Patna – Nalanda – Rajgir – Pawapuri – Patna
A heritage circuit through the heartland of ancient Magadha: the ruins of Nalanda Mahavihara, once one of the world’s great residential universities, the hills and Buddhist sites of Rajgir, and the Jain pilgrimage centre of Pawapuri.
Arrival at Patna: Arrive at Patna Airport / Patna Railway Station, where you will be met by our representative. After a brief welcome, proceed by private vehicle towards Nalanda, one of the most important centres of ancient learning in India. Nalanda is located approximately 90 km southeast of Patna and is well connected by road.
Nalanda Mahavihara: On arrival, begin your sightseeing with the archaeological site of Nalanda Mahavihara. The ancient university was established during the 5th century CE and flourished for several centuries as a major centre of learning. Students and scholars came from different parts of Asia to study subjects including Buddhist philosophy, logic, grammar, astronomy, medicine and other disciplines. Explore the extensive archaeological complex, including:
Take time to understand the layout of this remarkable ancient centre of learning.
Nalanda Archaeological Museum: After visiting the ruins, proceed to the museum, which displays archaeological discoveries recovered from the Nalanda site, including sculptures, bronzes, terracotta objects, coins and other historical artefacts.
Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall: Continue to the memorial hall dedicated to the famous Chinese Buddhist scholar and traveller Xuanzang (Hiuen Tsang), who studied at Nalanda and recorded important information about the university and India.
After sightseeing, continue towards Rajgir. Check in to the hotel and relax.
After breakfast, proceed for a full-day exploration of Rajgir, an important historical, Buddhist and Jain destination. Rajgir was an ancient capital of Magadha and is closely associated with the life and teachings of Lord Buddha.
Vishwa Shanti Stupa: Begin with a visit to the magnificent Vishwa Shanti Stupa, also known as the World Peace Pagoda. The white marble stupa stands on Ratnagiri Hill and features four golden Buddha statues representing important stages of Buddha’s life. Enjoy the scenic surroundings from the hilltop.
Rajgir Ropeway: Enjoy the famous Rajgir Ropeway ride towards the hilltop area. The ropeway provides beautiful views of the surrounding hills and landscape.
Gridhakut Hill – Vulture’s Peak: Continue to Gridhakut Hill, one of the most important Buddhist sites in Rajgir. According to Buddhist tradition, Lord Buddha delivered several sermons here. The peaceful surroundings make this an important spiritual stop for Buddhist pilgrims and visitors.
Venu Van: Visit Venu Van, traditionally associated with Lord Buddha’s stay in Rajgir. Spend some peaceful time in the gardens and surroundings.
Bimbisara Jail: Visit the historical site associated with King Bimbisara, an important ruler of ancient Magadha and a contemporary of Buddha.
Cyclopean Wall: Continue to the ancient Cyclopean Wall, constructed from large undressed stones and traditionally associated with the ancient fortifications of Rajgir.
Maniyar Math: Visit Maniyar Math, an ancient religious and archaeological site located in Rajgir.
Later return to the hotel. Evening at leisure.
After breakfast, proceed towards Pawapuri, one of the most important Jain pilgrimage centres in Bihar.
Pawapuri Jal Mandir: Visit the beautiful Jal Mandir, a white marble temple situated in the middle of a lotus-filled water body. Pawapuri is traditionally associated with Lord Mahavira, the 24th Jain Tirthankara. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the temple complex.
Samavasaran: Continue to Samavasaran, an important Jain religious site in the Rajgir–Pawapuri region. The site is associated with Lord Mahavira’s teachings and is an important stop for Jain pilgrims.
Kundalpur: If time permits, visit Kundalpur Jain Temple, another important Jain heritage site near Nalanda.
Return to Nalanda: Proceed back towards Nalanda for some additional sightseeing. Depending on opening hours and the travel schedule, visit:
Later return to Rajgir.
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and proceed towards Patna. Depending on your departure schedule, enjoy a short sightseeing tour of Patna. Suggested sightseeing:
If the departure is late in the evening, additional sightseeing can be arranged according to available time.
Later transfer to Patna Airport / Railway Station for your onward journey.