The Great Sanchi Stupas in Madhya-Pradesh India
The Sanchi stupa is one of the most beautiful Buddhist monuments in India that enshrines within the circular dome, the last earthly remains of Gautama Buddha.
Commissioned by Emperor Ashoka, what is fascinating about the Sanchi stupa is that it was almost completely built by the common people of the land.
The 631 inscriptions that cover its walls have been contributed by common citizens.
The four Toranas or gateways of the Stupa are especially beautiful, with intricate carvings depicting in stone, the Jataka tales.
They illustrate the stories of the Buddha’s 550 births.
The stupa also includes the Ashoka Pillar, which is today the National Emblem of India.
The central dome of the stupa has a circumambulation path around it which is used by Buddhist monks and worshippers to pay their respects and worship.
Best time to visit
November-February
Travel to Sanchi, the Land of Buddhist Stupas
By air
The nearest airport is located at Bhopal, the state capital of Madhya Pradesh.
By rail
The rail route between Delhi and Bhopal passes through Sanchi. Vidisha is the nearest railhead (10 kms).
By road
Motorable roads are available for road travel between Bhopal and Sanchi by private vehicles, state buses or taxis.
Map of the Sanchi Stupas Madhya-Pradesh India
Images Pictures Video of the Sanchi Stupas in MP India
Admire the beauty of the Buddhist Stupas at Sanchi
Hotels and Resorts in Sanchi
Jehan Numa Palace Hotel
Noor-us-Sabah Palace
The Residency Hotel
Gateway Retreat
MPTDC Gateway Cafeteria
Sri Lanka Mahabodhi Society Resthouse
Buddhist Guest House
Circuit House
Places to visit in/around the Sanchi Stupas
The Archaeological Survey of India Museum
Gupta Temple
The Great Bowl
The Eastern Gateway
The Buddhist Vihara
Gumbaz-ka-Maqbara
Udaygiri Caves
Vidisha
The Lohangi Rock
Food and Shopping in Sanchi
Shopping is very limited in Sanchi. However, visitors must shop in nearby Bhopal and Vidisha for handicrafts like woven muslin cloth, zardozi embroidered cloth, leather works and famous Bhopal jutis. Food is largely local traditional with heavy Northern influences.
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21 Oct, 2008
