Nalanda Institute organized a study trip to Bujang Valley for students of BPS402 Higher Certificate in Buddhist Studies.

Over the weekend of 4 – 6 October, Nalanda Institute Malaysia organized a special study tour for BPS402 Higher Certificate students to Bujang Valley, Kedah.  Led by Nalanda Institute’s Director Achariya Tan Siang Chye, the group of 40 Nalanda Institute officers and students were privileged to be guided by Bro. H S Tan through the archaeological and historical sites in and around Sungai Petani.

Upon arrival on 4 October, the group went to the Bujang Valley Archaeological Museum in Merbok.  Bro. Tan brought to life the history of Bujang Valley and the surrounding Kuala Muda District; he explained how the traders sailed from India across the Bay of Bengal and built settlements in the Bujang Valley.

Bro. Tan giving everyone a glimpse into the history of Kedah at the Merbok Archaeological Museum.

Artefacts such as inscribed stone caskets and tablets, ceramics, metal tools and statuettes were on display at the museum.  Numerous ‘candi’ had been unearthed and placed in the vicinity of the museum.

Viewing the artefacts found in and around the Bujang Valley.

After the visit to the Archaeological Museum, the group was surprised with a lovely picnic on the grounds of the museum hosted by the Nalanda Sungai Petani Branch members.  Everyone appreciated the hospitality and fellowship shown by the gracious hosts.

A lovely picnic on the grounds of the Archaeological Museum hosted by the Nalanda Sungai Petani Branch members.

We thank Nalanda Institute officers and Nalanda Sungai Petani Branch members for co-ordinating and making the local arrangements for the wonderful trip.  Sadhu!

Bro. Tan explaining the construct and architecture of ‘Candi Batu Pahat’.