Which of the following ancient universities was visited by the Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang?

Correct option is C

The Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang (Xuanzang) visited Nalanda University in the 7th century CE during the reign of Harsha (Harshavardhana). He spent several years at Nalanda, studying Buddhist philosophy and other subjects. Hiuen Tsang’s detailed accounts describe Nalanda as a thriving center of learning with thousands of students and teachers from various countries. His records also highlight the university's vast library, academic rigor, and the vibrant intellectual atmosphere of the time.
Nalanda was one of the most prominent ancient universities, known for its contributions to Buddhist studies, logic, medicine, and astronomy. Hiuen Tsang's travelogues remain crucial sources of historical knowledge about Nalanda and Indian culture during that period.
Information Booster:
1. Nalanda University:
· Located in present-day Bihar, India.
· Established during the Gupta period, likely by Kumaragupta I.
· Known for its vast library, called "Dharma Gunj" (Mountain of Truth).
· Specialized in Buddhist studies but also taught secular subjects.
2. Hiuen Tsang (Xuanzang):
· A Chinese monk, scholar, and traveler who visited India to study Buddhism.
· Stayed at Nalanda for over a decade.
· Wrote Great Tang Records on the Western Regions, providing detailed observations of Indian society, religion, and culture.
3. Takshashila:
· An ancient center of learning, but it declined long before Hiuen Tsang’s visit.
· Located in present-day Pakistan.
4. Odantapuri:
· Another ancient Buddhist university in Bihar, established later during the Pala dynasty.
· Likely did not exist during Hiuen Tsang's time.
5. Indraprastha:
· A historical city mentioned in Mahabharata, not associated with a university.