Nalanda
Bihar Β· Magadh Β· 72m
Ruins of the world's first residential university
Why Special
Ruins of the world's first residential university β 5th century, 10,000 students, burned by Bakhtiyar Khilji in 1193. UNESCO World Heritage Site that rewrites your understanding of ancient Indian scholarship.
Infrastructure Reality
Network Coverage
Decent 4G in town. Patchy at ruins site.
WiFi: Limited
Medical & Emergency
Hospital: Rajgir Hospital (12km) (15 km)
Ambulance: 108
Police: Nalanda (3km)
Getting There
Rajgir 12km (20min). Patna 90km (2.5hrs). Best combined with Rajgir circuit.
Roads: State highway from Rajgir smooth.
Public transport: Shared autos from Rajgir. Trains to Rajgir.
Fuel & Stay
Fuel: Nalanda town
Stay: βΉ500-3000/night
15+ options (hotel, guesthouse)
Emergency: Rajgir has more options.
Helpline: Bihar Tourism: 0612-2225295
The stay decisions worth flagging in Nalanda.
Nalanda was the world's first residential university (5-12th century) β UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site. No stays at the site. Stay in Rajgir (15 km, Indo Hokke Hotel) for proximity, or Patna (90 km, Hotel Maurya) for comfort. Day-trip pattern: morning Nalanda ruins (3 hours), afternoon Nalanda Museum, then back to base.
Nalanda has no hotels at the UNESCO archaeological site β stay in Rajgir (15 km, Indo Hokke Hotel) or Patna (90 km, Hotel Maurya) and day-trip. The Nalanda ruins are a 3-4 hour visit. Most visitors pair Nalanda with Rajgir in a single day as part of the Buddhist Circuit.
The Nalanda Heritage Resort
We recommend it for its direct sightline to Nalanda University ruins and rooftop views of the archaeological complex that justify the splurge.
Anuradha Guest House
We recommend it because the owner is a former university guide, rooms are clean with decent wifi, and breakfast includes local rotisβbest value within walking distance of the monastery.
Nalanda Hotel
We recommend it for sitting 200 metres from Nalanda University's main entrance and 3 km from Nalanda Junction railway station, making it the logical base for day visits.
No x-factor pick here that's worth the flag. See alternatives below.
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How to Reach
π For International Travelers
Cultural Context
UNESCO World Heritage Site β ruins of world oldest university (5th century CE). Sacred Buddhist site attracting international pilgrims. Respectful at ruins and Nava Nalanda Mahavihara.
What to Wear
Modest. Comfortable walking shoes for extensive ruins. Sun protection essential.
Food Safety
Basic restaurants near ruins and in Nalanda town. North Indian food. Safe in established places. Bottled water.
Common Scams to Watch For
- Persistent unofficial guides at ruins β hire ASI-authorized guides only
- Fake antique sellers near the site
Cards & Cash
Limited β some hotels accept cards. Entry fees accept UPI. Cash preferred for local shops.
English Spoken
Moderate β international Buddhist visitors means tourism staff speak functional English.
Phone & SIM
Jio and Airtel work. Good 4G in Nalanda town.
Nearest Embassy
Delhi (~1,000km). Kolkata (~500km). Patna Japanese consular office for Buddhist pilgrims.
e-Visa for India. No additional permits needed. Part of Buddhist circuit β combined with Bodh Gaya and Rajgir.
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We don't sell bookings. Check these trusted platforms.
