Nalanda, Bihar

Nalanda is a beautiful culture and learning site located in Bihar. It is counted among the most renowned religious centres in the country. Nalanda was established in the 5th century. It is said that Gautam Buddha and Lord Mahavir stayed here for many years of their life. The place is visited by numerous travellers due to rich tradition encircling it. Many history seekers come here to explore monasteries and ancient monuments. The temples of Nalanda take you into the history of this place.

History
Nalanda has a splendid history which goes back to 6th century in the times of Gautam Buddha and Lord Mahavir. Numerous myths are associated with the name of this place. It is also popular for being the source of Sariputra, an important follower of Gautam Buddha. Buddha visited this place several times while he was alive but it gained popularity much later, during 5th-12th centuries AD. In this very first residential international university on the planet, over 2,000 teachers and 10,000 students from Buddhism background lived and studied. The university found many supporters during the rule of Gupta, Kushan, and Pal kings. King Ashoka and Harshavardhana also made many temples as well as monasteries here. 

Attractions
The ruins of Nalanda University cover 14 hectares of land. The university has a distinct Kushana style of architecture. The Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall here was constricted in the memory of Hiuen Tsang, a Chinese traveller who visited India around 5th century AD. He was so awe-struck by the glory of Nalanda University that he stayed here for 12 years and served as a teacher as well as student. He shared some deep facts about Indian political as well as social conditions prevailing in those times. Also visit the Surya Mandir, an ancient temple dedicated to the Sun God. The Nalanda museum, raised in 1971, takes you back into history and houses a good compilation of ancient manuscripts and Buddhist statues.

How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport from Nalanda is Patna around 89 km away.
By Rail: Rajgir, 12 km away, is the nearest railway station from Nalanda.
By Road - Nalanda is connected through a good road network with Rajgir 12 km.