There the caves are polished to a mirror –smooth finish which has lasted to this day. Unlike the cave temples of western India, all the caves of this region have their axis parallel to the face of the rock, the entrances being consequently on one side.
Now trace our steps back to our base at Gaya. From Gaya, a road runs practically to the east –to Rajgir and Nalanda, the maximum distance being 85 km. the capital city of Rajagriha was built by Sisunaga early in the 6 th century BC and rebuilt by his son and grandson, Bimbisara and Ajatasatru. The Buddha and Mahavir Preached in this city o may an occasion. The city is surrounded by hills and has a narrow valley outside to the north.
In 18 km east the ancient monastery and university of Nalanda is there. Viharas, chityas, meeting halls was built in AD 1200. There also caves in the middle of Rahgir and Nalanda.
Bihar was always in the forefront in any great innovation, innovation or undertaking. It was a land blessed with natural resources and vitality, in particular with the men to provide the impetus and the motivation. For centers it withstood the onslaught of conquering races; it had the beauty ad the grace to absorb the ideas and thoughts of its enemies and neighbors.