Bihar: Things you didn’t know about Nalanda, world’s first residential university

The ruins of Nalanda University, located near the town of Rajgir, approximately 95 kilometres away from Patna, Bihar, is one of the most interesting places in India. Here’s why: Nalanda University holds a distinguished place in history as the world's first residential university. It was established around the 5th century CE as a centre of Buddhist learning and intellectual exchange, attracting scholars and students from across Asia.

Despite facing decline and eventual destruction, Nalanda's legacy endures through archaeological excavations, UNESCO recognition, and ongoing efforts to revive its intellectual heritage. Today, Nalanda University stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of education, enlightenment, and cultural exchange.

Here are a few things you didn’t know about Nalanda University:


Historical significance: Nalanda was a renowned Buddhist monastery and university that flourished from the 5th to the 12th century CE. It was the world's first residential university and attracted scholars and students from across Asia, making it a hub of intellectual exchange and Buddhist studies.

Vast campus: The Nalanda University complex covered an extensive area of approximately 14 hectares and comprised lecture halls, meditation cells, libraries, and accommodation for thousands of monks and scholars.

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Library of wisdom: The Nalanda University's library, called Dharma Gunj, was a repository of ancient knowledge, housing millions of manuscripts on various subjects such as philosophy, religion, astronomy, and medicine. It was said to be one of the largest libraries in the ancient world.

International students: Nalanda attracted students from distant lands, including China, Korea, Japan, Tibet, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and Central Asia. These students came to study Buddhist philosophy, logic, Sanskrit, medicine, and other disciplines.


Great teachers: The university boasted a faculty of eminent scholars, including luminaries such as Nagarjuna, Aryadeva, Vasubandhu, and Dharmapala, who contributed significantly to Buddhist thought and scholarship.

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Decline and destruction: Nalanda faced a decline and eventual destruction around the 12th century, primarily due to invasions by foreign powers, including Turkic conquerors. The library was reportedly set ablaze, leading to the loss of countless ancient manuscripts and the demise of the university.


Archaeological excavations: The ruins of Nalanda were rediscovered in the 19th century by British archaeologists, leading to extensive excavations that unveiled the grandeur of the ancient university. Today, the site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant pilgrimage destination for Buddhists and scholars alike.