How Xuanzang Learned about Nālandāl *

Abstract

While the Chinese monk Xuanzang’s travels in South Asia are well known, the reason why he decided to make Nālandā his main destination has not been previously examined in detail. This article focuses on the early history of the Nālandā University, the South Asian monks from Nālandā who were active in China during the sixth and seventh centuries, and how Xuanzang may have come to know about the renowned educational institution in India through the works of these South Asian monks and their disciples. The article also tries to clarify the possible date of Xuanzang’s departure for India.