UNESCO Heritage Site of India-Nalanda: Complete Tourist Information

Location: Nalanda District, Bihar, India

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Inscribed in 2016

Overview

The Archaeological Site of Nalanda Mahavihara (Nalanda University) is one of the most important ancient centers of higher learning in India, dating back to the 5th century CE. It is located in the Indian state of Bihar and served as a prominent Buddhist monastic university that attracted scholars and students from across Asia until it was destroyed in the 12th century. The ruins of Nalanda are spread over a large area and include stupas, shrines, viharas (monastic buildings), and important works of art in stucco, stone, and metal.

Historical Background

Founding: Nalanda Mahavihara was founded in the 5th century CE under the Gupta Empire, and it flourished under the patronage of successive dynasties, including the Guptas, Harsha, and the Pala rulers.
Educational Hub: Nalanda was an international center for learning, offering a variety of subjects such as Buddhist philosophy, logic, grammar, metaphysics, medicine, and mathematics. The university housed over 10,000 students and 2,000 teachers at its peak.
Destruction: The university was destroyed by an army led by Bakhtiyar Khilji in the late 12th century, leading to the decline of Buddhism in India.

Major Attractions at Nalanda Mahavihara

Nalanda University Ruins:
- Monastic Cells (Viharas): The viharas are residential structures where the monks lived and studied. The ruins of these brick structures are well-preserved, with some still showing the original layout of the cells.
- Stupas: The site contains several stupas, the most significant being Stupa No. 3, also known as Sariputra Stupa, which was built in honor of the famous Buddhist scholar and disciple of Buddha, Sariputra. This stupa has several layers of construction, indicating it was expanded over time.
- Temples (Chaityas): Several temples at the site were used for religious purposes. These include remnants of large structures that once housed images of the Buddha and other deities.
- Libraries: Nalanda was known for its extensive libraries, which were said to have housed thousands of manuscripts. Though no physical remnants of the libraries remain, the site where they stood is part of the ruins.
Nalanda Archaeological Museum:
- Artifacts: The museum, located near the site, exhibits a rich collection of artifacts found during excavations at Nalanda. These include sculptures, bronzes, terracotta figures, inscriptions, and coins.
- Buddha Statues: The museum has several beautiful statues of Buddha in various postures, reflecting the artistic excellence of the period.
- Pottery and Seals: Ancient pottery, seals, and inscriptions provide insights into the daily life and administration of Nalanda.
Xuan Zang Memorial Hall:
- Tribute to the Chinese Scholar: This memorial hall, built by the Chinese government, honors the famous Chinese Buddhist monk and scholar Xuan Zang (Hsuan Tsang), who studied at Nalanda in the 7th century and later played a crucial role in spreading Buddhism in China.
- Exhibits: The hall contains exhibits that detail Xuan Zang’s life, his travels, and his contributions to Buddhist studies.
Nav Nalanda Mahavihara:
- Modern University: Established in 1951 near the ancient site, Nav Nalanda Mahavihara is a modern university that continues the educational legacy of the ancient Nalanda University, focusing on Pali, Buddhist studies, and Asian languages.

Visiting Information

Timings: The Nalanda ruins are open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Entry Fees:
- Indian Citizens: ₹20 per person
- Foreign Tourists: ₹200 per person
- Children below 15 years: Free entry
Photography: Allowed; however, photography inside the museum may have restrictions.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Nalanda is from October to March, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploring the site.

How to Reach Nalanda

By Air: The nearest airport is Patna’s Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport, about 90 kilometers from Nalanda. Patna is well-connected by flights to major Indian cities.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Nalanda Railway Station, but the major railhead is at Rajgir, 12 kilometers away. Rajgir is connected to Patna and other major cities.
By Road: Nalanda is well-connected by road, and buses and taxis are available from Patna, Rajgir, and other nearby towns.

Nearby Attractions

Rajgir: A historic town located 12 kilometers from Nalanda, Rajgir was an important site in both Buddhism and Jainism. It is home to several ancient temples, hot springs, and the Vishwa Shanti Stupa.
Pawapuri: A sacred Jain pilgrimage site where Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, attained Nirvana. The site is about 26 kilometers from Nalanda.
Bodh Gaya: Located about 95 kilometers from Nalanda, Bodh Gaya is the site where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. It is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites.

Tips for Visitors

Wear Comfortable Shoes: The site is large, and you’ll need to walk around to explore the ruins fully.
Carry Water and Snacks: While there are a few facilities around the site, it’s advisable to carry your own water and light snacks.
Respect the Heritage: Avoid touching or defacing the ancient structures.
Guides: Hiring a guide is recommended to get a detailed understanding of the history and significance of the site.
Visit Early: To avoid the heat and crowds, it’s best to visit early in the morning.

Conclusion

The Archaeological Site of Nalanda Mahavihara is not just a historical monument but a symbol of India’s rich educational and cultural heritage. Visiting Nalanda offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore one of the world’s first residential universities that was once a beacon of knowledge and learning in ancient India. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a Buddhist pilgrim, or a curious traveler, Nalanda provides an enriching experience that showcases the intellectual and spiritual legacy of the ancient world.