Location - Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh
Best Time To Visit - November to February
History in all its forms is very much available at the disposal for the
lovers of antiquity. Ancient stupas, temples, monasteries and pillars of
Sanchi are famous across the globe. These must sees of Sanchi date from 3rd
century BC to 12th century AD. Sanchi is located in the north-east of
Bhopal. It is situated upon a hill and is a witness to the glorious era of
Buddhism in India. Stupendous specimen of Buddhist art and architecture
dating back to Mauryan period can be found at Sanchi.
Sanchi is the oldest Buddhist sanctuary in existence and was a major
Buddhist centre in India until 12th century AD. It was Ashoka who laid the
foundations of a religious centre at Sanchi. There are around 50 monuments
at Sanchi.
Places
to visit at Sanchi
Great Stupa No.1
The Great Stupa No.1 at Sanchi is the oldest stone structure in India. It
was built by Ashoka in order to provide an impetus to the religion of
Buddhism. Earlier it was a very minor structure carved out of brick. Asoka.
The stupa is 36.5 mt in diameter and 16.4 MT high, with a massive
hemispherical dome, it stands in eternal majesty. The carved getaways depict
the different stages of the Buddha's life.
The Eastern Gateway
The Eastern Gateway showcase the scenes of young Gautama leaving his palace
to attain the path of enlightenment and the dream his mother had before his
birth.
The Western Gateway
The Western Gateway depicts the seven incarnations of Lord Buddha.
The Northern and Southern Gateway
The northern gateway presents the miracles associated with Lord Buddha
whereas the Southern Gateway showcases the birth of Gautama in a series of
dramatically rich carvings.
The Ashoka Pillar
The Pillar of Ashoka lies close to the southern Gateway. Known for its
aesthetic proportions and exquisite structural balance, the Ashoka Pillar is
one of the finest examples of great architecture.
The Great Bowl
The Great Bowl is a massive structure that once contained the food that was
distributed to the monks of Sanchi.
The Museum
The Archaeological Survey of India maintains a site museum at Sanchi.
Antiquities of great importance are put on display. The various items
include the lion capital of the Ashokan pillar and metal objects used by the
monks, discovered during excavations at Sanchi .
Feather to the Cap
The Buddhist Monastery at Sanchi has been designated as a World Heritage
site in the year 1989 for its historical and archaeological importance.
Sanchi is variously known as - Kakanaya, Kakanava, Kakanadabota and
Bota-Sriparvata.
