Holistic Education for Integral Human Development
From heritage to heart — Learning tour to Bujang Valley
From heritage to heart — Learning tour to Bujang Valley
From 31 January to 2 February 2026, 43 Nalanda members and devotees undertook a meaningful learning tour to Bujang Valley, reconnecting with our Buddhist heritage in ancient Kedah, an important historical link to the arrival of Buddhism in the region nearly 2,000 years ago. Led by Nalanda’s newly-formed Bujang Valley Heritage Team, participants gained valuable insights into the history and significance of this ancient civilisation.
Through engaging narrations at the Bujang Valley Archaeological Museum, as well as visits to the candi and sites in Sungai Batu and Pengkalan Bujang, history came alive. Participants engaged in lively exchanges with the guides and asked many thoughtful questions, showing a growing appreciation for the faith and effort of past generations who shaped this heritage.
Group photo with Ven. Thitavijjo, Abbot of Chinaraj Cave Monastery, Simpang Pulai.
We thank Bhante for his ovāda, reminding us to continue our “homework” of cultivating the mind so that it may be well developed.
Dr. Song, Chairman of Nalanda SP Branch, warmly welcomes Nalanda leaders and participants from Serdang.
Bro. Khaw Seng Giap, Deputy Chairman of Nalanda SP Branch, introduces the Centre to the group, many of whom are visiting NEO SP for the first time.
Sis. Nandini Tan shares the Dhamma message for the day, highlighting that the practice of Dhamma brings gladness of mind. A well-developed mind is at ease, experiences rapture, remains relaxed, free from stress, and undisturbed.
Nalanda Buddhist Society thanks the team for their 13 months of dedicated effort in researching and compiling the Bujang Valley guidebook. Sādhu! Anumodanā.
Prior to visiting the historical sites, Nalanda’s newly formed Bujang Valley Heritage Team, led by Bro. Yeo Disheng, provides an informative overview of the rich history of Bujang Valley, dating back to 1st century CE.
Sharing reflections and learning of the day with friends.
The leaders and members of the Nalanda SP branch come together to host the group.
A meaningful and uplifting gathering at NEO SP.
A group photo at the Lembah Bujang Museum during the site learning visit.
Sis. Mary Ooi shares why ancient traders stopped at ancient Kedah for trade.
Bro. Seng Giap provides insights into the Buddhist and Hindu candi sites.
Participants engage in learning at the Lembah Bujang Museum.
Bro. Aw Jian Hau provides an explanation of the trade routes and goods in ancient Kedah.
Sis. Lim Cai Pei shares about the iron smelting process.
Sis. Sandy Lim leads an exhibition tour, explaining the construction and significance of various structures discovered.
Exploring the ancient jetty during the site visit.
Dedication of merits at one of the Buddhist sites.
Youths share memories with Nalanda Youth Centre leaders and friends, with Gunung Jerai as the backdrop.
The group also took the opportunity to pay respects and make offerings to Ven. Thitavijjo at Chinaraj Cave Monastery and Ven. Ariyadhammika at Taiping Insight Meditation Society. Our heartfelt thanks to Nalanda’s organising team and the Sungai Petani Branch for this enriching tour. Sādhu anumodāna!
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