Read More on Sanchi Stupa
History
The Stupa of Sanchi was initially constructed under the supervision of the Muryan emperor Ashoka in the 3rd Century BC. Back in those days, Sanchi had many names like Bota-Sri Parvata, Kakanava, Kakanaya and many more. This Sanchi Stupa architecture is sort of an epitome of Buddhist architecture and in 1989 was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Ashoka created this structure to preserve and enlighten the philosophy of Buddhism and the way one should lead their life. The oldest and most magnificent Stupa is the Great Sanchi Stupa. The emperor made a structure that was built using bricks. It is speculated that in Emperor Pushyamitra's rule the Stupa was destroyed but was later reconstructed using stone slabs, by his son Agnimitra. The area covered by the Stupa kept on increasing with each renovation.
The Sanchi Stupa Bhopal is popularly known as the Wheel of Law. It is said that the premise was used till the 12th century. Later, Sir John Marshall was the one responsible for the renovation of the Sanchi Stupa from 1912 to 1919, and the structure was known to be rediscovered by General Taylor in 1818 during an excavation.
Architecture
The original structure of Stupa has been renovated several times so no one knows how they originally seemed. It is said that the original structure was built low and was made up of bricks. That structure was not as gigantic as the one we see in present days. Emperor Ashoka hired laborers from Vidisha to construct the beautiful monument. The huge dome also known as the Anda is the sacred location where lie the relics of Buddha. The exact location of the relics is marked by a square boundary also known as the harmika. The huge dome that captures the eyes of every tourist completes the structure. The three umbrella-like structures signify the Triantha of Buddhism. The central pillar supports these structures. Four gateways are tastefully decorated via various designs and motifs.
A pillar made of sandstone carries the inscriptions by Ashoka. A shell script was installed in the premise, it is said to belong to the Gupta period. The great Sanchi Stupa is a monument that had gone through renovations several times and ended up being way too huge than the original structure. The minute carvings on the structure depict the life of Buddha. The lion is a sign of Buddha and can be spotted at various places. The carvings represent different tales and each one of them is unique.
Activities
- While you are at the Sanchi Stupa you can interact with the locals around and know how things work around there.
- One can also click pictures and spend some quality time exploring.
- Be a part of the prayer ceremony held there.
- Meditate and experience the calm within.
- Talk to the monks if they are willing to talk and take a life lesson from them.
Tips for visiting
- Avoid creating a fuss or making noise in the temple
- Do not disturb people around you and ask the authorities if you have any questions.
- Wash hands before you walk into the temple.
- Wear appropriate clothes and respect the privacy of the people around you.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit the Stupa of Sanchi is from November to March. The temperature can be quite high during the summers which will cause hurdles in your plans. You can also visit Sanchi Stupa Bhopal during the monsoon season.
Nearby Atractions
- The Great Bowl
- Ashok Pillar
- Eastern Gateway
- Sanchi Museum
- Udaygiri Caves
Nearby market/ shopping places
Sanchi Bazaar- The bazaar of Sanchi is close to Sanchi Stupa and is a treasure in itself. If you have an eye for unique pieces then it is a win-win situation for you. The streets have stores that sell beautiful keepsakes.
One must buy the following things from this market: carved furniture pieces, shell work showpieces, brassware, terracotta, and bamboo work. If you want to buy quality fabric then you must explore the markets of Bhopal city.
Nearby Hotels
- MPT Gateway Retreat, Sanchi
- Sanghamitra
- Vamoose Sambodhi
- Aaram Baagh – Sanchi
- Riverside Meadows
Interesting Facts About Sanchi Stupa
- Ashoka the great ruler of the Maurya Dynasty ordered for the structure to be built in the honor of Lord Buddha.
- The Sanchi stupa was constructed in the 3rd BC.
- The statues of Buddha shine like crystals even today because they were painted using a special polish that was used by the Mauryan Dynasty.
- The structure still has the relics of Buddha in it.
- The Gupta Dynasty did a few renovations and additions in the Stupa.
- The great Sanchi Stupa is one of the many UNESCO World Heritage sites in India.
- The Ashoka Pillar of the Sanchi Stupa Bhopal is worth seeing.