Credit: Dhananjoy Misra
The Great Stupa of Sanchi is a prime example of Buddhist art and architecture. Designated a UNESCO world heritage site, this is a great place to visit in Madhya Pradesh. The Buddhist monument is easily accessible and located at a distance of 1.5 km from the Sanchi Railway Station.
History of the Great Stupa of Sanchi
The stupa showcases different periods of Indian history and has been damaged and rebuilt several times. It was originally built in the 3rd century BCE by King Ashoka of the Mauryan dynasty. Over the centuries, it was rebuilt several times. The final version that we see today is of the reign of the Shunga Dynasty in the 1st century BCE. A gateway and balustrade were added during the Satavahana dynasty.
Architecture and Design
The central structure consists of a hemispherical dome measuring 120 feet wide and 54 meters high. Relics are kept inside the chamber. Square railings surround the dome, representing it as a world mountain. To represent the three jewels of Buddhism, a triple umbrella structure is built on the support of the central pillar. A walkway around the stupa is accessible by a staircase and is designed for worshippers.
The elements in the stupas are designed to represent the events of the Buddha’s life, auspicious symbols, and scenes of early Buddhism. The gateways( Toranas), and the balustrades are the highlights of the great stupas. Capitals of sculptured animals of dwarfs topped the two squared posts on each gateway.
Other Monuments in the Complex
There are a number of other attractions in the area that are worth visiting, including Temple 18 of the Gupta period, the Great Bowl, Stupa 3, Stupa 2, Temple and Monastery 45, Bhero Baba Mandir, Shiv Mandir, and Chethiyagiri Temple. One of the most notable attractions in the area is the Ashoka pillar which was erected in the 3rd century BCE. It consists of a shaft and crown of four lions that stand back to back.
Chetiyagiri Vihara is another popular attraction in the area that houses relics of the Buddha’s disciples, Sariputta and Moggalllana, following their return from Britain in 1952. During the Chethiyagiri festival, relics are brought for public viewing. Thousands of Buddhist monks and pilgrims make it an unforgettable experience for anyone who visits.
So don’t miss the opportunity to spend time in a peaceful and serene atmosphere. It’s an excellent place to explore the ancient dynasties and their contribution to Buddhism. It’s a magnificent piece of Buddhist art and architecture, and anyone who has an interest in history, religion,, and culture should include this place in their itinerary.
How to Reach great stupa of Sanchi
By car
To reach the Sanchi Stupa by car, you can take NH 46 and NH 86 which connect to Sanchi from major cities like Bhopal, Vidisha, and Indore.
By train
The monument is located around 1.5 km from Sanchi Railway Station, so you can also take a train to reach there.
By air
The nearest airport is Raja Bhoj Airport in Bhopal, which is approximately 47 km from Sanchi. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the Sanchi Stupa.