Exploring Nalanda, India's biggest learning hub from ancient

Posted by Team on: Nov 26, 2022

Bihar is home to Nalanda, which was formerly considered to be one of the greatest educational institutions in history. This tiny settlement, which is located around 72 kilometres from the city, is a component of the Buddhist Circuit, which also includes Rajgir and Bodh Gaya. It won't be difficult to go to this location either because it has an excellent network of roads.

Details on its history

Several temples, monasteries, and viharas that were erected by various rulers may be discovered at this historic centre of learning, which was founded in the fifth century AD. According to the chronicles, the Buddha made multiple trips to Nalanda during his lifetime, but it wasn't until much later that the city gained notoriety as a centre of Buddhist scholarship. 

According to statistics, it was the first residential international university in the world, housing 10,000 students and 2000 teachers. Until the Afghans stormed the area in the 12th century AD and set fire to it, the university was able to maintain its stature.

Time to visit is best

Due to its location in the Gangetic plains, it can be as hot as 37.8°C during the summer and as cold as 27.8°C during the winter. You should therefore schedule your trip for the winter to have a more laid-back experience.

How to get there

By air: The closest airport, Patna, is 89 kilometres distant and has frequent flights to Delhi, Kolkata, Ranchi, Varanasi, Mumbai, Lucknow, and Kathmandu.

By rail - Rajgir, the closest railway station, is around 12 km away and has direct trains to Kolkata, Delhi, Varanasi, and other significant eastern Indian cities.

By road - Nalanda is well-connected through a good road network, so planning a road trip to this place will also be a great idea.