Sanchi Stupa

Sanchi Stupa

Introduction:

Sanchi is a Buddhist complex, famous for its Great Stupa, on a hilltop at Sanchi Town in Raisen District of the State of Madhya Pradesh,India.It is located in 46 kilometres north-east of Bhopal, capital of Madhya Pradesh.The Great Stupa at Sanchi is one of the oldest stone structure in India and was originally commissioned by the emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. Its nucleus was a simple hemispherical brick structure built over the relics of the Buddha. It was crowned by the chatra, a parasol-like structure symbolising high rank, which was intended to honour and shelter the relics. The original construction work of this stupa was overseen by Ashoka, whose wife Devi was the daughter of a merchant of nearby Vidisha. Sanchi was also her birthplace as well as the venue of her and Ashoka's wedding. In the 1st century BCE, four elaborately carved toranas and a balustrade encircling the entire structure were added. The Sanchi Stupa built during Mauryan period was made of bricks. The complex flourished until the 11th century. Sanchi is the center of a region with a number of stupas including Satdhara (17 km from Sanchi, 40 stupas, the Relics of Sariputra and Mahamoggallana, now enshrined in the new Vihara, were unearthed there), Morel Khurd (on a fortified hilltop with 60 stupas), Andher (17 km NE of Vidisha), Mawas, Sonari etc. all within a few miles of Sanchi.

Nestled in the Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh, Sanchi is an important historical and archaeological site, located at a distance of around 46 Km. from Bhopal. Known for its ancient Stupas and other incredible Buddhist structures dating back to the Mauryan era between 3rd century BC and 12th century AD, the place also holds a great religious significance for Buddhists who swarm here in huge numbers from different corners of the globe. Most significant of all the archaeological recoveries in this small town is the ‘Sanchi Stupa’, the oldest stone structure in India built during 3rd century BC on the orders of then Mauryan Emperor, Asoka. Carved out from a single semi-circular rock, the sacred stupa is known to enshrine the old Buddha relics. The eye-catching design and splendid architecture of this stupa displays an austere grandeur of its times, no wonder, it has been ranked amongst the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Originally built as a simple plain structure with half the diameter of the present hemispherical edifice, it was during the reign of Sunga dynasty that the stupa was enlarged in its size and was adorned with ornately carved railings, stairways and harmika on the top. Again in 1st century BC, the Satavahana kings, presented the stupa with four beautifully carved gateways that added to the magnificence and grandeur of the structure. The carvings on these gateways, depicting scenes from the early life of Buddha, his seven incarnations and Jataka tales today, stand as a testimony to the classical Buddhist art that prevailed in the region during bygone times. Near the stupa, you will find many more interesting and awe-inspiring ancient shrines and monuments that are sure to leave you captivated with their enticing charisma.

How To Reach: 
Sanchi is About 50 KM From Bhopal One Can book Taxi for Sanchi also Buses are Available in Every 15 Mins  And Also Some Local trains Halt At Sachi Railway Station.