Encyclopedia of India–China Cultural Contacts v1.c7.s2.t14.1

v1.c7.s2.t14.1

Located near Patna and Gaya in Bihar, Nālandā rose to be the most famous seat of education and learning in India after the destruction of Taxilā by the Huńas in the 5^th^ century CE. The name Nālandā was perhaps derived from the word, *Nālā* meaning "lotus stalks". Situated near the ancient cities of Pātalipūtra (now Patna) and Bodhgaya (now Gaya) and within easy reach of trade routes between upper India and Magadha and the Gangetic riverine traffic, Nālandā, according to legend, was "influential, prosperous and full of folk". Lord Buddha is said to have visited this