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What To See & Do When Visiting Nalanda, A UNESCO World Heritage Site, In Bihar? List Inside

Ankita Mazumdar
Nalanda

District Nalanda, located 95 km away from Bihar’s Patna, is an important tourist destination in India that is rich in history and culture. Home to the infamous Nalanda University, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016. Last month, the Prime Minister of India inaugurated the new campus for Nalanda University, situated in Rajgir. With increasing footfalls from around the world to witness Nalanda, we have listed some of the best places to visit here.

9 Places To Visit In Nalanda In Bihar

1. Nalanda University Ruins

The archaeological ruins of Nalanda are a prominent site which should be on your list when you are coming here. Nalanda University, spread over an area of 23 hectares, stands out as one of the oldest institutes in India. It is also one of the oldest in the world, dating back to the 5th century. The popularity and profound growth of his place continued till the 12th century. It was destroyed, burned and left in ruins by the Bakhtiyar Khilji. The ruins feature panels, stupas, stairways, dormitories, halls and more. You take your time and explore all of it.

2. Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall

You can’t miss Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall, which was erected in memory of Hiuen Tsang or Xuanzang, a Chinese scholar who visited Nalanda for more than 12 years. He came here to inculcate more knowledge about Buddhism at Nalanda University. The site of this tourist spot is said to be where he lived. To learn more about medieval India around the time Tsang stayed, you can read his writings and his observations in this memorial hall. Isn’t that amazing?

3. Nalanda Archaeological Museum

If Nalanda University’s historical significance grips you, then head over to the Nalanda Archaeological Museum. You can get a glimpse of the beautiful and significant ancient relics of this institution. Get educated about the beautiful Pala Art displayed here. Next, there are statues made out of basalt stone, bronze, terracotta and more. This comes under the Archaeological Survey of India and was opened in 1917 with four elaborate galleries.

4. The Great Stupa

Can you believe this stupa was built in the 3rd century by the Mauryan emperor, Ashoka? He did it to honour Sariputra, one of the top disciples of the Buddha. Not to spook you but this stupa houses the bones of Sariputra! It is a marvellous structure which is still standing tall after centuries as a testament to its rich cultural heritage! It is also known as the Nalanda Stupa. The influence of Buddhism is extremely high in Nalanda and also in Myanmar, as the Gwe Bin Tet Kon stupa is said to be influenced by the Nalanda Stupa! Crazy right?

5. Surya Mandir

As the name suggests, this is a temple dedicated to the mighty sun god. You can find many Buddhist and Hindu deities at this temple, which is thronged by hundreds of tourists every day. If you are someone who celebrates Chatth Puja, then you have to visit this temple during this festival. They lavishly celebrate it twice a year in the Vaishakha and Kartika months of the Hindu calendar. So, don’t forget to plan accordingly.

6. Nalanda Multimedia Museum

Multimedia students visiting Nalanda for educational purposes should visit this museum! It is also located near the ruins and showcases the university’s ancient history and culture. You can go through artefacts, manuscripts, models, audio-visual displays, 3D animations, interactive exhibits, information from scholarly studies and more. 

7. Nav Nalanda Mahavihara

It is a deemed university established in 1951 in Nalanda, which you must visit. It is a modern institution for Buddhist studies and represents the great historical significance of this region. There are constant repairs on statues going on, showcasing the preservation efforts towards history. If you are interested in researching Buddhism, Pali literature, and philosophy, then you know where to visit.

8. Kundalpur Digambar Jain Temple

This is a popular tourist spot in Nalanda, as it is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. There is a majestic statue of Lord Mahavira in the complex, where you may also find Dirga Pushkarni, an ancient pond. Along with this, the enchanting architecture is a reflection of Jainism and its heritage, with lush greenery all around. If you are interested in the insights of the life and teachings of Lord Mahavira, then this place is perfect for you.

9. Black Buddha Temple

This one is also known as Shyama Mandir. It is located near the historic Nalanda University and is visited by Buddhist followers from all over the world. The statue is a black stone statue of the Buddha adorning golden cloth, hence the name of the temple. It is very elegant looking and is crucial to the landmark of this institute as it provides a serene atmosphere where you can worship the Lord.

Also Read: Did You Know There is A Patna Outside India? Located 7665 Km From Its Bihari Namesake, This Town Is In Scotland!

History buffs are going to have an amazing time exploring Nalanda!

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva
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