Nalanda

Nalanda was originally just a village that ran past the route of Rajgriha (modern-day Rajbir) which was then the capital of Magadha (modern-day Bihar). It is believed that the 24th Jain tirthankar- Mahavir Jain spent 14 rainy seasons in Nalanda. Also, Gautam Buddha delivered his lectures in the area. Not much is known about the territory in the centuries to follow. However, it is believed that in the 17th century King Ashoka- the great Mauryan and Buddhist emperor, built a temple at Nalanda in reverence for Buddha and his belief in the religion. He placed famous philosophers and intellectuals like Nagarjuna and Aryadeva as the head of the institution to impart education. But the notable history of Nalanda begun supposedly during the Gupta era, according to the seal found in the name of King Kumargupta. His successors expanded the empire by building many more monasteries and temples. Post Gupta period, Nalanda flourished under the reign of emperor Harsha. But the place suffered a big blow under the rule of Pala dynasty when it was plundered and destroyed by the Muslim Mamluk Turkish kings. Later in 1915, the Archaeological Survey of India studied the site and excavated 6 temples and 11 monasteries. The site is still a popular tourist destination in India.

Nalanda has got pretty plain food habits, mostly due to the Buddhist influence. The cuisine is pretty much vegetarian and healthy comprising of dal roti and seasonal vegetables. Litti Chokha is the most favourite snack of the people. Some other popular snacks are Samosa, Kachori, Aalu Kachaalu, Bhooja, Ghughni Choora, Dahi Choora, Jhaal Moodhi etc. Khaja is a distinct savoury sweet originating from a small village called Silao, next to Nalanda. You should definitely try the mouth-watering crispy fried dish made with kneaded flour and dipped in sugary syrup. It is available in plenty shapes and sizes- triangular, rectangular, circular, as per your wish. The place also excels in sweets made from condensed milk. Tilkul and anarsa are some other popular sweets of the region.

If in Nalanda, you should never miss out on their very famous drink- Sattu Pani, made from roasted grains, spices and water. We also recommend you to try the delish Lassi or Aam Jhor.
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Day 1: Explore the Nalanda University Ruins and Archaeological Complex. Visit the Nalanda Archaeological Museum, Nava Nalanda Mahavira, Hiuen Tsang Memorial. Treat your taste buds with some Silao ka Khaja.

NOTE: It is possible to complete this tour in a day. However, tourists may opt for spiritual camps in the city too.

The top places near to Nalanda are Bodh gaya which is 67 km from Nalanda, Rajgir which is located 11 km from Nalanda, Patna which is located 62 km from Nalanda, Varanasi which is located 251 km from Nalanda, Vaishali which is located 105 km from Nalanda

The top things to do in Nalanda are Nalanda University, Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall, The Great Stupa, Pawapuri, Nalanda Archaeological Museum, Kundalpur. You can see all the places to visit in Nalanda here

The Patna airport is the nearest (100km) for access to Nalanda. The city does not have its own railway station, the nearest being at Rajgir (13km). Bus facilities are also available to and from Patna, Gaya, Bihar Sharif and Rajgir.
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Nalanda has got pretty plain food habits, mostly due to the Buddhist influence. The cuisine is pretty much vegetarian and healthy comprising of dal roti and seasonal vegetables. Litti Chokha is the most favourite snack of the people. Some other popular snacks are Samosa, Kachori, Aalu Kachaalu, Bhooja, Ghughni Choora, Dahi Choora, Jhaal Moodhi etc. Khaja is a distinct savoury sweet originating from a small village called Silao, next to Nalanda. You should definitely try the mouth-watering crispy fried dish made with kneaded flour and dipped in sugary syrup. It is available in plenty shapes and sizes- triangular, rectangular, circular, as per your wish. The place also excels in sweets made from condensed milk. Tilkul and anarsa are some other popular sweets of the region.

If in Nalanda, you should never miss out on their very famous drink- Sattu Pani, made from roasted grains, spices and water. We also recommend you to try the delish Lassi or Aam Jhor.
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October to March is the best time to visit Nalanda. Summers are sweltering, and it won't be advisable to step out in the sun. Monsoons experience heavy showers and can disrupt your travel plans.
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A vital spot for Buddhists and Jains and influenced by several dynasties, Nalanda is a perfect site for people interested in religious studies, ancient languages and medieval history.

Extremely hot in summers. Limited tourist services. Limited public transport.