Travel Blogs

Weather: 12°C to 27°C (Best during winter months from November to February)
Tags: Monument, Historical Site, Buddhist Heritage
Label: Ancient Stupa, Ashokan Pillar, Bihar Tourism
Timings: Open at all times
Entry Fee: No entry fee

Overview:
Lauriya Nandangarh, an ancient village in Bihar, is home to some of the most remarkable monuments that speak volumes of the rich history and culture of India. The main attraction here is the towering Stupa, standing at an impressive 26 meters high, made entirely of bricks. The stupa is believed to house the sacred ashes of Lord Buddha, adding to its spiritual significance. A short walk away from the stupa is the majestic Ashokan Pillar, which rises up to 32 feet. This sandstone pillar, dating back to the Mauryan era, is carved with Ashoka’s proclamations in clear and beautiful Brahmi script.

Not just a historical site, Lauriya Nandangarh is a place of tranquillity, making it an ideal destination for history buffs and spiritual seekers alike.

Best Time to Visit Lauriya Nandangarh:
The best time to explore Lauriya Nandangarh is during the winter months (from November to February), when the weather is cool and pleasant, making sightseeing more enjoyable. The region experiences refreshing greenery after the monsoon, with water bodies swelling up, providing a picturesque setting for visitors. While summer can get hot, it is also an excellent season for exploring nearby wildlife sanctuaries.

Sightseeing Around Lauriya Nandangarh:
Aside from the towering Stupa and Ashokan Pillar, the village also offers several other attractions worth exploring:

• Ashokan Pillar: A symbol of Emperor Ashoka’s rule, this 32-feet-high sandstone structure features an intricate bell-shaped top and a beautifully carved circular abacus decorated with Brahmi geese, and a lion statue.

• Local Handicrafts: Don't miss out on the local crafts sold in nearby markets. You’ll find Madhubani paintings, stone pottery, bead jewelry, and applique work that showcase the artistic heritage of Bihar.

Shopping at Lauriya Nandangarh:
The area surrounding Lauriya Nandangarh offers a variety of local handicrafts and handloom products. Popular items include Madhubani paintings, stone and bead jewelry, wooden stools, and leather goods. These items make great souvenirs for visitors looking to take home a piece of Bihar’s rich cultural heritage.

Local Experiences at Lauriya Nandangarh:
The region is steeped in cultural and religious significance. With Buddhism and Jainism playing key roles in the area’s history, the people of Bihar celebrate a wide array of festivals. Festivals such as Chhath, Holi, Saraswati Puja, and Durga Puja are celebrated with great enthusiasm. Visitors can enjoy a cultural immersion by witnessing these celebrations during their visit.

Sample Itinerary for Lauriya Nandangarh:

• Day 1: Arrive in Bettiah and check into your hotel.
• Day 2: Visit Lauriya Nandangarh to explore the Stupa and Ashokan Pillar.
• Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
• Visit nearby sites like Lauriya Areraj (known for its ancient Ashoka Pillar) and Kesariya (famous for its Buddhist Stupa).

How to Reach Lauriya Nandangarh:

• By Air:
  The nearest airport to Lauriya Nandangarh is in Patna, located about 225 km from Bettiah. Patna is well-connected with major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Lucknow, and Ranchi.

• By Train:
  The nearest railhead is in Bettiah, which is well-connected by trains to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Jammu. From Bettiah, you can easily reach Lauriya Nandangarh by hiring a taxi.

• By Road:
  Bettiah is well-connected to Patna and other cities in Bihar by luxurious buses and taxis. Once in Bettiah, taxis are the best option for reaching Lauriya Nandangarh.