1. Itinerary Overview
Short Trips
History & Hills: Nalanda & Rajgir
A power-packed weekend exploring the ancient university ruins and the scenic hills of Rajgir.
✨ Pace: Moderate🎯 Great For: History Buffs, Families
2. Before You Go
⏳ Duration
2 Days / 1 Night
🗓️ Best Time
October to February
✈️ Nearest Hub
Patna Airport or Rajgir Railway Station
✅ Great For
- • History Buffs
- • Families
- • Students
❌ Skip If
- • Those with difficulty walking (Nalanda ruins are vast)
3. Day-by-Day Plan
Day 1
The Seat of Knowledge
☀️ Morning
Drive to Nalanda. Explore the excavated ruins of the ancient university.
🌤️ Afternoon
Visit the Nalanda Museum and Xuanzang Memorial Hall.
🌙 Evening
Drive to Rajgir (15km). Check in and relax. Visit Venu Vana park.
🛏️ Stay: Rajgir🚗 Notes: Patna to Nalanda: 90km (2.5 hrs).
Day 2
Peaks of Peace
☀️ Morning
Take the Ropeway to Vishwa Shanti Stupa. Visit Gridhakuta (Vulture's Peak).
🌤️ Afternoon
Visit the Hot Springs (optional) or Cyclopean Wall. Lunch in Rajgir.
🌙 Evening
Drive back to Patna or catch train from Rajgir.
🛏️ Stay: Depart🚗 Notes: Rajgir local sightseeing by Tanga or Cab.
4. Places Covered
5. Travel & Stay Notes
📍 Suggested Base Cities
Patna or Rajgir (Start) → Patna or Rajgir (End)
🏨 Where to Stay
Rajgir has better hotels than Nalanda. Look for resorts near the Virayatan area or government guest houses like BSTDC Tathagat Vihar.
💰 Budget Guidance
₹3,000 - ₹5,000 per person (includes private cab)
🚕 Transport
Private Cab recommended
6. Cultural & Practical Tips
🍽️ Food to Try
- 🥘 Khaja (Nalanda specialty)
- 🥘 Local sweets in Rajgir
🗣️ Language & Etiquette
Hindi is standard. Guides at Nalanda speak English.
- 💡 Hire a guide at Nalanda (approx ₹200-300) for context.
7. Common Questions
Is the ropeway safe?
Yes, it is a single-seater chair car. Safe, but avoid if you have severe vertigo.
How much walking is involved?
Nalanda ruins cover a large area. Expect to walk 2-3km. Rajgir involves some climbing if not using ropeway.
Can we do this in one day?
It is rushing it. You will miss the sunset vibes of Rajgir. 2 days is ideal.