The correct option is (a).
Explanation
Chinese pilgrims visited the Indian subcontinent over several centuries to study Buddhist doctrines, collect authentic scriptures (Vinaya and Sutras), and visit holy sites associated with Gautama Buddha. Their travelogues serve as primary historical sources for the chronology and socio-religious conditions of ancient India.
Chronological Analysis:
- 2. Fa Xian (Faxian): He was the first major Chinese pilgrim, arriving in the early 5th Century AD (399–414 AD). He visited during the reign of Chandragupta II (Vikramaditya) of the Gupta Empire to collect the Vinaya Pitaka.
- 3. Xuan Zang (Hiuen Tsang): He visited India in the 7th Century AD (629–645 AD) during the reign of Harshavardhana. He studied at Nalanda University and played a pivotal role in strengthening the diplomatic ties between China and India.
- 1. I-Qing (I-tsing): He arrived in India later in the 7th Century AD (671–695 AD), shortly after the death of Xuan Zang. Unlike his predecessors who took the land route, I-Qing arrived via the sea route (stopping at Sumatra) and studied at Nalanda for ten years.
Conclusion:
The correct chronological order of their arrival is Fa Xian (2) → Xuan Zang (3) → I-Qing (1).
Key Takeaway:
Fa Xian is associated with the Gupta Period (5th Century), while Xuan Zang and I-Qing are associated with the 7th Century (Post-Gupta/Harsha Period), with I-Qing arriving a few decades after Xuan Zang.