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Nalanda, Bihar, established in 5th century A.D., is famous as a seat of learning in ancient India. Gautam Buddha visited this place several times. Chinese scholar Hieun Tsang spent here in the 7th century & his description is regarded as a treasured gift of Indian history. After Hiuen Tsang as many as 11 Chinese and Korean travelers had visited Nalanda. Another pilgrim who stayed at Nalanda for a considerable time was Tsang.It is heard that Mohammad Bakhtiar Khilji destroyed Nalanda and the monks were either killed or had fled. The great collections were burnt or destroyed. - How to Reach:
You can go to Nalanda via Rajgir which is well-connected by roads & rail. Nalanda is just 12 kms. from Rajgir.The nearest airport to Nalanda is at Patna which is 89 km away. - Attractions: - Nalanda University:
Established by the Gupta kings Nalanda University was among one of the best universities in the past. Scholars like Huen Tsang and Fahien read here. Lord Mahavira and Lord Buddha during the 5th and 6th centuries frequently this place. It is 62 kms. from Bodhgaya. Emperor Ashoka and Harshavardhana were some of its most celebrated patrons. - Nalanda Archaeological Museum:
This museum is situated in the opposite side of entrance of the university. There are magnificent collections Buddhist and Hindu bronzes & statues of Lord Buddha. - Nava Nalanda Mahavihara:
It is a center for study and research of Pali Literature and Buddhism. - Hieun Tsang Memorial Hall:
A new construction was built to pay a tribute to the great Chinese traveler, Hieun Tsang. - Silao:
There is a village named Silao, which is popular for its local sweet - Khaja - , in between Nalanda and Rajgir. - Surajpur Baragaon:
Here is a temple of Surya, the Sun God. Pilgrims come to this holy temple twice a year in - Vaishakha - (April-May) and in - Kartika - (October-November) during the Chhath Puja.
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