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Nalanda Travel Guide
Exploring the Land of Ancient Buddhist Learning: A Nalanda Travel Guide
Nalanda, located in the eastern Indian state of Bihar, is a small town with a rich history as an ancient center of Buddhist learning. The town is home to the ruins of the Nalanda University, a Buddhist monastery and university that was one of the oldest and most renowned institutions of higher learning in the world.
As a travel destination, Nalanda offers a range of historical and cultural attractions for visitors to explore. Some must-see sites include the Nalanda University ruins, which include a number of ancient temples and monasteries; the Nalanda Archaeological Museum, which displays artifacts and relics from the university; and the Chinese Temple, a beautiful 19th-century temple that was built by Chinese Buddhist monks.
Nature lovers will enjoy a visit to the Rajgir Wildlife Sanctuary, located just a short drive from Nalanda. The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, jackals, and over 250 species of birds.
In the evening, visitors can enjoy a stroll through the local markets, which offer a range of handicrafts and local products. There are also a variety of restaurants and cafes in the town that serve local and international cuisine.
Overall, Nalanda is a fascinating and culturally rich destination that offers something for every type of traveler. With its rich history, beautiful natural setting, and charming atmosphere, a visit to Nalanda is sure to be a memorable one.
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From historical cities to natural wonders, come see the best of Nalanda.
Ruins of Nalanda University
Nalanda is about 90 km southeast of Patna. Although its history dates back to the time of the Buddha, Nalanda University was founded in the 5th century AD, and flourished for the next 700 years. The knowledge of this place was in a state of climax. International fame brought a large number of students from China, Mongolia, Tibet, Korea and other Asian countries to study. The standard of teaching here was very high. Nalanda was the main center of teaching of Mahayana Buddhism. Finally in the late 12th century the invader Bakhtiyar Khilji demolished the monastery, killed the monks and burnt the valuable library.
Archaeological Museum
Nalanda Archaeological Museum is a museum located in the ancient city of Nalanda, Bihar. Situated right opposite the ruins of Nalanda University, it is one of the popular archaeological museums in India Established in 1917, the Nalanda Archaeological Museum is one of the most prestigious site-museums of the Archaeological Survey of India. The museum houses a rare and beautiful collection of bronze sculptures, copper plates, manuscripts, stone inscriptions, pottery, coins and images of various deities. Most of the sculptures excavated from Nalanda are carved on basalt stone, but some are made of stone, bronze, plaster, terracotta etc.
Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall
Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall is a historical monument located in Nalanda, Bihar. Situated on the banks of Surajpur Lake, it is one of the most attractive tourist places in Nalanda. The construction of Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall was started by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru in 1957 and was completed in 1984. The monument was built in the memory of Hiuen Tsang, a popular Chinese traveler who had come to study Buddhism and mysticism at Nalanda University. Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall is a distinctive reminder of the architectural style of Nalanda University.
Mahavirswami Jain Water Temple
The Jal Mandir or Water Temple is situated in Pawapuri, in the Indian state of Bihar. It is a major pilgrimage destination of Jains and the temple is dedicated to Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, which marks the place of his cremation. Mahavira attained Nirvana in Pawapuri in 527 BC. The temple was originally built by King Nandivardhan, elder brother of Mahavira, within the pond which is filled with red lotus flowers. It is one of the five main temples in Pawpuri, where the "Charan Paduka" or foot impression of Mahavira is deified.
The Great Stupa ( Sariputra )
Sariputra Stupa is an ancient Buddhist stupa located inside the ruins campus of Nalanda University in Nalanda, Bihar. Also known as the Great Stupa, it is one of the must-see places in Nalanda. Sariputra Stupa, also known as Nalanda Stupa, is one of the remarkable excavations present in the ruins of Nalanda University. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is the most important monument in Nalanda and stands as a testament to its rich cultural heritage. Built in the 3rd century BC by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka in honor of Sariputra, a follower of the Buddha. Sariputra became a famous Arhat after being able to attain salvation by following in the footsteps of Buddha.
Ghora Katora Lake
Ghoda Katora Lake near Nalanda is a very lovely and mesmerizing place. It is said that the horses of Rajgir kings drank water from here and hence the form of the lake is similar to that of a horse. It is surrounded by mountains on three sides and is next to Vishwa Shanti Pagoda. You need to take the traditional "tonga" as private vehicles are not allowed. It is 6 kms away from the main road and the journey to this place is very mesmerizing. The very first glimpse will win your heart. The lake looks picturesque and is ideal for strolling across it and taking amazing pictures. Boating is also available here and visitors can enjoy a quality time with their family.
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