Lauriya Nandangarh is situated in the
state of Bihar. It lies at a distance of approximately 22 km from the
district of Bettiah. Lauriya Nandangarh boasts of housing the Ashokan
pillar, comprising of the six Ashokan Edicts. As per the version of the
historians as well as the archaeologists, as many as forty pillars were
built here by Emperor Ashoka. However, today only one pillar exists in
complete form, at its initial location in Lauriya Nandangarh. The height
of the pillar is more than twelve meters.
Even after so many years, the Mauryan polish used on the pillar still
retains its radiance and shine. The pillar is carved with six Ashokan
edicts, issued by the Emperor in the year 244 BC. The top of the pillar
is adorned with a lion, in a squatting position. The face of the lion is
distorted, as it received a cannon shot in 1660 AD. One of the major
attractions of Lauriya Nandangarh is a large stupa, considered to be the
one of the biggest stupas in India. The massive stupa is 24 m in height
and has a circumference of almost 457 m.
How to reach Lauriya Nandangarh
By Air
The nearest airport is that of Patna.
By Rail
Bettiah railway station is the nearest to Lauriya Nandangarh.
By Road
There are frequent bus services as well as taxi services between
Bettiah and Nandangarh.
