Nalanda is popularly known as the major hub of higher education of ancient times. Nalanda University was one of the first greatest universities in the world. Nalanda is situated in Indian state of Bihar. It is situated just 55 miles from Patna, the capital city of the state. Nalanda University was learning center of Buddhist during fifth and sixth century. The structure was made of red bricks. The ruins of Nalanda University is spread upon an area of 14 hectares. The university attracted many students and scholars from other countries like Greece, China and Persia. University was destroyed by Turkic Muslim invaders in 1913. It is said that the complex of the university was so large that it continued to burn for three months after it was put on fire by the invaders. Now there are efforts on the part of countries like Japan, China, Singapore, and India to restore and rebuild the site as Nalanda International University. Nalanda Archeological Museum is interesting place to visit. The museum contains relics of the Nalanda University. It also offers visitors to have a look in to the Pala Art which suggest that the university gave importance to both creative arts and Intellectual development. The great Stupa is also situated near the site. Its beautiful sculpture presents the splendor history of Nalanda. Nava Nalanda Vihar is a modern Buddhist learning center located near famous lotus pond in Bihar. The center was established by Bihar government in 1951. The institute mainly deals with research oriented education on Buddhist religion and Pali scripts. Surya Temple is another place of interest in Nalanda. The temple is dedicated to the Sun God. It is located near the university premises and contains many idols of Gods and goddess. Bihar Sharif and Rajgir are other places of attraction near Nalanda. Nalanda is well linked by many state run buses and other private vehicles to Patna, Bodhgaya, Rajgir and other cities and towns of the state. Rajgir serves the nearest railway head to Nalanda and it is just 12 km away from it. The railway station is well linked to other cities and towns of the state and the country. Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Airport of Patna, Bihar is closest airbase to Nalanda. The airport is about 100 km away from it and is well connected by several flights to other major cities of India.
