If Bihar had a crown of intellectual pride, Nalanda would be its sparkling jewel. This ancient land isn’t just a bunch of old ruins—Nalanda breathes history, whispers philosophy, and serves up some seriously good food on the side.
Once home to one of the world’s first and greatest residential universities, Nalanda wasn’t just a place to study—it was where minds from across the globe gathered, debated, meditated, and evolved. Over 1,500 years ago, scholars from China, Tibet, Korea, and Sri Lanka flocked here, not for the Wi-Fi (obviously), but for wisdom.
Walking through the ruins of Nalanda University today—now a UNESCO World Heritage Site—feels like flipping through a stone-carved storybook. But here’s the thing: Nalanda is not stuck in the past.
It’s a thriving town with spiritual feelings and friendly people who’ll tell you all about history or serve you delicious home-style Bihari food. Nalanda welcomes you with wide arms and perhaps a steaming plate of litti chokha.
Places to Visit in Nalanda
1.Nalanda University Ruins: This is the showstopper! Spread across 14 hectares, the ruins include monasteries, temples, meditation halls, and a glimpse of life from centuries ago. The brick structures, intricate carvings, and overall layout will leave you in awe. Pro tip: hire a guide to get the full experience and the juicy historical gossip!
2.Nalanda Archaeological Museum: Right opposite the ruins, this museum houses relics, ancient statues of Buddha, coins, terracotta, and more. It adds layers of meaning to what you see in the ruins. Tickets cost around Rs. 20.
3.Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall: Built in memory of the Chinese scholar and traveler Hiuen Tsang who studied and taught in Nalanda. It’s a peaceful place with beautiful architecture.
4.Kundalpur: Believed to be the birthplace of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. A serene and spiritual place that’s a must-visit for those interested in Jain heritage.
5.Surajpur Baragaon: A hidden gem, this village has a large water tank and a temple dedicated to Surya (Sun God). It’s a local favorite, especially during the Chhath festival.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to explore Nalanda is between October and March, when the weather is cool and pleasant. Summers can be extremely hot and humid, while monsoons, though beautiful, might dampen outdoor exploration.
Foodie Diaries: Nalanda Cuisine & Street Food
Now let’s talk food—because what’s travel without tasting the local flavors?
1.Litti Chokha: Bihar’s most iconic dish. Roasted wheat balls stuffed with sattu (spiced gram flour) served with mashed potatoes and brinjal. You’ll find the best versions in local dhabas and roadside stalls for as little as Rs. 30!
2.Khaja & Thekua: These sweet, crispy snacks are perfect for tea-time munching. They’re easily available in sweet shops near the ruins and bus stand.
3.Chana Ghugni: Spiced chickpeas served with chopped onions, lemon juice, and green chilies. A spicy, tangy treat available for Rs. 10-20.
4.Makhana Dishes: Nalanda is close to the Mithila region, known for its foxnuts (makhana). Try roasted makhana or makhana kheer if you get a chance!
Popular Eateries:
- Nalanda Restaurant near the ruins for full meals.
- Local chai shops around the bus stand area that serve piping hot tea in clay cups with snacks.
Shopping in Nalanda
While it may not be a shopping haven, Nalanda has charming local markets where you can buy:
- Handcrafted souvenirs
- Books on Buddhism and Jainism
- Traditional mithila paintings
- Local snacks like tilkut, khaja, and sweets
Tip: Visit the Rajgir market (just 12 km away) for a broader shopping experience.
Hidden Gems
- Pawapuri: Just 20 km away from Nalanda, it’s the place where Lord Mahavira attained Nirvana. The Jal Mandir situated in the middle of a lake is simply magical.
- Bihar Sharif: This nearby town has a beautiful mix of Hindu and Islamic architecture, including tombs and mosques. Great for photography and cultural exploration.
- Silao: Famous for Khaja, this small town is a must-stop to pick up boxes of this sweet treat.
How to Reach Nalanda
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Nalanda Railway Station, well connected with Patna and other parts of Bihar. From Patna, it takes about 2-3 hours by train.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Patna Airport (Jay Prakash Narayan Airport), about 90 km away. From the airport, you can hire a cab or take a bus.
- By Road: Frequent buses and taxis run from Patna, Gaya, and Rajgir. A taxi from Patna will cost around Rs. 1500-2000.
Local transport options include auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws. Cheap, eco-friendly, and perfect for short distances!
Final Words
“Travel far enough, you meet yourself.”
Nalanda is more than ruins and history books. It’s where the soul of learning meets the heart of Bihar‘s culture. Whether you’re meditating under ancient trees or savoring chana ghugni from a local vendor, Nalanda leaves a mark.
So pack your bags, charge your cameras, and empty your stomachs (for all the food you’re about to devour). Let Nalanda whisper it’s stories to you—one stone, one dish, and one smile at a time.
