, it is located 13 km away from
the Nalanda. The place is famous for Islamic architecture. the tomb of
famous Malik Ibrahim Baya is positioned here and people from far places come
to to see and celebrated annual Urs.
Bodh Gaya- It is most important pilgrimage center of Buddhism and
located 50 km away from Nalanda. Maha Bodhi temple is the prime attractions
besides several monasteries are there, which were built by governments of
different Buddhist countries. You can also stroll to archaeological museum.
Pawapuri- Pawapuri is the place where lord Mahavira died. So, the
place is much revered by Jains. The place is located 47 km from Nalanda and
a good place to see.
Location : Nalanda is situated 90 km south east of Patna and falls
on the way to Rajgir. It is situated between 25-degree north latitude and
85-degree east longitude.
Climate : Summers are warm; temperatures could go up to 37 degree
Celsius. In winters maximum temperature can reach 17 degree Celsius while
minimum could be 11 degree Celsius. The rainfall, during peak season (June
to September), is 120 cm
By Air : Nearest airport is Patna,which is 90 km from
Nalanda. Patna is the capital of Bihar. So, there are regular flight from
major cities of India operates from here.
By Rail : The nearest railway station is Bakhtiyarpur,
which is 38 km away from Nalanda. Many important rails bypass this station.
By Road : Well connected road network covers Nalanda.
Major cities like Patna, Bodhgaya, Rajgir, Delhi and Kolkata are connected
to Nalanda by road.
Related Storie(s)
Ranchi- A Beautiful City In Bihar-
By Nawal Kishore Prasad
The Lotus Trail- By Rahul
Sharma
Patna To Bodhgaya- By Asima
Pandey
