The Monastic Cells
The Monastic Cells at Vikramshila form a vast and intricate network, providing a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of the ancient Buddhist monks and scholars. The entire monastic complex is a huge square monastery, with the Main Stupa at its center, surrounded by numerous cells. These cells, n umbering over 200, were the living quarters for the resident monks and students. Each cell was a simple, small room where a monk would live, study, and meditate. The layout of the cells, arranged in a quadrangle around the central courtyard, reflects the well-organized and disciplined lifestyle of the monastic community. The cells are a testament to the fact that Vikramshila was not just a place of academic pursuit but a residential university where a thousand students and over a hundred teachers lived and learned together. The cells, in their ruined state, evoke a sense of history and intellectual rigor. As you walk through the long corridors and see these individual rooms, you can almost visualize the scholars engrossed in their studies, debating philosophy, or quietly meditating. The sheer number of these cells signifies the university's large capacity and its role as a premier center of Buddhist education. The archaeological excavations have also revealed a library building, which would have held the manuscripts and texts for the scholars and students residing in these cells.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 hourPlace Type:
Historical Landmark, Archaeological SiteSpecial Events:
The monastic cells, as part of the overall archaeological site, do not have any specific events. However, they are a significant part of any pilgrimage or tour of the Vikramshila ruins. ...The monastic cells, as part of the overall archaeological site, do not have any specific events. However, they are a significant part of any pilgrimage or tour of the Vikramshila ruins.Best Photo Spots:
The long, ruined corridors of the monastic cells provide excellent opportunities for architectural and historical photography. The repetitive pattern of the cell entrances and the play of light and shadow make for visually interesting shots. Capturing the vastness of the monastic complex, with the...The long, ruined corridors of the monastic cells provide excellent opportunities for architectural and historical photography. The repetitive pattern of the cell entrances and the play of light and shadow make for visually interesting shots. Capturing the vastness of the monastic complex, with the rows of cells stretching into the distance, can also produce striking images.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Visitors can walk along the corridors and observe the layout of the individual cells, imagining the lives of the monks who lived and studied here. You can also spend some time sitting in one of the cells, meditating or simply soaking in the historical ambiance. The cells offer an intimate and personal perspective on the life of an ancient scholar. ...
Information
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Why Famous:
The monastic cells are famous for their sheer number and their role as the residential quarters of the ancient university. They represent the vibrant and disciplined academic life that once thrived at Vikramshila, accommodating a large community of scholars and students. They are a tangible link t...The monastic cells are famous for their sheer number and their role as the residential quarters of the ancient university. They represent the vibrant and disciplined academic life that once thrived at Vikramshila, accommodating a large community of scholars and students. They are a tangible link to the daily lives of those who shaped the intellectual and spiritual history of the region. -
Architecture:
The monastic cells are simple brick structures, arranged in rows around the central courtyard of the monastery. Each cell is a small, rectangular room, providing a basic living and study space for a single monk. The cells are interconnected by a long, covered veranda or corridor that runs along th...The monastic cells are simple brick structures, arranged in rows around the central courtyard of the monastery. Each cell is a small, rectangular room, providing a basic living and study space for a single monk. The cells are interconnected by a long, covered veranda or corridor that runs along the inner side of the monastery wall. The entire structure forms a large square monastery with a cruciform stupa at its center. The outer walls of the monastery are thick and fortified, suggesting a well-protected and secluded environment. The architectural style is characterized by the use of burnt bricks and a practical, utilitarian design. The simplicity of the architecture underscores the monastic ideals of renunciation and focus on learning and spiritual growth. The entire structure is a remarkable example of planned monastic architecture of the Pala period. -
How To Reach:
The monastic cells are located within the Vikramshila archaeological site. The best way to reach them is by first arriving at the Vikramshila ruins, which can be reached by hiring a local taxi or auto from Bhagalpur or Kahalgaon. The cells are an integral part of the main site and are easily acces...
Tourism Tips
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Wear sturdy footwear as the ground can be uneven. It is a good practice to carry a light backpack with essentials like water, snacks, and a hat. Respect the historical significance of the ruins and do not climb on fragile structures. While photography is allowed, be mindful of other visitors a...
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Kesariya StupaKumhrar ParkRohtasgarh FortRuins of VikramshilaValmiki Tiger ReserveBio-Diversity ParkFanishwar Nath Renu JungleForbesganj Mela GroundJogbaniJokihat MosqueMaata Aasawar MandirRampur Over BridgeRaniganj Vriksh VatikaShiva MandirSultan PhokherBaba Bateshwarnath TempleBaithakji Hajipur Baraila Lake More PlacesNote:-
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