Nalanda & Rajgir — Bihar
Two of the most historically significant sites in the ancient world — in a state that most Indian travellers have never thought to visit.
Description:
Nalanda University was founded in the 5th century AD and became one of the greatest centres of learning the ancient world has ever seen. At its peak it housed over 10,000 students and 2,000 teachers from across India, China, Tibet, Persia, Greece, and Korea. Its library — the Dharmaganja — held millions of manuscripts and burned for three months when it was destroyed by the forces of Bakhtiyar Khilji in 1193.
The ruins that remain today — excavated from under centuries of earth — are the physical skeleton of what historians now call the world’s first residential university. Walking through them is walking through one of the greatest losses in the history of human knowledge.
Rajgir was the first capital of the Magadha kingdom — the empire that would eventually become the Mauryan Empire of Ashoka. Both the Buddha and Mahavira spent significant time here. The Vishwa Shanti Stupa on the hilltop, the Venu Vana bamboo grove where the Buddha stayed, the ruins of Ajatsatru’s fort — Rajgir carries the weight of some of the most significant moments in the history of both Buddhism and Jainism.
What You’ll See:
- Nalanda University ruins — UNESCO World Heritage Site, the excavated remains of the ancient university complex
- Rajgir — Swarna Gufa, Griddhakuta Parvat (Vulture’s Peak where Buddha taught), Vishwa Shanti Stupa, Sapataprani Cave, Bimbisar Jail, Ajatsatru Fort
Pricing:
| Group Size | Price |
|---|---|
| 4+ persons | ₹5,000/person |
| 2-3 persons | ₹6,000/person |
| 1 person | ₹9,000 |
Details:
| 📍 Location | Nalanda & Rajgir, Bihar |
| ⏱ Duration | 7 hours (9:00 AM – 4:00 PM) |
| 🚗 Transport | Private AC Innova (4+) / Sedan (1-3) |
| 🗣 Language | English |
| 🍽 Refreshments | Tea included |
| ⭐ Recognition | Nalanda University — UNESCO World Heritage Site |
What’s Included:
- Full guided tour of Nalanda ruins and Rajgir heritage sites
- Private AC vehicle with hotel pickup and drop
- Experienced local guide
- All entrance charges
- Tea
What’s Not Included:
- Full meals — lunch not included, available locally
- Personal travel insurance
- Tips
- Any personal expenses
Cancellation Policy:
Full refund if cancelled 24 hours or more before the tour start time. No refund within 24 hours of departure.