Lauria Nandangarh

Lauria Nandangarh is a Buddhist archaeological complex in Bihar with two main structures: a brick stupa reaching about 15 meters high and a sandstone pillar. The pillar displays carved inscriptions in an ancient script and writing in the Prakrit language.

A ruler commissioned this pillar around 249 BCE and had his message about religious principles carved in an ancient script and Prakrit language. The pillar and stupa stand as evidence of how important this location was for spreading religious teachings across the region.

The site draws Buddhist pilgrims from around the world who come to study ancient architectural forms and religious inscriptions. Visitors can experience firsthand how the monuments reflect the spread of Buddhist faith across the region.

The complex sits around 14 kilometers south of Narkatiaganj railway station and can be reached via the road running between Bettiah and Bagaha. A visit fits well into a broader exploration of West Champaran, as several archaeological sites lie nearby in the area.

The name comes from local Bhojpuri speech: 'laur' refers to a staff or stick, pointing to the pillar, while Nandangarh names the stupa structure. Understanding this language connection helps visitors grasp how the buildings themselves inspired the location's title.