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Nalanda Travel Guide

    Ruins of Nalanda University

    Ruins of Nalanda University

    Nalanda

 

Nalanda Travel Guide


One of the most striking features of ancient India is its penchant for higher learning and formal education. And the proof of the same stands even today in the historic ruins of Nalanda University. This is located in the present day Indian state of Bihar and was held in great esteem over a long period for its deliverance of higher learning in various subjects.

There was plenty of royal patronage that was also extended to the University in the days of its functioning. Emperors of the Mauryan dynasty to kinds from the Pala dynasty of Bengal were known to have extended their assistance that came in the form of monetary assistance and construction of more buildings in extension of its present constructions.

There is a land of about 14 hectares in which the present day ruins of this ancient center of learning still stands as a testimony of the glorious past. There are several traces of dynastic influences of the Kushanas and the Palas that are seen within the intricate carvings and the structures of the buildings.

Among the ruins of the ancient university there is also the established Nalanda Museum. This is a place for storing various documents and manuscripts of significant historical value. Artifacts and statues that were discovered as part of the excavations around here are also placed in this museum.

Within a short distance there is the Surya temple or the one that is dedicated to the Sun god. This unique place of worship has deities that are of reverence among Hindus and Buddhists alike.

In close proximity to Nalanda there is a place called Rajgir and is popularly visited by large number of tourists every year. There are several places of interest for the Hindus, Buddhists and the Jaina cultures. Chiefly among the places are Swarna Gufa, the Griddhakuta Parvat and the Vishwa Shanti Stupa. There is also a place called Pawapuri within a short distance where Lord Mahavira is said to have died.

There are several short trips and excursions that are carried out to Nalanda and its neighboring places that you ca be a part of. There are government guest houses and small hotels along with several monasteries where people can stay. You can also make a daylong travel plan and return to Bodh Gaya where hotel accommodations are more commonly available.

Nalanda is connected by a network of roadways that are regularly used by tourists and pilgrims for their travel plans from different parts of Bihar like Patna and Bodh Gaya as well as other parts of the country as well. But if you are traveling by railways the nearest station is at Bodh Gaya and the nearest airport will be at Patna. However there is no dearth of travel options with taxis and rented cars to these places.

Last Updated: 29/03/2012




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