The 80-pillared hall is believed to have been constructed during the Mauryan period, possibly serving as a royal court or assembly hall.
Carbon dating and archaeological analysis suggest the site was occupied continuously from 600 BCE to 600 CE.
The preservation of the wooden pillars is attributed to the low oxygen levels in the marshy soil where they were buried.
The site was discovered during systematic excavations led by D.B. Spooner in the early 20th century.
Evidence of a Buddhist monastery, known as Arogya Vihara, was found on the site, identified by a terracotta seal.
The Mauryan-era structures demonstrate a high level of craftsmanship in stone polishing, characteristic of the era of Ashoka.
Kumhrar Park preserves the archaeological remains of Pataliputra, the capital city of the Mauryan Empire. The site features the ruins of an 80-pillared hall, which served as an assembly hall during the reign of Ashoka the Great. Excavations have revealed structural foundations dating back to 600 BCE, spanning the Mauryan, Sunga, and Gupta periods. The most notable discovery is a subterranean wooden platform, preserved remarkably well due to the waterlogged soil conditions of the site. The park is managed by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to protect the exposed brick foundations and stone pillars. The grounds are landscaped as a public garden, surrounding the enclosed excavation pits and a small site museum. The architectural findings provide direct evidence of the sophisticated engineering used in ancient Indian city planning.
The raised viewing platform overlooking the 80-pillared hall remains.
Bring a pair of binoculars to see the details of the excavated structures from the designated pathways.
Visit the small on-site museum to view pottery shards and small artifacts retrieved during excavations.
Plan to walk across uneven ground; wear sturdy footwear.
Do not expect a lush recreational park; this is an archaeological site primarily, so avoid visiting if looking for play equipment or high-activity spaces.
Closed on Mondays.
Maintain silence near the excavation pits; refrain from touching or stepping onto the ancient foundations.
