The Great Stupa
The Great Stupa at Nalanda, also commonly referred to as the Sariputra Stupa, is one of the most significant and imposing structures within the Nalanda University Ruins complex. Located prominently on the western side of the central path, opposite the long row of monasteries, this massive stepped py ramid structure is believed to have been built over the relics of Sariputra, one of the two chief disciples of the Buddha (Shakyamuni). The stupa's huge dimensions and unique architecture reflect its historical and religious importance. Like Temple No. 3, it was built in multiple phases over several centuries, each layer reflecting the architectural styles and artistic flourishes of the time, most notably the Gupta and Pala periods (5th-12th centuries CE). Its base is surrounded by smaller votive stupas donated by pilgrims and monks. The colossal structure is a key visual landmark of the ruins, symbolizing the monumental scale of patronage and the profound reverence for Sariputra and the Buddha's teachings at the great Mahavihara. Visitors often mistake it for Temple No. 3 due to its similar stepped, pyramidal form. It is an essential site for pilgrims and anyone seeking to grasp the monumental scale of Nalanda's ancient faith.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
45 Minutes to 1 Hour:Place Type:
Buddhist Monument, Archaeological Structure, PilgrEntry Fees:
Indian Nationals: The cost is included in the entry fee for the Nalanda University Ruins (Rs.40 to Rs.50 per person). :
Foreign Nationals: The cost is included in the entry fee for the Nalanda University Ruins (Rs.500 to Rs.600 per person). :
...Indian Nationals: The cost is included in the entry fee for the Nalanda University Ruins (Rs.40 to Rs.50 per person). :
Foreign Nationals: The cost is included in the entry fee for the Nalanda University Ruins (Rs.500 to Rs.600 per person). :
Photography Fees: Still photography is permitted and included in the ticket. Videography or professional cameras require a separate fee, which is applicable for the entire ruins complex (around Rs.25). :
No Separate Ticket: As it is an integral part of the Nalanda University Ruins, there is no separate ticket required to visit the Sariputra Stupa. :Timing:
Regular Timings: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, matching the timings of the Nalanda University Ruins. :
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning (9:00 AM to 11:00 AM) is the best time to visit before the heat and crowds. The angle of the morning...Regular Timings: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, matching the timings of the Nalanda University Ruins. :
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning (9:00 AM to 11:00 AM) is the best time to visit before the heat and crowds. The angle of the morning sun highlights the structure's textures. :
Duration: The time spent is included within the 2-3 hours allocated for the entire Nalanda Ruins visit, but dedicate at least 45 minutes to walking around the base and studying the details. :Special Events:
Buddha Purnima: Special mass prayers and spiritual gatherings are held at the site during Buddha Purnima (April/May) to honor the Buddha and his chief disciples, drawing international Buddhist pilgrims. :
Sariputra Relic Worship: Though the r...Buddha Purnima: Special mass prayers and spiritual gatherings are held at the site during Buddha Purnima (April/May) to honor the Buddha and his chief disciples, drawing international Buddhist pilgrims. :
Sariputra Relic Worship: Though the relics are not permanently displayed here, special events or temporary displays of sacred relics, including those of Sariputra, can occur, attracting a dedicated pilgrimage crowd. :
Dharma Talks: Sometimes, visiting Buddhist monks or scholars give short sermons (Dharma talks) at the base of the stupa, providing a spiritual focus to the historical site. :Best Photo Spots:
The Steps and Layers: A close-up shot of the stepped structure, highlighting the texture and color of the ancient red brick and the historical layers of construction. :
Stucco Niches: A close-up of the best-preserved stucco figures of the Bud...The Steps and Layers: A close-up shot of the stepped structure, highlighting the texture and color of the ancient red brick and the historical layers of construction. :
Stucco Niches: A close-up of the best-preserved stucco figures of the Buddha or Bodhisattvas in the niches, using the light to emphasize the artistic detail. :
View from the Monasteries: Capture the stupa as the majestic focal point, viewed across the central avenue from the windows or doorways of the opposing monastic cells, showcasing the layout of the campus. :
Votive Stupas Foreground: A photograph using the field of small votive stupas at the base as a foreground element to lead the eye towards the colossal main structure. :Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Circumambulation (Pradakshina) Walk around the base of the massive stupa and, if permitted, climb the visible steps to the higher terraces to perform the ritualistic walk of reverence. :
Contemplate the Disciple: Use the quiet, monumental space to reflect on the life and teachings of Sariputra, who was praised by the Buddha for his wisdom. :
Study the Brickwork: Look for distinct patterns and the quality of the brickwork at the base and in the upper layers, which demonstrate the advanced construction techniques used by the Gupta and Pala builders. :
Observe the Votive Stupas: Examine the smaller stupas for variations in design and look for any remaining small carvings or inscriptions, imagining the large numbers of pilgrims who contributed to the site. :
Photogr...
