Bihar · East India

Rajgir & Nalanda travel guide

Ancient university and the Buddha’s hills

Rajgir & Nalanda
Odantapuribs · CC BY-SA 4.0
Best time
Oct–Mar
How long
1–2 days
Stay a night
₹800–7,000
Food a day
₹250–1,000
Nearest railhead
50 km away
Nearest airport
75 km away

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About Rajgir & Nalanda

The ruins of Nalanda, once the world’s great university, and the hills of Rajgir — Vulture Peak, a peace stupa by ropeway and a glass skywalk.

Things to do in Rajgir & Nalanda

  1. Nalanda University Ruins

    2 h · ₹40 entry

    Nalanda University Ruins are the remains of an ancient Buddhist monastery-university in Bihar. Visitors can walk among the historic brick structures, stupas, and lecture halls of one of the world's oldest residential universities.

    Tip: Hire a local guide near the entrance to understand the historical significance of the complex

  2. Nalanda Museum

    45 min · ₹10 entry

    Nalanda Museum houses an impressive collection of antiquities and finds recovered from the local excavations. Visitors can explore ancient sculptures, terracotta figures, and other historical artifacts that reflect the region's rich Buddhist heritage.

    Tip: Combine your museum visit with a trip to the nearby archaeological site ruins

  3. Xuanzang Memorial

    45 min · ₹20 entry

    The Xuanzang Memorial is a hall dedicated to the famous Chinese pilgrim and scholar. It honors his travels and his deep connection to the region.

  4. Vishwa Shanti Stupa & Ropeway

    2 h · ₹100 entry

    Vishwa Shanti Stupa & Ropeway is a peace pagoda located on Ratnagiri hill in Bihar. It is a serene monastery known for promoting non-violence and world peace, accessible via a ropeway.

  5. Vulture Peak

    2 h · Free

    Vulture Peak is a serene rocky hill in Rajgir where the Buddha spent considerable time in retreat and preached many discourses. The site gets its name from its distinctive rock formation that resembles a sitting vulture with folded wings. Visitors can walk the ancient stone path up the hill to explore the peaceful surroundings.

    Tip: Wear comfortable footwear as the path involves walking on uneven stone steps.

  6. Rajgir Glass Bridge & Nature Safari

    3 h · ₹250 entry

    Rajgir Glass Bridge and Nature Safari is a popular adventure spot featuring a skywalk and a nature safari park. Visitors can enjoy walking on the transparent glass bridge and exploring the surrounding forested hills.

    Tip: Note that the site is closed on Mondays

  7. Brahmakund Hot Springs

    45 min · Free

    Brahmakund Hot Springs in Rajgir are sacred thermal springs fed by the Saptarshi streams. Revered by Hindus, Jains and Buddhists, the warm mineral-rich waters are believed to have healing properties.

    Tip: Carry a change of clothes if you plan to take a dip in the springs.

  8. Pawapuri Jal Mandir

    1 h · Free

    Pawapuri Jal Mandir is a sacred white Jain temple dedicated to Lord Mahavira, marking the exact site of his cremation and Nirvana. Built entirely of white marble, the shrine stands peacefully in the middle of a large pond filled with red lotus flowers.

    Tip: Dress modestly as it is a deeply revered place of worship for Jains.

Where to stay in Rajgir & Nalanda

  • Rajgir town

    ₹800–2,500

    Hotels near the hot springs.

  • Bihar Tourism & resorts

    ₹2,500–6,000

    Comfortable stays on the edge of town.

What to eat

  • Silao khaja

    sweets · veg

    Flaky layered sweet from Silao, between Rajgir and Nalanda.

  • Litti chokha

    local dish · veg

    Bihar’s favourite.

Good to know

  • Book the Nature Safari and glass bridge online in advance.

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Rajgir & Nalanda travel guide: best time, things to do, how to reach · JrnyLoop Blog