Great 5th Century institution of knowledge

A nondescript locale in the outskirts of Rajagriha, Nalanda in Bihar represents a glitzy visage of Indian renaissance. A hot seat of knowledge and learning, Nalanda boasts of a rich culture and tradition that has gained worldwide accolades. Established in the 5th century, the ancient University of Nalanda flourished under the patronage of various rulers. This tiny village was the favorite of Lord Buddha and Mahavira who had lived here for several years.

There is a fabulous legend behind the name Nalanda, which narrates how this village got its name. The place where the monastery was going to be constructed was the abode of a serpent and while digging the foundation the serpent got injured. The clairvoyants of that time observed that the monastery that would have been constructed in that place would be renowned for a long. Later this Monastery turned to be a great institution of knowledge, whose unparallel credentials gave it a unique seat in the entire history of the nation.

To the outside world, Nalanda still beckons withthe remains of this residential school of bygone eras. But it is not just the remnants of a great institution that Nalanda offers to its visitors. Apart from the ramparts of ancient monuments and Buddhist shrines, this historic place offers some of the popular pilgrim centers and holy spots on your Bihar tour package.

A place that carries the rich history, tradition and culture of a great nation Nalanda proffers some unique experience to the visitors.

A visit to this tiny hamlet is just like going back to the ancient times. While roaming through the ramparts of stupas, monasteries and viharas one would feel they are walking through the doorsteps of various centuries. It is a must visit place for those who are proud of being a part of such a great culture and interested in knowing the colorful incidents of the past.

History
The history of Nalanda goes back to the times of Lord Mahavira and Lord Buddha in the 6th century. Various legends have been associated with the evolution of the name ‘Nalanda’. While some believe the name to have been derived from the terms ‘Nalam’ meaning ‘Lotus’ and ‘da’ that means ‘to give’, Hieun Tsang in his documents has suggested a ‘naga’ to have been the inspiration behind the name of the city. Nalanda is also famed for being the birthplace of Sariputra, an important follower of Lord Buddha.

Nalanda has been an important center for Buddhism point of view as Lord Buddha is said to have visited it many times. Various memoirs of Chinese travelers Hieun Tsang and Fi Han confirm them to have been students at the then Nalanda University, which was the first university of its kind in the world.

Emperor King Asoka, a great patron of Buddha is also closely associated with Nalanda. He is said to have built many temples here. It was during this time, i.e. 2nd century B.C. that the renowned alchemist and philosopher Nagarjuna studied and taught here.

However, not much of the history from the Asoka time has been restored. The Guptas ruled here in the 5th century. The city was also an important part in the kingdom of Mauryan king Harshavarshan, who ruled here from 606 to 647 A.D. The present day Nalanda was established on 6th November 1972, when it was declared as an independent district with headquarters at Bihar Sharif.

Attractions
Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall: The one and only traveler who helped a lot to fetch the fame of Nalanda to the outside world, Hiuen Tsang adorns a prestigious place in the history of entire India. A lot of information is obtained about medieval India from his writings and in fact, India owes much to this scholarly man for his invaluable service.

Nalanda Archaeological Museum: A museum that exclusively exhibits the relics of the ancient Nalanda University and its adjoining areas, Nalanda Archaeological Museum is a treat to the eyes. It offers an authentic peep into the Pala art which proves that the university gave equal importance to creative arts along with intellectual development. Apart from showcasing imaginative skills, the assortment of sculptures exposes the attire, ornaments, and other features of societal life during the Pala period. In effect it is the finest portrayal of the ancient India that gives a great insight to the life and culture of the ancient Indian society.

Nalanda University: A glittering edifice in the entire history of Indian subcontinent, Nalanda University boasts of a rich tradition that had gained world wide accolades. This renowned institution of the 5th century had been established under the patronage of the Gupta rulers.

Nav Nalanda Vihar: A modern center of Buddhist thought set up by the Bihar Government, in the year 1951, Nava Nalanda Vihar tries to spread the ancient tradition to the modern generation. The institute is located at the famous lotus pond in Bihar. The centre mainly dealt with research-oriented education in the Pali script and Buddha religion.

The Great Stupa: The great stupa at Nalanda is the end result of seven consecutive accretions. Flanked by flight of steps and terraces, beautiful sculpture and votive stupas the great stupa offers a glance of the past splendor of Nalanda.
Surya Mandir: Dedicated to the sun god, centuries old Surya temple is a popular attraction in Nalanda. It is situated just near the University premises. Apart from the idols of so many gods and goddess, one can find Buddhist deities inside the temple premises.

Best time to visit
Nalanda has a hot climate during summers and cool climate during winters. Monsoons during June to September offer medium rainfalls. The best time to visit the place is from October to March.

How to reach
By Train: Rajgir is the nearest railway station which is 12 km away from Nalanda. Regular train services are available from this station to all parts of India. Taxis are available from the railway station for Nalanda.
By Air: Lok Nayak Jayaprakash airport at Patna is the nearest airport, which is 78 km away from Nalanda. This airport is connected to major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata. Taxis are available from the airport to Nalanda.
By Bus: Nalanda is connected to other cities by state owned public bus services. Bihar Tourism and Development Corporation provides bus services from Patna to Nalanda, and also from cities like Bodhgaya and Rajgir to Nalanda.