Address : District Nalanda, Bihar
Timing : 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Closed : Friday and public holidays
Nalanda Archaeological Museum
The Nalanda Archaeological Museum was established in 1917 targeted to preserve the precious items from primordial times. It is situated near the remnants of Nalanda Mahavira. The entrance hall of the museum showcases the sculptures from 16th century including those of Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, Trailokya Vijay, Maitreya, Nagaraja, etc. The remains of Nalanda University found in excavation are also open for public viewing in this hall.
There are four galleries in this museum. In first gallery, there are fifty-seven sculptures and images comprising Heruka, Khasarpana, Marichi, Vaishali-miracle, Kubera, Shiva parvati, Rishabhnath and Lakshmi Ganesh.
The second gallery includes different elements like stuccos, terracotta, iron inscriptions and implements. The inscriptions on stone are of Purnavarman of Vipul Srimitra, Yashovarma and Nidana Sutta. Terracotta tiles displaying various historical signs like Swastika, Dharmachakra, Kirtimukha etc. are worth viewing.
Third gallery comprises of around ninety-three specimens of bronze. There are two pictures of Lord Buddha in a posture of blessing. Many other such historical marvels are also displayed here.
In the fourth gallery, there are thirty-six sculptures made of stone. These sculptures are of Lord Buddha, Lord Vishnu, Padmapani Bodhisattva, Vajrapani and Marichi.
Two massive jars found in Nalanda University are exhibited in a different shed. Ample number of stone sculptures and pictures, bronzes, terracotta, and other antiquarian items are preserved in the collection.