Rediscovering Ancient Wonders: Excavation Initiatives in Bihar’s Vaishali District

The Bihar Heritage Development Society (BHDS), with approval from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), is gearing up for explorations and excavations in Bihar’s Vaishali district and Banka, tracing the footsteps of the legendary Chinese traveller Hiuen Tsang, also known as Xuanzang. In Vaishali, ground-penetrating radar (GPR) surveys have unveiled the possibility of 2,600-year-old structures in Bhadaria village, providing a historical lens into the past. Bhadaria, associated with Buddha’s visit and ancient mythology, stands as a testament to Bihar’s rich cultural heritage. Meanwhile, in Banka, exploration near the Chandan River is set to uncover hidden treasures, merging Hindu mythology with archaeological revelations.

The systematic exploration by BHDS follows Xuanzang’s documented descriptions and distances of visited sites during 629-645 CE. This initiative builds upon the society’s efforts in South Bihar, documenting major hills and archaeological features. The Chief Minister’s visit in 2020 underscored the commitment to preserving and understanding Bihar’s heritage. As the BHDS, empowered by ASI, embarks on uncovering these ancient wonders, the exploration promises not only to preserve cultural heritage but also to connect present generations with the captivating history embedded in the soil of Bihar.