Nalanda, located in the Indian state of Bihar, is an ancient university and a Buddhist learning center. Established in the 5th century CE, it was once a renowned center of higher learning, attracting thousands of students from all over Asia. It was a major Buddhist university and a center of learning for many centuries before it was destroyed in 1193 CE by the forces of Bakhtiyar Khilji.
Nalanda was founded by the Gupta dynasty and became one of the most famous universities of the world. Scholars from all over the world, including China and Tibet, traveled to the university to learn from its great teachers and scholars. Nalanda was renowned for its library, said to be the largest in the world, which housed over 9 million manuscripts. It was also known for its unique architectural style and the use of advanced technologies.
Nalanda was an important center of learning until it was destroyed by the forces of Bakhtiyar Khilji in 1193 CE. After its destruction, it slowly faded from memory and only recently has it been rediscovered and its importance acknowledged.
Today, Nalanda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is being developed into a modern university. The Nalanda University, established in 2014, is an international university which aims to revive the ancient university and its spirit of learning. It is dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge and aims to promote the spirit of inquiry, critical thinking, and the pursuit of knowledge. Nalanda is a symbol of the great tradition of learning and knowledge and will continue to be a source of inspiration and enlightenment for generations to come.
Ideal For:
Nalanda University is an ideal destination for those seeking a unique and enriching educational experience. Located in the Indian state of Bihar, Nalanda is an ancient centre of learning known for its Buddhist and Hindu teachings. The university offers a range of courses in the fields of philosophy, history, literature, science, and mathematics.
Nalanda is a great choice for students interested in pursuing a degree in the humanities and social sciences. The university is renowned for its strong interdisciplinary approach to teaching, with a focus on the integration of knowledge from different disciplines. Nalanda's wide range of courses offers students the opportunity to explore the richness and complexity of Indian culture and history.
Nalanda is also an excellent choice for those interested in Buddhism or Hinduism. The university offers a range of courses related to these two traditions, ranging from introductory to advanced levels. Additionally, Nalanda is home to various Buddhist and Hindu temples, making it an ideal place to deepen one’s spiritual practice.
How to reach
Reaching Nalanda is easy and there are several options available to travelers.
By Air: The nearest airport to Nalanda is the Patna Airport (PAT), which is about 80 km away. From here, you can take a taxi or hire a car to reach the university.
By Train: The closest railway station is Rajgir Station, which is about 15 km away from Nalanda University. From the station, you can take a taxi or bus to reach the university.
By Road: Nalanda is well-connected by road and there are several buses available from major cities such as Patna, Delhi, and Kolkata. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car to reach the university.
Climate and best time to visit:
The climate in Nalanda is hot and humid for most of the year, with temperatures ranging from 32°C to 45°C in summer and 10°C to 25°C in winter. Monsoon season is from July to September, with frequent showers and thunderstorms.
The best time to visit Nalanda is from October to March, when the temperature is relatively cooler and comfortable. The weather is perfect for exploring the ancient ruins of Nalanda University, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also visit nearby attractions like Rajgir, Bodh Gaya, and Pawapuri.
If you are looking for a unique experience, you can also visit during monsoon season to enjoy the lush greenery. However, it's important to keep in mind that there may be occasional heavy rains and floods, so it's best to be prepared.
Ideal Duration:
If you are planning to visit Nalanda University, you should ideally stay in Nalanda for at least two days.
On the first day, you can begin your exploration of Nalanda University by touring the ruins. This will give you an insight into the history of the university and its rich cultural heritage. You can also visit the nearby Nalanda Archaeological Museum, which houses several artifacts from the university.
On the second day, you can take part in the various cultural activities that take place at Nalanda University. These include talks and lectures by renowned scholars, cultural performances and visits to nearby temples. You can also take part in guided tours of the university, which will give you a better understanding of the history of the university.
Your visit to Nalanda University should come to an end with a visit to the nearby Nalanda Library. This treasure trove holds a wealth of knowledge and is an important part of the university’s history.
Places to Stay:
The beautiful city of Nalanda is home to some of the best accommodation options in the region. Whether you are looking for a luxurious stay or a more budget-friendly option, there are plenty of places to stay in Nalanda to suit all tastes and budgets.
For those looking for a luxurious stay, the Nalanda Tourist Inn is the best choice. Located near the Nalanda University ruins, the hotel offers luxurious rooms, suites, and apartments, all equipped with modern amenities. The hotel also features a restaurant, a spa, a pool, and a gym.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, the Nalanda Tourist Lodge is a great choice. This hotel is located in the center of town and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar. It is also close to many attractions, including the Nalanda University ruins.
For mid-range accommodation, the Hotel Ganges is a great option. This hotel offers comfortable rooms with all the modern amenities. It also has an in-house restaurant and bar, and is close to the Nalanda University ruins.
For those looking for a homestay experience, the Nalanda Guest House is a great option. This guest house is run by a local family and offers comfortable accommodation in traditional style. It is also close to the Nalanda University ruins.
