Nandangarh and Chankigarh
Lauria Nandangarh and the nearby Chankigarh are two of the most significant archaeological sites in Northern India, dating back to the Mauryan and Pre-Mauryan eras. Nandangarh is a massive mound, nearly 80 feet high, which is believed to be a grand Buddhist stupa or the remains of a palace belongin g to the Nanda dynasty. Excavations here have revealed a gold leaf with a female figurine, believed to be the Earth Goddess, and ashes that some believe belong to Lord Buddha. Just a kilometer away stands the famous Ashokan Pillar, a single block of polished sandstone capped with a lion. Chankigarh, located further towards Narkatiaganj, is another massive earthen mound traditionally associated with Chanakya, the great economist and advisor to Chandragupta Maurya. It is believed to be the remains of a fortified palace or an administrative outpost. Together, these sites represent the administrative and religious heart of the ancient kingdom of Magadha's northern frontier. The sheer scale of the mounds suggests that a highly organized urban civilization existed here over 2,300 years ago. Despite the passage of time and the growth of local vegetation, the majesty of the structures remains visible. The sites are managed by the Archaeological Survey of India and continue to be a subject of intense research regarding the origins of the Maurya Empire and the spread of Buddhism.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
Duration: 4 HoursPlace Type:
Archaeological & Historical SiteSpecial Events:
Special Event:
Independence Day: Local schools gather at the Ashoka Pillar to hoist the flag, celebrating the symbol that is now India's national emblem. ...Special Event:
Independence Day: Local schools gather at the Ashoka Pillar to hoist the flag, celebrating the symbol that is now India's national emblem.Best Photo Spots:
Best Photo Spots:
The Lion Capital: A close-up of the polished sandstone lion.
The Nandangarh Slope: To show the massive scale of the mound against a human figure.
The View f...Best Photo Spots:
The Lion Capital: A close-up of the polished sandstone lion.
The Nandangarh Slope: To show the massive scale of the mound against a human figure.
The View from the Top: Looking down at the surrounding green fields.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Things to Do:
Pillar Inspection: Study the Brahmi inscriptions and the polished finish of the Ashoka Pillar.
Mound Climbing: Climb the Nandangarh mound for a panoramic view of the Burhi Gandak valley.
Archaeological Photography: Capture the layers of ancient brickwork exposed by excavations.
Rural Exploration: Visit the local village of Lauria to see traditional Bihari life.
Meditation: Use the quiet surroundings of the stupa mound for spiritual reflection.
Chankigarh Trek: Walk the perimeter of the Chankigarh mound to understand ancient fortifications.
Educational Study: Observe the different types of ancient bricks and p...
Information
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Why Famous:
Why Famous:
Ashokan Pillar: Features one of the best-preserved lion capitals in India.
Mauryan Heritage: One of the few sites providing a direct link to the Nanda and Maurya transition.
Read MoreWhy Famous:
Ashokan Pillar: Features one of the best-preserved lion capitals in India.
Mauryan Heritage: One of the few sites providing a direct link to the Nanda and Maurya transition.
Buddhist Significance: Identified as a major stupa site on the ancient route to Nepal.Architecture:
Mauryan Brick & Earthwork Dimensions: The Nandangarh mound has a circumference of about 1,500 feet and a height of 80 feet. The Ashokan Pillar is 32 feet high with a base diameter of 35 inches. Chankigarh is even larger in area, representing a sprawling fortified complex...Mauryan Brick & Earthwork Dimensions: The Nandangarh mound has a circumference of about 1,500 feet and a height of 80 feet. The Ashokan Pillar is 32 feet high with a base diameter of 35 inches. Chankigarh is even larger in area, representing a sprawling fortified complex covering several acres. The bricks used in the retaining walls of the mounds are exceptionally large (51 x 20 cm), a hallmark of the early Mauryan engineering.How To Reach:
How to Reach:
By Air: Gorakhpur Airport (110 KM) or Patna Airport (210 KM).
By Train: Narkatiaganj Junction (14 KM) or Bettiah (28 KM).
By Road: Well connected via NH-727...Near Tourist Places:
Near Places: 1. Valmiki National Park (50 KM) 2. Bhitiharwa Ashram (35 KM) 3. Bettiah Raj Palace (28 KM) 4. Saraiya Man (34 KM) 5. Rampurwa Pillars (40 KM) 6. Someshwar Fort (60 KM) 7. Triveni Sangam (65 KM) 8. Areraj Temple (55 KM) 9. Kushinagar (115 KM) 10. Motihari (85 KM)Tourism Tips
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Tourism Tips:
Health: Carry snacks and water as there are few facilities near the mounds.
Packing: Sun hat and sturdy boots for climbing the uneven mounds.
Accommodation:...
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