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Nalanda is where one can find the famous ruins of the most ancient university in the world. The archaeological complex of the ancient university spreads to a total of 14 hectares. Founded and constructed in the 5th century AD, Nalanda is famous, especially in the Buddhist world, as an ancient site of complete learning.
This ancient site of learning is considered as the first ever residential international university of the world. It was recorded that 2,000 teachers and 10,000 monk students from all over the Buddhist world lived and studied here. Seen in its total entire view, this university is an architectural wonder in terms of structure and elaborate design.
All the structures of the university were made of red bricks. The buildings were constructed in a manner that they would be separated by paths called the ‘central walks’. The wondrous thing here is that all the central walks were made from south to north. The main central walk was called the central alley. The monasteries were situated on the east side of this central alley while the chaiyas or temples were located to the west of it. A part of the university, called the Vihara 1, is said to have been made surrounding a centre court where there are paved stairs-like steps leading to what would have been a speaking platform for teachers addressing their students.
History of Nalanda
It is believed that Nalanda University was built during the reign of the Gupta Dynasty. Historians, now, credit Kumara Gupta I as the emperor that ordered its construction. It is also held that the subjects taught at this university included even natural sciences and that Buddha himself had visited this university several times during his lifetime. This university became well-known not only for its educational facilities but also because student monks were given a chance to live monk-like lives in the confines of the Nalanda University.
Attractions of Nalanda
- Archeological Site of the Ancient University of Nalanda: The archaeological excavation itself of the university is the main attraction of Nalanda. There is a pyramidal mass on the spot that is referred to as Temple no.3. This pyramid offers one a splendid view of the entire university. This area is marked with many other stupas featuring big and small statues of the Lord Buddha in many holy poses.
- Nalanda Archeological Museum: This archaeological museum of Nalanda is located opposite the entrance to the archaeological site of the university. The museum houses a selection of beautiful, well-preserved collection of Buddhist and Hindu statues that date back to the years when the university was first built.
Best Time to Visit Nalanda, clothing and timings, if any
It is best to visit the place between the months of November to April. Cotton clothing is suggested due to temperate climate. One can explore to the excavation site and museum, any day from 10:00 am up to 5:00 pm except on Fridays.
Location of Nalanda
Nalanda is a town of the state of Bihar. It is located 12 kilometres from the town of Rajgir and 89 kilometres south of Patna.
How to Reach Nalanda
By Air: Patna is the nearest airport. From Patna, one can either take a taxi or bus to Rajgir and from there; cycle rickshaws or Tongas can be hired to get to Nalanda.
By Rail: Nearest railway station is Rajgir. From there on cycle rickshaw or Tongas are available to take one up to Nalanda.
By Road: One can reach Rajgir by road and from there settle into cycle rickshaws or Tongas to reach Nalanda.
Other Attractions near Nalanda
- Rajgir Dance Festival: This very colourful festival is held from October 24 to October 26 every year.
- Gaya: This is a sacred centre for Hindus. The Vishnupad temple that is located here attracts a lot of pilgrims from all around the world. Obeisances are offered in this temple for the salvation of the souls of the departed.
Tourist Information Office of Nalanda
Bihar State Tourism Development Corp.
Tourist Bhawan
Bir Chand Patel Path
Patna-1
Tel: 91 0612-2222622 / 2225411
Fax: 91 0612-2236218
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