Nalanda University Ruins : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

The ruins of Nalanda University are some of the most famous tourist attractions in India. Located in present day Bihar, India, the ruins symbolize the glorious days when the university was one of the most celebrated educational institutions in the world. Spanning over four centuries of Buddhist scholarship, Nalanda University’s ruins are a treasured reminder of a great historical era. With this blog, you will not only learn some interesting facts about Nalanda University, but also get all the necessary travel information for exploring the ruins. So, if you are planning a trip, buckle up for some mesmerizing facts about Nalanda University.

Interesting Facts About Nalanda University Ruins

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1. Nalanda University is believed to have been founded in 427 CE and lasted until 1193 CE.

2. Nalanda was one of the earliest universities in the World, and served as an important center of learning for over 600 years.

3. The ruins that are visible today include the central temple complex, monasteries, lecture halls, meditation halls and art galleries.

4. The university had more than 10,000 students and 2,000 teachers from across the world.

5. Nalanda University had impressive amenities, like dormitories, a heated swimming pool and a cafeteria to accommodate the students.

6. The library, known as the ”Dharma Gunj” (Mountain of Truth) was said to have been huge and had hundreds of thousands of manuscripts on various subjects.

7. The ruins of Nalanda University were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016.

8. During its heyday, Nalanda was visited by the likes of Chinese pilgrims Fa Xian and Xuanzang, as well as the Islamic traveler Ibn Battuta.

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History & Information About Nalanda University Ruins

Nalanda University Ruins are located in Bihar, India. They are the ruins of an ancient Buddhist and Hindu university, which is believed to have been established in the 5th century CE. Nalanda was one of the world’s first great centres of higher learning and a renowned centre of Buddhist studies, philosophy, and Buddhism.

At its peak, Nalanda University had over 10,000 students from Japan, Korea, China, Turkey, and other countries. This remarkable school was home to some of the great thinkers of its time, including the famous Buddhist philosopher Nagarjuna and the renowned Chinese pilgrim and traveler, Xuanzang.

The university was destroyed by Muhammad Bakhtiyar Khilji in 1193 CE, who looted its libraries and burned it to the ground. This destruction marked the end of the university and its remarkable legacy. Today, the ruins of the old university lie forgotten and neglected, covered by fields of green, yet they are a reminder of the tremendous achievements of the past.

Nalanda is now an Archaeological Site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ruins have been partially restored and archaeologists are still uncovering new information about the university and its history. Some of the buildings that have been excavated include a main gateway, an assembly hall, courtyards, classrooms, and monasteries.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Nalanda University Ruins

Nalanda is a fascinating ancient Buddhist pilgrimage site in the Indian state of Bihar and is known for its rich history and archaeological ruins. The magnificent ruins of Nalanda University are a must-visit spot for history buffs, travelers, photographers, and archaeologists alike. Established in the 5th century AD, this site has managed to remain one of the most popular tourist attractions in India for its incredible architecture and monuments.

Getting There:

The closest airport to Nalanda is Bodhgaya’s Gaya Airport. Gaya Airport is well-connected to major Indian cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, etc. The nearest railway station is Rajgir Railway Station, which is 7 km away from Nalanda. You can also take the bus from Bodhgaya or Patna to reach Nalanda.

What to See:

The ruins of the ancient university spread across 14 hectares and are the most impressive fixtures to see in the area. The magnificent stupa, monastery complexes, lecture halls, arches, as well as Muslim tombs are some of the main attractions. Another notable site is the Nalanda Archaeological Museum, which houses many ancient artifacts and sculptures.

Best Time to Visit:

October to March is the ideal time to visit Nalanda University as the weather is pleasant and hospitable during this period. You can choose to visit the place during peak season from April till October but the temperature might be unbearably hot during that time.

Things to Keep in Mind:

– Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking around the ruins.

– Carry a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.

– Avoid visiting during the monsoons as the entire area may be waterlogged.

– Take photos only from designated spots.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Nalanda University Ruins

Q: When was Nalanda University established?

A:Nalanda University was founded in the 5th century AD.

Q: How long was Nalanda University in existence?

A:Nalanda University flourished for around 700 years with a brief interruption in 1193, before being destroyed in 1202.

Q: Who destroyed Nalanda University?

A:Nalanda University was destroyed by a Turkish Muslim army led by Bakhtiyar Khalji in the 12th century.

Q: Where is Nalanda University located?

A:Nalanda University is located in the Indian state of Bihar, around 95 km from Patna.

Q: What type of education was offered at Nalanda University?

A:Nalanda University was a major center for the study of Buddhist and Hindu scriptures, the sciences, law, medicine, and the arts.

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