Information
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Why Famous:
Relic of Sariputra: It is famous as the supposed burial site for the relics of Sariputra, one of the two chief and most revered disciples of Gautam Buddha, making it a critical site for Buddhist pilgrimage. :
Colossal Scale: The stupa is reno...Relic of Sariputra: It is famous as the supposed burial site for the relics of Sariputra, one of the two chief and most revered disciples of Gautam Buddha, making it a critical site for Buddhist pilgrimage. :
Colossal Scale: The stupa is renowned for its massive, tiered, pyramidal scale, which is one of the largest and most architecturally complex structures in the entire Nalanda Ruins complex, symbolizing the university's grandeur. :
Symbolic Landmark: Its towering presence on the western row of the ruins makes it one of the key identifying landmarks of the ancient Mahavihara, often featured in academic and tourist literature about Nalanda. : -
Architecture:
Structure and Reconstruction: The structure is a colossal, tiered stupa built in a stepped, square pyramidal form, rising high above the monastic ground level. It was constructed and enlarged over seven different phases. Its immense size is comparable to Temple No. 3, wit...Structure and Reconstruction: The structure is a colossal, tiered stupa built in a stepped, square pyramidal form, rising high above the monastic ground level. It was constructed and enlarged over seven different phases. Its immense size is comparable to Temple No. 3, with a substantial base dimension, possibly around 60-70 meters at its widest point, reflecting its centrality to the complex. :
Votive Stupas and Terraces: The base of the structure is surrounded by several smaller, miniature stupas (votive stupas), which were built by pilgrims. The central stupa has terraces at different levels, which were likely used for circumambulation (Pradakshina) by the monks and students. :
Artistic Detail: The stupa contains niches on its various levels, which originally housed stucco images of the Buddha and Bodhisattvas. Though weathered, the surviving remnants of these stucco figures are valuable examples of the classical Gupta art style. : -
How To Reach:
By Air: Fly to Gaya International Airport (GAY) (85 KM) or Patna Airport (PAT) (90 KM). The site is 2. 5 hours by taxi from either airport. :
By Train: The closest station is Nalanda Railway Station (NLD) (2 KM). The major railhead is Rajgi... -
Near Tourist Places:
Nalanda University Ruins (Monasteries) (0. 1 KM), Nalanda Archaeological Museum (0. 3 KM), Black Buddha Temple (1 KM), Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall (1. 5 KM), Surya Mandir (Bargaon) (2. 5 KM), Nav Nalanda Mahavihara (3. 5 KM), Kundalpur Jain Temples (6. 5 KM), Pawapuri Jal Mandir (18 KM), Rajgir (Vishwa Shanti Stupa) (13 KM), Venuvan (Rajgir) (11 KM)
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes for walking on uneven paths within the ruins. Carry a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water for hydration. :
Packing: Bring binoculars to closely view the stucco figures on the upper levels of t...
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