Nalanda was once a large, acclaimed Buddhist monastery in the ancient kingdom of Magadha (modern-day Bihar) which was partially destroyed by Turkish invaders in 1193.

What was once a center for learning, attracting countless educators and monk-students from far and wide, is now a popular tourist site drawing in visitors from around the world with its remarkable ancient ruins.

Excavations in the early 1900s revealed eleven monasteries and six brick temples neatly arranged on grounds 12 hectares in area.

A trove of sculptures, coins, seals, and inscriptions have also been discovered in the ruins, many of which are on display in the nearby Nalanda Archaeological Museum.

Other popular attractions in the area include The Great Stupa and the Nalanda Multimedia Museum.