The Nalanda University Archaeological
Complex
The total area of the excavation is about 14 hectares. All the edifices are
of red brick and the gardens are beautiful. The buildings are divided by a central
walkway that goes south to north, the monasteries or "Viharas" are
east of this central alley and the temples of "Chaiyas" to the west.
The Vihara-1 is perhaps the most interesting with its cells on two floors built
around a central courtyard where steps lead up to what must have been a dais
for the professors to address their students. A small chapel still retains a
half broken statue of the Lord Buddha.
The enormous pyramidal mass of the Temple No.3 is impressive and from its
top commands a splendid view of the entire area. It is surrounded by smaller
stupas, many of which are studded with small and big statues of the Lord Buddha
in various poses or 'Mudras'.
The Nalanda Archaeological Museum
Opposite the entrance to the ruins of the university and houses, it has a small
but beautiful collection of Buddhist and Hindu bronzes and a number of undamaged
statues of the Lord Buddha that were found in the area. Two enormous terracotta
Jars of the first century stand intact behind the museum in a shaded enclosure.
The collection includes copper plates and stone inscriptions, coins, pottery
and samples of burnt rice (12th century AD) found among the ruins here. Open
during 10.00 to 17.00 hours. Closed on Friday.
Nava Nalanda Mahavihara
Nava Nalanda Mahavihara is devoted to study and research in Pali Literature
and Buddhism. This is a new institute, where students from foreign countries
also study.
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